Yes, you can replace the 8 bolt with a 9 bolt, though you also need to change the front cover (plenty of good used avail) and also would need the shallow thermostat housing type cylinder head (most have been changed to the later head if up-graded to 8:1 un-leaded head).
A long winded answer, but maybe the only way forward if the vehicle is to be kept for any length of time.
Les Parker
Tech. Support and Parts Specialist
Rovers North Inc.
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