How hard would it be for a novice shadetree mechanic to remove the stock heads off of a 88 L98 and replace them with aftermarket heads, while the engine is still in the car. Can it it be done easily?

 

It's definitely possible. The hardest thing is the exhaust manifolds. If you still have stock manifolds, now's a good time to upgrade, especially with aftermarket heads. The factory manifolds suck. They have a GP on SLP's for around $350. The hard side is the passenger side because of AIR injection...if you live where you don't need it, now's also a good time to pull it off. Make sure you have a good selection of tools and drain the radiator before you start. Change the oil afterwards. USE A GOOD TORQUE WRENCH. Make sure it's clean before you disassemble so dirt and crap doesn't fall into the bores. Cleaning the entire engine compartment the night before is a good idea, don't soak the electronics. Make sure your spark plugs are compatible with the new hed design. USE A GOOD TORQUE WRENCH. Mark everything as you take it off, and I'd change to ARP head bolts so you don't have to worry about re-torquing head bolts. Around $45 for the set, don't get studs. Just make sure you take your time and everything's clean, neat and organized.

What kind of intake are you runnin'?

BTW: USE A GOOD TORQUE WRENCH.

Miss anything, anyone?

[This message has been edited by dhirocz (edited April 22, 2001).]

 

Torque values are not SUPER CRITICAL that you have to stress it three times. Do you really thinkg the heads will crack and blow off if he was off by 5 pounds + or - ? Even the manual says 70-90. Think about it... really.

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92 Z28 5.7
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Trick Flow 23° heads, Comp Cams XR270HR-10 cam, Accel intake base + ported TPI,
TES headers, Flowmaster catback, MSD ignition, #24 SVO injectors, 1LE aluminum driveshaft.

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be careful of the dowel pin once you take the head off if it comes out as mine did catch it and make sure it goes back or the head will shift around causing you to blow a gasket

 

Actually dowel PINS as in two per head. Located on the lower left and right.