How much of a pain?

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Jun 14, 2009 | 12:25 PM

Boo"SS"t

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From: somewhere in Ohio

How much of a pain?

Well, I'm wondering how much of a pain would it be to change the head gaskets (motor in car) with head studs on them??? I'm basically asking for some tips/advices from anyone that has done this personally. Thanks!

Jun 14, 2009 | 12:34 PM

LS1CMR

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i dont think it can be done with studs, only bolts, you will have to drop the motor

Jun 14, 2009 | 12:36 PM

theblur98ss

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No need to pull the motor. It's actually easier with studs since you don't have to clean out all the holes.

Jun 14, 2009 | 12:45 PM

LS1CMR

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i thought it had to be dropped a few inches to clear the cowl, or was i misinformed

Jun 14, 2009 | 01:01 PM

98Camarod

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I would think you would be able to loosen the k member bolts and drop it down to get enough clearance. I've never done the head studs, but I did drop the k member, there was quite a bit of room.

Jun 14, 2009 | 01:09 PM

Boo"SS"t

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I was told it can be done, but it's obviously a real pain especially in the passenger's side due to the heater box. I'm hoping to get some tips/tricks from guys who actually done this and maybe ease the pain even just a bit for me...if there is such thing.

Jun 14, 2009 | 02:10 PM

veee8

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Yeah its pretty easy, but you have to remove the studs. Then the heads will slide right out.

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Jun 14, 2009 | 03:04 PM

SilverSS

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I've done it plenty of times. You may have to remove the studs before lifting the head but that's easy. The exhaust headers are what get in the way for me.

Jun 14, 2009 | 03:10 PM

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kenp

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Quote:

Originally Posted by SilverSS

I've done it plenty of times. You may have to remove the studs before lifting the head but that's easy. The exhaust headers are what get in the way for me.

That's correct. My problem was the exhaust headers too. I did not have to drop the k-member or remove any of the studs to get the heads off.

Jun 14, 2009 | 03:32 PM

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Boo"SS"t

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From: somewhere in Ohio

Ok. I guess removing the studs first make sense. Thanks, guys!

Jun 14, 2009 | 03:35 PM

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theblur98ss

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I've never had to remove the studs but I don't have the heater box to deal with either.

Jun 15, 2009 | 08:53 AM

#13

Schantin

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From: Ft. Irwin, California (But Virginia is home)

You DO NOT have to remove the studs, drop the engine, etc, etc. Unbolt those puppies and they come right out. I had room to spare when I removed my heads last summer.