Cylinder Head Diagnostics

ASSISTANCE Stock Engine-Bay Components
1

Hey Guys,

Still rather new to the forum, but glad to be here. I recently purchased a '91 with a (as far as I know) stock B18A1. Something was leaking in the head so I bought a head to replace it off of Craigslist here in Orlando. With the hopes of doing a simple head swap and calling it a day until I can start budgeting for my B18C5 build.

I just got the head back from the machine shop after having it tested, cleaned, and the bottom decked. They said it pulled really good strong vacuum. It’s been sitting for about a week so there is a little bit of surface rust on it now. (Ignore that)

Anyway I was checking out the head today and it looks like there is something going around the valve springs/retainers/keepers area on I think the #2 cylinder.

I just wanted to get opinions on whether or not I should install this head or if I am completely wasting my time and money doing so.

Thanks. Of course, here are pictures.

IMAG0413.jpg
IMAG0413.jpg577×1024 162 KB

IMAG0417.jpg
IMAG0417.jpg1024×577 165 KB

IMAG0418.jpg
IMAG0418.jpg577×1024 166 KB

2

What exactly is your concern? The “cracks” in the casting of the aluminum?

3

Yeah it looks like some of the metal is being sheared away by the valve springs. Not sure if that’s an oil passage or not.

4

It can only be casting marks, nothing to be worried about. Impossible for the valve springs to reach that area as the valves get pushed down and they are at their max height as they sit. Cast alluminum always has its imperfections.

5

Thanks Tyler, really appreciate it. Should be getting down with the head swap here in the next few weeks or so. I am missing head studs/bolts and I’m saving for the ARP kit. I’ll take pictures.

6

As long as your sure the deck is square and the head is clean. I wouldnt worry about that small crack.