Cylinder head

Hi all
Doing my first ever head gasket next week.
G13b engine and seems fairly straight forward. I have the torque settings and sequence, and will be fitting a new waterpump, cam belt and tensioner at same time.

Any top tips on getting the head off, and is there any other stuff I could do whilst its off?

Do I attempt to clean out any oil/ water holes if so - how?

Thanks in advance


(head will be skimmed)

I would suggest replacing the valve stem seals and, to make it easier to handle, remove the manifolds whist head is on engine. Otherwise it is a straight forward disconnect, remove, bag and note all steps. Some people say to replace the head bolts but they are not the stretch type so if in good nick reuse. It is best to blow the bolt holes in the block with compressed air to ensure there are no debris or fluids in there. The dvd mentions lubricating the threads on refitment.

Thanks for that. Valve stem seals? It might be beyond me unless its a simple job!

Whilst its true that the head bolts are not specifically stretch ones, the workshop guide does print this warning....

I guess for peace of mind, new ones would be best. I have a feeling I can buy them at the Big Jim shop!

I was 80% thinking of new ones anyway.

many thanks

A good quality thin wall socket to get the head bolts off is also a good buy