Thanks for all the comments.
The obvious problem with a non-running project is that I have no idea what else needs doing after installing engine. I know the transmission synchos are a weak spot who knows what else. On the other hand most of the cars out there seem to have needs as well. I can see the potential for this car increasing in value but I am not counting on it.

 

Yep, whatever disease it is we all have... you're catchin' it

 

Sorry to revive this old thread but I have decided after two years sitting to actually bring this car back. It ended up being a parts car but not much was ever removed.
The new development is that I can get good 82 us spec engine locally. Are there any issues swapping that in. Would the heads be compatible? How hard would swapping the whole injection system from the 82. Trying to assess what my options are. The car is not at my place and I doubt I get started anytime soon.

 

Just use the long block and the old injection....swapping is a BIG deal needs all the engine compartment wiring and the fuse relay panel . And when done same horsepower.....no gain lots of pain !

 

Use the long block from the 82 and upgrade to a stand along ECU like megasquirt. You can actually tune it and it is much more advanced than L-jet. Simpler wiring too.

 

Good idea for those where smog testing is not required !!

 

True, a lot people here are in states without smog laws. Unfortunately those of us in California are not. Change the cams out of the 78's engine into the 82's and pick up a few HP.

Not sure about the heads though, I think the CIS's give higher compression than the L-jet's heads give, but that could also be the pistons doing that.

Having a used engine allows you to regasket the engine while you are at it so you have fresh seals that should last many leak free years.

Do the hard jobs while the engine is out, much more room to work on it and other components in the engine bay like the brake system.

 

I put an '83 Euro spec engine in an '82 US car a few years ago here in CA. Never had a problem with smog. Even found the wiring harness on the US car had the correct (unused) fittings for the Euro motor. Not sure about putting an '82 motor in a 79 though.

I've had a yellow '79 US non sunroof car sitting in my garage for about 8 years that I've never gotten around to completing. Only has 71k miles on it and the engine runs strong. Car only needs to be put back together and painted. Unfortunately, painting it is going to cost more than it's worth so I haven't ever finished the project. Glad to see you've worked up the enthusiasm to save your car. I don't think I'll ever to that point with my old one.