m42 head removal - manifolds off?

[cheesebox]

Is it possible to get the head off without removing the inlet and exhaust manifolds?

(The rebuild is under way. Timing chain, sprockets and guides are off, new parts on order. head next...)

[Chris-W]

Technically, yes, but it's not advisable.

Why's the head coming off?

[cheesebox]

The profile gasket's gone. What a massive job to replace a part that costs about £5!

Thought I'd sort out the noise from the timing chain whilst I was at it...

Mind you it's actually turning out to be good fun, thought it would be a nightmare. Still I haven't finished the job yet!

So best to remove the manifolds then? Is that to minimise risk of damaging things whilst lifting?

[Gwynleym10]

exhaust manifold is easy on m42, way easier than m10/m40

Just soak it in WD40 overnight.

[Chris-W]

It's heavy enough on it's own - not so much removal but when re-fitting you really don't want to be scrawping the nicely re-faced head with manifolds attached all over your nice new head gasket!!

Plus it's worth taking the opportunity to replace all the in/ex manifold & tb gaskets whilst you're doing this. Did you get a head kit or just the gasket? Might find some hoses that you should replace as well.

[cheesebox]

Sounds like good advice. I've got a full set of gaskets so will replace all as suggested. Thanks for the tip re: pipes - those under the TB look a bit dodgy - will order replacement today...