[SolReaver]

Who knows why it was taken apart. I agree the ticking is an odd reason to take the head off, but people do odd things. At least you got your basket- project on the cheap so the PO wasn't so deluded that he thought it was worth real money in that shape ( I have met plenty of them) If the head looks good, you might just want to put it all together and roll the dice. Your call. Just consider that the alleged problem may not be the actual problem and I have had owners stretch the truth a bit to make the sale. Best is to not assume anything and do a full appraisal on what you have and what you want to do to it. Post some picture of the patient and I am sure all the happpy campers here will give you help with diagnosis and treatment.

###Pure speculation follows###

A more plausible reason to remove the head is if the timing belt went south. This also explains the current pieces parts condition. The TB job CAN get pricey with all the spinning doo dads and seals and tools. (oh my!) and a disheartened owner, unable to cope with the complexity (or cost) MIGHT just throw in the towel. IF this is the case, you should be on the look out for a bashed piston. The lower ends usually survive, but, there are no guarantees in life.