Head Gasket Kit or Just Gaskets

[runnyrunnerton]

Im working on a write up for tracking down an oil leak and replacing head gaskets. Found the small leak under the back of both gaskets and have had no overheating problems. I was going to swap them out but i found out there is a kit that has all sorts of new gaskets. Includes Premium PermaTorqueMLS Multi-layer Steel Head Gasket.; Includes Premium PermaDry Molded Rubber Valve Cover Gasket.; Includes Premium Material Valve Stem Seals.;

hmmm. so do i need to replace all that while im down there? I really wanted to knock out my lower ball joints first. Timing belt and water pump were replaced around 40K ago so Im not worried about knocking them out.

Do i need all these parts? I wanted to go OEM on the 2 gaskets and valve cover seals and just change them out and be done. Dont think the heads need shaving as there has been zero overheating issues. But i am a do it your selfer not a mechanic.

she has 185K, 6 cyl.

Thanks

 

[THEREALTOR1]

Member M@dM@x did a pretty good write up awhile back. Here's the link to it if its of any help.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/3rd-gen-t4rs/81140-little-help-head-cover-replacement.html

 

[Diagram14]

The bare minimum you need if youre going to reuse your TB and water pump are Head gaskets, intake manifold gaskets, and valve cover gaskets. Everything else is reuseable. I am in the middle of a HG job myself and have my heads at a machinist for cleaning. When I first bought my truck it would puff some smoke on start up so I am having them replace the valve stem seals and buff off all the valves. That is extra and really only necessary if youre being thorough or know there is an issue like I did.

 

[runnyrunnerton]

Awesome info guys thanks! I have not experienced any issues yet but a leak is a leak and I dont want to add oil until a big problem happens. Im just glad its not the rear main seal, I think I might actually just throw in the towel and take it to a mechanic for that kind of brain damage.