My mechanic says both my '89 (178k) and '90 (150k) - 300Es could use new head gaskets and a valve job. They run strong and have good, even compression but both leak oil from the head gasket and timing chain cover area. Oil consumption is consistently 1 qt./1200 miles on each. I want to eliminate the mess on the garage floor and the smell of oil burning on the exhaust manifold.

What are the essential 'must dos' in performing a good valve job? Some shops I called say they send the head out for refurbishing; others say they check for flatness and if OK, put it back on with new gaskets.

At home: Is this a job that can be handled at home by a weekend mechanic? Any special tools needed? Where could I get a procedure to follow? Can any good automotive machine shop refurbish the head?

At a shop: If I have it done at a shop, what is a reasonable price?

I appreciate any advice.

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04 GMC Yukon XL Denali, Black, 12k
02 New Beetle, TDI, Reflex Silver, 24k
89 300TE, Arctic White, 214k

90 300E, 142k (sold)
87 300TD, 128k (sold)
83 300D, 314k (sold)
79 300TD, 266k (sold)

Share your knowledge -

Wayne