Just how easy is it to change a head gasket? I've finally got a friend to move over to the dark side now that her Pontiac is dead, and we've found a 97 Civic that needs a head gasket.

 

"Needs a head gasket" is used car seller's talk for "blown engine." But if the price is right it's not hard to change the whole engine should it come to that.

 

it's actually easier to swap the whole motor lol. but the head gasket isn't too bad either. just be careful. head could be warped

 

At least 95% of the time when the head gasket goes it's from the head overheating and warping. I would either a) stay the hell away from that car or b) if it's a screaming deal buy it and get a rebuilt head.

Since you wanted to do the head gasket it's only a *few* more steps for doing what you would need to do with a rebuilt head (transfer/buy the cam & rockers etc.). Look to spend at least 1200 for the head, gaskets & T-Belt. One more thing: Don't loose any of the part from the old head (other then what they need for the core).

If you have any more questions hit me up. I'm just about done putting a rebuilt head into my civic :-)

 

It's not a job for your weekend tuner, I suggest you have a little experience with internal work. Don't think you can install an intake/exhaust then assume you have the skills to tackle a head gasket install...