I have the Heynes manual and have seen the valve spring tool.

I assume that the new style seals is the kit that has teflon and Rubber. Does the teflon go on the exhaust valve and the rubber on the intake?

I am debating the leakdown test because I dont have the proper tool to do it. Should I spring for the tool? Will I get a definitive diagnosis? I may be able to get my local indy to loan me the tool, but you know how that goes.

I am going to go out to the garage and pull the cover to see if I can see slipped seals. I am hoping that is the problem. I just can't believe how quickly I went from clean burning and nice looking plugs to lots of oil in the #1. There has not been any overheating problems for the car, and the oil and coolant look great. I would be shocked if the head gasket failed. The weather has been cold.... but not that bad. I dont take her out when the temp is below 20F.