What should i look out for when replacing the head gasket and stem seals on a 1UZ's?

[ara_ara_ara]

Hi guys.
been a lurker on the forums for quite a while.
i think my Soarer is becoming little thirsty on oil lately
so i'll be getting the Head gaskets and stem seals replaced soon.
will be ordering a gasket kit for the 1UZ from ebay.
what tools do you need?
and when replacing the gaskets, is there anything i need to know or apply on the heads/gasket before fitting in the new gaskets,stem seals?
all the help would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers.

[skiddz]

ummmm hate to state the obvious dude but replacing the headgasket wont solve your oil consumption issue. here's an idea, how about some more specifics?

lets start with k's on engine?
how much oil is it drinking? how often do you have to fill it up and how much are you putting in?
ever though of using a heavier oil?

do a dry vs wet compression test,

also if you are asking what tools you need, then im sorry dude but you shouldnt be touching your car, least of all changing your head gaskets. but in the spirit of being helpful, a torque wrench, repair manual, this tool (its not essential, but fuck me it makes removing and installing valves easier), a rattle gun is always usefull.

but really, you should try using a heavier oil and do a compression test. if you are wanting to re build the top end you may as well do a full rebuild cos its more likely that your rings are worn and thats causing the oil burnage

[ara_ara_ara]

ummmm hate to state the obvious dude but replacing the headgasket wont solve your oil consumption issue. here's an idea, how about some more specifics?

lets start with k's on engine?
how much oil is it drinking? how often do you have to fill it up and how much are you putting in?
ever though of using a heavier oil?

do a dry vs wet compression test,

also if you are asking what tools you need, then im sorry dude but you shouldnt be touching your car, least of all changing your head gaskets. but in the spirit of being helpful, a torque wrench, repair manual, this tool (its not essential, but fuck me it makes removing and installing valves easier), a rattle gun is always usefull.

but really, you should try using a heavier oil and do a compression test. if you are wanting to re build the top end you may as well do a full rebuild cos its more likely that your rings are worn and thats causing the oil burnage

Hi thanks for the input.
i know i sound very noobish.
but i would like to try and do most of the work on my car my self.
sofar almost everything i have done my self.
coilovers/Rush header/flushing the transmission,replacing the oil filter in the trans/cam belts/serpentine belt's/brake rotors/calipers/alternator/powersteering pump rebuild.
and above all i have a spare 1UZ in the garage with low KM's that i will have it in later on if i do f##kup.

the cars done 150k, i really i thin it doesn't really burn that much oil.
about 1ltr out of 4.5ltr that i put in every 3k.
the main reason i want to have the gaskets replaced is that i think it's drinking coolant.
there is lot of white smoke coming out.
probably will try to even get the rings replaced.
but like i said i'm not realy worried if i do stuff it.
it is more of a learning experience.
oh and i do have a torque wrench...
but stem seals is just a thought.
any input is welcome...

Cheers.

[CrUZida]

What oil are you using?

[neal]

why don't you build the spare 1UZ you have? I would if it was me.

If you are pulling the head off your best bet will be to put it through a machine shop and get it rebuild by them.