Both heads cracked on 97 Sierra

97 GMC Sierra with 160,000 miles

I've been chasing a misfire on #4 cylinder for a long time. Fuel and spark were fine so I took it to my mechanic for a compression leak-down and it showed an intake valve wasn't seating. Had the heads taken off and he said they're both cracked. What should I pay for a set of heads? Where should I look? I like the truck and want to drive it another 160,000 so I could use the advice.

Forgot to add that it's a 5.7L Vortec, code R

Don't buy used or rebuilt heads. They will not last that long. There are places that sell new heads. Check around for price.

I wanted to put Vortecs on my 383, but the local rebuilders advised against it; too many experiences with fragility.

I imagine later-model heads are improved, or maybe the aftermarket (World?) has something.

A good repair shop should have some connections on cylinder heads.
Give you gm dealer a call and see what they have.
They may have new head complete or blank new heads.
MT

A good repair shop should have some connections on cylinder heads.
Give you gm dealer a call and see what they have.
They may have new head complete or blank new heads.
MT


Yeah, I believe the new GM blanks are a few hundred a piece. But, at least you know they're new, and they're OEM.

Another idea.....I know I can go down to just about any machine shop in my area and purchase a set of R heads rebuilt from the machinist. They're so popular that dang near everyone has them.