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Stock XJ Cherokee Tech. All XJ Non-modified/stock questions go hereXJ (84-01)
All OEM related XJ specific tech. Examples, no start, general maintenance or anything that's stock.
Good afternoon all, just a quick check in before I start my next project. I've researched, read many threads and watch hours of videos on the subject. I just ordered my Clearwater head, gaskets and new head bolts today, I'll start the job when I get home from work on Wednesday. Just wondering if there are any tips I may have missed as I dive into this task? Thanks in advance for sharing of knowledge.
Are you doing this alone or with a friend...head is very heavy and almost impossible to reinstall gently on block by yourself. Its a FULL 2 day job.....longer if its your first. are you inside or outside...idaho is pretty damn cold in december. # 11 headbolt needs high temp sealant as it goes through water jacket. The firewall side headbolt , either drivers or pass will not come out without hitting lip...pull it up till it clears block then rubberband in place. Properly mark all the lifters and rocker arms for exact replacement...are you changing out lifters or reusing the old ones. Valve cover comes and goes easier with thermostat housing off..removing intake and exhaust from head or lifting out as one with a hoist...many of the lower mount bolts are blind and very difficult to feel and get to...all 3/8 bolts therefore 9/16 socket with wobble or universal.
Are you doing this alone or with a friend...head is very heavy and almost impossible to reinstall gently on block by yourself. Its a FULL 2 day job.....longer if its your first. are you inside or outside...idaho is pretty damn cold in december. # 11 headbolt needs high temp sealant as it goes through water jacket. The firewall side headbolt , either drivers or pass will not come out without hitting lip...pull it up till it clears block then rubberband in place. Properly mark all the lifters and rocker arms for exact replacement...are you changing out lifters or reusing the old ones. Valve cover comes and goes easier with thermostat housing off..removing intake and exhaust from head or lifting out as one with a hoist...many of the lower mount bolts are blind and very difficult to feel and get to...all 3/8 bolts therefore 9/16 socket with wobble or universal.
Luckily I will be inside my garage, that will give me plenty of time to get this done. And thanks for the reminder on all these tips, as this is my first Jeep head replacement I plan on just taking my time. Also I will be replacing all the bolts, but unless I find a problem in the valve train the pushrods and lifters will be reused.
The removal went well, block all cleaned up and ready to go back together. My clearwater head and new four hole injectors will be here the first of next week. I have a friend on speed dial to come help me set the head when it’s time.
Bad Cyl Head
