Mike12086

i'm getting ready to change the head gasket on my 97 4.0. Plan to buy the felpro head gasket set which also comes with valve stem seals. what tips/suggestiosn do you guys have while its off to look for and replace? i know the obvious to look for cracks and make sure it is not warped but what else to look at?

thanks
mike

nukinfuts29

Look at the condition of the valves, springs, and seat. You may want to clean/replace them and maybe lap them to get a good seat. Also look for play in the pistons and such. Make sure the surface is cleaned very well and also check the gasket set very well. I cannot tell you how many times working at Advance and Autozone that I saw those kits damaged in shipping, returned missing parts, returned somewhat used, etc etc etc.

Gee oh Dee

Take the time to inspect cylinder walls while your there.

1ABrian

This question may get different replies if we knew why you need to replace the head gasket?
Oil Leak, coolant leak, overheated.....so on.

Mike12086

Since i got it it has had a miss. i finally noticed the sweet smell from the exhaust with very faint white smoke. i did a block test and it came back positive for co2 in the cooling system. just finished pulling it apart and took some pics...
http://s1106.photobucket.com/albums/...Head%20Gasket/

it looks like someone before me put in some stop leak . take a look and tell me what you think.