I have an 81 4x4, with an 83 engine in it. I have the old 81 engine in pieces. My current engine runs really good, but could always be better. I am thinking of taking the old head from my 81 to the machine shop thats like 1/4 mile down the road, and having them do a full job on it. Im talking hot tank, pressure check, port polish, new maybe oversized valves, new seals, possibly new cam, new everything. They are the kind of shop, that would take their time if I wanted, I can get the whole job with a port and polish for 180, plus parts. Should I do this, or wait till the engine blows, and then rebuild the whole thing. When I do put this head on, I would pull oil pan, and do rod bearings, and piston rings. Should I do it? Thanks

 

Crap, forgot to ask the most important question, will the 81 head work on my 83?? It had a dual timing chain, and the 83 has a single. Thanks

 

Yeah, the 81 head will fit the 83. As for the timing chain and gears, you can use either single or dual row setups on either head, but you have to use the proper oil pump and timing chain tensioner for whichever setup you choose to use.