finally got my '00 Blazer to the mechanic, he tore it down, passenger side head cracked. So I need a new head.

When I bought this truck which was about 6000 miles ago, it had a misfire on #6. I HOPED for a bad plug, but a compression test showed 60lbs where all the other cylinders on that side had 120lbs +/-. Due to time problems, I ended up driving the truck 6 months till we could both make time and weather permitting it be torn down. I EXPECTED a burnt valve, what was found was a cracked head.

This truck has used water since I bought it, but it has gotten worse in the last couple weeks. It usually ran 180ish (going by hash marks on gauge), but one day it ran up to about 220. No hotter, just 220. It was low on water, I put in about 1/2 gallon. The temp fluctuations continued but not as bad. I will add the weather has been exceptionally cool for this time of year, till the day it went to 220.

This truck has been getting 18.3 mpg on the trip computer.... so I didn't think it was hurt all that bad. The truck had 146k when I got it, now it's just over 152k miles.

Not sure what I'm asking, just telling whatever I'm thinking at the moment in case anyone has anything to add or share.

One thing I DO need, unless he turned one up today, is a good 4.3 Vortec head for a 2000 Blazer!