I finally got around to stripping the engine... what a sorry sight!
Water had been inside the engine for a considerable period of time judging by the corrosion. Long story short - complete rebuild required.
Can anyone recommend which brand of master rebuild kit to order? there are NONE here in NZ, so shipping from the USA is my only option, and I want to make sure that I obtain the best quality products in the kit, but not pay over the odds for it.
I would appreciate your advice here please.
There appear to be many companies offering these kits, at various price points.
I have spend some time trying to get to the good advice via FSJN forums here, and AMC Forum.
At this stage I am tending towards this kit;
https://www.cleggengine.com/engine-rebu ... -1991.html
I also need a new oil pump set up (timing cover), and harmonic balancer as there is a deep grove worn into the sealing surface of the shaft.
The piston bores need machined and honed due to surface scoring and corrosion, and I have yet to expose the main and rod bearing shells to see what damage is there. Judging by what I already see, I am won't be surprised if they need machined as well.
So, I am in for a big spend on the engine if I want to get this one running sweet again.
The Z code on the VIN plate says it came out of the factory with a 410...
Do I not spend money on this motor and see if I can find a 401 instead?