Well my new Monty has developed a coolant leak somewhere so I took it to a shop and they want to charge $850 to replace the head gasket and have the head checked out. I can not afford that so I am going to try to do this myself. I've gotten my gasket kit and some new head bolts from NAPA and plan on trying to do this over the weekend.

Is there anything that I should watch out for? Does the head have to be sent off to a machine shop to check flatness or is there a way to check that my self? It has been a good 10-11 years since I have done anything like this so any pointer would be greatly appreciated.

Also, after doing some searching is looks like the preferred aftermarket head is Clearwater..?

If you have a GOOD machinists straight edge you can check the head is in spec with feeler gauges. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

The last time I pulled the head from my 2.6 off and brought it to a local machine shop (5 years ago?) it cost $29 to have it inspected and machined. Been great ever since.

The head to get is the clearwater new casting with no jet valves.


Then you want to use the Felpro PT gasket for the same year Starion turbo.

Do your research in here, lots of good tips and a full remove and replace guide.

head install

DanWheelers guide

2.6 head guide


Do not waste your money on a new head unless your going to fix the cooling system also. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/shame.gif" alt="" />

I did allot of searching but never came across that stuff... That will be a huge help thanks.

The searching in here is a art form <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

There has to be over 1000 posts on the 2.6 head but I searched by DanWheeler because I new he had a guide on his web site. No button for that type info <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/cyclops.gif" alt="" />

Yeah.. now all I need to do is keep the 1000 or so vacuum hoses straight good god!! there are a ton of them. I started on it to night and can't believe how many there are.

Wish me luck <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/scared.gif" alt="" />

Grab a copy of the FSM. Also, there is a great diagram that Don has out there. (No linky handy with me.)

mark them all with tape and take digital photos. The only way I could keep them strait.

Ok, bad news.. I got the head off and got it all cleaned up and low and behold....... cracked head.. not one but TWO! <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/scared.gif" alt="" /> #$%&. So Clearwater here I come. I guess I will call them Monday to make sure I get the right one.

Do those come with the cam and lifters or will I have to use my old ones?