78 engine into a 81

[cokeman]

I have an 81h that has a blown engine(bent rod). I also have a 78 engine that I know nothing about except it turns over freely.
My question is if I transplant the 78 into the 81 frame do I transfer the advance mech from the 81 to 78 and will that even work? All the electrical is good on the 81 including the TCI.

Or would I be better served to part out the 81 and sell the 78 engine?

Suggestions?
Darrell

[Ken Talbot]

You can transplant the 78 motor into the 81 frame. You need electrics (pick-up coils, advance mechanism, TCI box) all from the same year. If you know all the 81 stuff works, use it and you should be okay.

[Ivan]

I did nearly the same thing. Mine was from an 80 to an 81. The 81 doesn't use the same advance mechanism. I just unbolted that and the pick up coils from the 81 engine and put them on the older engine. Works quite well.

[cokeman]

Thanks, I have all the necessary parts for the transplant. I will let you know how it turns out.