Any tips on head gasket replacement?

[Gee]

HELP!!

I hanve to replace a 260z cylinder head gasket (stop laughing!!). Any tips before I start? I've done a traditional B-Series 1800 BMC motor before, however I've never touched an overhead cam and I'm a bit nervous. Please help!!

[240ZX]

Well, the only thing that will be new here is dealing with the cam chain. Don't let go slack and fall down into the housing. If you don't already have a repair manual, get one. It will show you what you need to retain the chain while the head is removed. If the chain does fall down inside the housing, you have two problems....#1 you have to fish it out....#2 (MOST IMPORTANTLY) you will loose the timing relationship between the chain and crank sproket and you will have to remove the front housing and reposition the chain. Definitely read the repair manual, as it will also show you the wedge you need to maintain the position of the chain during disassembly and re-assembly.

[JMT240KGTR]

Agree with that!

Take care of the chain and retain the tension/timing position and it is very straight forward.

[Gee]

I think I might replace the cam whilst I'm there to get a better profile. Can you guys recommend a grind or should I just stick with the best from the factory, i.e. an A-grind cam?

[JMT240KGTR]

Type of cam would depend on a number of factors ie compression,

size of carbs or multiple carbs (webers), and application (street use, race use or both).

Whats your set up?

[59ghia]

Why not replace the chain while your in there? When I "lost" my headgasket I went ahead and replaced the chain, The original did have a bit of "slack" Keep in mind a new cam requires new rocker arm/lash pads!

Good luck,

Dave

[Gee]

Its a 260 with 240 carbs. I figure that since it is a 77 it probably has a c-grind cam and therefore the carbs + new cam could make quite a difference!

[JMT240KGTR]

Where are you in Melbourne? I'm from Melbourne as well.

[Gee]

I live in Diamond Creek.