I finally got the heads of my 3.0 this evening while in the process of replacing the head gaskets. I'm planning on getting the cylinder heads machined by a local shop, what else should I have them do or should be expected during a head build.

There is nothing intrinsically wrong with the heads from what I can tell; I'll try and post some pictures later.

Thanks for any assistance.

 

pressure check, plain the mating surface

Since your this far in, I'd have em throw new stems seals in. You could install aftermarket cams if you wanted..

should get new head bolts, I'm not sure how critical that really is (I've never actually heard of someone having issues with reusing old bolts) I replaced mine when i put my new head on a few weeks ago, they were cheap from engnbldr

Also, it's a good idea after its all back together to run it awahile and go back in and re-torque the headbolts when they're hot. This assures they properly torqued. Same with the valves =)

goodluck

 

if the bolts are torque-to-yield you should NEVER EVER re-torque them and NEVER RE-USE THEM.

you can tell the difference when the instructions state to torque to some value, then turn the bolt a certan distance (say 90 degrees), then turn them again a certain distance.

If you DON'T have a final torque value to adjust to, the bolts are torque-to-yield and should never be reused or retorqued.

the very definition of 'torque-to-yield' means you tighten them until they are almost ready to break.