02-17-2009, 08:35 AM
flintster55 Wrote:Random threadjack but the question fits here. How hard is a headgasket replacement on the 4g63? I have a friend that told him $1500 for replacement at a local shop where he lives. Is that totally crazy? Is that something he could attempt on his own with some basic car smarts?
I'm sure DJ will jump in here and say that it could be done in an afternoon with a pocketknife and some toothpaste, but the reality is that a "blown headgasket" has alot of implications.
If the head and block need to be measured and decked, then 1500 is probably reasonable. That's alot of labor.
I think something a little more than "basic car smarts" is required, but it's definitely something that *could* be done, if you're motivated. But more likely what's going to happen is your friend is going to get the head off and then not be able to get it back together (or mistime it) and then it's going to sit.
Of course, I'm assuming the worst, that the head gasket blew and white smoke went everywhere and your friend didn't immediately turn the car off, drift off the road, and called AAA.
1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442