Doing the head

[nickpro]

So I'm going to be doing the head on my track car soon. What else should I replace while I'm in there?

[jlevie]

If you are talking about the engine, you'll need a new timing belt and tensioner and unless new I'd replace the water pump and thermostat. While the head is off you have the perfect opportunity to replace all of the cooling system hoses. And you'll want to use new seals for the oil return tube.

You don't say why you are doing the head. If this is an ordinary head refresh to account for mileage, a valve grind and new seals would be the minimum work. The head may need new guides, valves, or even new rockers or springs. Inspection and testing will tell. In a like manner the cam should be checked for wear and blue printed or replaced. A used head almost always has some warp. Even if it is still within spec I'll have the shop take a minimum cut to get it dead flat.