So it appears my 86 XJ-6 has head gasket issues - losing coolant but no leaks, milky oil, white steam in the exahuast on cold start. So assuming the diagnosis is correct - are there any members out there with experinece in having had this done . . . and advice as to what all to make sure is covered/done. I have some uneven compression readings, I'm expecting I would have all valves checked and hopefully have improperly seating valves in the lower compression cylinders that can be replaced/repaired. And the stakedown kit installed if its not there already.

Also, while im not looking to have a hot rod, I would not want to spoil the opportinty to make the engine run at its best (and pick up some hp?) - port and polish intake/exhaust, increase compression ratio, exhaust header, etc.

Anyone been through this - having done more than the bare necessities of repairing the gasket and reassembling ? Know of any good literature / articles / blog posts that might help me ?

I look forward to any information or insight the group might have to offer.

Submitted by Doug.Smith@God… on Mon, 04/15/2013 - 13:55

Bill - the junk car just passed 200K, but with rebuilt BW transmission 20K miles ago and many other replacement parts over the past 6-7 years

Tom - I will pass this along to my mechanic and have him do as you recommend ! Thanks - thats exactly the kind of advice I was looking for !

Submitted by coventryclassi… on Mon, 04/15/2013 - 09:40

Change all the freeze plugs while the engine is out. Check the head studs behind the freeze plugs for rust. If they are hour glass shaped, now is the time to replace the head studs. Might look at the rear main seal. 1985 & 86 had problems. Do not re-torque the head before checking the head studs.

Submitted by Doug.Smith@God… on Sun, 04/14/2013 - 22:19

I came upon a local car (also 86) that has lead an outdoor life and finally (less than 3 weeks ago) dropped part of its rear suspension from rust. I am buying and scavaging the car for spares, but will immediately have the engine (and maybe trans) swapped into my car with the cylinder head issues. Appears to be a less expensive fix, and the donor car has 110 +/- compression readings across all 6 cylinders - vs my car which has 2 cyliners at 75 and one at "0" due to a presumed non-seating intake valve.

All said and done - any recommendations for "must do's" or things to look for with the engine out ?