This is my first post, but I am in the middle of a complete rebuild so I felt it was appropriate. The car is a 1987 F.I. 4V Countach.
The reason for the rebuild was a combination of a blown head gasket and a cracked cylinder liner. I am having the engine completely redone. Some wear was found in the main and rod bearings so these are being replaced. Pistons and rings are also new. The crank was checked and was ok. The heads are being done right now including a complete valve job and replacement of the valve guides with new units. (Not factory bronze!) I also ordered a complete gasket and seal kit so all will be as new. (No Leaks) The water pump will also be rebuilt.
I had the fuel injection system completely sorted just prior to the gasket/liner failure, so it is finished. I also overhauled the cooling system including re-core of the radiators, new/updated cooling fans, hoses etc.
I will have the clutch replaced while the engine is out even though it only has 4500 miles on it. Thinking of Clutchmasters, but have not made final decision.
Cosmetically, I am taking advantage of the engine being out and will fully restore the engine bay. Valve covers and Intake manifolds will be crackle black finish and a significant amount of powder coating is being done to the rest of the engine and attached particulars. I will be doing most of the cosmetic work myself. Conservative personal time estimate so far is about 100 hours and climbing.
I have had the alternator and starter rebuilt and I will install a new Sanden compressor, All hoses (fuel, oil, etc.) will be new.
I also lost my mind and purchased a complete polished Larini exhaust system including new manifolds.
The work is being performed by James Patterson at Norwood Performance here in Dallas. James is quite knowledgeable and has proven to be very honest and trustworthy.
For what it's worth, the total for this project not including my personal time will be about $28,000. I'm not thrilled about the amount, but I am glad the the car will be done right. I hope this provides some of the insight you were asking for.