Topic: Head Gasket Parts list

[Tofudude]

i'm not to sure what i need to do a head gasket job...i didn't want to buy the 200 dollar head gasket set from toyota.

So far i've got the: head gasket (toyota), valve cover gasket, intake/exhaust gaskets...anything else i'm missing?

[crazykooter]

Looks like you have everything you need.
I just did a head gasket on my truck and all I purchased was the head gasket.  I used rtv for intake gasket and my exhaust gasket was still good.
If your valve cover gasket is old then its a good idea to replace it.  Just DONT use any rtv to hold the half moon cam gaskets in.  It does the opposite and causes the them to push out.
After moving the head make sure you clean the gasket surfaces well.  Also check the water ports on the bottom of head.  They tend to erode away and if they are then its best to get a better head.
Also put a thin layer of rtv where the timing cover meets the block.  You just want to cover the crack.   If you have any other questions,  post away.
If its an efi truck then it takes a little more time to do since you need to remove the upper plenum in order to get to the injector wiring.

[Tofudude [OP]]

its carb'ed but i'm wonder if its possible to take the intake off without removing any hoses like just leave it hanging in the engine bay?

thanks by the way

[crazykooter]

If its a carb I leave the intake attached to the head.  A lot loss vacuum hoses to remove.  The intake isnt that easy to remove if you leave all the hoses hooked up but you can do it that way.
The key is to remove the least you can.  Sometimes what seems to be easier can take much longer then just pulling the intake with the manifold attached, plus you dont have to reseal the intake.
Just go at it the best way you can. 

[79coyotefrg]

[Sparkplug]

uh, new HEAD BOLTS??? Cheap and good insurance. Pop the vc off real fast and see if your guides are still good on your tchain also.

[Tofudude [OP]]

i just wana get whats broken fixed right now cause i'm planing on a full engine re-build...i just need to get it running normal for the moment

[twistedtoy92]

spend the $20 and install new head bolts.... Also check the block and head surfaces for warpage, if they are out of spec then you need machine work done or else you are wasting your time. Make sure the head is not cracked as well.