ok so i have a 1985 f150 straight 6 ,4.9L
the head gasket needs to be changed and i have never done this be for so and advice or tips on how to do it would be great

 

You really need to buy a manual. The best is the factory shop manual, but a Chilton's or Haynes will suffice. There are way too many details for us to relate to you, and if you've never done it forgetting one could be a disaster. But, with a good book you'll be fine and can ask use the questions the book doesn't cover.

 

Get the book for torque specs and extra info. Take pictures and label the bolts too.

I don't like having bolts left over after replacing things..

 

be sure to put a straight edge on the head, and the block both. block should be fine, but inspecting the head for Warpage, (and cracks) is a MUST!!!

 

The book will help greatly. follow it closely and make sure you have all the tools you need in advance (like the fan clutch tool).

 

What's different about the fan clutch on the 300 vs the 351W? I've had bunches of the latter off w/o a special tool, but what am I missing?

 

I've had a lot of problems getting my fan clutch off without using the right fan clutch tool for removal. Theres not enough space between the water pump and the fan clutch to remove it, so the tool helps greatly, even if its just a thin wrench.

 

Thanks. I use Gear Wrench wrenches which are fairly thin, but probably not thin enough for what you are describing. Good to know.

 

The fan clutch tool is basically a 1/4 plate steel wrench, with different size ends to fit gm and ford fan clutches.

 

Don't forget about the aggravating ones on the "GOATS". Have the head re-surfaced regardless

 

why does the gasket need replacing ?
did it over heat ?
is it just old and leaking water out the side ?

take the head to a shop and have a valve job done on it and resurfaced if it needs to be !

 

X2. I wouldn't consider going thru the cost and hassle of replacing the head gasket w/o having the head itself checked and refurbed.

 

Gary Lewis and itsatruck!,

I have not worked on 351W's, but the threads on the 4.9L fan clutch are e-s-r-e-v-e-r [reverse; me being funny! ]

Welcome to the forum, itsatruck!