Frame is solid - over the last year I have cleaned what was surface rust on the frame and protected with MasterCoat and then undercoating. Pretty much the whole thing is perfect, replaced saggy headliner, fixed little knicks and knacks - replaced leaky power steering pump with hoses, replaced radiator hoses - everything else mechanically is sound except for three amigos but that can be cured.

Looking for recommendations for a shop that can do a good job replacing head gaskets - let me know - I'm digging myself as well.

 

Ok. I just didnt want to see you put out $2k for a head gasket job only to find out your truck will have to be scrapped.

 

$2000? well, if it's gonna cost me that much for a head gasket job I might just consider turning it into a flower pot or something...

 

I have done It about 6 times now, takes me about12 hrs with power tools. Plus there is the parts cost. Doubt you will find a shop to do it for less than $1500

 

 

That got me thinking. I've done a lot of work around cars in my lifetime - performed a few head gasket jobs as well. Nothing scares me. Right now I'm in a position that time is really in short supply and therefore I would like someone else to tackle this - but if a push comes to shove, I'll dish out $160.00 for parts from RA and start tearing the engine apart myself. If it takes me a week or two, I don't care - just don't feel that the whole job is worth more than a grand.

 

Time is really the biggest factor. I'd recommend a Fel-Pro Head Gasket kit though. The cheap valve cover gaskets are unnecessarily difficult to install, and you get a better head gasket.

 

I have yet to mill a set of heads. I check them with a light and a straight edge. Simple.
If they are shot, a junkyard pair of heads does wonders for less than $100.