Hi guys/gals

I have an 89 Ram 50 with a cracked cylinder head (between the valves on cylinders 2 and 3) from a tossed freeze plug and subsequent overheat.

I completely disassembled the engine and found it to be in great shape for the mileage 160,000.

The cylinders honed out with minimal honing (stock pistons and rings can be used). The crank, rods, pistons, balance shafts, cam, oil pump, etc all looked great. The valves and rockers are good.

This is my daily driver and "economy" vehicle. I'm not looking to sink much money into it, as the frame will probably only get me another 2 years. Right now, I'm looking at new rings, new bearings, and new gaskets/seals to redo the bottom end.

The problem is the head, from checking online it looks like $300+ core charge for bare castings or $500+ core for completes. With my head being cracked, it can't be used as a core. Is there a place that sells used uncracked heads? Also can I swap my cam and valve train from my head (jet valve with blanks inserted) to a non jet valved head?

My landlord is an engine machinist (mainly circle track motors) and is willing to help transfer my valves, clean the seats, valve guides, etc if we can find a cheap good head.

Any thoughts/suggestions?

Thank you,
Chris