Need To Remove Cylinder Head

[davlam]

Hi,

[1993 318iS coupe E36/M42 95k miles]

I have a water leak and i need to replace a gasket which requires that i take the top off my engine.
So what i need is a complete in depth guide/tutorial into removal and refitting of the cylinder head.
I am at the moment trying to beg/borrow or steal all the tools i will need and i have a gasket set on order with eurocarparts.
The only documentaton i have is a Haynes manual so i am looking for as much info/detail help as possible.

Can anyone help.

cheers,

davlam

[luckycat]

Hi Davlan,
Removal of the cylinder head is straight forward and much easier that most modern front wheel drive cars. First up, get a Bentley edition manual, it's the one to use!
All the tools are standard metric. Buy a set of 3/8 and 1/2 drive sockets and a good torque wrench. (or rent one when you replace the head.) It is recommended that you replace the head bolts with new ones (torx) Be sure to follow the tightening pattern for the head bolts when you re-install the head. Probobly the worst part of the job is removing the exaust pipe from the manifold. Spray it and all other bolts with PB Blaster which is available from any parts store. (don't even think about starting this job without Blaster! Drain all the coolant, and pay special attention to getting the engine back in correct time!!! before attempting to start it. Good Luck! Jim

[luckycat]

PS. if you need parts such as a head gasket, I recommend egermanparts.com. Their prices are great, and delivery prompt. I just did a valve job on my 87 325IC, and the local Napa guy wanted $238. for a top end gasket set. The price from Egerman, $84. Quite a difference! Be sure also that whoever you take your head to is reliable.