Volvo cylinder head replacement rebuilt vs new?

[Seabass302]

I have a 2001 Volvo 5.0 gl. The motor overheated and cracked the head(#059). My question is there any issues that I should know about a rebuilt version that can be purchased for about $200ea. vs. a new aftermarket head for $300 ea? Thanks

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Volvo cylinder head replacement rebuilt vs new?

I bought one reconditioned head for my 5.7 back in 2005 and had no problems with it at all. It was even painted black to match my other Mercruiser head!

 

[Bondo]

Re: Volvo cylinder head replacement rebuilt vs new?

Ayuh,... Just match the casting #s, as not all Chevy heads are equal...

 

[Seabass302]

Re: Volvo cylinder head replacement rebuilt vs new?

The reason I ask is, I called an aftermarket auto cylinder head company inquiring about casting #059 vortec heads. He advised me to stay away from rebuilt stuff and only use the more expensive new heads. His reasoning was because of the temperature difference between a boat an car motor and its a more stressful environment. I didn't know if this was a sales ploy to get me to buy the more expensive heads or if it was a valid issue. Thanks

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Volvo cylinder head replacement rebuilt vs new?

It's a ploy and a bs-shameless one at that. I wouldn't do business with that guy if you paid me.
If the reconditioned/remanufactured was checked for cracks and it didn't have any, then it's FINE. Boat engines run COLDER than auto engines, so that's not a concern. Now, the "load" on a marine engine is typically greater, so valves are more susepitble to tulipping (especially if you "lug" a marine engine) and other issues. But the valve are the same and Mercruiser and VP have been using the heads that GM put on the engines (which are the same as they were when used in pickup trucks) for YEARS.

Of course the next thing he'll tell you is that you need to buy TWO of his a/m heads, since they won't flow the same as your factory head. So now you wanna spend $600 when $200 will fix it?

 

[Bondo]

Re: Volvo cylinder head replacement rebuilt vs new?

Ayuh,... Automotive heads, 'n marine heads are the Same exact castings....

If you buy rebuilt, it should have already been Tested...