Bruce
I have not met the Island Traction owner but he does have a bit of a reputation! I took the top and bottom off my car last year and replaced liners and pistons – and a couple of valves. Did not take engine out of car. The advice I got was that it is possible but very difficult to properly seal the oil pan. I did it – and so far no leaks. Fairly straightforward once you are in there and all parts are available from the usual suspects. Good luck. As an aside I met a friend of yours at the vintage car club monthly run in Victoria. Not good with names but he was in a red BMW 2002 I think.
Peter