I need the hot tricks on removing the cylinder head to replace the Head Gasket

Tiny
WMMORGAN
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 TOYOTA PICKUP
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 220,000 MILES
I am needing to remove the cylinder head on my 2002- Tacoma - 2wd - Prerunner - 2.7L engine - 4 cyl - 220,000 miles - I am at a point I need to remove the timing chain - but its in perfect shape so I need the tricks to get the cylinder head off so I can replace the head gasket. My name is William Morgan, 818 993-2569, mymonet99@yahoo. Com
Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011 AT 5:30 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,796 POSTS
If I were you, replace the chain and all the components. With the mileage, it is time.
I would also do both heads, not 1. Have them checked for cracks and get the valves cleaned up. Replace the stem seals and have the cams checked for excessive wear.
No short cuts in engine work. It is long and labor intensive and any short cut will result in doing the job over again.
Tkae your time and do it right. If it overheated and blew the gasket, I would look hard at the thermostat, replace the water pump while you are there and have the radiator flow tested.

Roy
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Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011 AT 5:56 PM
Tiny
WMMORGAN
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Ok I get that, however I am still not getting the info I am seeking. I have all of the componets off the cylinder head. I am not sure how to remove the timing chain so that I can keep going on the removal of the cylinder head. I do inten to have the heads serviced, and I have been advised to replace the water pump, timing chain, all belts and Hoses, but I am stuck and I need a professional tip as to proceed forward and not make this experience more difficult than it needs to be
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Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011 AT 6:05 PM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,796 POSTS
Ok, sorry, you need to bring the motor to top dead center with the timing marks where they belong. The cams will have notches that line up with the covers behind it with a notch or line. When they are lined up, loosen the tensioner and slack it off so you can remove the chain assembly. Then you can proceed with unbolting the heads.

Roy
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Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011 AT 6:44 PM

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