Head Removal Question ???

zenwalk · Post by **zenwalk** » Wed Nov 21, 2007 2:40 pm

So, I need to replace the head gasket on my '87 4WD Tercel with a 3-AC and I'm almost at the point where I can lift off the head. The only thing that's puzzling me is a small, metal coolant pipe that goes between the water pump housing and what I believe is called the water outlet assembly (upper rad hose connects to it). How does this thing disconnect? Does the water outlet assembly stay attached to the head? It looks like it pulls off the top of this pipe according to some of the pictures I've seen here. What seals it? O-ring?

Any help, much appreciated.

splatterdog · Post by **splatterdog** » Wed Nov 21, 2007 3:56 pm

Twist and pull. It's a slip fit with o-ring seals at both ends of the pipe. After 20 years they are a bit corroded together usually.

Maybe pull the outlet first so you don't ding the head while swinging it side to side.

Post by **Petros** » Wed Nov 21, 2007 7:36 pm

There is a little o-ring at each end of this tube. It simply floats between the head and water pump housing, it pulls out when you lift the head. Sometimes they stick due to corrosion or the o-rings sticking to the inside of the bore.

You can remove the water hose outlet housing off the side of the head to get it out, though I have never had to do this when removing the head. I have replaced heads/gasketes about 10 or so times on this engine (several different Tercels), and I usually just yanked it off. Make sure everything else is unbolted because though it may hang up a bit, it usually does not keep you from pulling the head, especially if you lift it from the back. If you have the head gasket broken free slide a pry bar near the tube and you will be able to lever it off the tube.

When replacing the head remember to position the tube and lower the head carefully over it. I have damaged o-rings by mis-aligning the tube. I used radiator stop leak to fix it until I had time to pull the housing and replace the o-ring. Also if the o-rings are in good shape you can reused them, put a little grease on them to prevent damage while reassembling.

Good luck.

zenwalk · Post by **zenwalk** » Thu Nov 22, 2007 1:55 am

Great info guys...this forum rocks! Now if I can crack those two exhaust nuts at the manifold, I'm in business. They're taking a bath in WD-40 overnight.

Typrus · Post by **Typrus** » Sun Dec 02, 2007 11:08 am

Go buy some PBBlaster Penetrant.... It will become your best friend. Best Penetrant I've used. Near nothing a little heat an some PB won't break into.

Chris · Post by **Chris** » Fri Dec 07, 2007 12:43 am

When I did a head gasket, I left the intake and exhaust manifolds, as well as the carb, attached to the head. It made it much easier. Less labor and parts.

schmooot · Post by **schmooot** » Mon Mar 03, 2008 9:46 am

thats the way I prefer to do it as well....leave everything attached to the head