"Oh my cup runneth over. For god sake man, tell me you're starting a build thread here on Ratsun.
I see what you mean by modification to the pan now. Where in the HELL did you find that beast? From what I understand, there were only 500 made, and I would imagine a large number of those were beat up on the track. What's the story here?"
When I get it up and running I will upload some pictures for anyone interested. I understand that this engine is rare in North America, but over here (England) there is still good parts supply and aftermarket support. I had this engine and gearbox in another vehicle previously. The original L.20 will probably end up in my 74 620, so won't go to waste.
Regarding the Cosworth engine, as you say, there were only 500-odd RS 500 Cosworth Sierras made (which were homologation specials modified by Aston Martin for saloon car racing), but in addition they also made 5,000 more 'standard' 3-doors, and many more 4-doors from which my engine came. They all suffered a high attrition rate due to theft and crashes....
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Sierra_RS_Cosworth
Thanks for the interest : ))