Woodboat3

My #14 head 86 300 SDL had 318k on it before I changed the vacuum pump, timing chain,& water pump out of fear (and good advice). Chain may have been abit streched 'cause it's peppier now and milage improved. Now with 320k I'm on the road in the morning (San Diego to Tucson).

I routinely run 420 non stop miles across the CA-AZ deserts at 75 to 85 mph in 50 to 115 degree heat...Usually around 1,400 miles round trip twice a month. Just change the oil a lot. Put a 1/4 quart of oil in the tank per fill up to keep the top end lubricated since the #2 fuel is stripped around here.

I could take the honda, or gmc, or just rent a car but I trust the 300k+ SDL more than the others. And that is saying something as there are a lot of empty miles between any assistance on this route. Plus the comfort value is unparallel.

P.S. I'd like to do the oil cooler lines but I think they are bokoo bucks ($300-$400+). I'm looking into having the fittings swapped at a hydraulics shop for about $100.

Enjoy

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1986 300SDL 440,xxx

Thanks. I would never swap out a working part like a head just because they have issues. I will however keep a watchful eye