16valve Mark 2 newbie after some advice / opinions

[16vrookie]

Hi

I am looking for some advice and opinions (all welcome)

I have a mark 2 16 valve which is completely standard I would ideally like to keep it this way if possible

I intend to keep the car forever and am slowly restoring it back to showroom condition - firstly I would like to get all the mechanicals sorted and then concentrate on bodywork etc
 
I am looking for advice on what to do with the engine - the engine pulls well however I dont think it has had any major work done on it ever and it has now covered 161k also it has a small oil leak and water leak somewhere and it has started having what seems common - idling issues

I would like to get the engine running well so that the car is more realiable

What are your thoughts on the options open to me to egt this sorted I am looking for any suggestions as well as any companies I can speak to about having the work done as I am somewhat mechanically minded but an engine rebuild is beyond me.

I have a budget of approx 1k to spend on getting the engine sorted

Any help greatly appreciated

[Conker]

Presuming you want it tippy-top straight away, as opposed to waiting for things to wear out, with £1,000 I would:

1. Engine out.
2. Replace engine mounts.
3. Have the bottom end checked out. If it checks out okay probably just have the rings replaced.
4. Very light head skim, replace valve guides and stem seals.
5. All new gaskets throughout.
6. Have the engine decoked (steam cleaned) while your at it.
7. New oil pump, thermostat and maybe the water pump too.
8. Paint the engine while its out. POR15 paint is recommended for the block.
9. New sump gasket.
10. Change gearbox oil.
11. Assess the clutch for wear and tear - its cheaper to change while the engine is out.
12. New injectors (bosch brass/merc ones) and injector seals.
13. Obviously a cam belt and tensioner change plus all aux belts while your at it.
14. Check temp sensors on the side of the head.


No.3 to No.5 are the more important one's. Search for info on the idle issue - its common but easily solved.


Happy spending!

David