have a 1984 380SE needs head gasket.

What are general costs to replace.

Is this a DIY job if you are mechanically inclined. I know some cars should only be done profesionally.

Any thoughts appreciated.

 

you should be able to do it yourself, provided that it doesnt require any dealer tool for the heatbolts as some do. but get the proper instructions and make sure to read them before you start, and follow them closely during the job. also, dont try to cut corners and save money, it wont come out right, trust me, ive learned this the hard way.

make sure you note the routing of ALL the vacuum and electrical connections before you take it apart so that you can get it all correct when you put it back together.

also, i suggest you take the head to a machine shop and have it pressure tested and planed before you put it back together. this should cost less than $100, and will ensure that the head is not cracked or warped and so will not leak again right away.

lastly, make sure you get the timing right before you try to start it, this is an interference engine and will bend the valves if it ns not timed exactly right.

good luck!

 

Any idea what it would cost to have done by a shop?