I have come to the conclusion that I need a new head gasket. Here is why:

1: My coolant seems to be disappearing and not leaking outside of my vehicle
2: I went to change the oil today and it is brown/chocolate

Can someone confirm this?
I am driving an 85 yota 4x4 extra cab with the 22r carb.

I have never done this before, but feel I am very capable of it w/a little help/guidance. It is my only vehicle at the moment, but may be able to get some rides around for the next week. I can not start working on it until thursday due to work and classes.

Where can I get a GOOD head gasket of quality?
Also where could I do some good reading up on this procedure?

 

If you oil looks like chocolate milk, then there is water mixing with it. It is either a head gasket or the timing chain has worn through the cover into the water jacket. You should be able to pull off the valve cover and check the driver's side guide.

If it is your head gasket, OEM is good, and I have heard a lot of good things about engnbldr (www.engnbldr.com). I do not have a source for a good head gasket walk-through other than the factory repair manual.