The head change itself took about 5 hours in total and the engine started first time and with no cloud of blue smoke – this has never happened  in the 5 years I've had her. After running in etc. I was easily able to pull up a local hill in 4th that previously needed 3rd .

Also, I was able to get 126 km/h out of her on the motorway (130 limit in Denmark). 126 km/h is 78 mph in old money and 6mph faster than the original spec for a 1973 SWB. As well as being quieter inside, I certainly notice a significant improvement in driveability around town (much fewer gear changes), and the fuel consumption is considerably better; I thought at first the needle was stuck as it didn't seem to move down.We can't wait to see how it performs this summer with the caravan behind. Thank you.