After a mad dash to Norwich to trailer back the Nova/tuck away safely in the garage (oh, the joy of wheel dollies on a rough garage floor)- the day before we were due to go on hols, (better half was overjoyed...), I have finally returned and can now start to inspect and plan how to go forward.
garage getting crowded..
well, hello, Dolly...
First look at/under floor shows a fair amount of rust on the inner surface but I'm hopeful that at least the majority is surface-only and have not (yet) detected any severe flaking/holes. However, the first thing I plan to do is remove the body and give the chassis/floor pans a thorough inspection/remedial action. I'm also aware of the need to source a rear end (I'm considering the round-light option from Poly-creation), as well as biting the bullet re: a new windscreen due to extensive edge-misting of the current one.
Am hoping this is only surface rust...
I haven't yet had chance to inspect the state of the Lancia TC engine, but the block number indicates that it is a 2L job likely from a Lancia Beta. Most of the ancillaries are there (minus radiator which appears to have been originally plumbed in to the side of the engine).
Lancia 2L TC has not turned in quite a while
The plan is to try hand-turning (crank pulley bolt) following oiling of the insides of the cylinders/cam lobes, to see if it will turn and also to probe the compression situation. Although I do like the idea of re-commisioning the engine and having something Italian in 't back, (engine refurb kits are available which include all gaskets, pistons, oil pump, etc), I also need to be realistic and it may well be that I might be better considering a replacement (I have been impressed by some of the water-cooled installations described on the forum- e.g. Mostin's Subaru set-up, which looks awesome).
Should keep me busy into the Autumn/Winter........