Head Removal

[M32H32IS]

How time consuming is it to remove the heads on an AJ133?

I ask bc I’m tired of paying shops & getting 1/2 @$$ work in return.

I’d rather do it myself so I know someone took their time to do it correctly. Have the know how & tools but realistically I need to budget the time.

I’m guessing 6-8 hours tear down & about the same to rebuild…

 

[ftillier]

Can you do it without lifting the body off the frame?

 

[ktm525]

Time is always the killer. As a hobby the LR4 is fine as they get older but as a daily driver where it is required within a certain timeframe? That ain't no fun.

 

[itsaguything]

Yay! Another reason to justify the large stable of vehicles.

 

[scapistron]

Yay! Another reason to justify the large stable of vehicles.

Ha. I just got another dump sticker today. Lady in the office, "four vehicles?!?"

 

[M32H32IS]

Time is always the killer. As a hobby the LR4 is fine as they get older but as a daily driver where it is required within a certain timeframe? That ain't no fun.

I picked up a Lexus RX350 recently and retired the Rover. It’s a full on project now.

 

[M32H32IS]

Can you do it without lifting the body off the frame?

I assume so, the engine swap was done body-on. I’ve seen quite a few people remove the heads body-on.

I’m going to do the NS300L kit and may remove the grill, radiator & AC condenser. May as well replace the radiator and all belt driven accessories.

What else should I do while it’s apart? Injectors?

 

[BigBriDogGuy]

I've had a fantasy about learning how to work on these LR4s. I figure if you own one it's best to be able to work on it. There is a 2010 non-HD that's for sale here locally that looks in pretty good condition but is said to be blowing smoke out the exhaust. The seller thinks it might be a head gasket, but admits it may be something else, more. In my fantasy, I buy myself a set of tools and take my time to tear it apart and learn everything about it as I go, building my confidence on a car that is already mostly in the bag. In reality, I don't have the time right now or the tools or a place to work on it or the knowledge or expertise, so I am going to take a pass for the time being. Still, I can see myself someday puttering around in a garage and getting the sense of satisfaction that comes with working on your own rig and having it come together.

 

[ftillier]

I think the lack of skill will resolve itself, the key is to have time to compensate, as well as a space that's all-season and comfortable to work in.

 

[scapistron]

I too opted for a new, to me, vehicle while I replaced my engine. I got something with a warranty too!

Injectors, coils, plugs, coolant pipes, water pump, thermostat. If you can get someone to evacuate the AC that would be incredibly helpful. Leaving it in place was a real pain for me.

If you've ever wanted to drop the transmission, those top 4 bolts will be very easy to access with the heads off.