Dear list,

As I mentioned last week, I had a blown head gasket (I thought) on my
Westy diesel. Several 'listas recommended the VW diesel list, so I went
there for explicit instructions that got me through head removal and
ready for re-install.

Since some of them are on this list also, I'll have to thank you twice.

I'm afraid I might have one or more cracks which I'll have my shop
confirm. My question and the subject of this email is: If the head IS
cracked, do I need to buy a rebuilt head, or can I get a competent head
welder to do the job, having my shop press the valve seats back in, etc.

Cylinders not scored.

Oil was inky black, but didn't have any of that brown-water-foam I
associate with water and coolant in the oil.

No excess fluids in the crankcase, either.

A straightedge with a light behind it showed the head to be flat.

Opinions? Caveats?

Thanks,

Jim