Old motor

[Glenn D.]

I decided to remove my 2.5 na cylinder head to see if it was just a headgasket, and I was wondering what you think caused the following damage.

3 of 4 pistons have cracks in them.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/72653928@N00/266251647/

#1 piston has a bent pushrod (exhaust valve I think).

http://www.flickr.com/photos/72653928@N00/266251655/

I've never been this deep into a motor, what do you think?

Thanks. Glenn

[HeadDamage]

Looks like your timing belt slipped or somethink like that... the piston has hit the valve and bent the push rod.

[96whitedisco]

Check the head for a broken valve spring.
Does the engine have a timing belt or chain, if its has a belt when was it last changed?
You could have floated the valve due to weak valve springs.
You already have it apart why not rebuild it?

Cheers
Andrew