preparing an 82 engine to go into a 78. I will stick with the kjet. I am going to reseal the cam towers and was wondering what parts to use. I would like the more aggressive cam from the 78 but want to use use the 82 housing without the rubber plugs. Is there any reason I can't do this? Thanks for any thoughts on this.

 

This is a good project. No incompatibilities.

The cam towers tend to leak from the main gasket and from the gasket on the rear cover. Leakage frm the main seems to follow engines/towers and is due to warped surfaces. If everything is in good shape you can use the stock gasket and put it in dry. Otherwise, there are aftermarket gaskets available.

The rear gasket is cork. It's one of the few places I'll use a bit of high-temp RTV to aid sealing. A thin coat on both sides. Don't overtorque the bolts as that warps the cover.

 

Thanks, looks like I am going to go that route. I do have all new gaskets and seals. Need to double check part numbers since I ordered for a 78.

I have literally spent all weekend cleaning the engine. Hopefully I will get started next weekend.