head gasket

[stratct]

Hello all, I'm new here and have a question. My buddy has a 2.4 quad 4. His head gasket is blown and I am going to swap out out for him. I know that the quad 4 is a bastard oh an engine to with on but he needs the car. Are there any helpful tips you guys have that someone like me (a ford guy) would know? I would hate to see the car go. It's actually quite nice. Just a FYI, the motor is in a 1998 Malibu and not a Beretta. But the engines are generally the same

Thanks in advance.

[Money pit Beretta]

There is so much that needs to be done the right way. Way to much for someone to list. Your best bet is a service manual.

[stratct]

Ok we will pick one up! Thanks!

[1988GTU]

I concur with MpB.

[ifixalot]

You can find info on the internet if you Google search
"changing head gasket on a quad four engine"
I found a couple YouTube videos. They can give you an idea of whats involved.
Try several variants of the search terms for more info.
Factory service manuals are the best, the Chilton or Hayes manuals are not so good.

[1988GTU]

Post as you progress with questions. Will be better than nothing.

After all, that's what forums are partially for.

[SuzukiGhostRider]

Make sure you Google Twin Cam 2.4l of you want the correct information

[Rettax3]

Make sure you Google Twin Cam 2.4l of you want the correct information

^^^I am so glad you said that! Technically, the LD9 2.4L Twin Cam in that Malibu is NOT a "Quad 4", although it is very closely related. Head-bolt torques are different I believe (It has been a while since I did the head on either one, but I know for a fact that both diameter and length of the head-bolts are different between the 2.4 and the "Quad"), just to start, and the 2.4 has a totally integrated water-pump, as opposed to the Quad's splined intermediate-shaft, to mention another critical difference. I have gotten very good info from both Haynes and Chiltons over the years, but yes, factory is better, usually also pricier. Some internet sources are good, some are not, be careful with what you take as fact. Good luck!

[SuzukiGhostRider]

Yup, that's why I corrected what to look up. Otherwise he'd have popped that gasket right after install due to improper torque, not to mention timing and all the other wrong information he'd have gotten looking up Quad4 info for a TwinCam.