So I bought a 93 Ranger a few years back, I knew it needed some work, long story... maybe Ill tell yall about it over a Beer...
Any way I found water in the Oil, so i pulled the engine. not too sure on the Mileage, the Odo, says 73000, Im thinkin 173000.
At first I was going to go with a Crate motor from Auto Zone. That was a bonner... I found out after 3 weeks and that motor was not delivered, that the AZ folks didn't have a clue. another long story here.
So I found a reputable performance shop, to rebuild it. upon disassembly, I found the crack in the head....see pics
So in my research as to why this happens I found that when an engine like this is left idling for extended periods of time eventually an air pocket forms in the head. And there's no circulation of coolant. I have heard of a few ways to resolve this but once the air pocket forms, revving the engine wont clear it.
Supposedly to have to let the engine cool and restart I dunno I don't set idle very long anyways.
So now I have choices. I need to replace the heads what's a good recommendation? This wont be a performance motor, as finally in my old age High Performance is when the dammed thing starts every time I turn the key and only maintenance tinkering needs to be done.
any suggestions are welcomed.
Thanks

 

rockauto.com ..... I've bought many things from these guys... including heads. Make sure you read and understand the process for returning the core(your old head).