1976 FJ40 Head Gasket

[parker]

Due to some very muddy looking oil I am going to change the head gasket on my fj40. Standard f2 engine apart from a holly carb.

before i start ripping into it is there anything i need to be looking out for ......... any hint suggestions tips would be appreciated.

Cheers

[parker]

Also anything else I should be looking at doing while the head is off

[Dirtydog]

look for any cracks, groves etc on the pistons/bores.

also good time to check your valves to make sure theres no wear like pitting or straight grooves.

check gaskit also for signs of wear like rips or cracks, most likely the cause.

other than that a good clean up is allways a good thing of any sludge etc.

[zukmeista]

Have the head surfaced and crack tested.

[churchill]

Do the valve stem seals while your at it. Also get the head machined or check it for straightness. If's it's been overheated the exhaust valve seats might've taken a beating, you'll see when you lap them in if they need a machine.