JMHO, but do NOT double the gaskets. That is the "path to perdition" and leads to warped HE flanges and even more leaks.

You need to see if the gasket surface on the head is truly flat as well as the exhaust flange and correct things as needed.

Ahh - guys. The #5 outboard exhaust stud is missing. This could cause a leak! ;)
I'll bet that there was a stud there, but its current absence might indicate a problem with torquing it down adequately. Please no doubling of gaskets! Address this stud first.

Not only one missing but there is different length studs in the soup too. We can see the blowby but was #6 ever tight?
ruce

Hello,

Thank you for the replies! I ordered a new stud for # 5...yes I couldn't get the cap nut off the stud so it screwed in as a whole unit. # 6 studs had to be replaced and drilled and tapped. I put new studs in but they would not go in all the way. I used a couple washers with the copper lock nuts to hold them on...it appears to be working good...I know not perfect but....OK no double gaskets :) Again the noise was from #6 as I put a hose to my ear and placed it on each cylinder. I may have jumped the gun but i thought better safe than sorry. I'll get the new valves put in next week for #6 and have it checked over. Thanks again!
Alan

be sure the guy checks the valve to seat contact, especially #6 exhaust, as you said the coloring was uneven, possibly indicating a leak. regrind the seat if needed. reground cams often cause a tick if not done properly. i would bet that #5 exhaust leak was the culprit though.

Hello,

Thanks for the reply. I appreciate your valuable input. I took the head in and had new valves put in it and had it checked over all seemed OK...Ya, your prob right. I guess I'm nervous...my first rebuild. I just don't want to screw something major up. I should have it put back together by Thursday. I am installing a new stud on #5 with anew cap nut also. And yes a different rocker arm for #6 exhaust.

Thank you again!
Alan

Yea! Its fixed! Shop thought it was the exhaust valve not seating properly...they put a new one in for free ... I also replaced the intake valve and rocker arm and no more ticking!!!!! Just got back from a drive and all is quiet!!!! I very happy :) Yes, I also fixed the exhaust leak on # 5 :) Wow! A lot of work! Thanks too all who helped with replies! I'm sure there'll be more issues but all is good for now!

Thanks again!
Alan