The valve cover gasket -- $10. Consider the timing belt (if it's due) and the distributor gasket & seal (if its leaking) and the alternator or water pump (if it's old, leaking, etc.).

 

Thanks! Will check all those.

 

welcome.

the quick answer is timing belt of course....

but its a bit of an odd question, and since you are asking i understand that you are not really experienced.... what makes you think you need a valve job?

 

Fair question! I just acquired the Sidekick, not familiar with this engine, thus the inquiry. Compression is low on all cylinders, won't idle when warmed up. Previous owner had taken a spare cylinder head to machine shop for refurbishment, but found it to be cracked and gave up on the project. I'm picking up where he left off. Tearing it down will be a good introduction to the vehicle.

 

ok, but before you take the head off, have you checked that timing is ok, adjusted the valves and did a dry & wet compression test?

download the manual from the stickies and post a picture of the beast

 

if he meant an average across all four, then PO was right on the money

Have you adjusted the valves before testing?

#3 and #4 look like no lash at all, OR , a holed head gasket between them.

check the lash and itll tell you, if lash ok then it might be just a gasket change.

 

Definitely do the valve lash then recheck the compression.