How to buy a quality engine
Replacing an engine sounds like an incredibly expensive thing, but when you compare the cost of upgrading or replacing an engine with the cost of buying a new car, the replacement cost quickly becomes much more affordable. This is a significant repair that will take time and may be more than the vehicle is technically worth.
Given that engine repairs are a big undertaking, there are a few cheap tweaks you can make to this important part of your car's operating system. The economic equation for cars over 12 years old doesn't make sense when it comes to replacing an engine - if a car isn't classic or doesn't have much value, it should probably be sold.
To make sure you're getting a good quality engine and that it's worth the investment, keep a few things in mind:
Motor mounts: Check the engine mounts to make sure they are still suitable for installation on the engine support and are in good general condition. There is no point in installing a new engine if you just want it to fail due to faulty engine mounts.
Engine qualityA: There is a wide range of engine qualities and there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to replacing an engine. While you may want to replace your engine with the exact same engine that was previously in your car, you can always make a different choice: a hotter camshaft, larger pistons, a more efficient intake manifold, or other upgrades.
budget: Look for a "box" engine instead of your own engine. Boxed engines are a ready-to-run option that typically cost 20% less than a custom-built engine for your vehicle.
Modernization: If you want a small upgrade, go for the 1st stage upgrade, which usually includes more compression, bigger valves, a hotter camshaft, and can add about 70 hp. to a standard engine. Keep in mind that any upgrades you make to the engine will require subsequent upgrades, or at least a thorough review of other parts such as the transmission, clutch, or radiator.
Upgrading or replacing your engine can be a good investment in both a newer car that you still have to pay for and a classic car.
