2000 ford windstar head gasket help!!!!!

[paadams]

I am new to this forum and I need help. I am only 18 and working my way up in the automotive field. I have done a few engine builds but only chevys and the engines were all out of the vehicle already. My grandfather has a 2000 ford windstar with a blown head gasket. He just recently got the vehicle out of the dealer from getting the intake manifold gaskets replaced. After about 1500 dollars later and three days he picked it up finished and ready to drive, though when he picked it up they told him he needed a new head gasket and it was going to cost another 1200 dollars. He is not wanting to take it back to them due to the fact that they could have mentioned the head gasket problem when they had the engine apart in the first place. He has since bought a new work van but wants to replace the head gasket anyway so hecan have another vehicle. He is going to let me do the job but is hesitant due to my lack of experience and now he has me second guessing myself. I was just wondering if anyone could point me in the right direction on tips how to replace those head gaskets.. never worked on a ford but I know they are confusing>>> thanks for the help anyone!!!!

[mark v]

Fords are not confusing!

[mpeoples]

I can't give you specifics, but I can tell you that getting a Ford factory manual for this vehicle would be the first thing I would do. Barring that, get a Haynes, as they have engine rebuild instructions, which will logically include the head gasket.

Don't fret about this, I'm just a DIYer (although I'm old enough to be your father), and I'll tackle anything that doesn't require a machine shop.

Follow these suggestions:

- take your time
- be sure you understand the instructions
- take pictures of stuff so you can tell which way it goes back
- label things like vacuum hoses and connectors

The key question to answer is whether or not the head is warped. The engine rebuild instructions will tell you to check this. You've done other engine builds, this is really not going to be that different.

Good luck.

[mark v]

Haynes is the worst. Chilton is the best.

[jcoberley]

Sorry but I have found that Ford factory manual is the best however there kind of costly and I get both Haynes and Chilton between the 2 you can make your way through most of the tough stuff fairly easy. Just a hint when I started I didnt have manuals or money to buy them and I found that laying the parts and bolts out in the order I took it apart helps a lot and to reinstall just reverse! Thats how this old man learned and still to this day do that on new things I am not sure about. I peice of carboard works nicely for holding bolts in order just poke the through the cardboard as you take them out! I have even spraided the black before I install them. It makes for a better looking install! But its just a hint or two. I am sure there is a lot of others that will have other ways.