TampRX300

where can I find them on my motor? I want to do a cooling sys flush since I noticed a bad smell and brown color in the reservoir. I want to replace the thermostat and the ECT due to P0125, just to be safe. Also, I'm going to open this head tonight to check for sludge, the itch to know is killing me. What tools/size will I need. Going to autozone now, will re-use gasket with some black silicone gasket maker. Not paying $90 for a fel-pro head gasket.

JAB

You're going to take a head off to 'check for sludge' and then re-use the same head gasket? Or are you going to take off a valve cover and re-use the valve cover gasket? Big difference, in my opinion, but the latter is far more likely than the former to reveal evidence of 'sludge.' I would never re-use a head gasket.

TampRX300

LOL!!! You're right, the valve cover, not the head itself. My mistake in wording my frustration. Does anyone knows if I need to take the timing cover off to remove the front valve cover?

carguy07

Nope, jut the valve cover. They are $16.99 at autozone, but you may get away with reusing the old one. They are rubber, almost like an o-ring.

TampRX300

Did it, the gasket is actually like new, I think someone's been in there...

lexus114

How did it look?

TampRX300

No sludge, just major varnish. Check the other thread, it has pictures...