Thanks EB. I have only had it for a year, and judging by the other lack of maintenance I wouldn't be surprised about over-long oil service intervals.
My valve stem seals were terrible, and what you said about the leaks to the head bolts makes sense, two of them were almost impossible to loosen and required driving them out because of how much gunk was pressure pumped into the holes.

I never had low compression. and only saw smoke in small quantities at start-up, so I am hoping the rings aren't too bad, i didnt have time or money to redo the block this time. I guess next timing chain will be a total rebuild or a diesel swap <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />