[Q] Correct way to first time flash ROM... then return to originally running one? - Galaxy S II Q&A, Help & Troubleshooting

Would the following work as a way to try out, for example Cyanogenmod 10. I am currently running a 4.1.2 install (pretty much stock just rooted/cwm via Philz as per the tutorial). I have a complete backup made via Philz recovery of this rom along with the kernel (which I believe is still stock from that) and efs.
1) Install a custom kernel (eg. dorimanx 9.x?) via the Philz recovery.
2) Install cm-10.2-20140102-NIGHTLY-i9100.zip.
3) To return to the original rom, reflash the original kernel (with whatever CWM is included in dorimanx) - then reflash the backed up rom via the same recovery?
I hope this is clear enough a question.

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I believe you have to flash a stock rom through Odin, to return to complete stock. Just flashing a stock kernel isn't enough, and is surely not going to work (so don't do it).There are also tutorials how to remove the yellow triangle afterwards.
Please correct me if I'm wrong

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Donnie Sins said:
I believe you have to flash a stock rom through Odin, to return to complete stock. Just flashing a stock kernel isn't enough, and is surely not going to work (so don't do it).There are also tutorials how to remove the yellow triangle afterwards.
Please correct me if I'm wrong
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This is the part I'm most unsure of. Ideally I'm trying to figure out the process that lets me go from CM10.2 (and whatever recovery) to the point I am running the backed up rom rooted with PhilZ-cwm6-XWLSW-XEU-5.06.1-signed.zip again. Very confused on how to do so.

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TopherBrink said:
This is the part I'm most unsure of. Ideally I'm trying to figure out the process that lets me go from CM10.2 (and whatever recovery) to the point I am running the backed up rom rooted with PhilZ-cwm6-XWLSW-XEU-5.06.1-signed.zip again. Very confused on how to do so.
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Topher,
If you have rooted and cwm via philz, you already have a modified kernel installed. I believe the philz-cwm6 should be as close to stock kernel with the CWM incorporated. You don't need to add another kernel, because it will be replaced when you install the custom ROM. You should just be able to flash the cm10.2 via philz or via odin. You can then flash the dormanix kernel if you want - can't comment on that kernel - or if it has cwm included.
I would also suggest that you consider backing up you /efs folder (one with you imei information etc) prior to flashing any custom roms. People have been using hcKtool to do the backups and also an actual copy as well.
Depending on the custom rom, you may have connection problems with your network. So you may want to consider keeping a copy of your modem.bin file from your stock rom handy in case you need to flash onto the custom rom.
If you want to go back to stock, then you just need to flash the stock rom - you can check sammobile website for your stock rom or use the backup that you made.
I should point out that I have yet to do any of the above - I gathered this from reading the forums. Some more experienced forum users can add corrections. I rooted my phone a couple of months ago and now considering installing custom rom in the next couple of months.
Thanks.

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if u flash a custom rom (cm10.2 for example), it already included kernel as well. so if u want to try out other custom kernel, i can flash it after you are done flashing a custom rom but make sure it is compatible with your android version. (u cant use custom kernel that not support android 4.3 with a custom rom running android 4.3)