I've just replaced my cylinder head and have done this work. It can be done without the tools mentioned. One cheap alternative to counterhold tool would be a good strap wrench.

If you have an auto tensioner, you do have to compress it very slowly. They mention somewhere that it is not a good idea to compress with vise. You do have to remove from block. I used a hand held clamp (like a pipe clamp) that tightened by squeezing the handle.

Also, as mentioned elsewhere (FAQ?) check your oil pump pullley and replace the bolt. You might have an older plastic pulley, they are prone to failure!

While doing the timing belt you might also want to
1) change crank seal. Requires removal of drivebelt pulley, and timing and balance shaft gears.

2) water pump. fairly cheap, $35.-$50. easy to do with everything removed.

3)balance shaft belt should be changed, if it fails, there goes your head!

BTW, after replacing head on mine, the crankshaft timing gear failed!!!
I had failed to check the tightness of the crank bolt.
Also, I am going to try to run mine without the balance shafts. From what I've been able to determine, others have done it, and it would eliminate an extra belt and possible problems.


SO a word of caution... check everything twice or three times before trying to start. Turn it several times by hand to make sure things line up.



good luck,

jc


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1985 740gle na, 1990 740gle 16 valve