Heads off, advice on what next

cheet22 said:

Hi all,

Finally got both heads off today (been away for a week or so) and so am now considering what parts to replace etc. The block looks ok, I can't seen any evidence of a slipped liner, assuming I should feel a ridge at top of any cyclinder (which I can't)

Pics are here of the block and heads:

https://sites.google.com/site/paulsroverv8/head-gasket-replacement/heads-off-view

(im still updating this will all pics and still to add text)

My question is, what do I replace:

1. Heads - do I get them recon? How much has anyone paid for this, or just bought them already reconditioned?

Just regrind the valves and fit new valve stem oil seals from the head gasket set.

2. Needs new rocker (one snapped) so do I replace both sides, shafts and rockers?

Replace rocker shafts, tappets and push rods..cheap as chips and the shafts are known for wear especially on the underside-not noticeable until they are stripped down.

3. All gaskets need done of course

4. Exhaust manifold is cracked (had a blow) so that needs replaced

5. What about tappets, pushrods? Replace or leave as is?
See above.
6. Camshaft - looks a sizeable job and I'd rather try to get car on the road
for winter if poss then look at it next summer - or is this a false economy?
You have gone this far with the stripdown..Check the camshaft lobes for wear/flattening. If worn, replace together with new hydraulic tappets...Why double the work later on ??- Easier to do with the heads removed and the pushrods out of the way.

7. Timing chain - same as above
Yes replace the chain and sprockets..cheap enough.

8. Thermostat - its off, so I might just replace it
If it ain't broke don't change it.

9. Radiator - should I flush it? Is that enough?
A good flush won't do any harm.

10. fuel rail/injectors? Any reason to replace?
Again, if it ain't broke don't change it...The rail is not going to wear out, it's only a bent pipe at the end of the day

11. Ram pipes (top of inlet manifold) - one was unseated - can I just hammer back in?
Hammer???..Put a smear of loctite around the locating area and TAP it back in position.

12. Heater matrix - any easier doing it now? Interior never got warm before it overheated, but might be ok I know
Suck it and see...don't go looking for work until you are sure it's needed

13. Watr pump?
Replacement water pumps are peanuts, it will do no harm to replace it if you are unsure of when it was last changed.

anything else I missed?

Yes... getting on side of the Bank Manager !!!



Any advice appreciated - I am trying to spend just what I need to, but at same time I dont want to go through this again anytime soon!

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