Hi!
I am in the process of trying to do a head removal (first time)on my 1990 4ZE1 2.6L, and was hoping some folks with experience could help me out with a few questions/problems I'm having. I have been using Rufus the Rams write-up on this(from 4x4 wire), plus the Haynes manual....although they don't always agree with each other! So far everything has gone fine with the exception of the EGR pipe on the exhaust side that was apparently welded into place! So here goes with question #1:

Camshaft sprocket removal/timing belt tensioner confusion. I know the camshaft sprocket has to come off, and that the timing belt needs to be loosened to do this. In Rufus' write up, the only directions to loosen the timing belt are to: loosen the timing belt tensioner bolt, and then turn the engine over with a breaker bar until the timing belt tensioner wheel pops out to the right. In the manual, it says to use a prybar to release pressure on the tensioner after loosening the tensioner bolt. This off course involves taking off the lower timing belt cover, which means more dissasembly. So what's the deal here? I don't see how simply loosening the tensioner bolt and rotating the engine RE the Rufus method allows the tension on the timing belt to be released? The spring is still putting pressure on it, right? Can anyone elighten me about what actually needs to happen here before I remove the camshaft sprocket? The manual also says to align camshaft and crankshaft marks before removing the sprocket, but I guess this is uneccessary if you are just removing the head (as long as the engine is not turned over at all)?

Question 2: Power steering pump bracket removal. Under the head removal section in the Haynes manual, it makes no mention of removing the power steering pump when taking the head off! Rufus says you do need to take off the power steering pump to allow access to the bolt that goes from the bracket into the head. I removed the pump, but I can't figure out how to get the bracket off? I removed the nut on the bolt that disappears into the head, but the bracket is still held solidly in place. What else is holding the bracket in place? Does this bracket really need to be removed to remove the head?

Question 3: Haynes manual says it is neccessary to remove the thermostat housing, Rufus makes no mention of this. I don't see why it would need to come off, but am I missing something? If anyone has the Haynes manual I am going off chapter 2A section 10, which is cylinder head removal and installation.

Well, that's it for now! This is all new to me, so I figured some of you who have done this job before could hopefully clear up my confusion. I hope everyone is enjoying the holiday weekend! Many thanks to anyone who can offer any info or advice!! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cheers.gif" alt="" />