My Blitz's

[motto]

Definitely remove the rocker gear as it seems that you may not have removed all the head bolts and it's easier see and do without the rockers. There is also the oil line to the rockers to disconnect and removal of the rockers allows the push rods to be removed. As my dad used to say,"Clear the area and let the dog see the rabbit".

Head removal will allow inspection of the bores and if they look ok (no rust) I would remove the lower flywheel pan and using a pinch bar (pry bar) carefully lever from the edge of the bell housing and the teeth of the ring gear. This can be done in either or both directions.

If there is heavy rust in the bores then - Engine removal, crankshaft removal then individual piston removal.

David