Honda Repair: 89 Honda Accord, valve cover gasket, head gasket


Question
QUESTION: I am going to be looking at a 89 honda accord later this afternoon. Seller admits to the following: new clutch, valve cover gaskets, Head gasket(didn't blow, just changed it when changed valve cover gasket), radiator hose, power steering line, and new tires.
Is this something I should be concerned about, and is there anything I should be keeping an eye out for when checking it over?

Thanks!

ANSWER: The only thing that sounds suspicious to me is that he changed the head gasket when doing a valve cover job. The head gasket is not something that you just change because you feel like it. It is a major job. I'm not sure I would believe anyone who said they just changed it to change it.
I'd be very careful with this one.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Assuming that the head gasket has blown in the past, but has not been repaired - what is the real concern? That the initial cause was not repaired as well?

Answer
If the head gasket is blown and has not been repaired then you are looking at a $500-$1000 repair bill.
The cause of the head gasket blowing is important as well, but probably not an expensive fix.
I would press this guy on why he would replace the head gasket if it didn't need it. That's just not normal.