Need motor work 90 4.0

[XJRob2]

I have had a lot of trouble getting heat in my 90 Laredo. I just noticed that there is water getting in the oil. I was hoping I could get some direction to go from here. I must have over-heated it too many times while trying to burp the system.
I live in the Dunn Benson area near I-95 and I-40.
I don't know what to expect as far as price and such. My regular mechanic said he couldn't do it.

Thanx for any help,
Rob

[lawsoncl]

Getting antifreeze in the oil sounds like a blown head gasket.

[dizzymac]

You prob. didn't crack the block but prob. did blow the head gasket. When you replace it, either buy a thermostat with the hole in it or drill one yourself so the system will burp.
OEM stat is 195*, it will start to open at 195* but not be fully open 'til about 210*, be careful about letting it overheat.

[XJRob2]

Thanx for the reply's. Yeah, I think it is safe to say the head gasket is blown. I am glad I caught it when I did, as there isn't but a small trace of water in the crankcase. I got an estimate of $300.00 to do the work, to save me the headache. That sounds fair to me
Thanx again,
Rob

[xjtrailrider]

Dang! $300! Do it yourself, you may need a person to help you pull the head off and then put it back on but its really not that big of a job.

[Jackhill442]

Actually I thought $300 wasn't too bad! It is a bitch to do it. I did one side of a Chevy 350 and it took 2 days. The going rate for that job I want to say is in the $600 range.

[XJRob2]

For $300.00 he is going to remove, clean, and surface the head. This also includes oil and filter change anti freeze, spark plugs, and he is going to pull a vacuum on the cooling system, and this is supposed to make dern sure there is no air in the system. I think this is a fair price by all means. I could get the gasket slapped-on for cheaper, but I want it done right so that i can get this project going.