Aurel.
You REALLY should split the case because:
You are spending a small fortune already, so why not go all the way.
You will know exactly in what condition your motor is in, when you are done.
You can take all the credit and pride in saying; "I rebuilt it myself"
You can do a better job at cleaning the inside as well as outside.
If something is wrong later, you won't be saying; "I should have split the case"
I debated over this same decision at length and finally decided to do it. I am very happy I did. I know my oil pump is in good order, all bearings and seals are new, and I learned about several types of sealants. It is not very difficult considering you will have to do more difficult things like cam timing etc.
Just my 2 cents,
Michel
