ok Well i'm looking into buying a 1997 dodge avenger that has a blown head gasket and was just wondering if anyone could help me by letting me know how hard the job is and what the best way to do it would be?

I've done similar jobs but its just been quite a while.

Although not exactly applicable, I'm far too lazy to retype it and you might want to read this:

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=647403

If you've done head gaskets before, this one should pose no special challenge. At least there is plenty of room to work...

ok Well i'm looking into buying a 1997 dodge avenger that has a blown head gasket and was just wondering if anyone could help me by letting me know how hard the job is and what the best way to do it would be?

I've done similar jobs but its just been quite a while.
trust me, it's easier the second time around. i'm doing mine again. thanks for all the info growe58!! however, i've waited too long and now the exhaust cam has rusted and pitted. anyone know where i can get a good deal on cams?? growe58??

to make things easier when putting everything back, take some digi pics where the hoses and electric connectors go. use a 1/2" drill when drilling the two holes in the passenger front wheel well. you'll have to remove the left engine mount completely to lower the engine when removing the crankshaft pulley, don't just remove the two bolts and stud. rent the "chrysler harmonic balance puller" from autozone. works great when pulling the crankshaft pulley aka harmonic balancer. the one i rented came with two steal rods to use as leverage. the long one is just a little too short when reaching the end right before the pulley comes out, so you'll have to stick something else in the hole to give it the last leverage needed to completely remove the pulley.

that's all i can think for now. just post here if you run into any problems

I am having problems seperating the crank pully and the timing belt gear in my 97 2.5 avenger. any suggestions. The gear and the pully move together when pulled away from the engine.

HG on a Venge is a Breeze compared to most other cars... so much room :) at least w/ the 420a motor

not to familiar with the 2.5. try renting the harmonic balance puller for chrysler/mitsu from autozone.

Everything is loose on the shaft - i don't know how the puller will help. I am going to make sure I have tdc on 1 cyl and cut the belt then both will slide off and I'll have to try and seperate once they are off.
Any tips on making sure the timing is set prior to cutting the belt would be appreciated.

try spraying that pb plaster stuff between the pulley and the gear, and hit the pulley with a mallet to jar it loose. as for tdc. don't know bout the 2.5, but the 2.0 has markings on the cam shaft gear and on the crank pulley gear. i would get some white out and make additional markings on the rear timing belt cover (if you have one), when you get everything lined up. i had the dealer replace my belt the first time, so they already had some extra markings.