E-Head SB got hot right before I put it away for the winter last year. (rad hose collapsed while idling, didn't catch it til it got over 260.) I've got some water in the oil now.

Leak down test:
1- 8% 2- 7%
3- 6% 4- 8%
5- 4% - and a few bubbles 6- 7%
7 -5% 8- 7%

even with the low number, bubbles from 5 in the radiator indicate that the heads need to come off, correct?

Yes, the water in the oil should be reason enough.

my vote, it needs to come off. Check the head good with a rigid straight edge to make sure nothing has warped, and if good, throw on a new gasket, best case. Good luck

Number 5 is suspect, but do not
overlook the timing cover passages as a source of coolant in
t the oil. keep us posted

Is it clear water (condensation) or coolant?? Big difference. Know which before taking apart. Is the coolant level down????

Coolant was down close to 2". Oil was quite milky and up on the dipstick close to an extra quart.
I drained the pan, put in new oil and filter and ran it up to temp yesterday. some white smoke for a bit (looked like heavy condensation from pipes) then closer to normal after several min or so. oil and cooalnt levels looked stable after taking it up to temp. plugs look all about the same. I was thinking about the timing cover, but then the air through 5...

Thanks