What to look for when buying a used engine

[demasrv]

Looking for some tips on what I need to be looking for when buying a used engine via FB marketplace or Craigslist. Spun rod bearings seem to be the common problem but I have no idea how to diagnose that if I'm just looking at an engine that's been pulled (not possible).


Are there any signs or indicators that an engine was abused? Is it worthwhile to learn how to run a compression test?

[TommyW]

Originally Posted by demasrv

Looking for some tips on what I need to be looking for when buying a used engine via FB marketplace or Craigslist. Spun rod bearings seem to be the common problem but I have no idea how to diagnose that if I'm just looking at an engine that's been pulled (not possible).


Are there any signs or indicators that an engine was abused? Is it worthwhile to learn how to run a compression test?

I'd never buy a used engine. Guys have decent luck sometimes however with the cost of labor to replace it you can end up doing it twice if you get a bad one. IMO just get yours rebuilt then you know there aren't issues

[demasrv]

Originally Posted by TommyW

I'd never buy a used engine. Guys have decent luck sometimes however with the cost of labor to replace it you can end up doing it twice if you get a bad one. IMO just get yours rebuilt then you know there aren't issues

I can't find a shop that'll just rebuild mine, so I'm either rebuilding it myself or dropping a new engine in.

[Grady]

I would agree with the new block or building it yourself. For used look for low mileage and no modifications to the car if possible.

[demasrv]

Originally Posted by Grady

no modifications to the car if possible. .

That seems to be the impossible part!



Most of the engines I'm looking at, guys want ~$,3800+ for. At that price, I could pay for a new short block ($2k), get my heads reconditioned and after the gaskets and everything have a fully rebuilt engine for just over $3k. I've never done an engine rebuild on anything bigger than a 4 stroke before though.


The engine is all but pulled at this point, just need to unbolt from the motor mounts and take out the bellhousing bolts.

[TommyW]

Originally Posted by demasrv

That seems to be the impossible part!



Most of the engines I'm looking at, guys want ~$,3800+ for. At that price, I could pay for a new short block ($2k), get my heads reconditioned and after the gaskets and everything have a fully rebuilt engine for just over $3k. I've never done an engine rebuild on anything bigger than a 4 stroke before though.


The engine is all but pulled at this point, just need to unbolt from the motor mounts and take out the bellhousing bolts.

You're on the right path. The sealing of the timing chain cover is one of the most critical steps so research the procedure.

[demasrv]

Originally Posted by TommyW

You're on the right path. The sealing of the timing chain cover is one of the most critical steps so research the procedure.

Thanks. I've heard that (timing cover), other sealant application and tightening down the heads are where I'll need to really take my time.

What's the best way to determine if my heads needs to be reconditioned? Can I just take these heads to any shop that reconditions them? Preference would be to not have to mess with valves/springs/rockers etc

[TommyW]

Originally Posted by demasrv

Thanks. I've heard that (timing cover), other sealant application and tightening down the heads are where I'll need to really take my time.

What's the best way to determine if my heads needs to be reconditioned? Can I just take these heads to any shop that reconditions them? Preference would be to not have to mess with valves/springs/rockers etc

Not just any shop. Get one that does total reconditioning of all related parts. You'll get everything back and ready to bolt back on

[gen3v8]

Originally Posted by demasrv

That seems to be the impossible part!


I've never done an engine rebuild on anything bigger than a 4 stroke before though.


The engine is all but pulled at this point, just need to unbolt from the motor mounts and take out the bellhousing bolts.

It is a 4 Stroke

[demasrv]

Originally Posted by gen3v8

It is a 4 Stroke

Fair! Ha! How about nothing bigger than a generator or pressure washer engine lol.