Finally getting back onto this one.
Looks like a need new head bolts. The bolts that came out have a reduced diameter shank, which I presume means they are Torque-to-yield bolts. I would prefer to replace them with conventional torque-till-they-break bolts
But I am not having much luck locally. I ordered a set of bolts from the loacal small engine shop. After waiting over 2 weeks I cancelled it. Tried the next place, and that guy had no idea what he was doing.
Maybe it was his first day. I left.
So as much as I want to support local small business, now I need to order online. Are there independent shops that advertise here that stock parts and can ship quickly? And maybe know what bolts I want?