My 59 retractable (332 V8) was making a loud noise under load that I thought was a blown exhaust manifold gasket (this happened once before years ago and the replacement of the gasket cured the noise.) So I replace the gasket again and the noise is still there.

My questions:

1) Could it be a stuck or burnt valve?
2) What years and types of FE head would fit this engine. If it is coming from the valve train, I thought I would like to find a replacement head, rebuild it, and then just make the switch.

This is the original engine to the car, has never been apart, has over 100k on it and burns no oil.

Thanks

If you have hydraulic lifters, suggest checking the lifters before you spring for new or used heads.
Good Luck, Skip