I was quoted $2300 to replace a head gasket that is leaking, but not blown. With Gasket And bolt kits around $250 all together, I am trying to determine whether it would be worth it to DIY it. Has anybody done this? Difficulty level?

 

I have a 1999 D2 with 4.0 Bosch V8 btw.

 

$250 parts, $250 machine, $100 tools (if you don't have any) & 14 -16 hours of your time.

 

What tools are needed, and what's the process listed out?

 

Read this Engine Refresh (top end) | PaulP38A.com

 

Thanks! Looks very meticulous, but definitely cost effective

 

Milwaukee M12 12-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless 3/8 in. Ratchet Kit-2457-21 - The Home Depot

that made the job so much easier its not even funny. break the bolt loose and suck it out/ repeat where needed and tighten and re torque.

 

I'm definitely interested in the DIY route, but what is the skill level? Definitely not a pro

 

There's some little things in this DIY route, that you must remember to do , ex 1) - the amount of torque required for tightening the bolts.....2) - the order in which you tighten the bolts.... 3) - being able to check the cylinder surface for total flatness ( what if it needs to be polished ?)... sounds like just a open and close case ,,,,,but its not ........ good luck .

 

"I'm definitely interested in the DIY route, but what is the skill level? Definitely not a pro" no need to be.

take your time, print out the pages you need from the RAVE. unusual tools you may need 8mm 12 point socket for the valve cover bolts, a 25 inch 1/2 breaker bar, a 5/8 shallow 6 point 1/2 impact socket for the head bolts and a clutch fan wrench, everything else should be in a standard / metric socket set


plan a day to take it apart and clean everything and a day after you get the heads back to install and test.
good luck