Doing a rebuild '73 2.0 motor - heads are shot Options

[DC_neun_vierzehn]

My '73 2.0 motor needs a rebuild. Different shops are recommending different approaches to replacing the heads, which are both cracked (near the spark plug holes).

One shop doesn't believe in using "Chinese crap" and wants to try and search the planet for NOS or great condition heads, but has no leads (nor do they think welding/repairing my heads is a good idea).

The other shop is open to using high quality repos like the Len Hoffman 2.0 heads.

What have folks used for replacement heads on a 2.0 rebuild that are performing well years later? Are there any options out there for finding NOS or top shape used 2.0 heads?

FYI - keeping the motor stock - no mods on the rebuild.

Thanks in advance.

[nditiz1]

I think even Len stopped working on fixing the stock heads because of issues later on down the road, hidden cracks, more develop.

Couple of options:

See the cost of a local shop. One in Severna Park MD, maybe Cooker VW does them. Or ship them to Ollie's/someone else - cost dependent on time and what needs to be done

Cheapest option - AA Performance heads, bring them to a VW shop to get springs and valves installed. Should be fine.

Lens Chinese option - not sure if he has made any more since the last run. They were running good. I had them on an engine. Longevity seems fine. -$1500+ based on options

Lens bus conversion heads / Type4 store - I think these were $3400 last time I checked. Well made, pretty sure Raby runs these.

[DC_neun_vierzehn]

I think even Len stopped working on fixing the stock heads because of issues later on down the road, hidden cracks, more develop.

Couple of options:

See the cost of a local shop. One in Severna Park MD, maybe Cooker VW does them. Or ship them to Ollie's/someone else - cost dependent on time and what needs to be done

Cheapest option - AA Performance heads, bring them to a VW shop to get springs and valves installed. Should be fine.

Lens Chinese option - not sure if he has made any more since the last run. They were running good. I had them on an engine. Longevity seems fine. -$1500+ based on options

Lens bus conversion heads / Type4 store - I think these were $3400 last time I checked. Well made, pretty sure Raby runs these.

@nditiz1

Thank you for the suggestions.

What's the shop's name in Severna Park?

I'm familiar with Cooker VW (went to high school with Gene Cook actually). Hadn't considered them bc most of the work I hear of them doing is body, paint, interior, etc., but I'll check to see if they do motors too.

Tell me more about Ollie's - I'm not familiar. Is there a website?