Hi Guys, and thanks for the responses.
David, I did manage to get a couple of bags of washing soda, a couple of weeks ago. Well, to be entirely honest, my wife actually looked and bought it for me, from the local IGA supermarket. From memory, I believe it is Lectric brand. There's a little coincidence. It'll have a 'lectric' current through it some time soon, I hope.
Terry, the new phase you speak of will certainly be interesting, that's for sure. At least for me, as I stumble my way through all the pitfalls and rewards of engine rebuilding. One of the percularities (or however its spelt!) of the French blocks is that it doesnt have the seperate, bolt-on, bell housing. It retains the housing attached to the block, like the earlier engines. I believe the oil pan will require minor modification to clear the extra meaty main bearing caps & studs. It's a real hybrid of improvements on earlier blocks while retaining some of the earlier characteristics and ability to accept external add-ons. Every source I have been looking at holds these in high esteem. All going well, I will be able to evaluate this for myself, as I hope to get to inspect the block in person in next couple of weeks.
Lynn, I have looked at Vanpelt since your post, and am happy that this will suit my needs very well. At a whopping $3500, this block will eliminate a lot of the uncertainty associated with having work done on my old lump. The price is actually no dearer than the initial cost of these blocks if purchased in USA. Then the shipping costs would make the deal almost ridiculous, so the same price at my own doorstep is quite good. Price also includes a set of pistons & piston pins, so that is a little bonus the seller is providing without cost. I'm planning to take a number of the external parts with me when I go to look in person, and check the ability to attach them. Will also take the 'mike' and measure clearances for parts not yet purchased.
All in all, it's going to be a fun project. Even if I don't have any money left in the kitty for other immediate buys. Kitty will be a little constipated for a while.
Here's a number of pics of the item in question.
