That being said, here's a *very* general overview of the process. This is not a complete guide, and omitting many crucial steps:
1. Preparation:
* Gather Tools and Parts: You'll need a complete head gasket set (including head bolts, often torque-to-yield and requiring replacement), new head bolts (if not included in the gasket set), a torque wrench, various sockets and wrenches, a gasket scraper, a clean workspace, engine hoist or jack stands, and possibly a cylinder head pressure tester, a straight edge to check head flatness, and various cleaning supplies.
* Disconnect Battery: Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
* Drain Fluids: Drain the coolant, engine oil, and possibly the transmission fluid (depending on the proximity).
* Remove Ancillary Components: This is a major step involving removing many components connected to the cylinder head (intake manifold, throttle body, fuel injectors, spark plug wires, various sensors, etc.). Precise removal order is crucial and varies by year and model. Consult a repair manual.
2. Head Removal:
* Remove Valve Covers: Access to the camshafts and head bolts requires removing the valve covers.
* Remove Camshafts: This requires removing the camshaft sprockets and timing chain. Precisely mark the timing chain's position before removal to ensure correct reassembly. Incorrect timing can cause serious engine damage.
* Remove Cylinder Head Bolts: Carefully remove the cylinder head bolts in the proper sequence (consult a repair manual).
* Remove Cylinder Head: Carefully lift the cylinder head off the engine block using an engine hoist or other suitable lifting device.
3. Inspection and Cleaning:
* Inspect Cylinder Head: Inspect the cylinder head for cracks, warping, and damage. It might need to be resurfaced if warped.
* Inspect Engine Block: Inspect the engine block mating surface for damage and clean thoroughly.
* Clean Head Gasket Surface: Remove all traces of the old head gasket.
4. Reassembly:
* Install New Head Gasket: Carefully install the new head gasket, ensuring it's properly seated.
* Install Cylinder Head: Carefully lower the cylinder head onto the engine block.
* Install Cylinder Head Bolts: Install the cylinder head bolts in the proper sequence and torque them to the manufacturer's specified torque settings using a torque wrench. This is crucial to prevent head gasket failure. Torque-to-yield bolts are one-time use.
* Reinstall Components: Reinstall all previously removed components in reverse order, paying close attention to timing chain alignment.
* Refill Fluids: Refill the coolant, engine oil, and other fluids.
5. Testing:
* Check for Leaks: After reassembly, run the engine and check for leaks around the head gasket area and all fluid connections.
Crucial Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A factory service manual specific to your year and model Pontiac Grand Am is absolutely essential. It will provide detailed instructions, torque specifications, diagrams, and other critical information.
* Special Tools: You'll likely need specialized tools, such as camshaft alignment tools, for proper timing chain alignment.
* Cleanliness: Maintain extreme cleanliness throughout the process to prevent contaminants from entering the engine.
Again, this is a simplified overview. Attempting this repair without proper experience and resources is strongly discouraged. The consequences of a poorly executed head gasket replacement can be catastrophic for your engine. Take it to a professional mechanic to avoid potentially expensive problems.
