ok been driving this truck for a year now and i have grown rather attached i burned up some valves last time i was at bragg creek was wondering if any one can recommend the best route from experience rebuild the heads or replace the engine any advice would be appreciated

I don't think you'll have to replace the engine unless you warped the block I think you'll be better off rebuilding the heads. But if you had to replace the engine throw in a 460 since all you have to do is get different motor mounts because the 400's had a big block bell housing pattern so it will mate to your current tranny.

burnt valves is minor. seals are gone. you can re-place the guides wtout removing the heads. anyone tells you otherwise is full of shit.

if your sure that the valves are burned than the heads will have to come off ( to get the valve out) with the heads on the bench check the seats and the rest of the heads for damage .you can rebuild the heads or just replace the valve its your choice .
for me if i didnt know how old the engine is than i would put a used set of heads on and call it a day . my experance is that if you rebuild the top of you engine and not the bottom you are going to have bottom end problems next . i guess im saying just keep it ballanced top to bottom

this i agree with. if you decide to go with a set of fresh heads, make sure the bootom end is up to the task.

Post deleted by hairy_kanary

It's a 400? c'mon, there's only one cure, put vehicle in neutral, apply nice heavy brick to throttle pedal, turn ignition switch to "Start", start vidoe camera and document, (I dare you to beat my time of 57seconds with full crankcase and coolant). Then post video for our viewing pleasure.
_Final step, (this is very important!!!!!) find yourself anything else to put in there from the "385" family of FoMoCo products. (personal choice would be a 429)

sorry, thinking about the valve springs. time to cut back on the beer and typing.

sounds like fun but affordability would be a problem, although i would love a 429. but i miss the mud and need to get back in before it freezes thanks though