I have found 4 metros in my immediate area for sale all less than $500 all need a head gasket work. I have a shop that can mill, pressure test the head. My question is this, how tough of a job is this? Also what is the cost I am looking at for parts etc.

gaskets are about $60. head bolts are about 35. its fairly easy to remove and replace the head. by time you do the work and have the head tested and milled and but parts it might be cheaper to buy a used japanese motor with less miles and install it

Thanks that was fast. Still making sure I find the right car first, but I am well on my way. My other 2 cars are an F150 ford and a mustang. My commute is 120 miles round trip per day. I think I can pay for the geo and repairs in 6 months just in gas.