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As for the valves and head, i would not worry about it. The light white was probably from heat or lean. I doubt either was really a factor. What do the valve seats look like? Are the contact areas on the valves and head all about the same? As far as lapping valves, I would not touch it unless there seems to be some other problem. That head is pretty much fresh.


I've always found it to be good practice to re-lap valves whenever I have a head off. Yes, it isn't strictly necessary, but then again it never hurts either. Some valves have replacable valve seals that I always replace for general purpose too (I'm not that familiar with the inards of the 2.6, never had mine apart any further than to check valve clearances when I owned one) With a head off, valves are really easy to dissassemble with a valve spring compression tool, available at Sears for like $20 - $30, or for rent. Just make sure that the valve goes back in exactly where it came from. This also allows you to inspect the valve seats and the clearance and runnout on the valve guides.

Whatever you decide to do with the head, absolutely take a good, precision straight edge to it and ensure that it isn't warped.

As for the noises you were hearing...hmmm crank end play? Main bearings or rod bearings...timing cam gear or chain?