PROS and CONS of a high compression head

[Pat Martone]

Maybe it is me, but I've not heard about many blown head gaskets from people using a stock head, but I have heard of lots of blown head gaskets from people using HC heads. (BTW - I'm using a Snyder 5.5 head.)

Also, I would like to learn more about the advantages of using a full spark retard when descending hills. I was thinking that with the wheels trying to speed up the engine (engine braking), you would want to keep the spark advanced. I welcome an explanation. Thanks.