Timing Belt and Headgasket replacement update, observations and lessons l...

[DasWolfen at aol.com]

 Glad Im not the only one to "enjoy" this job recently! I just did a complete
head rebuild for a 200q20v including new dizzy, guides, and lifters.
Unfortunately 3 of the new lifters were defective and adding insult to injury
the small hose connecting the turbo coolant supply line failed within 20
miles. Leason learned is the CHANGE THAT FREAKIN HOSE, and do it ANYTIME its
accessable, which would be when doing a TB, or hydraulic pump swap, or the
head is off.

 The car had 215k on the clock and a cylinders showed crosshatch still very
appearent. Reason for the head rebuild was lots of smoke after extended
idling or after several very short starting and shutdowns (moving it around
the shop), but no smoke during engine braking. Now it doesnt smoke at all
even after idling for 3 hours at one point.

 A nice surprise was the price my machinist charged for reconditioning the
head. Guides, milling, valve job, and remove 4 broken studs for under $400.

Keith