the heads are not particularly known for breaking or the headgaskets for failing.

it it is a bad headgasket you should be seeing bubbles in the radiator, and or oil in the water or water in the oil. oil in the water will float on top. water in the oil will look foamy.

unless it is free, no reason you shouldn't be able to get a prepurchase inspection.

good luck

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.