1998 M3 5 Speed Sedan Blown Head

[B33m3r!]

Hey Guys,

So as the title says I have a blown head and am in need of a new one, now I would like to know how to go about this. I'm from north jersey and I am looking for a mechanic that does good work and is reputable. Additionally, I want to know what you guys think I should do. The car definitely needs a new head and I'm just trying to figure out if it would be worth it to redo the head as the car has 150k+ miles on it and I'm not looking to spend more than the car may be worth in the end. Thanks in advance for your input!

[MauiM3Mania]

Is your head gasket bad or are there issues with the head, valves, etc?

[B33m3r!]

There is an issue with the head itself, it definitely needs to be replaced.

[MarcoZandrini]

That won’t be cheap! You’ve got a few options:
- buy a new head ($$$$$) and build it with new valves, springs, etc. ($$$$$$$$)
- buy a used head ($$) with the risk that it’s damaged
- buy a used engine.

How was the head damaged? How badly damaged is the head. Is there damage to the engine?

[bmwdirtracer]

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-amc-part...21703637-1~am/

[jclausen]

put a used motor in it cheaper quicker

[MauiM3Mania]

If the head actually needs replacement, consider that you do not need an 'M3 head'' as the M52 and S52 heads are the same, besides springs and cams. Retainers, valves, trays and the head itself are the same. Check the E36 M3 sub forum for verification.

The headache I see is sourcing a used head and find it to be warped or damaged as bad if not worse than the OP has now. It would be helpful to know the type and extent of damage to the existing head.

[Proteus]

I'm pretty sure I need to replace my head as well (98M3/4/5). I was looking around the e36 M3 sub-forum and found someone recommending http://www.autoheadperformance.com. According to their website, you can pick up a rebuilt head including a rebuilt VANOS unit for $815 + $100 core.

I haven't done much research other than on BF.c, but i'm only reading good things. I'm likely going to source my replacement head from them or use them to repair mine. If you choose to look into them before I do, let me know how it works out!

Hope that helps

-edited for typo-

[jclausen]

Swap the whole engine out