After failing several times in updating my kernel for my suse(whenever i tried to follow the instructions that comes with the new kernel there is always something in the end that seems just a bit different, like editing the boot loader, anyway, i desisted and kept my old kernel 2.4.10.SMP-GB.
Now i read a very good article in a linux mag about patching the kernel
and all the types of patches from performance patches reemtive kernel patches, rmap VM patches, productivity patches and so on.
the list is big, of course, only one patch can be applied and one that i really need.(no MOSIX)
although there was no mention on the "kernel upgrade patch" [2.4.10-->2.4.18]
Now the question goes again should i patch it or keep trying until a get it right on rebuilding and getting it to work ?

Ok there is no a single patch to go from 2.4.10 to 2.4.18 you have to patch it sequentionaly, 2.4.11->2.4.12 and so on.

anyway there was no mention about "version updates" although
i know there is.In this article they talked about the performance boost certain patches can provide.but will it be better than a whole new kernel?

If the patches are not part of stock kernel and they are relevant to your system than the answer is yes. For instance pre-emptive kernel patch designed by Love - it was a patch to existing kernels, but now it is a part of kernel starting from 2.4.19 I guess, correct me guys if I am wrong. You can install spanking new kernel then apply certain patch if you'd like. Personally, I had no need so far to patch my kernel, I don't have sofisticated hardware that needs certain patches, my 2.5.24 kernel has pre-emtive patch built-in already into kernel tree, and that's all I care about.