Tools:
- Socket set
- Wrench set
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Gasket scraper
- Thread sealant
Materials:
- New head gasket
- New head bolts
- Engine coolant
- Oil
Instructions:
1. Drain the engine coolant. Place a drain pan under the radiator and open the petcock to drain the coolant. If your transmission cooler lines ran through the radiator, you may need to get some fluid.
2. Remove the valve covers. Use a wrench to loosen the valve cover bolts and remove the valve covers.
> Tip: If you did not put any sealer on the intake manifold gaskets when you installed the intake, you might remove some bolts at this point so it doesn't fall out.
3. Loosen the head bolts. Use a socket wrench to loosen the head bolts in a crisscross pattern, starting with the bolts in the center of the head. Loosen the bolts just enough to break them loose, do not remove them completely.
4. Remove the head. Use a pry bar to carefully pry the head off of the engine block. Be careful not to damage the head or the gasket surface on the block.
5. Clean the gasket surfaces. Use a gasket scraper to clean the gasket surfaces on the head and the block. Make sure to remove all of the old gasket material.
6. Apply thread sealant to the head bolts. Apply a thin layer of thread sealant to the threads of the head bolts. This will help to prevent the bolts from leaking.
>Tip: It's a good idea at this point to have the block professionally surfaced.
7. Install the new head gasket. Place the new head gasket on the block. Make sure that the gasket is properly aligned. If the pistons protruded over the block surface they could have cut the gasket, you would have to install another one.
8. Install the head bolts. Install the head bolts and tighten them in a crisscross pattern, starting with the bolts in the center of the head. Tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
9. Reinstall the valve covers. Reinstall the valve covers and tighten the valve cover bolts.
10. Reinstall the intake and exhaust manifolds. Follow the procedures for your year of engine and car.
11. Reinstall the distributor. Make sure to set the distributor to the correct timing.
12. Reinstall the water pump. Don't forget your gasket.
13. Reinstall the fuel pump and filter. Be careful not to spill fuel.
14. Reinstall the alternator. Use the bolts from your old alternator. It is a good practice to replace the pigtail wire too.
15. Reinstall the starter. You may need to pry it into place. Don't forget to reinstall the bracket to support it.
16. Refill the engine coolant.Add coolant to the radiator until it reaches the specified level.
17. Replace and tighten the radiator cap. Do not overtighten.
18. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, turn off the engine and allow it to cool down.
19. Reinstall the spark plugs and wires. Follow the firing order for your engine.
20. reconnect the battery. Do not let it touch any metal on the car unless the negative connector goes on first.
This should complete the head gasket replacement on your 1978 Trans Am. Be sure to follow all of the instructions carefully to ensure a proper repair.
