Replacing Head gasket????

Question

I have a 1JZ toyota engine and want to replace the head gasket. Do I need to do anything to the head or just remove it and replace the gasket. Note: I am also planning to change head & main bolts. Thank you 4ur input. :-)

Answer 1

First off look at the old gasket and headface (after removal) for obvious signs of corrosion or burning.You should have the face of the head checked for straightness or check yourself if confident. You can do this by placing a known straight edge such as a steel rule across the gasket surface at all angles (corner to corner, down the center, along each edge) and then trying to put succesively smaller feeler gauges under it to find any out of flat warp. You can usually get away with about 10 thou of warp on a 4 cylinder head on a lightly stressed engine. Any thing on or near that I would suggest a surface grind. (head skim).  If the engine has had overheating problems and oil or water contamination I would go for a pressure test too. And dont forget to change the oil and water after and BE SURE you have the timing correct on reassembly.if you are unsure turn the engine by hand several times before trying to start.If it locks up dont try to start it and recheck your camshaft timing. Sometimes its best to machine an alloy head just to clean the gasket surface. Good luck.  

Answer 2

It is not like replacing a valve cover gasket. The bolts must be tightened to specs. You need a ratchet that shows ft.lbs of pressure. You need a torque wrench. Read up on it.  You also want to make sure the head is not warped.