Hey guys,  I've noticed a few leaks coming from most joints on my 1600 motor, and I'm thinking of changing all the gaskets myself -  for education and repair, as well as knowing when all of them have been done (bought the car about 8mths ago).  Only issue is I haven't had much experience changing most of them before.  Is it a easy process for someone who is reasonably mechanically minded, or is it best to learn something else first?
 
I've got an original Ford manual for an 1100/1300/1300GT, and a reasonable tool kit!

The best way to learn is to do it yourself.
 
Have a crack and if you get stuck just post up your questios with some pics and someone will help you out.
 
You have to start somewhere and as old cars are not as reliable as new cars then more you can do yourself the cheaper they become.
 
I have used a gregory's manual to do almost everything on an escort.  You can't have too many reference books.
 
Cheers,
 
Matt

The rear main seal is difficult to get in. I've been told to use a hammer and socket and gently tap it around and around until it's seated. I used a much more crude method (5" grinding disc flat against the seal)  but it worked and the seal didn't get damaged. The manual specifies certain tools to do the job right. Like the aforementioned and aligning the front oil seal,  timing cover etc. I just put the pulley in place, levelled the timing cover with the block etc. Using common sense really. It's pretty straight forward stuff.