So, I recently acquired a project '86 DX. I've been trying to track down a mysterious stalling/no start issue for a few weeks now and all the while I've become increasingly bothered by the layers upon layers (1/2" thick in some areas) of grime and the decrepit wiring, connectors, and hoses. I decided to try a new distributor (reman for 100.00 on closeout.. why not?) to solve the spark issue and while i was there i went ahead and ordered a top end rebuild gasket set. I know it's probably not necessary to get the van running but because it does have 300k miles and I plan on owning this van indefinitely i figured it was a good time for a face lift (or should i say head lift).. So here I am with the head removed (off to the machine shop tomorrow) and man was it a good call! I found brittle/disintegrating connectors everywhere, hoses ripping in twain, valve stem seal springs broken and floating loose in the head, rusted head bolt threads, massive carbon build up on the valves, etc, etc...

Now I'm looking for some opinions/advice..

Tim, you have mentioned you could provide some part numbers... I could use some of those . Preformed hoses and/or suitable alternatives would be great.. or what do you think about the flexible "universal" hoses? Also, I would really like to replace most of my wiring connectors: coolant sensors, injectors, and anything else with those silly wire retainers as i have broken most of them in one way or another. I can't find a source for connectors anywhere online.

And here's a general rebuild question... while i was removing the head i noticed some of the heavy, scaled build up in the head broke loose and fell into the push rod channels. I cleared most of it once the head was out but given the amount of build up in the head i dont want to risk clogging the oil passages further. i don't wish to do a bottom end rebuild at this time so is there a product anyone can recommend for flushing out the lower end? maybe spraying "gunk" cleaner down through the block... or pouring seafoam through several times?... any suggestions for a thorough bottom end clean would be appreciated!

that's it for now. i will keep this thread updated as i continue and i will try to take more photos and post a thorough walk through of the rebuild. Happy vanning!