Offroad-Express

This is fitted to a 1993 Surf. Just a couple of questions:
1. Any traps to replacing the head...this one seems cracked. Not being a mechanic, would it be reasonable to assume that armed with a manual http://www.ncttora.com/fsm/1KZ-TE%20Eng ... index.html and being handy mechanically this is an achievable at home job?
2. From my reading there appears to be 2 types of head. One for short valves and one for long valves. Is there anyway to tell which one you have prior to taking the head off?
Thanks

Get a manual, they are available online...(you got that under control)
Get the correct thickness head gasket... (use original toyota ones)
Use new head bolts (after markets ones available from STA) As they are stretch type
As for telling the difference, no idea...

id say your 93 1kz will have the 3 holes, have a look at the back corner on intake side and between head and block you will see a small corner of head gasket sticking out, its a bit hard to see the holes, but with a small inspection mirror and torch should be able to work out theres three small holes. easy job to replace the head and if you do get stuck im sure some of us on here can help with any problems. And its well worth paying the lil extra for genuine parts,(HEAD). oh and while your there remove your EGR and blank it off with plates, this will help eliminate the head cracking again.