So looks like the head gasket is shot on my golf gti 8v pb, just shy of 160k and no sign of ever being replaced can’t say I’m shocked. anyway, just gathering a list of parts I’ll likely need so far I’ve got head gasket kit - 027198012L Head bolts 11mmx96mm - 049103384B Coolant flange w/ o ring - 026121144E I’m struggling to find what size nuts and bolts/studs I need for the inlet and exhaust manifold and the Downpipe studs. I’ve seen mention of copper nuts but can’t find sizes had anyone got some info on these?? anything else worth replacing whilst the head is off?
If you're taking the head off and it's at 160K then I would consider the following: New timing belt and tensioner Lap the valves along with new valve stem seals, lifters and a new camshft seal would not do any harm either. New rocker cover gasket. You could go all in and consider a higher lift camshaft to get a bit more grunt but that will obvioulsy make the price go up. I don't have details on the studs/nuts.
realoem.com is a good start for fixing sizes, exhausts you want self-locking copper nuts, really easy to get hold of. studs may or may not need replacing dependign on overal state of engine, VW still sells most bits like this or you can easily get them from ebay or local motor factors