So I'm still unsure if my current cylinder head is good and I'm thinking if I'm going to build a good bottom end I may just want to go all the way and buy a good cylinder head. Currently my cylinder head is stock with HKS cams springs and Manley retainers.

I'm debating on buying a GSC head for a little over 3k. It has all the head work done and springs/retainers already. I would just need to pick the cams (GSC S2's or S3's).

How much would a good headjob be? I don't really see much prices advertised so I guess I'm looking for real world prices others have had to pay.

The specs for what I'm looking to buy are:

Most Advanced Port Design available period.
Exact tolerances and matching port dimensions across all cylinders ports
35mm Supertech Stainless Steel Black Nitrided Intake valves
31.5mm Supertech Inconel Exhaust valves for the highest heat capacity
Beehive valve springs for maximum performance up to 11,000 rpm
GSC Titanium retainer and Chromolly spring seats
New Bronze/Magnesium Valve Guides
Valve train and port velocity designed for up to 12mm of camshaft lift
Available for purchase using a new casting or with a core exchange
NEWEN BB Valve Job
Each Head is pressure checked and decked
Sold Fully Assembled and ready for use


What would it cost to get something close having a machine shop do this work for me?

My core may not be good which is why GSC is cheaper then BR or AMS. Just looking for opinions.

 

well i would say i bought a new head straight up built from Mike@awd. My head happened to be cracked so i know the feeling for sure. I would say first thing is first find out if your OEM head is usuable if it is I dont see why you would not exchange for a buschur stage 3 head that has more then proved itself or Even check out all of headgames prices as he is one of the best in the business. He is suppose to be coming out with a value buster built head for the bargin buyer

 

To the OP I'm going with GSC since they are building my block. I spoke with Greg and since he is going to do a 2.2L 10:1 block I'll just have him do the block for convenience. Greg basically told me to take the motor out take off the intake mani, exhaust mani, oil pan and some other stuff send him the motor assembled and he will send it back to me assembled and ready to roll. With a HTA86 and e85 my car will be a screaming street machine

 

i would check out AMS. They do very good work. My buddy had his head built fom them. He made very good power!!! When i am ready to upgrade i am going to have them build it!