Parts for your 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero-Head gasket

1987 Mitsubishi Pajero Head Gasket — Purpose, Fitment, and Service Advice

Yes, a head gasket is absolutely used on the 1987 Mitsubishi Pajero. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi factory service manual for the first‑gen Pajero (L040 series), the Mitsubishi 4G54 (2.6L petrol) and 4D55/4D56 (2.3/2.5L diesel) engine workshop manuals, and reputable gasket catalogues from OEM and aftermarket suppliers list a cylinder head gasket for all these engines. That makes the head gasket relevant for every 1987 Pajero variant sold across Australia and New Zealand.

On this model, the head gasket sits between the engine block and the alloy head, sealing combustion pressures while keeping coolant and oil in their own passages. It’s the unsung hero that lets the old girl tow the boat, crawl fire trails, and knock over big kilometres without mixing oil with coolant or losing compression.

Because these engines are now classics, keeping the cooling system spot‑on is the best way to protect the head gasket—and the head itself. Overheating is the number one killer, especially on turbo‑diesel 4D56s. A healthy radiator, correct thermostat, proper coolant mix (typically 50/50 ethylene glycol with corrosion inhibitors), and a good cap are non‑negotiable.

If a replacement is on the cards, the mechanic should follow the FSM torque sequence and specs to the letter. Clean mating faces, check head and block for flatness, and use new head bolts if specified (some builds are stretch‑type). Composite gaskets were common in period, MLS upgrades may be possible if surface finish and flatness meet spec. Where the timing case meets the block/head sandwich, use sealant exactly as the manual shows.

• Watch for tell‑tales: unexplained coolant loss, pressurised hoses from cold, white steam from the exhaust, rough cold starts (diesel), milky oil, or overheating under load.
• Service tips: flush coolant at recommended intervals, fix leaks promptly, keep fan clutch/shroud intact, and avoid prolonged high EGTs on turbo‑diesels (over‑boost and blocked exhausts are bad news).
• After the job: refill with vacuum bleed or proper burping to avoid air pockets, some composite setups may call for a warm‑retorque—follow the engine manual.

Handled right, a fresh gasket and a tidy cooling system will see a 1987 Pajero keep trucking reliably from beach runs to high‑country tracks.

Popular questions

How long should a head gasket last on a 1987 Pajero?
With a healthy cooling system and sensible driving, a quality gasket can last many years and well over 150,000 km. Overheating, poor coolant, or detonation (petrol) will shorten its life. On older diesels, keeping boost and EGTs in check helps longevity.

Can a 1987 Pajero’s head gasket be replaced at home?
It’s doable for an experienced DIYer with a torque wrench, timing know‑how, and access to the workshop manual. Expect machine‑shop checks for head flatness. If timing belts, injector lines, or valve lash are outside your comfort zone, a professional job is wise.

What’s the best gasket type for the 4D56 or 4G54?
A high‑quality composite gasket is period‑correct and reliable if the surfaces are flat. MLS can work well if the head/block finish is to spec and both faces are true. Always match the gasket to the engine code and follow the FSM torque method.