I have the complete drive train from a 1982 Brat that I want to refurbish and put into my 1985 brat. They guy who sold it to me said it was running when the car was taken apart. From reading the posts, I have the impression that OEM gaskets are a good idea. What other advice should I know about for this project?

 

For example, will I need to replace the main bearings for sure, or is it possible I won't? What things might be difficult or tricky about doing a good overhaul on an EA81? I have done engine head work on other cars, but this is the first time that I have tried to do a complete overhaul of an engine, carbeurator, etc.

1. Go buy a good manual - FSM is probably best.

 

2. Contact local "experts" in case you get stuck - Calebz and Legacy 777 are both excellent contacts in your area

3. Have fun

Main bearings: Sure anything is possible but these engines last 300K when properly rebuilt. While you have the case apart do everything including rings, rod bearings, main bearings, oil pump, water pump, valve cover gaskets, and OEM head gaskets.

Check the camshaft lobes for excessive wear and/or damage. Make sure all bearing surfaces on the crank shaft are good, if not have them ground. Check that the conrods are straight within specs.

And don't forget to have fun!!

yeh and the gugeon pin plug under the waterpump gets rusted in tight so dowce it in water dispersent as soon as you take off the pump. Also when undoing the head nuts you have to do it in the reverse order of which there tightened in or it may get warped. Beforce you start buying gaskets and pumps make sure the heads aint warped and all tollerences are correct.

Thanks for the replies. You've given me good advice, and that was what I am looking for. This is a great board!