Rebuild Or Replace?

[ArmyAviator]

2000 GMC 5.3L 4x4 with 215K miles. Has been on Mobil 1 most of it's life; no oil burn to speak of; no leaks; mechanically, very sound. But, it now has a lifter tap; a loud one. Oil pressure takes a while to register @ start; ildes at 32-38 psi. To the point, what criteria should be considered in choosing to rebuild/repair the lifter(s) or just replace the engine? The transmission and 4x4 are sound; the body is still really nice. Thank you. --Bryant

[gmtech4]

if you are going to keep the truck,replace it ,have a rebuilt kit thrown at the tranny,have a peek inside the t-case,maybe change the wear tab and look at the syncro and shift forks and put a few seals in it,

 

then drive and enjoy the truck

[ken1mod]

Gentlemen,

 

215000 is not that much for a 5.3. If you have a lifter click, shouldn't you replace the faulty lifter for 100 bucks? But then I like working on engines.

 

Bad lifter at 215000 does not say much for mobil 1. My 5.3 is silent at 160k on dino oils and 8000 mile changes.

 

Ken

[Silverado4x4]

What do you mean by "Oil pressure takes a while to register"? Is it slow coming up on the gauge or stays at 0 then comes up? If it stays at 0 does it chatter then stop when pressure rises? The oil pressure you have is normal at idle and should go up to about 45 or so at 4000 rpm.. I would just fix the lifter and put a AC Delco oil filter on it.

[Nytemare]

I would replace the lifters too and check the push rods to see if there is a bent one.

If its not burning oil or anything, your low pressure is likely due to a failing oil pump.

 

all in all maybe 500 bucks or less for everything to be replaced and you'll likely get another 50K out of that engine...you could be lucky and get another 100K

500 to repair beats 2500-3500 for a rebuild.