The cylinder head and engine block fuse together for the most violent cycle process in the Challenger’s engine. In the combustion chamber, enormous pressures need to be managed during the engine cycle. Water also passes through from the engine block to the cylinder head to keep things cool.
It’s the cylinder head gaskets job to keep pressure from escaping the combustion chamber and water from leaking through the cracks. This gasket is typically constructed from paper, rubber, and metal gaskets.
It’s important to note that the materials used and the thickness of the gaskets will affect compression ratio, and thicker or thinner gaskets can be used here to alter performance.
Failure Signs/Causes: There’s nothing good about a failing cylinder head gasket. When the gasket finally gives up under pressure, coolant may leak into the cylinders and compression may be lost.
Water leaking into the cylinders will contaminate the oil and this can be identified when the oil turns to a milky brown color. If a misfire is present this may also be a direct indication that the cylinder head gasket has failed.