Castech heads. Replace, rebuild or new engine??

Sienne80 · January 31, 2018

Hi all. I know this is a redundant topic but I would appreciate ya’lls advice. I’ve done loads of research and reading of postings on the Castech head issue, which I have been graced with. I have an 03 5.3l with only 149k. The body and frame are in wonderful shape but I’m having trouble determine the best course of action, as I need something happening soon, as I rely on my truck heavily. One vehicle isn’t working for us too well and we’re planning a wedding, so time and excessive funds are somewhat limited right now.

So advice is welcome on the options I’m/ weare facing who have this issue:
Replace the heads with:
A) rebuilt heads - which have mixed reviews from every site and eBay seller/buyer
B) buy new heads to put on

Do one of the above in addition to oil pancleanout, oil pickup line and filter replacement, anything else to replace since the engine will be apart anyway. I’m proactive, not retroactive.

OR
Replace engine with:
A) used engine with lower miles
B) rebuilt engine- all of which have mixed reviews of failure, warranty
Issues, etc from all the websites/ salvage yards selling them.

OR

Sell the truck at a major loss now and move on.

I’ve looked at every head rebuilder website, engine rebuilder website, Googled salvage yards for reviews and BBB complaint issues and there is no good answer.
Seems rebuilt engines mostly have issues in a short time, low mileage engines are an uncertainty in their own right, rebuilt heads being the same.

Any advice would be incredible and much appreciated.

lordathey · January 31, 2018

What is wrong with the heads? Why do they need rebuilt? I have had heads rebuilt with no problems at all. Depending on the problem I can provide a better answer.

Grumpy Bear · January 31, 2018

Try Sperry's Engines at 5711 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA.

sefiroxx · February 1, 2018

Dahmer powertrain, lees summit,no

Replaced 300k motor in 01 burb some two years ago and 15k back. Running great nary a problem.

Had been planning to rebuild/reseal it as everything was leaking but the son blew the engine on a ski trip. Took the parts money and bought a 3yr, 100k warranty rebuilt from dahmer.

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