Sure, it would be much easier and cheaper. But there are no moving parts in an oil cooler. Too easy to get screwed buying a used head, in my opinion. Already happened once. There is one on ebay right now, but doesn't include the cam caps, and one tappet is also missing. Manual says cam cap is matched to the head... Could end up being a big mess in the end. Really don't know right now. Could end up buying a used head if one turns up. Priced out the parts I need for mine and I'mclose to$1000 or so. Keep in mind that is with ZERO labor costs! Honestly, I am not sure that I would trust anything used at this point. Clearly I'm going back and forth on this one...

 

mate,
You have to remember that alot of this stuff from ebay is from squids that dump their bike after having it for only a couple thousand kilometeres. I have bought engines off ebay before to tear them down and find that the low km quotes were actually quite bang on. Additionally, paypal has you covered to some degree. Try to buy from a reputable seller.
im guessing that you can pick up 3 full heads for the price of your parts ($1000.00)
I KNOW that you can pick up nearly two engines for that cost.
Those are good odds even if you do get screwed the first time.
If you buy an entire mill you can always part out what you don't need to recoupe, or just have a bastard load of spares.
Just give it a month and what you need will become available.

 

that VFR is really an awesome bike. very nice

 

Dave, thanks! Love my VFR! Closing in on 60,000 miles. Great ride, got me started on track days, and a great bike to cross the country on. True "Jack of all Trades"!
Fask, I'm definitely going to wait a bit before I commit too far in any direction. Quick question for anybody who might know: I saw that the part number for the head gasket is different for the 03-04 and the 05-06. If I were to go with a 05-06 head on my 03 motor, which head gasket should I use? Or would it matter?