Head Gasket Q

[cschema]

1998 Altima;

Can I change the head gasket without pulling the short-block? I would like to be able to do it with the bottom end still in the car.

Also if there are any tips that are not covered in the FSM they would be greatly appreciated.

[breadbox]

most head gasket replacements leave the motor in the car. The trick is taking off the head. you have to keep chain tension on the lower sprocket so it never moves or skips teeth. If it falls you have to take off the front timing cover and reset the static timing.

So most people find/make the "Wooden Wedge of Grace": 10" long, 3/4"thick, 1" at the bottom and 1 1/2" at the top.

Other than that IDK about the altima. if you do drop the chain.. google ka24de motor build writeup and it show step by step how to build one and a good reference to look at.

[cschema]

Thanks, The FSM is going to be huge help, and I have a friend who did this on a different -98 Altima a few months ago.