Fortunately we have managed to source some Unobtainium (oxymoron!!) and have got my cylinder fitted with a new exhaust valve and seat plus new valve guides. Hopefully it will be nailed on, err, professionally installed, this week.
Now watch next weekend's weather turn to poo as I'm planning to collect a half life cylinder that has turned up.
poor southerner I am considering fitting a Lycoming O-320. I have located the drawings, engine frame, cowlings and the vertical fin. All I need now is a rudder off a J1/N (Gipsy engined) and a reasonably priced flat crankcase O-320. Apparently the ones from the Robbo R-22 are perfect. Should only cost around £7,000 plus fitting......... Alternatively does anybody know of an unloved O-320 powerered Auster that I could cannibalise?