Hey got a question for y’all,

so I got my head off doing gasket replace. got down to where the head gasket goes and I noticed a small hairline crack after the 3rd piston.

i know that’s supposed to be a better casting but it’s definitely there. I don’t want to buy a new head right now or really start drilling holes. My question is can i slap a new gasket on there and get a couple more miles out of this head and save a swap for a later date?

and also does this look clean enough? you can zoom and see spots where it’s not all shinny.

and also also should I get a thicker head gasket to help it last longer? I bought a kit with all the gaskets included.


thanks

 

I need to save this post.... 0331 heads are always mentioned when this "cracked head" issue comes up.....
That's a bummer man.... If you can't afford a new head.... slap it together and pray for the best.... I dont think a thicker gasket would make a difference....it looks clean enough... brake cleaner on a rag right before you put the gasket on...
I wouldn't drive it like I stole it or rely on it for a long winter excursion unless you are in a city or have AAA....

Yes you can get more mileage out of it with the crack... but risk further damage and more dollars....
it is a crack... it will get worse with vibrations.. heating and cooling..
start saving for a new head asap or possibly a new engine if you continue to use as is.....
good luck

 

I wpuld take it to a shop that does heads and see if they can weld it , I know they can weld heads that looks like it is in a good place to get welded