Hi Dave
Thanks for the encouraging words . So far I have been fortunate because: with all of the old vehicles I have played with over the years, I have got away with just fitting new rings and honing, doing this myself at minimal cost. This is my first experience at dealing with a professional engine re-builder and unfortunately , it's turned a little sour !
I am hoping that the cracks are minor and they will not effect the performance of the engine ! I will try some loctite on the stud and hopefully it will seal it . I will make new studs on my lathe.
re: head gaskets, I found this interesting business based in Thailand , you email them a scan of your gasket and they will make the gasket . The feedback seems positive.
http://www.gasketstogo.com/