ok i've found a few b280's that are at reasonable prices, i know the early versions were a bit dodgy, so is there a particular year model i should be looking for, or just the later the better. Also where would i be likely to find a 4 valve/cyl head for the engine?

You want an engine from a 1987 or later car - one with the inlet manifold that looks like a bunch of sausages. Check that the oil and coolant are both clean and if possible try and listen to it running. If you can hear the injectors clicking then the chances are the engine is good.
For 24v heads you'd need to find a Peugeot 605.

cheers for that now i just need to find one, there almost as uncommon as the 360's here, any other parts off it i should look for or just the cyl head, manifolds?

Gave the local engineer a call to find out what needs to be done prior to the swap, i was shocked to find out that i dont need an engineers certificate from him unless the engine is 5L or bigger. Still he recommended i upgrade about 1/2 doz things, mainly brakes, suspension axle and driveshaft.
Found the engine and peugeot head, i know the stock b280 pulls about 180hp, what would it likely goto with the peugeot head (unworked) on it? 220 is my guesstimate seeming most peugeots heads are good to start with.

200 stock. apparently

Well i guess it'll remain unknown then, when the engine goes in, it'll be after the bottom ends been worked, same with the head swap.

i read something about even and odd fire b280's, i assume i'm looking for an even fire one if i want to fit the pergeot head to it. Also what will need adapting to fit the car, i'm guessing an adaptor plate for the current belhousing or swap to the b280 bellhouse if it fits, the engine mounts will need to be made to fit as well, what else, or is that it?

For that kinda fine detail, you cna only really work it out once its 'in' the car. I'd prepare yourself for custom bellhousing adaptor and engine mount.

cheers

James

yeah, thats what i'm guessin, was also thinking the sump as well, if so it might be just as easy to make a custom dry sump as a custom wet sump for it, i'll see how i go. looks like i gotta import the 605sv cyl head spoke to peugeot australia today, and the 24v head never made an appearance in Oz. If you see one over in your homelands can you lemme know. Thanks