thanks regie, you're probably right
but funds and time are an issue
i'm hopeful of a cheap fix to keep on the road for another year

just had another thought - oil pump?
does it sit back near the rear - I haven't seen inside one to know....

Oil pump is directly below the dissy or cam sensor.
Motor out would be quickest and simplist way to do anything more than basic work on the bottom end.
I would be getting a professional opinion prior to commiting to anything drastic.

thanks guys
anything more than basic stuff needed and in goes an AU motor that's for sure.
cheers