Cracked Heads?

[Dodger]

G'day Bronco II owners,

O.K. as some of you all may have been following my posts. I just bought a 1987 Bronco II for a great price, however, it had blown head gaskets. After reading some of the countless posts on this sight I have seen several remarks abou the 2.9L head cracking. Is this really that common? I should have my heads off tomorrow, and am not sure weather or not to put them back on. How does one go about getting these things checked out? Naturally if the gasket has an obvious blowout I will just check them for warpage and move on. Thanks,

Dodger

 

[BROWNCO]

G'day Bronco II owners, 

    O.K. as some of you all may have been following my posts.  I just bought a 1987 Bronco II for a great price, however, it had blown head gaskets. After reading some of the countless posts on this sight I have seen several remarks abou the 2.9L head cracking.  Is this really that common? I should have my heads off tomorrow, and am not sure weather or not to put them back on.  How does one go about getting these things checked out? Naturally if the gasket has an obvious blowout I will just check them for warpage and move on. Thanks,

 

    Dodger

17601[/snapback]

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I'm not certain about 2.9 but I know from experience 2.8 1984 bronco II are also famous for cracking if not the same heads. The problem is the exhaust valves are side by side on the middle and end cylinders creaying a "hot spot". Call machine shops and ask for magna fluxing. If there is a crack I predict it to be between #2 and #3 cyl at the exhaust valves.If not then check your intake manifold for pitting or corrosion. I have rebuilt mine 4 times and pulled the engine and had it completely rebuilt 1 other time.