However, if you're determined to attempt this yourself, here's a general overview of the process. This is not a complete, step-by-step guide and should not be considered a substitute for a professional repair manual specific to your Malibu's engine. You'll need a factory service manual or a reputable repair manual for your specific year and engine (check for 2.4L or 3.1L engine).
General Steps (Highly Simplified):
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Work in a well-ventilated area.
* Gather Tools and Parts: You'll need a comprehensive set of tools including sockets, wrenches, torque wrench (crucial!), gasket scraper, engine hoist or jack stands (for engine support, potentially engine removal), new head gasket (correct one for your engine!), head bolts (often replaced), possibly new valve cover gaskets, etc. Check your repair manual for a complete list.
* Drain Fluids: Drain the coolant, engine oil, and possibly transmission fluid (depending on proximity).
2. Remove Related Components:
* Access: You'll need to remove various components to access the cylinder head(s), including belts, hoses, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, possibly the alternator and other accessories. The exact components will depend on your specific engine.
* Wiring Harness: Carefully disconnect and label all wiring harnesses connected to the engine. Take pictures to aid in reassembly.
3. Remove Cylinder Head(s):
* Loosen Head Bolts: Carefully loosen the head bolts in the specified sequence (found in your repair manual). Do not remove them completely yet.
* Remove Head Bolts: Once all are loose, remove them completely.
* Lift Cylinder Head: Carefully lift the cylinder head. You may need an engine hoist or jack stands to support the engine.
4. Inspect and Clean:
* Inspect Cylinder Head and Block: Inspect the cylinder head and engine block for any damage (warping, cracks). Have any damage professionally assessed before proceeding.
* Clean Surfaces: Thoroughly clean the mating surfaces of both the cylinder head and engine block. Use a gasket scraper and appropriate cleaning solvent to remove any old gasket material.
5. Install New Head Gasket:
* Install Gasket: Carefully install the new head gasket, ensuring it's properly seated.
6. Reinstall Cylinder Head:
* Install Head: Carefully lower the cylinder head onto the engine block.
* Install Head Bolts: Install the head bolts in the specified sequence and torque them to the specified torque values (using a torque wrench). This is critical; incorrect torque can cause damage.
7. Reinstall Components:
* Reinstall everything removed earlier in reverse order. Pay close attention to the order and proper tightening of all bolts and nuts.
8. Refill Fluids:
* Refill Fluids: Refill the engine oil, coolant, and other fluids to the correct levels.
9. Testing:
* Check for Leaks: Start the engine and carefully check for any leaks. Look for coolant leaks around the head gasket area, oil leaks, etc. Let the engine run for a while to ensure there are no problems.
Important Considerations:
* Torque Specifications: Using the correct torque wrench and following the torque specifications is absolutely crucial to prevent head bolt damage and ensure a proper seal.
* Professional Help: If you're not experienced in this type of repair, take your car to a qualified mechanic. The consequences of an incorrectly installed head gasket can be catastrophic for your engine.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1999 Chevy Malibu is essential. It will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, and other important information.
This overview is highly simplified. The actual repair is much more involved and requires a detailed understanding of automotive mechanics. Again, consult a professional repair manual and seriously consider taking your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. The cost of a professional repair is likely less than the potential damage from an improperly performed repair.
