5.9l magnum swap questions

Hard to say without seeing it in person and pricing the build out based on your budget. The EQ heads aren't going to make it any cheaper a build.

I considered them when I pulled a super-clean '89 LA 360 (with at least 154k on the clock as of 2003, according to MyCarfax) out of the junkyard for my build, and wound up scoring a perfect set of Magnum heads on Craigslist from a fellow parting with the spares off his third (!) Dakota R/T.

I couldn't see any cracks on visual inspection, and they get 150-160psi compression when cranking (not running) on the engine.

Frankly, I'm not worried about it. I dare say that the difference between adding a Mag 3.9L timing chain tensioner and GM HEI module to the engine over stock made more of a difference to smooth running than the difference between intact Magnum heads compared with a set that have the usual crack.

-Kurt

Incidentally the machinist said he had a new set of replacement heads (old casting style) for probably around $400 for the set. That may be the way to go