water on my head ... we'll not quite

[bloodysalmon]

Having just rebuilt one of my 3 TC engines, fitted the radiator and filled with water. 2-3 weeks one without an engine restart as yet I noticed a little bit of rust on 3-4 cylinder nuts ... along with water evidence . Alarmed to see it I drained the water out immediately ... so before I do anything, like removing the head, what observations would you have to the possible prognosis please? Cylinder head gasket, cracked head is possible but what other scenarios have you witnessed on the XPAG engine?

[Kenmgtc]

Did you retorque the head after running it up to temperature? That may be all it needs. You used new bolts, correct?
K

[Steve Simmons]

My first thought is a loose head. Other than that it could be a cracked head or block If it's the block, you may be able to simply remove the studs, put sealer on the threads and reinstall them into the block. Since the cooling system isn't pressurized, it takes very little effort to seal any leaks.

[bloodysalmon]

the engine hasn't been run as yet, just been sat in the car for a few weeks with water in the radiator while I fix the electrics. I've turned the engine over with the starter motor to prime it at 16psi ... this is when I noticed the rust/water a few days alter. I checked the new head bolts and nuts and appear to be firm. I have this faint feeling the head must be cracked. Is there a way to check ... without undoing the head bolts etc? Then again why would the water come up the 3-4 bolts to rust the tops!?