Just thought I might get an Inclination of whats wrong , if anything is. But lets face it the bloody thing has been stood for god knows how many years , at the least its gonna get a timing belt and water pump, but think the best bet is like steve2286w says , think I will take the head off and inspect things in there .
I am no expert, but have just finished rebuilding a 2.4 none turbo toyota hilux , changed crank, new big end and main bearings , new piston rings , honed the bores , lapped the valves etc, head pressure tested and skimmed. first time Ive ever tried anything like that, always been frightened to have a go but it runs great, . I am assuming / hoping the 2ootdi will be quite similar to do ?
Stick some oil in it and turn it over by hand, you'll feel anything too amiss at that stage ...
Small steps mate ...