Just a thought, grab the engine and see if you can rock it in the bay. It might be that your front engine mount is failing, allowing the engine to swing back and touch the bulkhead?
Ohh, while I've not had a CE1 with that issue, I have had a CE2. It was after a stalk swap, I can't remember if the stalk was faulty or if the connector wasn't pushed in all the way. Either way, I'd start there, have the connectors in and out and see if that changes anything.
@AndyBa haha yeah and sleep under the stars 😂 that mk2 bench was surprising comfy! I will have to see if I can find my tent if not I will be on marketplace too!
Just saying, a hotel room is probably cheaper than a tent...comes with a toilet and shower too!
That does suck, but think how much you'd be saving over having a garage to do it. Also, not many garages know how to do old school cars nowadays.
Also, also, you can test the cam belt, turn the engine over by hand, if it: A Spins freely B Comes back to the timing marks You're all good. Just make sure things like the tensioner is torqued up properly.
Also, also, also with the new parts the car will be service ready for the national meet!
That being said, I do a far bit of low speed manoeuvring, and I like an easy life. Besides, with the 3.2 conversion, it'll be hassle to remove the pump and then find an idler wheel to replace it. You can just buy a second hand rack and Corrado pipe work, then put it all in.