Hi all,

Does anyone know where I can find a reputable and reliable mechanic can replace my blown head gasket with a reasonable price in Hayward, Bay Area? :( :( :(

Victim:
1995 BMW M3 with 100k on the clock
Replaced waterpump, thermostat, thermostat housing in Feb 02
With all indications of blown head gasket: white smoke, loss of power, Low Coolant level light, Red Zone Temperature...
Is in the shop diagnosed blown head gasket.

I have told that the process needs no lesser than 12 labor hours, is that true? Can anyone provide a ballpark figure on the cost of replacement? Should I change the Ti. Valves & Retainers at the same time (make the motor stronger?).

All inputs are welcome.

Thanks,

Abouit 2000-2500 if the head isn't warped or in need of freshening. $3500+ if it's warped or the valves need to come out for freshening. I don't know about a shop up there.

I have been quoted 8 hours to remove and install a new head. Also, I would change the retainers to the newer one's that BMW offers. Supposably the 95 retainers are week and known to float easily. I installed these on my 95 when the motor was out (due to an overrev), and have never had a problem.
12 hours is a long time. If you find someone that has done this several times they could prob. do it in 5-6 hours. Most mechanics do not have the tool that is neccesary to set the timing. So I assume if they have one they have done it a few times.
Take it easy, and good luck fixing you'r ride.
Chris

Did you talk to Dick at DSR? What did he quote you? Actually i think he told me 12 hrs, but they only have two mechanics. Btw how do you like your cams?

Chris:
I noticed the power loss like 2 weeks ago, "low coolant level" warning was on and off for the past few weeks. My car is at the shop right now, they are not specialized in BMW. So I am thinking about taking it to other shop, i.e. Dynospot.

I'll let you know the progress.

Meanwhile, I'll see how much is it to replace the head gasket first.

SC//M3:
I love the cams! It gives me instant power above 3500rpms. Like you suggest, I'd definitely call Dick tomorrow. I found out from my mechanic last friday that he can't do it... :bawl

Last time he installs my cams took about 5 labor hours, I would think they take a bit longer than 5, but not 10-12 labor hours. Hopefully...

If anyone knows where I can do it for 6-7 hrs, please let me know, thanks a bunch!

Thanks all!!!!

I'v changed my lifters(involoves removing cams) in 3-4 hours.. Removing the head is a little more complex b/c you have to take off the intake manifold, and remove the cats from the headers. I would say a decent mechanic should take no more than a 8 hour work day to do the job(if he has all the parts.) 12 is a little much for someone that has done this before. The first time I did it, I would say it took me longer than 12 hours b/c I was being very carefull to remember how everthing goes(first time also had to have someone do the timing for me).
Good luck, let me know how everything works out. I have a feeling I will be going through the same thing next week.
Chris

You can try Bill Arnold up in San Rafael - he has a good shop, does great work, and is fair on pricing. Bavarian Professionals in Berkeley has also done good work for me.

Jim

Blew my Head just three weeks ago, and put a nice goove in one of the valves. Cost me £150 for a reconditioned engine (made my 316i into a 318i), with a few bits and peices and a great mechanic, got it fixed within a week for £150. Can't be bad..!