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[Xcaliber34]

Hey I am connor and I own a 2002 Nissan Xterra SE and I am in trouble of saving it. I need to replace the head gaskets and I don't have the money to pay anyone to do it. I can pay for parts but I have noooo clue on how to change a head gasket. so ummm help i want my heat back cause man its cold ever since the gasket blew!

 

[Macland]

Welcome to the nation! There are some pretty knowledgeable here that might be able to offer advice.

 

[TKDx00]

Welcome to the Nation... Sorry to hear about your problem. I'm in the same boat as far as having to replace a head gasket. However, I'm not sweating it and neither should you. While it might seem to be an impossible task, with the right tools, patience and directions, anything can be replaced on a vehicle. My X is down till I do mine in the spring. If you can wait till then I plan to do a HOW-TO since I can't seem to find one. If you can't...good luck and be positive.

 

[YouWatchHockey]

Welcome to the Nation! Good luck on your repair!

 

[AZhiAZiAM]

welcome to the nation

 

[Golf286]

Welcome from Colorado!!

 

[RATTFINK]

Welcome! I had my heads replaced in '11.

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[civicjoe]

welcome sir

 

[Xcaliber34]

Thanks I feel right at home lol so how much should head gaskets cost to replace I was quoted at 2200 and all I said was bs

 

[drbandkgb]

I would call a few shops.. 2200 seems high.. BUT there are a lot of hours in the tear down

 

[dhyde79]

Thanks I feel right at home lol so how much should head gaskets cost to replace I was quoted at 2200 and all I said was bs

$2200 sounds like straight up rape...it's not THAT much work. I'm pretty sure that a head gasket job shouldn't be THAT painful. especially since the gasket kit is between 170 and 210....so, lets see...2000 in labor? I'd certainly be looking for a cheaper shop, or, go get a chilton's manual and do the job yourself, just take your time and be careful...last set of head gaskets I did, I did solo, without a shop, and it only took me about 12 hours, and that was in a firebird, with MUCH less engine compartment space than an xterra has.

now, if these are DOHC heads, they'll be a bit more involved...figure maybe 14-16 hours at most, and that's assuming you're working by yourself, don't have a book, and have to hunt down tools every step of the way...