the timing belt feels like its stretched and very loose,
and I need to replace it asap. this is my first time pulling the head off a car it looks really simple..is there anything else i need before swapping?
1.Tools
2.Chiltons Manual
3.Timing Belt
4.Water Pump

 

might as well change out the tensioner since you'll have it out. It's a cheap part.

 

k thx man, i was told i'd need to replace the water pump because
usually you mess them up putting the belt back on..
I want to clean the head while it's off what should I use to clean it?

 

u mean the top part that covers ur head? thats the valve cover and if you just want to clean it you can degrease it for a while and rinse and repaet, maybe use a scrubbing brush.
if ur going to paint it you can sand it all the way down and use high heat paint to re-spray it. you can either tape off the letters or just sand them down once u paint it.