That is too bad about the "A round hole" that you dealt you poor advice. Where is that machine shop located? Let me know if you need a decent shop.
I had head crack on one of my 235s about 20 plus years ago. No apparent reason. The symptom was large white clouds out of the exhaust. There was no oil in the coolant.
Since you have pulled the head, you might as well at least check the valve stem and its guide. Replace the seals. I would avoid a complete valve job if your engine is very tired. The increased compression will finish off the rings. I had to learn the hard way on this one.
Give us a clue on that wrecking yard, was it near Placerville?
