Well hopefully the head is being sorted, new seat inserts for all 16 valves. A pain both in terms of time and of course the expense but it needs doing so don't really have a choice.
Attention has now turned to the block which has been sitting on my bench since August last year when I moved it from the old house. I do have an engine stand but actually for what I need to attach at the moment I don't really need to use it so for now it's staying on the bench.
Some time ago I fitted the crank, rods and pistons so in some respects the hard work has already been done. First jobs were to fit the new rear crank seal, cover and oil pick up, all easy jobs. My rear seal came complete with the cover so didn't even have to fit it. I looked at my old one again and it had a huge tear in which would explain why it was so covered in oil.
Next the sump. Been moving it around for ages so I thought why not fit it. I've actually just parked in on loosely for now as I may want to remove it for a last minute check of things. The moved onto the timing gear and jackshaft. I spent a few hours tidying up and finding some suitable bolts before fitting the various parts. This will need checking and is far from 'done' but at least I know how it all goes together. Note I have fitted a proper timing chain and tensioner, not Chinesium ones. I've also replaced the camshaft pulley, the old one had several damaged teeth. I may yet fit a vernier one, depends on how far out I am as the head has been skimmed.
My last jobs will be to install the oil pump, transfer housing and engine mounting brackets. I can then check everything and properly fit the front cover and sump. From here I'll go back to the head before working on my engine fitting plan. At that point I can use the crane to support the engine whilst I fit the back plate, flywheel, clutch and adapter before mating to the gearbox. I am currently remembering what a horrible job getting the engine out was and with lots of shiny things in the way I was wondering whether it might be possible to fit the engine minus the head to give me a bit more space. Food for thought anyway.
I won't fit the water pump, dizzy, carbs etc until the engine is installed. Might as well save some weight.