Help! Engine is gonna blow anytime

ESPZ71 · April 5, 2003

With only 109k on it, my engine is about to go. I don't know that much about engines, but the body shop said a rod was knocking and it probably messed up the bearings or something. Most likely the heads and/or the crankshaft are f-ed too I guess. The oil pump is either shot, or the rod is not letting the oil get to where it's supposed to go or something. Where can I get a cheap good engine? Any help is greatly appreciated.

Shaners · April 5, 2003

You could always get one out of the junkyard... but you never really know what it's been through, and if you can't install it yourself then you will have to pay the labor.

I think you could have yours rebuilt, or exchanged for a rebuilt one at your local engine shop. Your other option would be a GM crate motor, but that would be a little pricey...

Personally I would have the local engine shop do the work. I can't remember what they charge around here, but I think it's about $1000-$1500 for a SBC. They will warranty their work too...

ESPZ71 · April 5, 2003

Thanks for the info. My father-in-law and I could put an engine in, but rebuilding is probably not doable for us. I may look into the junkyard option. I need to get the most economical choice right now because I'm thinking seriously about buying a brand new car for my wife. My bro-in-law just got a new used engine for his car for $500 with 21k on it off of eBay. Not too bad. I didn't see any there, but there's shipping, etc. if it's not close. Guess it's time to hit the 'yards.

AirForceAngler · April 5, 2003

If it were me, I'd go with a replacement engine from Chevrolet. They are all new, not rebuilt, reasonably priced and come with a 12 month/12,000 mile warranty.

ESPZ71 · April 5, 2003

....I need to get the most economical choice right now because I'm thinking seriously about buying a brand new car for my wife....

Though that would be the best route to go, how many thousands of dollars would a new one be from GM? I know the dealership in my town rapes you up the a$$ for parts, etc. I love my GM, but I can't stand the dealership. I could be wrong though Mike, thanks for the idea and I'll check it out in case it's not too bad afterall. ???

AirForceAngler · April 5, 2003

ESP,

I know all about the $$ situation! If you can find a good salvage motor, that would probably save you the most $, but I've found that you can get a new motor from GM (might have to check with a few dealerships for best prices) for less or equal to having yours rebuilt. Good luck!

MarkD · April 6, 2003

If it were me, I'd go with a replacement engine from Chevrolet. They are all new, not rebuilt, reasonably priced and come with a 12 month/12,000 mile warranty.

I agree/concur. Scoggin Dickey has a pretty decent deal.

3yr/50k miles I think.

Look here

ESPZ71 · April 12, 2003

Well, I have found a reputible guy locally that has a newly rebuilt engine with no miles on it that is selling for $600 + exchange. I think that sounds like a good deal and I will probably do that. I am going to ask him, but I assume I have a 2 bolt main, (whatever that is?) my fuel pump is in the tank, my valve bolts go through the center instead of around the outside, and my lifters are flat not roller? That is all stuff I was told to make sure on. I don't have the slightest on any of it. You guys know any of that? Will any rebuilt 88-95 work for my 95?

k1500chevy97 · April 12, 2003

I would imagine it would since the Vortec heads didnt come out until 96

a 2 bolt main is pleanty strong :thumb:

bassdog · April 12, 2003

ESP -

Back in Sept I ran into the same problem as you. I would have had to rebuild my lower end and cost could have been anywhere from $500 - $1000 I'm guessing.

I ordered a GM Goodwrench motor (long block) from a dealer close to me. I had to call around for the best price though, each dealer was different.

When ordering, you have to give them your VIN # so they can match up the new motor with what's in yours.

I did ask about a short block and the AC Delco motor. Either of these would have been cheaper than the long block, but I opted for peace of mind, knowing everything would be new.

I paid $1800 + tax + core and it took us a day to remove the old one and get the new one in. The hardest thing was timing because we did not mark the distributor when we took it out

Let me know if you have any questions

ESPZ71 · May 24, 2003

Well, I bought the rebuilt engine from the local mechanic and have it installed. It was $600, and he threw in a complete gasket set plus an oil filter. I started it up for the first time last night, and I need to get the timing right. I think the t-stat is messed up though becasue I couldn't get it to open. Well, thanks for all the help, if ya'll have any more info feel free to hook me up. L8r.