[MLGTIB]

The cylinder head nut that was missing was the one just below the two exhaust ports on the front of the engine. In addition, the actual stud that it screws on to had come lose and was resting on the cylinder base below it (it doesn't fall out and get lost, but falls out and remains loose in its bore), and that created the leak in the head, which creates the popping noise on initial startup. After heating up, that usually goes away since the engine expands with the heat and seals the gap well enough. Since I had to remove so much of the cylinder head it required me to replace all the gaskets. Although I didn't HAVE to replace the rings or cylinder base gasket, I figured I might as well for my own peace of mind. As for experience, I have a bit but I have never done anything to this extent. I used the service manual which has good instructions. The only thing that I recommend is to download the word doc version because in the section that explains how to install the new piston rings there is a picture that is on top of a diagram that shows you how the gaps of the rings should be positioned.

The dealer wanted $400 to do the job, where I did it for the cost of the parts which came out to be around $75. If you are a person who wants to learn more about how the engine works and how to do the repairs yourself than this is the engine to do it on. It was pretty easy to do, just have to have a little patience and go slow to make sure you get it right. Best of luck to all that jump in on the engine repairs. :2tup: