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When encountering a leak at the gasket surface, it is important to consider the nature of the problem and the best course of action. Tapping the head can be an effective method in certain situations, particularly if the leak is minor and can be sealed by redistributing the pressure around the gasket. This technique may allow the gasket to reseat itself, temporarily alleviating the leak without the need for immediate replacement.

In contrast, simply replacing the gasket outright without assessing the situation may not address underlying issues that contributed to the leak in the first place, such as bolt tension or surface irregularities. Re-tightening the bolts can sometimes help, but if the underlying cause of the leak is not resolved, it may not be effective either. Ignoring the leak and allowing it to worsen is certainly not advisable, as a small leak can lead to more severe damage over time.

Thus, tapping the head provides a practical and low-effort first response that can offer a temporary solution, allowing for further assessment of the issue before more significant repairs are undertaken.