New DSM owner start headgasket replacement, any advice, tips, problems, tools I need?

[RandyJr]

Just bought a 1992, it needs a headgasket. The previous owner had it replaced once and it blew again. Any idea what that may mean, warped head maybe?
Anyways, I have a Haynes manual and your basic supply of tools. This is my first DSM, so all of this is going to be new to me. Is there anything I should know going into this job? Any special tools, tricks, tips, would be appreciated.

 

[RandyJr]

What's everyone's opinion on removing the balance shaft belt to prevent it from messing up the timing belt? Is there is disadvantages to removing it?
Also I understand that the automatic tensioner has to be removed(2 bolts) but does the tensioner pulley and bracket have to come off?

 

[luv2rallye]

There's dozens of things I could say but I'll just mention 5.
1) If you are blowing headgaskets, your head is probably warped. When you get it off take it to a engine machine shop and have it milled. You may as well also do a valve job at the same time. Torque the head bolts in the correct sequence to proper step amounts (or you will be doing the job again).
2) Don't ever use a haynes or chilitons manual for engine work. They are notoriously incorrect and incomplete on engine stuff and torque settings. Spend the $ and get the real Talon or Eclipse manual (to save $, maybe used one on ebay or a CD version).
3) When you remove the timing belt follow these directions: http://www.vfaq.com/mods/timingbelt-1G.html. The automatic tensioner does not have to come off if you put a setting wire in it to hold the pin (see link). Here is a tensioner tool you can build: http://www.vfaq.com/mods/timingbeltNOTE1.html.
4) Most people also replace the water pump at the same time since you must remove the timing belt to do this. Many also replace the timing belt, balance shaft belt, idler pulley, and tension pulley.
5) You may have to remove the forward engine mount vertical stud in order to remove the middle timing cover without cracking it.

 

[luv2rallye]

Here's another post on head removal steps: http://www.dsmtuners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=99037&highlight=alternator+belt+coming