Had an unexpected head gasket failure last weekend on the new project 1989 245. Annoying thing is that only the day before I had flushed the cooling system and replaced the leaky original intake gasket. I think shock cleaning the valves with distilled water and seafoam was probably too hard on the car, and it overtaxed a silently weakened gasket. First sign was increased crankcase pressure, then noticed my coolant was dark, then removed the oil cap and saw snot. Took one evening to remove everything and get clear access to the head, then a second evening to actually remove the head.

Am trying to make sure I take care of everything I ought to while the head is off.

water pump
radiator and hoses
heater hoses
crank position sensor
coolant temp sensor
timing belt and tensioner
thermostat and housing
front oil seals

Already did the oil separator box when I had the intake off last weekend.

Any advice appreciated!

thanks,
john