Even though the engine is a complicated part of a vehicle or machinery, replacing a cylinder head might not be as hard as you think. As long as you understand what is required and the steps to follow, you have nothing to worry about. Here is a quick breakdown of how you can replace a damaged cylinder head.
When Should You Replace A Cylinder Head?
- When its lifespan ends.
- When you have resurfaced the cylinder.
- The cracks are too extreme to be fixed.
- Excessive warping on the head to a point it cannot be resurfaced.
Cylinder Head Replacement Steps
Tools: Wrench set, screwdrivers, coolant, new oil, ratchet and socket set, new cylinder head.
Step 1: Removing the Cylinder Head
- Drain Oil And Coolant
Remove the radiator drain cap to release the coolant in the system. Also, drain the oil from the oil pan by removing the drain plug.
- Remove Intake And Exhaust Manifolds
Use a wrench or ratchet to remove the intake and exhaust manifolds from the cylinder head. Also, take out the valve covers using the ratchet and socket. Once done, remove the timing belt.
- Detach The Rocker Arm
If the engine has two heads, remove both rocker arms.
- Remove Old Cylinder Head
Take out the mounting bolts according to the cylinder head bolt removal sequence. You will then lift the old cylinder head off the engine housing.
Step 2: Installing New Cylinder Head
Mount the cylinder head replacement and place the mounting bolts per the bolt torquing and sequencing issued by the cylinder head manufacturers.
- Replace Cylinder Head Components
Place back the other parts according to how you removed them: the timing belt, rocker arm, manifold, and valve covers.
- Refill Oil And Coolant
The last step is to refill the new coolant with a 1:1 ratio for antifreeze and water. Always use the recommended oil by the cylinder head manufacturers when filling the oil pan. Do not re-use engine oil.
If you notice that the head gasket is also blown during the process, you will have to replace it too.
