I'm surprised they didn't ask for a whole engine. Rust like that can be a real problem. Cast is porous and assorbs moisture. You can machine it and half an hour later it bubbles rust flowers. I'd say it's a good call considering how common 998 heads are. It's just as important to know what not to do as what can be done. In order to get seats that won't turn brown intake and exhaust would have to be installed. That would be close to a figure 8 install which is never a first choice. New head is right call. How big are they going to have to bore to get past rust? The cyls will stain as well. Steve (CTR) 

One thing to consider if you are planning on using that head, is to not nessesarly use stock valves.  You could have the them opened up and use valves from a 1275 head... If the valve seats are damaged and its too hard to fix, get them grinded larger...I did that with my 12G295 Cooper head and it works out nice.  Having said that, there might not be any point modifying this standard head, where it would easier to use a better condition head.  I'd bet dollars to donuts that you can find a 295 head somewhere in Ontario or Western PQ.

If I were you, I would try to get them to clarify what they mean exactly, and then take it to another engine builder for a second opinion.  If the other shop has the same opinion, then perhaps starting with another head is the way to go.

I'm in Nova Scotia, but if it comes down to it I can send you mine for the cost of shipping it.  I would look around Ottawa or Montreal for what you are looking for.  Mainly Mini's Club in Montreal would be a good place to start.  These 998 heads are generally cheap since they are often removed.  Good luck!

I am located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. So yes, I am especially asking to you Canadian mini owners!  I have to be honest, I just have talked to the machinist on telephone and haven't understand yet why excatly he couldn't do a perfect job. It really sounded to me more like a 'impossible to be perfect' than a 'we CAN'T do it perfect'. He also said: it will be working, but won't be a perfect and neat job. I think he sead the valve seat would exceed the surface... I feel really innocent here! I have to return there and look with my eyes.

You would maybe understand a little more if I reveal the pictures...take a look at this disaster: Exploded piston (2nd), lots of water, debris and rust in the cylinders. 

Where are you located??  I have an extra 998 cyl head that came off my mini a while back.  Needs a valve job, but its otherwise in good shape.  I don't need it so it could be had pretty cheap... My email is in my profile.

I also agree with sourcing a 12G295 head, but they are harder to come by... depends on your intended outcome.  

Rich

Where in the world are you?  erhaps someone around the corner has one.

If you are having engine work done i would look for a 12G295 small bore head or 12G202 for that matter, they breathe nicer and work well on the small bores You could also go to the 12G940 large bore head but that will require pocketing the block which should not be a problem for a machine shop while in pieces.

They said they could do a valve seat job but it wouldn't be perfect?

I'd first find a shop that is a little more confident in their own work....next, I'd take my head there.
There should be a tonne of 998 heads out there...some without the air pump holes...hopefully someone will offer one up.  Any "used" head you find may need a trip to the shop regardless

A "new" head will be fairly pricey...MM wants $700

Hy everybody. I am looking for a 998cc Cylinder Head. My mini is a 1979 but sorry, I don't have the head's number since the engine is in a shop for a reconstruction job (boring, machining, balancing). Guys have told me they could do the valve seat job but wouldn't be perfect. They recommend me to find a new head.

Thank you.