I found a similar prob chasing a thermostat housing, no-one had any but were happy to freight it in, now i have 2 radiator hoses, 1 thermostat housing and a set of pistons sitting on a truck in flood waters around proserpine somewhere /end rant.
Once the new engine is run in i'm set for a cruise of some sort.
Also good for testing how far out your speedo is... like mine, Jeni tested it against my prime mover, it does 102... she was at 110 sitting right behind me.
Besides if your sticking with an A12 as engine of choice..... good for before and after readings.
Hope it doesn't have to come to this point of actually selling, Good luck with your old boy, it's a tough time ahead obviousley. Lost my Mum 3 weeks ago... i know how your feeling.