I have been lurking on this forum for quite sometime and have to admit, that I am usually on this site almost daily.

I just want to thank everyone for all the knowledge you have shared on this forum.

All this information came in handy when my V6 raider blew head gasket 3 weeks ago.

From updated torque specs, step by step, stem seal and lash adjusters, timing belt, I was able to disassemble, change all gaskets, reassemble and start the raider without problems.

I changed all the gaskets from the head up, head bolts timing belt, tensioner, spring, waterpump, thermostat, updated the crank pulley bolt, and washer, spark plugs, wires, lash adjusters, stem seals, and valves, all the hoses, and small things I forgot.

Yes it did take me longer, about 40 hours(I have never done this ever, and was very nervous that I might blow it up) I was really proud that I was able to accomplish it from start to finish.

At 254,902, the Raider aka miss-a-bitchy is running great.

Thank you all again.

Great job! Diving into something that complex for your first major mechanical endeavor is pretty brave. Glad to hear it's back up and running. Just think about how much money you saved versus having a shop do it for you.

Great job!! Now take her wheeling! Hope you make it out to Uwharrie, NC sometime.

FYI - there's an offroad park in Marion, NC that there will be an offroad race at on June 14th with open trail rides afterwards. I am racing Formula toy #94 <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Oh sweet!!! That is super impressive kaliriver. Great job and nice looking Raider.

I am impressed with your challenge-acceptedness and the end result as well. Sounds like you hit all the right spots so you won't have to touch the engine again until the next timing belt, which will be a far easier job.

Nice looking truck and a great combo with the V-6 and the tough manual (unlike the 4-cylinder's).

John B.

looks all too familiar. i think I will be replacing the heads on one of mine soon so this tear down will be in my future. If you want some more practice you can come to central NC to have more experience.

Good job. Those black painted wheels look sharp

good job good looking truck too <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />

All that work, first time through, in 40 hours, it pretty impressive to me. Nice job!

Attaboy.

Your first major mechanical foray is an absolute success. Congrats.