Putting the M20 back together - tips

[Andy348]

I'm putting the M20 back together after pulling it all apart for a head gasket change. This is the first time I've done extensive work on this engine, but before it went in I did tb/wp change.

I will be following the Bentley religiously, but are there any tips or pertinent advice that the Bentley doesn't cover? I've got a full HG kit with torx-headed bolts and a Goetze head gasket.

Thanks in advance.

[nomansland92]

Any time I torque head bolts I put a little oil on the threads to help them seat better and prevent stripping the block.

Just something stupid I do

Oh and don't forget the coolant hose on the back of the head.

But if you follow the manual you should be just fine it covers everything pretty well.

Good luck

[e-dirty619]

Any time I torque head bolts I put a little oil on the threads to help them seat better and prevent stripping the block.

Just something stupid I do

Oh and don't forget the coolant hose on the back of the head.

But if you follow the manual you should be just fine it covers everything pretty well.

Good luck

if you soak the head bolt make sure to wipe them clean as it can crack the block. also make sure the head bolt holes in the block are free of fluids.

[dashboardmonkey]

Be sure to oil the head bolt washers.

[jlevie]

What has not been mentioned, and is important, is to use a thread chasing tap on the head bolt threads in the block. And then to blow out those with compressed air after a liberal dose of solvent.

[Cronopoulos]

What has not been mentioned, and is important, is to use a thread chasing tap on the head bolt threads in the block. And then to blow out those with compressed air after a liberal dose of solvent.

This right here!

[jlevie]

Oh yes, and I should have said that if you pull the head it needs to be surfaced. I've yet to see a used head that did not have some warp. If the engine has overheated or had a head gasket failure, it will need to be checked by a machine shop for cracks and then surfaced. Those are not just good ideas, they are mandatory!

[acolella76]

Oh yes, and I should have said that if you pull the head it needs to be surfaced. I've yet to see a used head that did not have some warp. If the engine has overheated or had a head gasket failure, it will need to be checked by a machine shop for cracks and then surfaced. Those are not just good ideas, they are mandatory!

Agreed. Having a head cleaned, tested, and resurfaced has never cost me a penny more than $100. There's no reason not to!

[wojtek79]

Agreed. Having a head cleaned, tested, and resurfaced has never cost me a penny more than $100. There's no reason not to!

That is with you disassembling the head yourself?

[BavarianAddict06]

Agreed. Having a head cleaned, tested, and resurfaced has never cost me a penny more than $100. There's no reason not to!

same here. i just did mine and paid $45 :D

[acolella76]

That is with you disassembling the head yourself?

Yes

[Andy348]

Head has been resurfaced and checked for cracks and leaks. $45 for planing, $45 for the check. Not too shabby.

Thanks for all the advice. I will abide by the above. Some specific questions however:

I need oil that will work as well in both - and + 30 degrees celcius. Our winters here can be very harsh, and I'd be next changing the oil in the summer. I think I currently use 20w50, but don't quote me on that. Should I be using a better oil? Synthetic or non-synthetic? I read non-synthetic as to not create new leaks, but will this be a problem with new gaskets?

Coolant - 50/50 antifreeze and water, of course. Can it be premixed, or can I just pour 2L antifreeze and then 2L water?

I had many more questions that I have now forgotten. I will update as I remember

[jlevie]

20w50 conventional oil in the spring, summer, and fall. 10w40 in winter.

[jeffnhiscars]

Coolant - 50/50 antifreeze and water, of course. Can it be premixed, or can I just pour 2L antifreeze and then 2L water?

Your system should hold close to 3 gallons so assuming its fully drained and you do the above. obviously you will not have a 50/50 mix. If you add 1 gal of AF then 1 gal distilled water, you will have 2 empty jugs to make a 3rd gallon of 50/50 to finish with

[Kozworth]

Putting the 2.7 stroker togather (tty inqueries)

Nvm