herman

Hi,
I am new to this forum, just joined to ask some advice.

I have a 1975 HJ stationwagon that is is desperate need of some engine work. Long term I plan to get the body resprayed and the seats re-upholstered but mechanics need sorting first. I use the car as an everyday vehicle and just want a reliable vehicle that will one day be fully restored, so not after a hot-up drag machine and dont plan on spending 10's of thousands on it. The engine is leaking water - mostly out of the welsh plugs but maybe elsewhere. It has some oil leaks and seems to oil up one cylinger also. It has dual fuel but because of the water leak it does keep the LPG compressor (decompressor/carburettor ?) from freezing up..so wont run for more than 10 mins. The transmission is slipping so needs an overhaul but waiting till I drop the engine out. I dont plan on doing the work myself and although my regular mechanics say they would do it I dont believe their heart is in it so any recommendations for someone in my area - Melbourne would be greatly appreciated. Here are my questions:

1. Should I go for a reconditioned engine (swap over ?) or rebuild - the latter I assume is dearer but then you know exactly the condition of the engine right ?
2. Should I keep the dual fuel (gas tank is nearing expiry) or go back to straight petrol ?
3. Should I stick with 4.2l or change to 5l ? Are there any benefits other than performance, i.e. reliability, parts..will it fit my transmission ?
4. Should I consider the bodywork/respray at the same time as dropping the engine out or can this be done later without stripping the car down again ?
5. Anything else to consider ?

thanks in advance for any learner advice
cheers,