Engine Stand

[GLPoomobile 958]

 

 

If you are capable of lifting the engine in and out, and you have done the cambelt on one before, then you are capable of pulling the head and doing the gasket in situ. Doing the belt down the side is a bit more tricky but take your time and its not beyond the home mechanic at all.

 

Speaking from my own perspective, I'd still baulk a little at the thought of doing a 16v head with the engine in the car. I've done an 8v and that was OK, though I was nervous about disturbing the liners when removing/refitting the head (but since been assured, possibly even by you Tom, that it's actually quite hard to disturb the liners just by removing/refitting the head). For me it's just stuff like access to bits and the ensuing pissing about - like headbolts, exhaust manifold (could you remove the head with the manifold in place?), and timing belt - that puts me off. It's a typical case of, when you've done it a few times and you are comfortable with it, it seems like a walk in the park, but when you've never done it and you can see the potential hurdles, it can be daunting.

 

EDIT: Edited to add, I entirely agree that this is doable by most home/amateur mechanics. I'm sure I could do it if the need was there. I'm not trying to dissuade anyone from having ago. simply stating that - for me - I'd probably prefer to the job with the engine out until I was more confident.

Edited September 19, 2014 by GLPoomobile

[dobboy 231 2 Cars]

GLP, i hadn't even thought about the things you mention, which confirms it's best for me to change the engine!.

 

What really put me off is the thought of trying to get my exhaust manifold off, and then have to work bent over for hrs on end.

Edited September 19, 2014 by dobboy