Head gasket change.

I intend to turn this thread into a step by step guide as to how to change the head gasket on a 300TDI engine as so far I can't find one on the forum. Im currently doing one at the moment but have run into a slight problem and am after a little advice.

The problem is such down pipe studs have rounded nuts on them so I can't undo them so need to remove the manifolds to get the head off. Inlet no problem exhaust isn't so easy. The top row of studs are easy to get at and the left and right extreme lower studs are doable but the centre lower stud I cant even get a spanner to it let alone undo it with it still in the car. Is there a particular access route to use to get it undone or am I going to have to cut the nuts off the down pipe studs and replace the studs that will inevitably get destroyed in the process.

you can remove head with down pipe asttached you just need to pull it over enough or get someone to hold it whilst heads lifted off, center lower nut will come off with short 3/8 15mm socket and extension

It can be done as I replaced the inlet/exhaust gasket on mine a while age. From memory I used a socket and extension and managed to wiggle it through a gap the manifold.

Bugger JM's quicker than me - but I do have a beer and watching the TV so got distracted while typing!!

right oh thanks people had another look at it seems that there will be just enough space to get a socket and extension between the turbo and manifold. Other than that 1 inacessible bolt though I must say this is a refreshingly easy head to remove try removing the heads on a DAF twin pot with the engine in situe you have to slacken the engine mounts and drop each side of the engine one at a time in order for the head to clear the inner wing.

Head now off and no major blows in the HG. In fact I can't find a blow as of yet, I don't expect it to be severe as she was still running reasonably well but has been losing water, pressurising the expansion tank and getting hot under load. Next check is for warpage or cracks in the head

did you find problem? cracked head?

pauldaf44 said:

I intend to turn this thread into a step by step guide as to how to change the head gasket on a 300TDI engine as so far I can't find one on the forum.

Click to expand...

:clock: :behindsofa:

trax said:

:clock: :behindsofa:

Click to expand...

88mph ? :d

Sorry for the delay been off the forum for a bit due to real life getting in the way. I'll get that how to done nice soon.

As to the result all I found was a small amount of gas marking between number 3 and water jacket on the face of the head. No cracking and no warpage, the car is now running spot on again and does feel more peppy for a new HG. Overheating issue though was actually a comprimised radiator.