Head gasket replacement

Hi all, new to the forum.

I have a 2008 1.3L petrol Jimny with manual gbox. I believe my head gasket requires replacement as the car is using coolant but there is no visible leak.

The other thought I had was the radiator cap is lifting prematurely and blowing the coolant out although I don't think that this is the case?

The question I have is has anyone on here removed their Jimny cylinder head without removing the whole engine from the vehicle? Or is it easier to just take the engine out?

Your help would be greatly appreciated.

Thx

I’ve never had to remove an engine to do the head gasket.
Remove your rad cap and top the coolant, start the engine and watch for bubbles or do a compression test.
These are simple first tests but no you won’t need to remove the engine.

Sounds just like Kates Jimny. Engine pressurising the rad and forcing the coolant through the expansion bottle. Headgasket being changed as we speak.

If you take the head off don't forget to give it a thorough inspection for cracks and corrosion damage on both head and block. Ensure the new gasket matches the old one and take the opportunity to clean the valves and ports and relap the valves into their seats if of course they are fully serviceable. Don't just get the gasket but get the kit which will include the new valve oil seals too. Also take the opportunity to reverse flush out the coolant system before you put the new antifreeze in. It is a good idea to use new head bolts too.

I think it'll be easier if you remove the engine.....I wouldn't fancy doing it in situ.

I really don't understand your logic....why would you even consider taking the whole engine out?