1. Disconnect battery
Disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical accidents while you work.
2. Remove the intake manifold
First remove the throttle body, then remove the fuel injector rail and fuel lines. Remove the intake manifold bolts in any order and remove the intake manifold.
3. Remove the exhaust manifold
Remove the heat shield, remove the exhaust manifold bolts, and remove the manifold.
4. Remove the spark plugs
Remove the bolts that connects the coil pack harness and remove the coil pack. Remove all 4 spark plugs using a 5/8 spark plug socket.
5. Remove the rocker arm
Remove the bolts that hold down the rocker arm assembly and remove the assembly. This will expose the valvetrain.
6. Remove the cylinder head
First, remove the timing belt. Using a 15 mm wrench, loosen the tensioner and remove the belt.
- Remove both camshaft sprockets.
- Remove cylinder head bolts in reverse order of tightening; you may need an extension to reach the center bolts.
- The head should come off easily but be careful not to drop it.
7. Clean the head gasket surface
Use a gasket scraper to remove the old gasket, but be careful not to damage the surface. Use sandpaper to make sure the surface is level and smooth.
8. Apply gasket sealant
Apply a thin layer of sealant to the new head gasket. Be careful not to use too much, or it could leak.
9. Install the head gasket
Carefully place the new head gasket in place. Make sure it is seated correctly.
10. Reinstall the cylinder head
Reinstall the cylinder head and hand-tighten the bolts with a 13 mm wrench in a crisscross pattern. Then tighten bolts to specified torque.
11. Reinstall the timing belt
Replace the timing belt and tighten the tensioner. Check the timing belt for proper tension.
12. Reinstall the camshaft sprockets
Reinstall the camshaft sprockets and make sure they are lined up correctly.
13. Reinstall the rocker arm assembly
Reinstall the rocker arm assembly and tighten the bolts.
14. Reinstall the spark plugs
Reinstall the spark plugs finger tight and then tighten them down with a spark plug socket.
15. Reinstall the intake manifold
Reinstall the intake manifold and tighten the bolts.
16. Reinstall the exhaust manifold
Reinstall the exhaust manifold and tighten the bolts.
17. Reconnect the battery
Reconnect the battery.
18. Start the engine
Start the engine and check for any leaks.
