replace head gasket or engine?

MATMAY · 08-24-2007, 04:27 AM

my 1993 325i se finally blew its head gasket yesterday and i think its absolutely knackered. the oil cap is covered in sticky white gunk, and there is more steam coming out the back than thomas the tank engine.

It currently has 169,000 miles on the clock, the chassis and general condition of the car is amazing so i dont want to get rid of it. i have sourced a new engine with 70,000 miles for £375 including delivery, do you think it is worth fitting the new engine or just getting my gaskett fixed.

also how much is it to fit a new engine generally?

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

Is the new engine rebuilt? Any idea what kind of shape it is in?

A new head gasket kit is $200-250.
Resurface the head is $50
Reseat the valves is $200-250
Special tools $100

Both jobs are a lot of labor.

I'd say it depends of the condition of the new engine vs the old one.

MATMAY · 08-24-2007, 06:50 AM

The new engine is in good condition and comes with the complete exhaust manifold and wiring loomi dont think it has been rebuilt.

e30m20 · 08-24-2007, 08:55 AM

Personally, I would go for the head gasket, at least then you know it is done. If you get the head worked on at the same time, you can relax in the knowledge that you are unlikely to have further problems for many miles. The milky sludge you describe is normal for when coolant gets into the oil - no big deal once it's fixed. Do the job yourself (if you can) and save the labour. You could go to all the trouble of buying / replacing the engine only to have other issues.