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MG MGF Technical - Home repair HGF

Classic hgf failure over raced engine before fully warm. I have replaced several head gaskets on older type engines BUT would I be stupid to attempt this on my VVC F? It is due a new cam belt so this will be included.
I don't have a manual as yet but would be grateful for advice on jointing compound or possible list of instuctions.Are any special tools needed.Has any do-it-yourself "mechanic" succesfully done this job and how many hours?
Roger
rw cattermole

Brave Man

You will need special tools to prevent the cams slipping.
If you are very adept, it is possible with a manual to help.

Tony H
Tony H

should be within capabilities of a careful and competent self-taught home mechanic, with the patience to read up first. IIRC the cam locking tool can be bought from Halfords for a few quid. Main tip is NOT to move the crank or turn the engine with the head off as the liners move, breaking their bottom seals and necessitating a full strip-down.
David

If you go by the manual the job is straightforward, but time consuming due to the engine layout. I have done the job twice. First time I think it took about twelve hours without rushing anything, the second time a lot less.
The camshafts have a hexagonal portion that fit an open-ended spanner (24mm, I think). Don't forget to renew the cam belt when you're at it. If you pressure fill the cooling system (through the jiggle valve at the RH rear of the engine) bleeding will be much easier.

On Dieter's site: http://www.mgfcar.de/index.htm Zyl. kopfdichtung you'll find useful hints.

Good luck!
Jon

Thanks for replies. One quote £670 from main dealer finally convinces me so this week end "off with his head" ie the mgf
I have read carefully Roger Parker Tamworth description and this has given me hope, but first to Halfords for the cam wheel tool.
Is the latest head gasket GUG702784HG, the Rover agent said LV000320 and what jointing compound -if any.
Roger
rw cattermole

>but first to Halfords for the cam wheel tool

If they haven't, I've seen the K-Engine cam pulley lock part at B&G for less then 10 quid recently.

Good luck and please get back to the BBS on this matter and report your experiance. Nothing is perfect.

Best
Dieter
Dieter K.

Get the metal locating dowels for the head (MGF originally had plastic ones).

Leigh
Leigh

the gasket is LVB000320 (previously LVB100760 but now superseded).
A full head set is GUG701195HS
David

You _do_ want a full head set
Will Munns

This thread was discussed between 11/05/2003 and 13/05/2003

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