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Head Gasket Job

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  • #838913
    MeghanMeghan
    Participant

      I am doing a head gasket replacement on my 96 Tacoma 2RE. I have the head removed and have already had it machined and pressure tested at the machine shop. All good. Now painstakingly cleaning the block. Such a pain. Anyway, are there any recommendations as to something else I should change while I’m here? Also, I’m poor, otherwise I’d be changing my chain and water pump. So, really, this is for small things like a PCV and such. Thanks!

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    • #838916
      MeghanMeghan
      Participant

        Also, it is a 2.4L with timing chain. This old baked on gasket is tough without being able to sand it much. I am afraid that I already have a lot of dirt in my coolant passages and cylinders, and no compressed air. Will take a vacuum to it.

        #838917
        MeghanMeghan
        Participant

          Also, I posted in the wrong forum. Sigh* Rough day.

          #838931
          Lee AnnLee Ann
          Moderator

            [quote=”Verano” post=146476]Also, it is a 2.4L with timing chain. This old baked on gasket is tough without being able to sand it much. I am afraid that I already have a lot of dirt in my coolant passages and cylinders, and no compressed air. Will take a vacuum to it.[/quote]

            Make sure not to gouge the mating surface(s) as you are prepping it. I have used a razor blade while applying gentle pressure when prepping my for my valve cover gasket replacement. I might suggest using a plastic tool i.e. scraper (like a painter uses for applying spackling compound), on the metal surface to reduce the chances of damaging the mating surface. It is too important to risk messing it up.

            #838932
            Lee AnnLee Ann
            Moderator

              [quote=”Verano” post=146473]I am doing a head gasket replacement on my 96 Tacoma 2RE. I have the head removed and have already had it machined and pressure tested at the machine shop. All good. Now painstakingly cleaning the block. Such a pain. Anyway, are there any recommendations as to something else I should change while I’m here? Also, I’m poor, otherwise I’d be changing my chain and water pump. So, really, this is for small things like a PCV and such. Thanks![/quote]

              I have recently purchased a timing belt and water pump kit at Rock Auto for my 02 Saturn LW300 for a little over $100.00. While you have access, you should replace those components, if you can. Way cheaper than having to buy a remanned engine later.

              #839415
              Andrew ButtonAndrew Button
              Participant

                There are plastic razor blades you can get. Try that. Steel blades on aluminum risky business.

                #839793
                MeghanMeghan
                Participant

                  I have used a razor blade, and was careful not to nick anything. No luck getting it absolutely clean. There is still some old gasket baked on, but I will use a hand plane sander to finish it off. It is tough without power tools. Thanks for the info. I may get a water pump while Im here. Any recommendations for a brand to go with?

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