New Heads or just Head Gaskets?

[Rock36]

I am looking into getting a '90 LX 5.0, but it has a problem with overheating.
This isn't deterring me from getting it, because I want this to be my first project car.

The engine is stock, so if it happens to be a head gasket problem should I just put on new performance heads? That would require changing the head gaskets anyway right?

This is assuming of course it isn't a radiator problem, fan problem, or whatever problem.

 

[9250stang]

Considering the car is 16 years old at this point, it would be a good assumption that the gaskets are in bad shape. Absolutely, with new heads the head gaskets will need to be replaced. It's usually a good idea to never reuse gaskets because of their inexpensive nature and how important they are in the big scheme of things. If it's going to be a project car, go ahead and put some good heads on it.