While setting timing and looking at valves, we found a dowel laying in the head. I did some research and there are supposed to be two of them. I looked at the valve cover and it looks like both of them are missing (assuming they go where the center bolts go.

Where can they go? I've looked down the timing area and it's not there. I just spent the last two days timing the engine and I know it's not there. Can they go all the way down to the oil pan?

Background. Vacuum pump ceased on previous owner and 'some' mechanic pulled the valve cover and found the exhaust gear bolt broken off. Not sure if the dowel fell on out him or went in the engine.

Give me ideas where to look please? I will be pulling the head and pan due to bent valves and one piece of the timing guide missing.