1999 GTX RFI Starter removal / Head Removal

[JoeRJGR]

Guys,
,
787 RFI seems locked up. Was running running fine, then wont start after the last time it was shut down. I have removed the pump and that spins fine. I have gotten advice here to pull the head. If I do that, I assume I'll have to replace the head gaskets upon re-assembly, correct?. Can I put a scope down the plug hole to accomplish the same thing? Rather not take off the head if I don't have to.

I have heard of several folks that have had their starters lock up and cause this same scenario. anyone have experience taking the starter off an RFI? Shop manual and several videos show allen nuts. I don't have that, I have a hex nut. Also, looks like a ground cable is missing. see attached. In the rear of the starter, can I remove the two nuts that go through the bracket instead of the nut I cant see?

Thanks for the assistance!

 

[POPPS]

With plugs removed...does the crank rotate smoothly?,,,if yes,,the motor is not locked up/seized,,,do a load test on the battery,,it must be up to snuff. ,,can you jump the selenoid and initiate the starter,..if yes,,,its not the starter,,,the 800 head has "O"rings that are reuseable,,,torque i think is 17,,,you can also remove the pto rav in one piece to have a look at the exhaust side of the piston,,,that is the side that usually scores.

 

[JoeRJGR]

Won't spin by hand...r moved PTO rave valve, but didn't look down in there. Will tommorow. Thanks