I got a used/destroyed f20c cylinder head(the valves are toast) but everything else is fine. what is the best way to take out the cams(from the girdle)? also, what tool do you recommend to remove the cam gear nut(17mm).

 

You have to remove all the bolts from the cam caps. then both cams come out. To pull the gears, put an open ended wrench in a vise that fits the hex in the camshafts. hold the cam with the wrench, then break the cam gear nut loose.

 

have lots of cable ties ready
you will need it