[lssah2025]

Some info from the engine rebuilder.

I'm unable to get the inlet manifold water jackets off, it's a common problem caused by damp storage where the studs corrode into the alloy casting. Having drilled them out as far as I can, it is still solid, so I can get the engine apart by splitting the manifolds into two with a disc cutter, see red line on photo, but I need the go ahead for that as I don't have any replacements. They could be welded, but it all adds to the work.
I could get it apart in about a week and a half, so overall, it's going to cost more than a good engine if you can find one that isn't seized up.
Internally it looks ok, the oil is quite clean. It has wear on some of the cam lobes, typical of these engines. The ignition harnesses and magnetos look in poor condition too.

So it looks like I will get to keep my 44 dated engine.