Another bad head

[gapost]

I've got another bad head on my 03 Sierra 4.8. I just replaced it in May with a refurb 862 casting. This is not the first bad refurb head I've had and I'm getting pretty tired of changing them. (3 different gmt800 vehicles).

 

Do I take another chance on a refurb, or do I use a new one? I found a new one for $337 on gmpartsdirect, but obviously that doesn't have the valve and I'm not sure it will come with springs. Can I use my old valves and springs and have the shop lap them in? Thanks in advance.

[Carder09]

So you bought refurb'd castech heads??? That is probably the problem in itself since they were and are total garbage. Buy the new head and don't look back. Have a shop check your springs with a micrometer if you think there is any damage.

[gapost]

No, it wasn't a castech head. I know how to tell. And I'm not sure the 862 were castech castings. I know 706 ones were.

[newdude]

If your keeping the truck for a long time, toss a new one on there. They have valve guides in place already, but have no seats, springs or valves. I'd see if an engine shop can toss your old valves in it, or atleast see what they say.