Replacing the head gasket on a 1989 Isuzu Trooper is a complex task that requires some mechanical knowledge and experience. If you are not comfortable performing this task, it is recommended to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Wrench set
- Socket set
- Pliers
- Screwdriver
- Gasket scraper
- New head gasket
- RTV silicone sealant
- Thread sealant
- Oil and coolant (as needed)
Procedure
1. Drain the coolant and oil.
2. Remove the air cleaner assembly and intake manifold.
3. Disconnect the spark plug wires and remove the spark plugs.
4. Remove the distributor cap and rotor.
5. Remove the timing chain cover and timing belt.
6. Remove the cylinder head bolts and carefully lift the cylinder head off the block.
7. Clean the cylinder head and block mating surfaces with a gasket scraper.
8. Apply a thin bead of RTV silicone sealant to the cylinder head gasket and carefully position the gasket on the block.
9. Reinstall the cylinder head bolts and tighten them in a crisscross pattern to the specified torque.
10. Reinstall the timing belt, timing chain cover, distributor cap, and rotor.
11. Reinstall the spark plugs and spark plug wires.
12. Reinstall the intake manifold and air cleaner assembly.
13. Reinstall the oil filter (check the oil filter) and fill with fresh oil.
14. Reinstall the coolant filter and fill the radiator with fresh coolant.
15. Start the engine and check for leaks.
16. Test drive the vehicle to make sure that the engine is running properly.
Additional Tips
- Be careful not to damage the cylinder head or block mating surfaces when removing the cylinder head.
- Use a thread sealant on the cylinder head bolts to help prevent leaks.
- Torque the cylinder head bolts to the specified torque in a crisscross pattern.
- Test the vehicle for leaks after completing the repair.
