Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Troubleshooting to all who changed a head gasket

I about to do this. In doing this i'm going to remove the exhaust manifold and the intake


I have to relieve the fuel pressure
should i replace the gaskets on these?
I know im going to need new head bolts.
I know i need to allign the camshafts when done.


is there anything that i am missing?? any hints or other things i should replace while in there

Just did the one in my 95, and finally got it running.
Here's what you'll need.

Head bolts/gasket
intake/exhaust gasket
egr gasket
valve cover gasket

I think thats it. Some stores sell a whole head gasket replacment kit which includes all the gaskets/bolts you need and is usually a bit cheaper than buying individually.

how long did it take? also did you run into any problems along the way?

do i want the head gasket kit for $150 http://www.napaonline.com/masterpages/NOLMaster.aspx?PageId=470&LineCode=NGA&PartNumber=HS54197A&Description=Cylinder+Head+Gasket+Set

or the complete engine kit for $250
http://www.napaonline.com/masterpages/NOLMaster.aspx?PageId=470&LineCode=NGA&PartNumber=953519VR&Description=Engine+Kit+Gasket+Set

Just need the head gasket kit. I really couldn't give you an exact time, but it is a lengthy project.

Here's my hints.
1) Label hoses--very important
2) Label bolts/nuts/pieces
3) Get a manual--extremely helpful

The only tricky part is the timing, which really isnt' that hard. Having the camshaft aligning tool really makes things simpler, that way you don't have to jimmy rig. Read the manual first, that way you have an idea of what you have to do.

I'm convinced now that the 2 of us could tear the head of the contour in 3 hours, easily, taking our time. The first time around was slow, but know we have the process down. Definately was a great learning experience.

cool hope all goes well over here. i got the manual just need to get some fuel line removal tools.

also how heavy is the head?

with intake and exhaust manifold removed, it shouldnt be too heavy at all. hell i could lift the entire motor i pulled a bit.

am i going to need to use any locktight in any areas. the manual doesnt really specify