Replacing Head Gaskets On A Ford Taurus 3.0L V6 OHV Engine. With Time Lapse. RWGresearch.com

Introduction

Replacing head gaskets on a Ford Taurus with a 3.0L V6 OHV engine can be a daunting task but is achievable with some planning and the right tools. This tutorial will guide you step-by-step through the process, helping you save money on repairs while gaining hands-on experience. The entire job can be completed for around $200, compared to a shop estimate of $1200-$1600.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

Before starting the project, ensure you have the following items:

• Head gasket kit
• New head bolts
• New coolant reservoir
• Coolant
• New spark plugs
• RTV Black sealant
• Quick set epoxy
• Coolant system flush
• Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers)
• Torque wrench
• Engine hoist (if needed)

Practical Tip

Organize your workspace and tools to avoid wasting time looking for items during the repair.

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

1. Disconnect the Battery

   • Remove the negative terminal from the battery to avoid any electrical issues.

2. Drain the Coolant

   • Place a drain pan under the radiator and open the drain valve to let the coolant flow out.

3. Remove Engine Components

   • Take off any components blocking access to the head gaskets, such as:
     • Air intake
     • Exhaust manifolds
     • Valve covers
     • Timing belt or chain (if applicable)

Common Pitfall

Ensure you keep track of all bolts and parts removed during disassembly to avoid confusion during reassembly.

Step 3: Remove the Cylinder Heads

1. Unbolt the Cylinder Heads

   • Use a socket wrench to remove the head bolts in the correct sequence (check the service manual for the exact order).

2. Lift Off the Heads Carefully

   • Use an engine hoist if necessary to lift the heads off without damaging them.

Practical Tip

Inspect the cylinder heads for warping or cracks before proceeding. They may need resurfacing if damaged.

Step 4: Clean the Surfaces

1. Remove Old Gasket Material

   • Use a gasket scraper to carefully remove any remnants of the old head gasket from the cylinder head and engine block.

2. Clean the Surfaces

   • Wipe down the surfaces with a clean cloth and a suitable solvent to ensure a proper seal with the new gaskets.

Step 5: Install New Head Gaskets

1. Position the New Gaskets

   • Place the new head gaskets onto the engine block, ensuring they are aligned properly.

2. Reinstall the Cylinder Heads

   • Carefully place the cylinder heads back onto the gaskets.

Step 6: Torque the Head Bolts

1. Follow the Correct Torque Sequence
   • Use a torque wrench to tighten the head bolts in the specified sequence and to the manufacturer's recommended torque specifications.

Practical Tip

Double-check the torque specifications in your service manual, as improper torque can lead to gasket failure.

Step 7: Reassemble the Engine

1. Reinstall All Removed Components

   • Reattach the timing belt/chain, valve covers, exhaust manifolds, and intake system.

2. Replace Spark Plugs

   • Install new spark plugs, ensuring they are properly gapped according to specifications.

Step 8: Refill Coolant and Test

1. Refill the Coolant System

   • Fill the new coolant reservoir with the appropriate coolant mixture.

2. Reconnect the Battery

   • Reattach the negative battery terminal.

3. Start the Engine

   • Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes while checking for leaks.

Common Pitfall

Monitor the temperature gauge and watch for any signs of leaks or overheating during the initial run.

Conclusion

Replacing head gaskets can save you a significant amount of money and give you valuable experience in automotive repair. By following these steps, you can successfully complete the job on your Ford Taurus 3.0L V6 OHV engine. Always remember to consult your vehicle’s service manual for specific details and torque specifications. Happy repairing!