Head replacement: what else to do?

[hgeranium]

Title says it all. In the near future I will be replacing the head with a fresh one. With the head (and all the necessary parts to do so) removed, what other things would be worth changing while I have the space? If I’m doing all that effort I’m for sure  thinking about changing out my old rusty exhaust manifold and downpipe. Head gasket of course lol. 

[derf]

If you have access to a dial bore gauge, you can check the condition of the cylinder walls.  If you have really worn cylinders, you should consider a full rebuild with an over bore.

 

I'm assuming you're doing a full rebuild on the head.  Or at least a valve job.

 

New camshaft and lifters may be worth it.  Since you're ¾ of the way there.

[AZJeff]

Among the things often missed to consider during a head R&R is upgrading the intake manifold gasket from the OEM type that is hard to get to seal properly.

 

I always use a “Remflex” brand of gasket.  They cost a bit more, but are SO MUCH BETTER at staying sealed.  Also consider switching the lower manifold bolts in the head to studs and nuts.  It will make manifold installation much easier.

[Big_Mark]

YES REMFLEX FOR THE WIN!!!!!!

 

I second this tip, the last thing anyone ever wants to hear after this kind of work is "tic tic tic" from a manifold leak, leading to the last thing you'll ever want to do TWICE, replace that manifold gasket 

 

I use Remflex manifold gaskets exclusively, like Franks Hot Sauce, I put that *** on everything!!  

[hgeranium]

On 9/5/2026 at 10:59 AM, Big_Mark said:

YES REMFLEX FOR THE WIN!!!!!!

 

I second this tip, the last thing anyone ever wants to hear after this kind of work is "tic tic tic" from a manifold leak, leading to the last thing you'll ever want to do TWICE, replace that manifold gasket 

 

I use Remflex manifold gaskets exclusively, like Franks Hot Sauce, I put that *** on everything!!  

 

On 9/5/2026 at 12:33 AM, AZJeff said:

Among the things often missed to consider during a head R&R is upgrading the intake manifold gasket from the OEM type that is hard to get to seal properly.

 

I always use a “Remflex” brand of gasket.  They cost a bit more, but are SO MUCH BETTER at staying sealed.  Also consider switching the lower manifold bolts in the head to studs and nuts.  It will make manifold installation much easier.

Glad to hear. I already have a remflex ready and waiting in my parts box