ByProxy

i want to pull my heads to do thinner head gaskets. i don't have any reason to do it otherwise, is it necessary to have the heads done anyway? I would like to skip it if it's not.

gatorhead

iTrader: (4)

Check them with a straight edge and if your are not using a comeetic gasket that requires a certain finish on it then you are good to go if they are straight. That being said if they have high mileage on them a clean up pass may be worth the trouble.

RamAir95TA

iTrader: (2)

I wouldn't install a set of heads back on an engine without at least having them checked. Checking them for flatness doesn't mean putting a ruler on them - have a machinist check them.

But that's me.

SS RRR

iTrader: (2)

As stated, there's no reason why you shouldn't have the heads checked to ensure they are true. The last thing you want to do is slap everything together only to blow out a head gasket shortly thereafter and have to do the entire thing over again. Most likely they will be fine or need a mill of less than .006 which won't affect sealing or the lining up of manifold bolts.

Mystery Bird

iTrader: (7)

If you're pulling them to do thinner head gaskets then my guess is you're looking for a bump in compression for HP. If that's the case why not get them milled for a little more bump? Milling the heads isn't very costly. Last time I did it was $150.