Cracked Head

[deckbennett]

My 2003, 4.3L GL-B Volvo I/O engine blew two pieces out of the head gasket. When I examined the head closely I found a crack in the head between cylinders 3 and 5. The dealer wants $675 for a replacement head. Has anyone replaced a boat engine head with a automotive head. The 4.3L head from NAPA is less than $200.

 

[KJSmitty]

Re: Cracked Head

Has anyone replaced a boat engine head with a automotive head. The 4.3L head from NAPA is less than $200.

I have not and don't really know if there is a difference (hopefully some one who does will chime in) - however,,,

Like you I would carefully be examining the NAPA head for fitment etc.. My guess is Volvo wants top dollar for their parts. Does NAPA have one so you can place the two side by side and compare? Most heads have a part number or something for ID - do they cross reference etc?

Just brainstorming with ya - but I would be seriously considering it as well..

 

[deckbennett]

Re: Cracked Head

Thanks for the input. I can check dimensions but I wonder if there is a difference in the valve guides since the boat engines run at higher RPM's. The NAPA heads come with the valves installed.

 

[JustJason]

Re: Cracked Head

Is that 675 for the entire job or 675 for just the head plus labor and all the fixins?

Is the dealers head new or remanufactored?

Is Napa's head new or reman'd?

 

[deckbennett]

Re: Cracked Head

The $675 is just for the head. I plan to do the labor myself. I think the Napa head is rebuilt but I will have to double check.

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Cracked Head

The NAPA head will be fine. No major differences. Vortec heads are Vortec heads. Truck or boat.

 

[180shabah]

Re: Cracked Head

There is no super special magic marine valvetrain - just plain 'ol GM truck stuff. You will probably find the only difference it the VP head comes painted and has a waranty. NAPA warranty is likely void if used in a boat, but the casting is the same so.....

 

[deckbennett]

Re: Cracked Head

Thanks for the inputs. I am going for the automotive head tomorrow.