You need to work out what's wrong. Do a compression test before anything else. If that's bad across the whole engine then you need rings and pistons and reborn. Stupid not to do mains and big ends if you're doing that. If the compression is good then it may be just valve guide seals and you don't need the head off for that. Though grinding the valves is often worthwhile.

But don't do stuff until you know it needs doing. You've done a lot of that already.

Yes, it's possible. Everyone has to start out somewhere, and you might learn a thing or two. Just make sure the surfaces are clean and smooth when you install a new gasket, and I'd always use new parts for a job like that. Might aswell do it right the first time, to save any future heart ache.

Problem is a new head gasket will not cure a smoking engine. It depends on the colour of the smoke. Blue is oil and it will need new rings, Black is petrol and is running too rich and white is water, that will need a new head gasket.

Take the plugs out and test the compressions, then read the book to see what it says about them, then you may be able to fix it,

Hi having had a similar problem being an engineer with lots of knowledge with engines this is not a simple head gasket issue.

it is more like a complete engine overhaul problem.so look around your immediate family for help with this one. yes with a dad or grandpa who does know it can be done or an older guy like myself to advise you then fine. this is not an easy or cheap job. sorry but burning oil does suggest a lot more than what you could imagine.

For a few bucks more you can get a professional manual. Try eautorepair.net or alldatadiy.com.

Haynes manuals are written for several model years and usually are missing the exact information you need. Plus a profession online service will have all the most current service bulletins with the latest torque specs

It's easy looking at the book it's a different thing actually doing it.

Yes you can follow it step by step does not mean you will be able to do it 100%

It's possible, but I would get some competent help for the first time,, or else you might end up with a tow to a workshop

Depends on your basic skill level, but as you're suggesting that's very low, I'd have to say no.

yes..

Wish you had listed the year, make and model car you intend to change the head gasket on. Chain cam driven DOHC motors are very tricky! You have to contend with the chain tightening mechanism. You must send the cylinder head off to an automotive machine shop to be checked for flatness and re-machined flat if necessary.

I have verry little experience on removing parts inside of engine (Cylinder head, camshaft, head gasket, ext...). So with the right tools (Torqe wrench, ext...) and the right haynes manuel would I be able to complete the task of changing the head gasket, while continuely following the book step-by-step. I've had my engine changed in a garage and after spending so much money I still have a smoking engine, so I want to take up the challenge of completing this repair with the guidence of the book. Ive noticed there are difficulty levels, but if I follow the book i shouldnt go wrong.

Any oppinons, no time wasters or stupid anwsers please.

I prefer Chilton's, but yes, you can. Keys are clean,dry, dust-free workspace, correct tools and proper clean/prep/inspection of re-used parts. Follow directions, don't rush, don't get frustrated. If stuck/confused, ASK. Have fun with it, and good luck. BTW, if torque-to -yield headbolts, DO NOT re-use. Doomed to failure.

"but if I follow the book i shouldnt go wrong"

The road to hell is paved with good intentions. Good Luck