22-09-2021, 11:19 AM
If the block is coming off anyway you may as well remove it in situ - even if you need the engine out to re-assemble it will be a lot less weight to handle in one go.
The next challenge you will face is to remove all the studs (top face, at least), sometimes it's a breeze but more likely they will resist with a vengeance.
Before you do any of this I suggest you remove the head and observe the level of the piston crowns at exactly TDC. On a 2 bearing engine it is often advised that these should be a little below the face of the block (say 20 thou) to protect against contact with the head at high rpm (due to crank whipping). I certainly wouldn't let them go proud of the block face - which means however much you remove from the block you may also need to skim from the piston crowns (forever after).
There's no need to do anything with the head gasket.
Can't advise on local contractors in Notts area I'm afraid but if no luck I can suggest people in my own neighbourhood (bit far for you otherwise).
The next challenge you will face is to remove all the studs (top face, at least), sometimes it's a breeze but more likely they will resist with a vengeance.
Before you do any of this I suggest you remove the head and observe the level of the piston crowns at exactly TDC. On a 2 bearing engine it is often advised that these should be a little below the face of the block (say 20 thou) to protect against contact with the head at high rpm (due to crank whipping). I certainly wouldn't let them go proud of the block face - which means however much you remove from the block you may also need to skim from the piston crowns (forever after).
There's no need to do anything with the head gasket.
Can't advise on local contractors in Notts area I'm afraid but if no luck I can suggest people in my own neighbourhood (bit far for you otherwise).