M42 profile gasket and timing chain replacement

[cheesebox]

I'm going to partially strip my IS's engine down to replace the profile gasket and timing chain/guides/sprockets.

Is there a critical order I should do things in, in a nutshell? Eg am I ok to do all the jobs required to do the gasket, then before reassembling, tackle the timing bits?

I have tech guides for both jobs but can't work out the above. I'm confused as the Haynes manual for the M42 says no pistons must be at TDC before reassembling the head, but for the timing gear job it must be locked with piston no.1 at TDC.

Hope this isn't too complicated thing to explain simply! Any advice greatly appreciated...

[cheesebox]

OK after a bit more reading I think I've got it...

Do the timing parts first with camshafts and crackshaft locked and piston one at TDC, and reassemle as far as putting lower timing case back on. Then start head removal process.

I've got the timing cover off and locked at TDC. Ready to start phase II.

Shout now if alarm bells are starting to ring!!

[Chris-W]

Go for it. Sensible order if you ask me.

[cheesebox]

Cheers mate.

Out of interest, I drive home on the A34 after work - have spotted another red e30 heading back towards Manc from Dean Row a coupe of times - could that be your goodself?! Cheshire's a big place but it could just be possible!

[Chris-W]

Not been anywhere near the A34 with a red one for some time - nope, not me.

[cheesebox]

Must be a foreigner, I heard you owned all the red e30's in South Cheshire Chris!

[Chris-W]

I have to sell one now and again to put them back in circulation

[stuartgallafant]

I have to sell one now and again to put them back in circulation