Winter Project Questions Head Gasket

[Darbji280z]

I've decided what my winter project for this year is going to be. I am going to do an upper engine rebuild. Since I know I need to adjust/clean my valve and replace valve stem seals, I figure I'll just do the whole damn thing. With that being said, I have a couple of questions: What is the best head gasket to buy for this car? Also, the Delorean has piston liners with seals at the bottom that can be broken if the head isn't removed at the exact proper angle (learned that the hard way) I'm sure the Z isn't the same way but are there any little hints you guys could offer that would save me a headache?

[Rockr69]

The real beauty about the Z engine is it's simplicity. That being said Darb, I would say the most dangerous thing to look out for would be breaking the exhaust bolts. I have a broken one on both my Z and my Maxima. Other than that you also have to consider, if your head needs done then your bottom end will surely suffer from the tighter valve sealing force in the combustion chamber and rings will start to lose their already marginal sealing ability. I say if your gonna do the head do it all and be done. If you want to just get by for a while longer just do the head gasket and the valve stem seals till you save up the dough for a complete rebuild. Now that I've givin you more to consider, good luck! Dan

[d240zx2]

Just unbolt it and yank it loose. Before you disengage the cam gear and chain, locate the little dent in the crank sprocket to straight up - 0 degrees.

Replace the chain, guides and tensioner while you're in there. Get a FSM and do what it says. You'll have no trouble.

Frank

[hls30.com]

More often than not a stock Z engine with consistent oil changes has so little wear in the bottom end and cylinder walls that replacing the rings, and and what you have already planned will do the trick for another 200k. I have measured and gone on several with that result.

Will