Rebuilding top end, Recommended parts? Options

[Allan]

Okay, here goes. I am going to pull the motor out of the car Saturday ('76 2.0 w/Ca. emissions) and pull the heads and cylinders to send out for any necessary work they need. I plan on addressing rust issues in the engine compartment while everything is out and replace both the clutch and throttle cables along with the clutch and shifter bushings. My question is: 1) Shoulf the cylinders go to the shop along with the heads to have the mating surfaces checked for proper sealing (I understand that when I put it back together I shouldn't use a head gasket)? and 2) If doing just the top end what else should I replace while I'm at it? I hope this is not to broad of a question. I want to start ordering parts as soon as I can. Thanks for any assistance. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/pray.gif)

[Tom Perso]

That's an interesting outlook on life... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smash.gif)

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

If was you... I'd get your heads reconditioned... Have them checked for cracks and new guides installed. If the mating surface looks suspect, have it trimmed just a shade (and I mean a little).

Mark the pistons with cylinders and the cylinders with each register. Get new rings if the cylinders still look good (most old T4's I've seen still have good cross-hatch). When you get your new rings and heads back... Lap the cylinders into the heads.

Button it all back up and run premium in it.

If you get 30-40,000 miles out of it, so what... Big deal. Run the piss out of it so the rings seat and drive it like you stole it.

Your results may vary...

Tom