Mild 258 "overhaul" - any tips?

[BostonWagoneer]

This is the 258 in my 89 YJ, but I figure I can get better 258 info here than on SWB forums.

I am going to yank the head and replace the lifters. I might think about replacing the camshaft, but the engine has about 150K on it. I'd like to save the major parts replacement for when the engine gets a complete overhaul or I swap in a stroker or 360 smile.gif

It ticks a lot and doesn't idle all that smoothly. I'm sure I have a flat lifter or two. I think the rough idle is due to massive exhaust and intake (vacuum) leaks. I am going to replace the manifolds with non-warped ones once I put everything back together.

Is there anything else I should check internally in the engine? I am not removing the engine from the Jeep. I'll probably remove the pan and replace the rear main seal while I have the chance.

Thanks!

[Sundowner]

use a head and camshafts from a 4.0L engine to tide you over until you go v8

[BostonWagoneer]

That's another thing. I'll do a 4.0 head swap if I can find a good deal on one, otherwise I won't do the swap.

[gsmikie]

when you get the head off turn it upside down and put lacquer thinner in the chambers and see if it leaks through the valves if it does you will know if it is intake or exhaust that are leaking by what head ports are wet with laquer thinner........leave the spark plugs in the head