build or buy long block?

I have a 1997 Tacoma with 2.7 261k. It has a blown head gasket and most likely a cracked head. With this mileage is it worth it to put new head on or should I just buy a new or reman long block? Where is the best online place to buy?

 

I replaced the heads on my sons 2.7l recently. I will have to look up when I get home where I got them from. They era new heads not remanufactured. If I remember right they where $600. We had the same problem you are having. Leaking head gasket and found crack on the remanufactured head that the previous owner had used. With a long block I think you just inherit some one else's problems.

 

I noticed you went to a header instead of stock manifold. Any issues with check engine light?

 

As long as you haven't ditched your front a/f sensor a header wont cause a CEL.