a freind of mine will change my head gasket for a stocker for $500. if i want a MHG, i canborrow/rent the lapping tool that reg reimer sells from a guy i talked to in the northern states, and lap the block myself. total cost wouldnt be more than $1000 total, with parts. and while the head is gettign machined, might as well replace valve seals, valve cover gaskets, intake and exhaust manifold gaskets, etc.
deals are out there, you just have to look.
and nashman, the reason you and paradox post more is becuase you spend too much time on here hehe