KB99WS6

iTrader: (6)

They are Cartek stage 2 heads said to be less than a 100 miles and never taken above 3k rpm...

TNormZ28

iTrader: (9)

Cartek stg 2, dual springs, not taken over 3000 rpm. That's kinda hard to believe. They were obviously cleaned up well, any parts washer and a little carb cleaner could clean them up like that. So judging miles by looks would be difficult.

KB99WS6

iTrader: (6)

Well he is saying they ewre not taken above 3k miles b/c they were only on the car supposedly for less than 100 miles, so they were still in the break in stage where you can't go above 3k rpm.

I figured it would be very hard to tell from pictures, I just didn't know if there was any tech experts out there with a great eye that might catch something to let them know one way or the other...

Mike98WS6

iTrader: (5)

I agree, anyone can clean up a set of heads with alittle elbow grease.

Turo

iTrader: (23)

hey, as long as they work fine then it doesn't matter

Beast96Z

iTrader: (21)

The only thing you will be able to do is check the guy for refrences. Most of the people on this board are pretty honest. Whether they have been over 3k or not is irrelevant. It isn't going to hurt anything to go over 3k. All you can do is get them and have them checked out. Check the springs for pressure and make sure the valve job is still good. Other than that, you can't hardly hurt the head itself.

O6blues

Man they look clean
Hard to tell about miles. You can look at the wear pattern on the valve tips to see if it looks like they are relatively new -- only thing I can think of.

KB99WS6

iTrader: (6)

Can a shop easily check for these things?

KB99WS6

iTrader: (6)

Also, these heads sold for $3k new. based on the flow numbers and performance i have seen from Cartek stage 2 heads, why do they sell for so much? You can buy Absolute Speed stage 2 heads which seem to be top notch and flow just as well or better for $1500-$1800 brand new. Just curious why do the carteks cost so much more? i wouldn't be considering them if they weren't second hand due to price...

Mike98WS6

iTrader: (5)

The guys at Cartek know thier stuff. They pride themselves for making some of the fastest cars in the country. My car' been there. They are a great bunch of guys. There heads flat out work. They make awesome #'s to boot. I just could'nt afford to get thier heads at the time.

P.S. KB99WS6, if u get a great price on them, I would get them. The only thing that concerns me is how hard they were beat on that's all.

KB99WS6

iTrader: (6)

As far as how hard they were beat on, unless there is like a bent valve or the springs are shot, whats the worst that could happen, I mean can heads crack or something? Other than the valves and springs nothing really wears out does it? Sorry I am not teechnical whiz to say the least lol.

Mike98WS6

iTrader: (5)

Well, judging from the pics everything looks ok, but It's tough to see inside. Agian anyone can clean them up. Why not call Cartek to have them checked out. That might be an idea. If you feel comfortable enough with them go for it.

2MCHPWR

iTrader: (10)

i bought used cartek heads. i had cartek examine them and they said the heads were perfect. why don't you just ask cartek to inspect them?
FYI with my small cam i gained 43 hp at the wheels with their heads.

KB99WS6

iTrader: (6)

Sweet. Where is Cartek? NJ? Any idea how much they charge for a H/C install? Their website is under construction...

777

iTrader: (21)

why would anyone go through the pain of installing heads and then use them for 100miles, take them off, and sell them...i call on the 100 miles...they do look nice though

Beast96Z

iTrader: (21)

Checking spring pressure and for the presence of a valve job is simple. It shouldn't cost you much of anything. You can also have them check the valve guides for slack and install new Viton valve seals. Any local machine shop that deals with heads should be able to do that for cheap. Like most of these other guys said, I would persoanlly have Cartek check them out. They might not charge you at all since they are their heads.

Mike98WS6

iTrader: (5)

Cartek is in Garwood, NJ. Their # is 908-317-4496. I'm sure Dave and Julio will take care of you.

2MCHPWR

iTrader: (10)

call dave at cartek 908-654-9993. i had them install the used heads i bought and they tuned it. they know what works with their heads. they've been at it for years. there prices are in line with the other shops. it makes sense to have them do the install and tune since it is their heads. they stand behind their work

SDB

iTrader: (7)

any local machine shop should be able to check the springs, how well the valves seal, and check for cracks for a little bit of money...

SDB

99'Formula

iTrader: (7)

Why would it matter if theve been over 3,000 rpms. As long as they work. There not going to die on you. You willbe fine. Good luck with your car.