4.6 Head Gaskets

Hi all,
I'm replacing my 4.6 Gems engine (which blew a gasket thanks to probably a cracked block) with another identical but lower milage engine. I'm thinking - would it be a good idea to replace the head gaskets on the replacement engine, now that it's on a pallet? I have new gaskets and bolts so it should be a quick fix, but maybe it's best left alone as long as it wasn't using any water?
If I were to change tha gaskets, I've red somewhere that it's better to leave the four outside bolts only nipped tight, since Land Rover actually dispensed with these bolts on the later Thor engines. Does this theory hold water (no pun intended)?

Thanks!
Henrik

Henrik,
IMHO I'd change the head gaskets while you've got it on the pallet, everything is much easier to get at, just make sure it can't swing round ( I use a 24" bar to get the head bolts loose) as you disassemble. The benefit of this is that you can pretty much get to everything. If you are using the head bolts, don't forget they're tightened as per the rave manual, I stuck a set of ARP studs in mine which get rid of the need for trying to judge 90 degrees when the bar goes on at different angles.

yes do the outer 4 bolts on each head up to 10nm or something like that with lock tight

When you say lower mileage engine what sort of miles are we talking about?

Assuming we are talking over 60/80+k then it might also be worth dropping the sump and checking the bottom end? Might be a good idear to invest in an engine holder/stand. Makes working on an engine much easier. Can rotate the engine etc. Good for setting up, such as pre-load, timing etc.

I'd also replace the big end shells, mains, oil pump, timing chain, cam, cam followers (oem ones) and rockers/rocker shaft while the engine is out. For the sake of £400 or so it would be mad not to.