I ended up having to pull one of the heads on my 2002 XJR because I wasn't getting any compression on cylinder 1. This is my first time ever doing anything on a car of this magnitude, so not sure what I'm up against. Based on the picture, is that something I should try to have repaired or should I be looking to buy another head? Also, if I end up having the head rebuilt, should I be having the head on the other bank rebuilt too? I'm asking because I was planning doing the head gaskets, so going to pull it anyway since I've gone this far.

Also, the piece I'm holding in my hand seems to have fallen off of something when I pulled the head. I found it sitting on top of my alternator. Anyone know what it is or where it goes?

Brian

 

You’ll want to take the head to the machine shop and let them assess it if it’s damaged beyond repair. If they determine that it’s repairable, absolutely pull the other head and have them go through it. Order the later MLS head gaskets with new head bolts.

I’m not sure what that part goes to. Hang on to it just to be certain.

 

Thanks for the advice. I ended up taking the heads to a machine shop in Phoenix today. They're saying it will be $500-$700 per head for rebuild. They're not sure how long it will take them to source the parts, so the guys at the shop are saying it will be about a three week turn around. I think I remember reading that the head gaskets for the 4.2 liter engine and head bolts from a Range Rover of the same year were best for doing this job, so I'll start purchasing those. Thanks again!

 

you also need a 12mm ribe for it

i just use the felpro lincoln ls set with the 13mm hex head

 

My 98 Ford Ranger's radiator cap quit fixing a few days ago. It ran hot and began blowing up while I was attempting to make it home. After I let it sit long enough for it to cool, I sorted out that .