I am in the process of removing the head to replace the head gasket due to oil leaking out around the edges between the block and head. I have already tried to re-torque the head bolts and they are all good. Anyways...

Do I have to remove the cam sprocket to release the chain after wedge the tensioner to secure the chain? Can I simply mark everything and take the chain off carefully and replace gasket then set head and slip chain back over sprocket matching exact tooth that it was taken off of. If this is done then how important is it to find exactly tdc as long as everything is put back the way it was before head removal.

Thanks,

Brian

Brian,

Are you sure the oil is coming from between the head and block? Often a valve cover leak will cause oil to accumulate at the head/block interface. There are only 2 tiny places where oil moves between the head and block. Usually a bad head gasket will seep water/lose compression. I would clean the engine very well and recheck for exactly where the oil is coming from before I attempted to change the head gasket.

That being said, you need to purchase a manual - Haynes at a minimum - Factory Service is best. I also recommend the How to Rebuild. These have explicit instructions on how to do this.

To answer you questions:

Yes, You have to remove the sprocket to get the chain off.

Yes, but not recommended without setting a TDC first and not without removing the sprocket.

In a perfect world, if you put everything back exactly like it came apart, not important. In the real world, very important. Find TDC before you wedge the chain.

Sam

YELLOW

Ditto what Sam said. The fact that you sound a little unsure reinforces not attempting this procedure without the expertise to get it right. Indeed verify where the leak is coming from. If it needs a new head gasket I would find a good Z mechanic who will let you watch, take notes, and possibly let you assist. Thus the expertise will be gained. Even using a detailed manual there is no replacement for expertise. Some procedures explained in repair manuals assume that the person executing the procedure has more than enough expertise thus obvious steps may not be explained in detail. Good Luck!