The Rover-Landers of BC

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

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

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