Jimi Hondrix

1998 Honda Civic EX (D16Y8) coupe. AT. 148K miles

I know this isn't a technical question and I am not trying to create an opinion poll. I have all the parts removed or separated except for the head, which I am removing tomorrow morning. This is my first head gasket replacement and just trying to get it right as possible the first time.My guess is (if this post is allowed to exist) that most recommendations will be Honda OEM.. but, which company(s) manufacturer the OEM gasket?

Here's a list of others and some sold as a set: Amazon.com: Head Gasket Sets - Gaskets: Automotive
Should I use Permatex copper spray?

I found a couple used cylinder heads on CL and both claim to be removed from working engines (block issues). I plan on checking them for warping, valve leaks and cracks.

Former User

Why not just use the Honda gasket and follow the service manual installation to the tee? Also replace the head bolts.

86azms3

12251-P2J-004 Nippon Leakless is OE

Jimi Hondrix

Looks like I can get a pretty good price on all OEM gaskets needed at HondaPartsNow.com I will be replacing the head bolts too. I downloaded the Honda Service Manual.
Thanks Ron.

Former User

After reading through the service manual instructions, post up questions or clarifications, if any come up.

Jimi Hondrix

Removed head bolts today with of exception of #6 (torque sequence) as it's stripped. I haven't got it out yet and I've tried by applying lifting pressure under the bolt head with a flat head screw driver while turning with a ratchet. It spins freely for a bit, tightens, spins again and doesn't raise up. Would locking needle nose pliers help (have to buy)?

Hoping (when removed) that it's just the bolt threads and not the block. However, I have a strong feeling it's the block and if it is should I use a heli-coil set or TimeSert?
A helicoil set will be less expensive and available today but, from what I have read the TimeSert kit is more accurate.

Jimi Hondrix

Bolt is out. Block thread stripped. Called machine shop and the owner told me it's fine to helicoil it.
I also asked what would be the best route of either buying a used head (craigslist) or doing an R & R ... resurface & rebuild. He said that either way it's always best to reseat the valves and that chances are a used head (overheated or not) would need resurfacing. He gave me a quote of $250 on mine to pressure test, inspect for cracks, clean, lapp grind and rebuild it with the current valves (if not bent), springs and I supply seals. So, I am going to have him do it.

Any suggestions on the easiest eay to completely remove the paper intake manifold gasket from the head?
I've tried razor blades and plastic paint scraper..very slow going.
My assumption is an 11mm bolt will be needed in place of the 10...is that correct and anyone know a part number or where I can find one for engine use?

joey1320

For the paper gasket you can use a plastic rolo disk or soft wire wheel.

As far as the helicoil, shouldn't it be the same size as the bolt you removed? Meaning you will need to drill the threads, retap and fit the helicoil. Sorry but I have never opened the kit we have at work.

Jimi Hondrix

I used a helicoil a few years ago for a valve cover and can't remember if the same size is used or step up in size. I think you're right though as I don't recall having to oversize the valve cover for a larger diameter.

joey1320

I just did a quick YouTube search and as I expected, you drill out the current stripped threads and insert a repair coil of the same size as the original bolt.

Good luck.

Jimi Hondrix

Good news.,, Thanks for that.

Just ordered 10 OEM Headbolts: 90008-PZ1-003 Bolt-Washer (10X120.5)
[Civic | 1998 | 2 Door EX | KA 4AT] $2.39 x10 = $23.90
along with the other parts needed for HG replacement.