salvagedstitch

I've been progressing slower and slower with my jeep lately. Im so burnt out. So my latest issue (which u may have seen me post about in questions forum) is that when changing the exhaust manifold, i noticed both the bolts were broken off in the head. So I deliberated, called around and decided my best option would be remove it, and my boyfriend would try tapping them out. and putting the new gasket set on. But we are both so busy with our business right now, that I called another shop to ask them their rate and the mechanic said with 200k miles I would likely need to do a valve job as well. and that sometimes the head can be thin? (damaged?) so I might need to replace the head. Which I did debate to start with because a new head is roughly 250-400 depending right? I had thought by the time i remove it and pay labor ect i would be spending almost that much so maybe getting a new head is a better bet. So I'd like advice on that and also the valve question. Do you think that is necessary? Please share thoughts. Thank you

Jeepin'_Aint_EZ

If you're going to bring it to a shop to have the head worked on, you're better off just getting another head and swapping it. Problem solved. Use that money for a new part instead of going towards a labor rate.

dave1123

I agree with that. I'd call or go on-line with Odessa Cylinder Heads of Clearwater, FL, and ask how much a new or reconditioned 7120 head would be. When my 0331 head on my WJ cracked, I bought a NEW heavy-duty casting, complete with new valves and springs, and shipping BOTH ways (core return) for $455. I got it in 3 days because they happened to have a warehouse close to me. Use a new set of bolts when replacing your head.

Clearwater Cylinder Heads Inc. 1-800-572-1963

Also, I believe your engine doesn't have locator dowels to align the head. Make sure it's aligned properly before you torque it down.

salvagedstitch

Would I have to do the valve replacement too?

dave1123

No, That's the beauty of this deal. It comes with new valves, springs, and stem seals and is ready to bolt on. The only thing you have to do is check your rocker arms & pivots and use new head bolts. Just remember the rest of the engine is still worn, so it might start using a little oil because of the increased cylinder pressures on the worn rings.

Jeepin'_Aint_EZ

x2. This is the much better way to go. If you were to bring that to my shop this is exactly what I'd tell you to do. When it's a new part versus labor cost, always get the new part. I rather install a new head than put a bunch of labor into an old one.

dave1123

Case in point. When I needed to do my head, I needed it right away because it was my only vehicle and I needed it for my business. I took it to my buddy's shop and had him do the work, and rented a car for the duration. Long story short, it cost me $1500 for the head, the labor, and the car rental. I had the new head shipped to me and Enterprise gave me a 2015 Jeep Patriot for $250/week so it cost me about $750 labor. I forgot to add the new bolts, gaskets, and lifters. All new rad hoses and 'stat as well.