Question about AJP heads

[Nickccc]

Can an AJP head be removed without taking the engine out of the car?
2001 model.

[The AJP Griff]

I'm sure i've read on hear that it cant on a Cerb,due to the front cover having to be removed,and there not being enough clearance for it?.In the griff there is enough room to take the front cover off,but having done this i would now say that it must surely be easier to just hoist the engine out in the first place,anyway,as it was such an arse to do!

[grahamn]

Nickccc said:

Can an AJP head be removed without taking the engine out of the car?
2001 model.

Nick Don't do it, you will only break it again. Just drive the effing thing.

[brogenville]

I think it depends on whether your car has a/c or not, as its the a/c pulley on the front that fouls things up. Most cars do have a/c, so hence most will need engine out to get the heads off.

Either way, its gonna be bloody tight.

[WIL35]

Mine (98 4.2 with A/c) were removed with the engine left in place when the timing chain broke. This was all done under warranty, but the front crankshaft oil seal was knackered when I got the car back!

When I saw it in pieces the front cover was still on, but pulled forwards, still don't know how they got the new chain on!

[Nickccc]

grahamn said:

Nickccc said:

Can an AJP head be removed without taking the engine out of the car?
2001 model.

Nick Don't do it, you will only break it again. Just drive the effing thing.

Too late Graham, it's got a cracked head, thats where the steam was coming from when we went to Silverstone. With any luck it can be welded, and I won't need a new head, though after hearing some of the replies I think pulling it out will make sense.
Bread and water this Christmas.

[The AJP Griff]

Any more news,Nick?Fingers firmly crossed for you

[Nickccc]

Looks as if it will be able to be welded, will know for sure when the head is off and the crack inspected.
Have been lucky to be able to source a spare head from a very kind PH'r thanks Dave thats plan B.
I sniff tested it and it looks fine so the gasket is solid, not that i'll be able to reuse it, but at least the crack isn't down to the gasket face. I suppose if after the weld it stands up to a pressure test then all good.
Not going to get dispondant about it, leason learnt, just looking forward to getting it fixed and enjoying it again. Roll on the 2009 trackday calender.