Morris Minor Owners Club

So that's why its been smoking so much

Currently rebuilding a replacement for this engine, but considering using the existing cylinder head.

Is there any reason that there would be so much oil around the back two head studs, other than the fa\ct that I have just removed the cylinder head.

Is it possible that the head gasket has been leaking?

thanks

kevin

The excess of oil around the two rear studs I am certain is the result of you removing the head.
There is oil in No: 1 & No: 2 bores also.
Looking through & beyond the oil there does not appear to be any sign of gasket failure.
Unless you have removed all oil from the cylinder head before removal there will be pockets of laying on the top surface of the head and when you lift the head that oil can flow down the cylinder head studs/holes onto the top of the block as per your picture.
I personally do not think that you have anything to worry about.
Replace the head gasket and re-torque after the first heat cycle.
Those cylinder bore walls look to be extremely glazed which could be the cause of your engine smoking.
The piston ring condition should also be checked as should the valve guides/seals.
Looking at the engine number the engine has already been reconditioned by BMC.