Unplug all wires and hoses
connected to the cylinder head and remove the head cover. You may need
to remove the A/C fan to be able to clear it of the studs on the engine
block.2 Set the motor to "top dead
center," or TDC. Remove the #1 cylinder's spark plug as well as the
valve cover so you can observe the springs. Insert a screwdriver into
the open spark plug hole, and rotate the motor by hand,
counter-clockwise. When the #1 cylinder is on its intake stroke, watch
the screwdriver. Turn the motor very slowly until the screwdriver
reaches its highest point. Remove the screwdriver. Slide off the
timing belt, and be sure you do not rotate the motor any further.3 Remove the head bolts in order,
and double check that no coolant lines are still connected. Lift the
cylinder head out. It will be very heavy--this is where you'll likely
need the help of another person. Remove the old head gasket. 4 Drain the oil from the cylinder
head. Clean the pistons, valves, headbolt holes and all other parts
with degreaser and a toothbrush. Wipe down with a paper towel when
finished.5 Set the new head gasket into the
engine block, lining it up correctly. Carefully place the cylinder
head back in, on top of the head gasket. Soak the headbolts in oil to
lubricate them, then replace them. Tighten each bolt until it is
snug--no further.6 Start the torquing sequence, following the directions in your Honda's manual. In most D-series
cars,
you need to torque each bolt to 22 foot-pounds, then all to 53
foot-pounds. Be certain to follow the correct torquing sequence as
indicated in the manual, or you could warp the head.7 Reinstall the timing belt and reconnect all wires and coolant lines.
×