As discussed in an earlier thread, I'll be doing my first head gasket replacement any day now, on a '90 244.

I'll also be changing the timing belt as we have no idea how many miles are on the current t-belt. Again, it's my first time doing that job also.

Question:
What's the best way to simultaneously do both jobs? I could do the gasket replacement in full, back to a running engine. But I think the t-belt replacement will be easier if I do it after replacing the head before closing up the valve cover. True?

Also, I need to crack loose the crankshaft pulley bolt first, before removing the head. Because I plan to use the "rope trick" - which only works when the head is in place.

So - my proposed sequence:
Use rope trick to remove crankshaft pulley bolt.
Remove head and get it machined flat or replace as needed.
Reinstall head but without camshaft.
Install t-belt, camshaft and tensioner.
Install valve cover
Tighten crank pulley bolt.
Close up timing belt covers.

Sound right??
Thanks.

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Sven: '89 245 NA, 951 ECU, expanded air dam, forward belly pan reaches oem belly pan, airbox heater upgraded, E-fan, 205/65-15 at 50 psi, IPD sways, no a/c-p/s belt, E-Codes, amber front corner reflectors, aero front face, quad horns, tach, small clock.