Thanks for the information. I will check these leads out. As for the engine in the car now. Leaks, mileage and the "tick" are the only problems. I just don't really have the time to rip into it right now. Maybe I will buy a used imported engine and then go through this engine.
Before we met she had an overheating problem and had to have both heads replaced. I can smell coolant but have yet to determin the source. I add about a cup of coolant per week. The large tubes for the heater hoses are dry at both ends. I can see where one of the small hoses from the base of the intake and the tstat housing need replacing but no signs or leakage there. I suspect it could be a water pump or a head leaking.
If I were to tear into this engine my list of items to inspect/replace are as follows. Timing belts & tensioners, waterpump, cam seals, crank seal, valve cover gaskets, oil pump & mickey mouse gasket. I might have missed something not having my list infront of me.
