My 98 LX had its engine overheat to a point where the radiator had a crack because of high water pressure. Now white smoke comes out the exhaust with the smell of "burned" coolant. I had the coolant flushed; there's a very slight indication of oil. No sign of coolant on the engine oil though. In any case I think I should have at least a head gasket issue.

The mechanics that I asked told me that it will cost between $1500-2000 to fix it and I'm quite penniless, so I'm attempting to fix it myself. I have fixed minor things in the past (replace oxygen sensor, find and fix bad fuses..) so this is definitely a big project for me!

I'm about to remove the engine head and I'll take it for inspection for cracks/warps. Since I've opened up the engine and pulled out a lot of parts I'd like your advice on what to change (last major maintenance was 6 years ago) so that I wont need to do this again in the next few years.

Here's my list so far on items that I will order:
1) thermostat
2) water pump
3) timing belt (set)
4) head gasket (set)

Anything else I should consider? I'd like to order the parts and get them in timely manner before I put them together.

(Hopefully the engine block is ok)

 

Ask yourself how much those parts will cost you, then ask yourself how much a complete used motor will cost you. If I was you, I would swap the motor with a know good one. Just my 2cents

 

From autozone, the most expensive parts:

1) thermostat $20
2) water pump $60
3) timing belt (set) $30+$35
4) head gasket (set) $150

+ Checking the head and fixing any warps ($100) (if it doesn't have cracks)
Total: $400

I don't know how much will be a good used engine.. $600-700?
Also, can I replace the engine myself or will I have to pay a mechanic?

 

Well if you are in a hurry to get the car going, then I say fix it. Otherwise, you can find motors for around 300$ on craigslist. I see them a lot. And you need an engine hoist to pick up your bad motor out the car, then just drop the new one in. You will need to disconnect ac,powersteering, transmission, and wires. It's not to difficult, its like legos lol. But it is time consuming. If tou started in the morning, tou would finish the next morning

 

You could change just the head gasket and also the thermostat, total cost about $40. A new thermostat is a good idea whenever there is overheating. If the new gasket seals and it runs OK, go back and do the timing belt, etc.

 

I would suggest to follow MK's suggestion(s). As a general rule, you always replace all belts/gaskets when you swap in a new motor for peace of mind. So add that on top of buying a new motor. It is not required of course, but highly suggested to do these types of things as it is much easier with the motor out of the car. Plus, you have no idea old those belts are on the new motor regardless of what the seller states.

If you were to replace your motor, you can definitely do it yourself, as long as you have an engine hoist and a few days time basically.