So when taking off a cylinder head, should I loosen the head bolts in the reverse order/pattern that I tightened them, the same order, or doesn't it matter?
I usually do when working on modern engines. Release the pressure in two or three stages then back them all out. Can't hurt!
I usually just loosen each bolt with a socket wrench then take them out with a speed wrench. Taking them out in no specific order will do no harm.
Stephen