However, if you're determined to attempt this yourself, here's a highly generalized outline. This is not a complete, step-by-step guide and should not be used as such. You'll need a detailed repair manual specific to your 1997 Ford Taurus engine (either a 3.0L V6 or a 2.5L V6) for precise instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
General Steps (Highly Simplified):
1. Preparation: Disconnect the battery, drain all fluids (coolant, engine oil, possibly transmission fluid depending on your engine's location), and gather all necessary tools and parts. This includes a head gasket set (which typically includes new head bolts, or at least check for reuse recommendations in your manual), new valve cover gaskets (if needed), new timing belt (highly recommended if not already changed recently), and possibly other seals and gaskets. You'll also need specialized tools like a torque wrench, engine hoist, possibly a head bolt torque angle gauge, and various sockets, wrenches, and pullers.
2. Remove Ancillary Components: Disconnect and remove numerous components to access the cylinder head(s). This includes things like the intake manifold, fuel injectors, spark plug wires, alternator, power steering pump, accessories belts, and possibly more depending on your specific engine. Take meticulous notes and photos as you go to help with reassembly.
3. Remove the Cylinder Head(s): This is the most physically demanding part. You'll need to remove the rocker arms, valve covers, and then carefully remove the cylinder head(s) using an engine hoist. Pay close attention to the order of the components, and photograph everything.
4. Inspect and Clean: Thoroughly inspect the cylinder head(s) and engine block for any damage, warpage, cracks, or scoring. If there is damage, the head(s) may need to be machined or replaced. Clean the mating surfaces meticulously.
5. Replace Head Gasket(s): Carefully install the new head gasket(s) according to the manufacturer's instructions and the repair manual.
6. Reinstall Cylinder Head(s): Carefully align and install the cylinder head(s) and carefully tighten the head bolts using the correct torque sequence and specifications from your repair manual. Incorrect tightening can lead to warped heads and catastrophic engine failure. You may even need to use a torque angle gauge to ensure proper tightening.
7. Reassemble Everything: Reinstall all the components you removed earlier, paying close attention to your notes and photos.
8. Refill Fluids: Refill all the fluids you drained earlier (coolant, oil, etc.) to the correct levels.
9. Check for Leaks: Start the engine and carefully check for any leaks around the head gasket area, the valve covers, and other areas where you worked. Allow the engine to reach operating temperature.
10. Final Checks: Check the coolant temperature gauge, oil pressure, and for any unusual noises.
Again, this is a highly simplified overview. A detailed repair manual is absolutely essential. Attempting this repair without the proper knowledge and tools is extremely risky and can lead to significant damage to your engine, potentially costing far more than a professional repair. Seek professional help if you lack the experience.
