Hi,

I have never replaced a head gasket, but I fear that the one in my 83 300D may be getting tired. I figure I should start making preparations to do it in the upcoming months, and so want to be as prepared as possible.
-The first thing I would liek to know is how long does it usually take to do this? I figure Ill get an estimate, tack on a few extra hours for newbie learning, and have some idea.
-The next question is, do I need to get a head job while its off? Is it usually necessary in a 190K car to need new valves, valve seats, springs, etc? I figure Ill clean it all up before replacing, but I want to minimize outsourced labor to keep costs down, and also minimize car downtime.
-Do I need to remove all the belts, hoses, fan, etc to take the head off? How much disassembly is involved?
-While the head is off, and Im digging around, I figure it would be smart to replace the timing chain and guides/tensioner. Is this a simple thing to do with head off, or are these two jobs somewhat unrelated (I wouldnt think so, I would guess ill have to take the chain off at least somewhat anyway).
-Any other replacements/rebuilds that are generally DIY while im in there? I like to get all my parts at once so I save on shipping, and like to have an idea now what Ill be looking at spending.
-Any special tools to do this?

Thanks for any info/advice I can get.

JMH

__________________
Current Diesels:
1981 240D (73K)
1982 300CD (169k)
1985 190D (169k)
1991 350SD (116k)
1991 350SD (206k)
1991 300D (228k)
2008 ML320 CDI (199k)
1996 Dodge Ram CTD (442k)
1996 Dodge Ram CTD (267k)

Past Diesels:
1983 300D (228K), 1985 300D (233K), 1993 300D 2.5T (338k), 1993 300SD (291k)