Hi Richard:
I've recently been introduced to the delights of the RR B series engines in the form of two gasser FV432 that landed in my lap. After overhauling the carbs in both (gummed solid with varnish) we got one running but not the other... something electrical which we will track down with the aid of the manuals.
The drive train in the Cambridge is a B81 with fully water proofed ignition system attached to an automatic transmission I haven't yet identified. The inspection plates were removed from the trannie many years ago (long before we acquired it) and the trannie is rusted solid inside.
If I thought I could replace the drive train with original parts without taking out a second mortgage I certainly would. Thing is I can get a cheap V8 and automatic trannie here out of any one of dozens of light trucks or big cars from the 70's. If we go ahead with the overhaul we'll make any changes reversible in case some sugar daddy ships over a nice B81 and trannie in a crate!
Cheers! Mike