Used 1600 sp cylinder head buying advice

mcdonaldneal

Ok. Looking for some general advice on buying second hand cylinder heads.
I don't NEED replacement heads at the moment, but in my fantasy world I wonder about getting a pair of second hand heads, so that I could clean and rebuild up to have if I ever need them. Our Ghia is very original, so the idea of VW heads appeals on an aesthetic level!
Maybe this is foolish, maybe it's imposible to assess something like this without seeing them in person, maybe I'd be better off just buying a new head when I need it, I'm pretty clueless, but enthusiastic (!) and searching Samba hasn't really helped!

For instance, I've seen a pair of heads, same part number as my engine, one only pictured, I could only load thumbnails. Described as 'no cracks visible between valves and/ or plugs'
All I can see is that one of the manifold studs is bent, and they don't look filthy, but what else can I look for on photos, is there anything constructive I can ask the seller, or would I just have to take a gamble?

I know that this is a pretty non specific request, but does anyone have comments on this, or advice on what refurbishing them would actually involve?

Thanks a million, I know someone will bite!

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Marv [UK] · Posted: Sat Mar 28, 2015 1:40 pm Post subject:

As long as the aluminium isn't cracked, everything else is rebuildable. It depends entirely on whether you are willing to take a punt on them sight unseen for the cash. I've bought lots of heads from photographs, some good, some not so good. It's always a gamble
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gt1953 · Posted: Sat Mar 28, 2015 2:30 pm Post subject:

you have the correct concept but see them in person for sure unless FREE!
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Numbers Matching VW's are getting harder to find. Source out the most Stock vehicle and keep that way. You will be glad you did.

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bugguy076 · Posted: Sat Mar 28, 2015 3:46 pm Post subject:

You are talking about parts that have been used in the 60's. Even if done correctly, the heads have had a lot of spark plugs replaced in them. I would not by heads unless I could look at them in person.
Keep a look out for a set not too far to drive to, have a look at them, then decide.
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mcdonaldneal · Posted: Sat Mar 28, 2015 5:31 pm Post subject:

Thanks to all, I'll hold off meantime and keep my eyes peeled!
_________________
1978 marino yellow Bay Dormobile camper
1969 signal orange Karmann Ghia convertible
1976 martini olive Bay Dormobile camper

Stop dead photo links! Post photos to The Samba Gallery!

mcdonaldneal · Posted: Mon Mar 30, 2015 11:01 pm Post subject:

Stroke of luck! Have found a pair of NOS VW heads with the part number 311 101 373a. Made in Mexico, but should be better than most aftermarket ones in terms of quality, right?
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1978 marino yellow Bay Dormobile camper
1969 signal orange Karmann Ghia convertible
1976 martini olive Bay Dormobile camper

Stop dead photo links! Post photos to The Samba Gallery!

bugguy076 · Posted: Tue Mar 31, 2015 3:21 am Post subject:

I would say yes. I'm sure they will not be cheep. But new heads will be better than rebuilt.
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1976 Drag Bug
1967 Street Bug

Marv [UK] · Posted: Tue Mar 31, 2015 4:25 am Post subject:

Avalon'cha · Posted: Tue Mar 31, 2015 2:07 pm Post subject:

wcfvw69 · Posted: Tue Mar 31, 2015 5:09 pm Post subject:

As mentioned, cracks are the things that cause issues with heads. I've had both my original 40+ year old, single port heads rebuilt w/no issues. I inspected them for obvious cracks or issues before taking them to a shop that has a great reputation. Single port heads are pretty tough. They are not as apt to crack between the values like the dual port heads do.

As others mentioned, I'd want to inspect any used head in person before purchase.
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