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Knowing the difference between good and bad 243 heads?
Hi Team,
I am looking at some 243 heads in my area for sale, but what exactly are some key things I should look for, or obvious things the eye can see to tell the difference between a good set and bad set?
I am trying to avoid any cracks, bends, and or warps.
If they have broken bolts should I be concerned or is that an easy fix?
Generally the broken bolts are an easy fix. For the most part 243s are pretty resilient. Guide wear is always a concern when buying a used set. But 243s in general hold up rather well.
If you have anymore questions or want to broaden your knowledge on the head game. Give us a call or message us on here or FB!
If they're assembled, look for stuck valves or worn valve tips. From what I've seen, the tips of the exhaust valves are cracked 9/10 times but it doesn't actually seem to hurt anything. If they're worn, it may not be able to clean up without grinding away all of the hardened tip and the valve could be junk. Stuck valves could mean broken or cracked guides and obviously bent valves.
Bare 243 heads are usually pretty solid heads. Besides any handling damage, like dings or gouges, there usually aren't any problems with cracks. However, if they're being sold bare, it might mean something happened to the heads that the valvetrain would have shown.
Thanks guys. So from what I understand these heads are strong realiable and can be fixed if anything. If worst came to worst would machining help fix any uneven surfaces warps etc?
Saying that. The set comes assembled and I know everyone says all 243 heads are the same which isn't the case is it guys ? (Z06 head).
Regarding valves I would probably get new valves and Springs etc to avoid any mishaps. + might as well build it since I have it out already.
These heads are off a 2010 4.8 Chevrolet truck is it still the same specs ?
From what I recall all 243 heads are the same specs and the only difference with true zo6 243 heads were the lighter valves and I think they had blue or yellow valve springs.
Im also selling my set of 243 heads locally that are low mileage with some goodies.If the price is right and the heads look good then grab them and give them a good clean before you put them on.id also recommend new valve seals.
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Knowing the difference between good and bad 243 heads? 
