Ka24de Head installation

[jza80king]

I'm looking for a tutorial on how to re-install my head on the block. I have downloaded the FSM but was hoping someone can direct me to a tutorial (if one exists) to help me with the process. Searched but can't find much.

[GTR PrYdE]

The fsm is about as good as it gets.
-Clean head and block so no material is left on the sealing surface
-Chase threads with a tap to clean them out. Google that if needed.
-Install head studs (unless you're using factory style head bolts)
-Place HG on block
-Place head on block
-Torque according to the pattern in the FSM (***If using ARP studs, use the lube they recommend for torquing their studs.***)
This is pretty vague, but it's all I remember doing more or less.. Good luck!

[AZhitman]

Check out www.240sxtech.com - Seems to me we had at least 2-3 head install articles there.

[PapaSmurf2k3]

There should be dowels in the block to ensure the head lines up correctly too.

After that, you'll need to re-install your cams and timing chain.

[jza80king]

There should be dowels in the block to ensure the head lines up correctly too.

After that, you'll need to re-install your cams and timing chain.

Yep got the 2 dowels, cleaned the block multiple times with ignition cleaner and razor blade and a plastic razor blade carefully. Chased the threads and they are super clean. Getting some last few items and starting the assemble everything. Thanks guys

[PapaSmurf2k3]

Good luck!

[waxdnuggz]

Youtube has a couple rebuild vids that are very good best one I found is a 2 part vid and the guy talks about previous owner taking timing guides out already and his camera batt dying. Gl!

[jza80king]

Youtube has a couple rebuild vids that are very good best one I found is a 2 part vid and the guy talks about previous owner taking timing guides out already and his camera batt dying. Gl!

I have those videos. They are the disassemble only, I actually asked the guy if he had any assembly videos. Either way I have the head on the block now and I'm gonna work on the timing this coming weekend. The marks on the cams and sprockets as well as the position of the cam lobes is what I'll be working on.

[PapaSmurf2k3]

This should help!
http://jimwolftechnology.com/wolfpdf/CA ... CTIONS.PDF

[jza80king]

This should help!
http://jimwolftechnology.com/wolfpdf/CA ... CTIONS.PDF

Very cool! Thank you man, this helps.

[jza80king]

Got some time to post some pics. Just about done, just need to install the new thermostat, water pump, radiator and shroud, fan....couple little things.



Here is where it was blown


Before cleaning.


pre rebuild


Rebuilt head


Rebuilt head 2




Headgasket


Headbolts torqued


All new vacuum lines, complete gasket kit, Intake/Exhaust manifolds torqued, cams torqued.

[PapaSmurf2k3]

Looks like you've got it under control!

[jza80king]

Looks like you've got it under control!

We'll see when I go to start it. Hopefully it doesn't blow up on me lol

[PapaSmurf2k3]

Top Gear Top Tip - crank it over by hand first (preferibly with the plugs out so it is easier). If you have any issues, you'll be glad you didn't smash the piston into the valves with the full force of the starter

ASK ME HOW I KNOW!!!!

[jza80king]

Top Gear Top Tip - crank it over by hand first (preferibly with the plugs out so it is easier). If you have any issues, you'll be glad you didn't smash the piston into the valves with the full force of the starter

ASK ME HOW I KNOW!!!!

Oh man if I could tell you how many times I have turned it by hand... I'm used to non interference motors but i put the chain and cam gears all in line with the marks, I put the cams in the outward position. I turned it with my brother and watched the first piston and verified that as the piston moves up and down the valves aren't gonna get crunched. When I did this, I felt no binding at all so I should be good hopefully. I'm assuming you had this happen to you? Lol that sucks man.

[PapaSmurf2k3]

Yeah, when my head got rebuilt, the markings on the cams got washed off. I accidentally put them in backwards and I think cylinder #3 had a hard meet with all 4 of the valves open at once.

[jza80king]

I'm guessing if I had anything wrong, as I turn my motor by hand I would be able to see the valves through the intake ports, and feel/hear binding no? I have my spark plugs out still so the motor spins freely.

[PapaSmurf2k3]

yeah it would rotate to a stop. You'd know it.
I did this after building everything, turning the key, and hearing *click*, even after a fresh battery.

Its pretty much the worst feeling in the world when you turn your engine over by hand after doing that, and confirm you have something binding.

[jza80king]

Motor is done! Finished installing the water pump, thermostat, radiator. Installed the distributor and i had a grounding issue but once i got that figured out the car fired up beautifully. I have since added coolant and bled the system of any bubbles and set the timing. I'm so excited/relieved and that feeling of rebuilding a motor and hearing it start is just fantastic.

[SoundEfx]

Congrats.
You can now conquer anything engine related.

[azs13]

Brings back terrible memories. I have replaced my head gasket in a parking spot at my apartments, on the side of the road near my apartments, etc. Let's just say I was young and broke. Every time I replaced it I could beat on the car as hard as I wanted and would run perfect, as soon as I tried to take it up a local mountain pass it would overheat every time... Lesson learned, spend the money to get the head decked for straightness or stay away from hill climbs haha.

[jza80king]

hey guys I have about 500 miles now on my car and everything is great. I am wondering if I need to retorque the head bolts? I have a Felpro HG and OEM head bolts what do you guys suggest?

[PapaSmurf2k3]

I wouldn't touch it.

[jza80king]

I wouldn't touch it.

Kinda was l leaning that way but wanted to check with you guys. I followed the FSM steps for sequence in tightening and they are torque to yield so I'll leave it alone. Plus I did not see that the FSM said anywhere to retighten.