90 740 cylinder head removal/refitment Topic is solved

[e777]

This will be the third head on a B230F that I have replaced (three different vehicles).
For the first two, I had the heads machined at a shop before refitment.
In the interest of saving some cash, I am wondering if this is really necessary if one just gives the mating surface a thorough cleaning. The issue is just a slow coolant leak from the head gasket. The engine has never over heated.

I have heard about the possibility of head warpage occurring during removal of a perfectly good head and, out of fear of this happening, I have always opted to bring the heads to the shop. I'm not sure if I trust my own ability to detect warpage....

Thanks for any advice!

[abscate]

It’s not rocket science but you do need a good machinists square..basically a piece of milled steel that is proof straight. I’ve long since valued a machine shop cost over my solvent, cleaning cost, and foobarring the warp measureent though.

My local shop charges $25 to dip , clean , and measure a head

[artca]

I replaced the head on my 1992 940 GL(non turbo) with a head I found at Pick n Pull. I was fortunate though. Afte I cleaned it up (replacement head) and cleaned the carbon off the pistons I installed the head as is, even using the same head bolts. The red block engines are a marvel of engineering. It's been over eight, nine years since and no issues with the engine. I have driven this same car to Denver from Monterey CA twice. Several times down the coast to Los Angeles. The MPG is about 22 to 24 MPG. No leaks of coolant or oil. I changed the O2 sensor from the original last month.
Love this car!

[lummert]

Loosen head bolts in reverse order pattern (starting at the ends).