Removal

TO REMOVE CYLINDER HEAD:

- The cylinder head can be removed without removing the engine from the vehicle, and without removing the camshafts.
- New cylinder head bolts should be used every time the cylinder head is installed.
- If a failed head gasket or warped head is suspected, a compression test, may aid diagnosis and should be performed before the cylinder head is removed. A failed head gasket may be caused by a warped cylinder head. When replacing a failed head gasket, always check the cylinder head for straightness.

1. Disconnect the battery negative (-) terminal from the battery. Disconnect the ground strap from the cylinder head or intake manifold.
2. Disconnect the intake air duct from the throttle body on the intake manifold.
3. Drain the coolant.
4. Remove the camshaft drive belt.
5. Pull out the fuel injectors and remove the cold start valve from the intake manifold, leaving the fuel lines attached. Cover the injectors and the cold start valve to keep them clean, and plug the openings. Disconnect the throttle cable and throttle switches from the throttle body. Disconnect and label the hoses and wires connected to the throttle body and the intake manifold.
6. Disconnect the exhaust pipe from the exhaust manifold.
7. Loosen the alternator mounting bolts and remove the upper alternator mounting bracket.
8. Disconnect the coolant hoses from the outlet on the front of the cylinder head and from the heater outlet on the left (driver's side) end of the cylinder head. Disconnect the wires from the temperature and oil pressure sending units, and label them.
9. Disconnect the spark plug connectors from the spark plugs.
10. Remove the cylinder head cover.

Cylinder Head Bolt Tightening Sequence:

10. Gradually and evenly loosen the cylinder head bolts, beginning with the outer bolts and working toward the center (follow the tightening sequence in reverse order), and remove the cylinder head. If the head is stuck, use a soft-faced mallet or pry gently with a wooden stick to loosen it.