9 replies to this topic

[adam1980]

Is it possible to change the rockers without removing the cylinder head? or am i going to need to replace the head gasket due to disturbing it.

[Spud_133]

You can remove the rockers whilst the cylinder head is still in place. I am not sure whether it will disturb the gasket, as it will be partially loosening it. It may be ok as the head is not braking the seal.

[jaydee]

Yes you can do that, i would drain some of the coolant off just to be safe. Follow a spiral patter either undoing/torqueing the nuts and do that gradually. In some cases you wont break the seal and you dont need to change the gasket.

[adam1980]

hopeing someone was going to say that, suppose theres no harm in trying. thanks

[Spud_133]

I will add, I'd do it, with changing the rockers, and tightening the correctly, in sequence and to the right torque, and try it. If it did the gasket then it's easy enough to change, and if not you don't have to worry. Just make sure you keep checking your coolant after you've done it.

[Spherix]

Why risk it? Head gasket change only takes an extra 5 minutes

[tiger99]

Yes, take the extra 5 minutes to change the gasket. It will minimise risk of problems later, and also allows you to check the condition of the combustion chambers and piston tops, and maybe spend another 5 minutes removing carbon deposits, which on some models solves problems such as running on.

[bmcecosse]

Why do you need to change the rockers? You can slip rockers off the shaft - only difficult part is to get the lock screw out to allow the shaft to move within the pillars. DO NOT slacken /retighten head nuts - that's just asking for trouble.......

[welshdan]

i have changed the rockers before without changing the headgasket in the past. it takes a bit more then 5 mins to disconect the inlet and exhaust manifolds, thermostat housing, any extra steadies that you might have, remove the head itself and clean the head and block faces to the standard that will take a new headgasket.

[minimissionary]

I'm in the school that says change the head gasket. Theres a great deal relying on the head gasket forming a reliable seal; disturbing it is going to compromise this. For the sake of another 20 minutes work, it's best to be sure.
I'd much rather do this, than find that the head gasket needs changing after putting everything back on.