HELLO all, awesome forum.

I'm sure the answer I'm looking for is already here somewhere, but hope someone could point me in the right direction or answer themselves.

So I've diagnosed I have a blown head gasket and seek step by step instructions on how to remove and re fit the head.

Have found the FAQ on timing belt replacement and adjustment ... ( btw mine has the auto tensioner - I'm learning ;) )
BUT cannot find detail on a B234F head removal.

I've taken a few basic things off to see what I'm looking at.

- top half front cam belt cover
- plug leads & big black cover (with oil filler cap on it)

Now I'm staring at what looks like the TWO piece head that I read about for the B234F 16V motor.

AND it looks like I need to remove the top half (cam holder ?) to access the HEAD bolts.

If I un-do the 20+5 nuts holding the top half, wont everything go BOING ?
or can I remove the the 5 in the middle AND 5 along each side,... leaving 5 "inner" nuts holding a cam each?
OR,... Do I need a "cam hold down tool"

Looks like I may need to invest in a manual - are Haynes any good? (read to steer clear of Chiltons for the 16V stuff)

FYI - I only need to get another 6 months out of this girl, at which time the MOT (UK annual health check) is due and for other reasons it will not pass. SO,.. spending minimal cash on new tools is the aim,.. looking for those great tricks to get the job done from the "forum's experience". Assuming I do not detect any head issues I will not be getting it machined, just cleaning it up, fitting the new head gasket and putting it all back together.


Thanks in advance.


Julian