Blown head gasket. Which way to go?

[ianoz]

I will try a 70degC switch first,it may give nusance alarms ,if so I will go for 100deg C

Please let us know how you go with this. I was thinking the same thing, but didn’t have a figure for how hot the head would be when the coolant was say 100C ( higher or lower..?), or what the safe max temp would be.

[manga_blue]

spacers between the fuel rail and head, would be my guess

I can confirm your guess is fact.
Fuel rail spacers.

They're called fuel rail insulators. There should be three of them and you must use them. They normally bounce for miles across garage floors or lodge in the most inaccessible areas of the engine bay. You'll often find one jammed between the block and the starter motor.

[lonesailor]

Pleased to report that after a few false starts (self inflicted) she is now up and running and seems fine. My overheat sensor and alarm is fitted and should work if required, the 70*c unit as expected was too low and sounded loudly at normal temps. so was replaced by the 100*c one. It was somewhat a pain to fit as room behind the engine is scarce. Timing belt, tensioners, water pump, valve stem seals and all coolant hoses replaced. I am now quite adept at cams and bucket replacement due to my own mistakes,I suggest anyone else cleaning out lifters be VERY careful of how they come apart ,those tiny springs are very hard to see. Many thanks to all who helped me out with info and advice.