still putting it off. great information from you all.
i washed the engine and oil leak from that area is not as bad as i thought, but the job will happen and i will keep you informed. it is comforting to have the car in one piece and ready to go, and i know that when this job starts that it will be down for awhile with various other chores to do such as tracking down a suspension noise and oil leaks and then to do a valve adjustment for the first time.
will keep posting. thanks again.