How to replace your D series Head Gasket

               

                                  Tool Needed

                              screw drivers

                                   sockets

                         container for waste oil

                                paper towels

                                 degreaser

                             gasket Scraper

1. First off, it generally helps to remove the hood from its support brackets. Pop the lifters and remove the four bolts.
2. Remove all of the associated pipework from the radiator (the system should be drained first) and remove the electrical connectors to the cylinder head and/or the wiring which will get in the way. Label the wires so you don't get mixed up when refitting everything.
3. The cylinder head is a heavy piece of equipment, so sometimes it is easier to remove the intake manifold. Be careful that coolant will still be in the cylinder head and the manifold.

                                                    Instructions

1. 1. Unplug all wires and hoses connected to the cylinder head and remove the head cover. You may need to remove the A/C fan to be able to clear it of the studs on the engine block.
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6. 2. Set the motor to "top dead center," or TDC. Remove the #1 cylinder's spark plug as well as the valve cover so you can observe the springs. Insert a screwdriver into the open spark plug hole, and rotate the motor by hand, counter-clockwise. When the #1 cylinder is on its intake stroke, watch the screwdriver. Turn the motor very slowly until the screwdriver reaches its highest point. Remove the screwdriver. Slide off the timing belt, and be sure you do not rotate the motor any further.

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3.  3. Remove the head bolts in order, and double check that no coolant lines are still   connected.    Lift the cylinder head out. It will be very heavy--this is where you'll likely need the help of another person. Remove the old head gasket.  
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7. 4. Drain the oil from the cylinder head. Clean the pistons, valves, head bolt holes and all other parts with degreaser and a toothbrush. Wipe down with a paper towel when finished. Some people even run the same size taps in head-bolt holes to insure proper cleaning.                               
                                        
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   5. Set the new head gasket into the engine block, lining it up correctly. Carefully place the cylinder head back in, on top of the head gasket. Soak the head bolts in oil to lubricate them, then replace them. Tighten each bolt until it is snug--no further.

5. 6. Start the torquing sequence, following the directions in your Honda's manual. In most D-series cars you need to torque each bolt to 22 foot-pounds, then all to 53 foot-pounds. Be certain to follow the correct torquing sequence as indicated in the manual, or you could warp the head.
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   7. Reinstall the timing belt and reconnect all wires and coolant lines.