Need help with engine/head problems - '79-'80 head differences

[camoit]

The cams are different. Chain to belt. We have the big cam hole in the front of the head. We also don't have an oil galley to the head. They only have spray and spray for lube. Yes they can be a little hard to find. Look for ones that don't have the air jet valve. Much better head. They came in mini vans and the Aries K cars.

[loyter]

The cams are different. Chain to belt. We have the big cam hole in the front of the head. We also don't have an oil galley to the head. They only have spray and spray for lube. Yes they can be a little hard to find. Look for ones that don't have the air jet valve. Much better head. They came in mini vans and the Aries K cars.

Aha! That's what I needed to know. I thought they went to belt much later, like in '85 or something. Well that does make things clearer.

I found an '88 Conquest TSI with a rebuilt engine for $1200. That would be a gas in this truck. Should be a pretty easy swap too. Perhaps I should go that route.