Replacement Engine?

[rosanna.s@sky.com]

I have a 1989 1.9 watercooled T25 and it is losing a lot of water. I have been told that the head has corroded and is squeezing the rubber gasket.
The general opinion is that it would be better to get a replacement engine. I have been looking at a lot of info and a Subaru engine seems to be a good alternative but that is how far as I have got. Does anyone know anybody in or around the Heathrow area that would sell replacement engines? Also as I do not have 5 gears will that all need adjusting too because most of the replacement engines are 5 gears or can the corroded head be sorted? Ive had no other issues and she actually runs really well. Has anybody else had this issue? Any info would be appreciated as I really don't want to have to get rid of her or just leave her sitting there over winter

[R0B]

Has the head been removed to check this corrosion? Have you seen water escaping from it.

[rosanna.s@sky.com]

Unfortunately I cant attach a photo but you can see corrosion around it and the rubber pipe is split a bit. When I stop driving you can see it dripping from underneath (I originally thought it was oil) I haven't driven it for 2 months and the other day I just had to top it up with 4 litres of water so it is definitely not oil. Is removing the head a tricky job?

[CovKid]

Without photos this would be guesswork I'm afraid.

[marlinowner]

Don't worry about the gearbox, any engine conversion that keeps the original gearbox will be fine with your four speed box.