TOPIC: Restoration project of west bend 18 hp

hi everyone,

I just started a restoration on my west bend 18 hp. It's also my first complete outboard restoration ever. And I do have some questions about the exhaust plate. I just took it off and almost all the bolts broke what is the best way to take these out? and how do i clean it under there without splitting the block? here are some photos of my problems:

Here's a link to youtube that shows how. Heating up the project. If you google the subject there are several ways to do the removal.
Good luck on your project and looking forward to see your progress.
Cal

I just found little scratches on my pistons but none on my cilinder walls could this be a problem or should i just leave them?