what is involved with a top end rebuild?

johncmng · 05-26-2006, 08:58 AM

What is the typical involement with a "TOP END" rebuild?
What services are they performing?
My mechanic is estimating about $7000 bucks to do it.
Is this price reasonable or is he ripping me off?
I have read in this forum that an entire rebiuld cost that much!?
Thanks in advance

GotaT · 01:49 PM

I recently did what I call a top end job on my 2.4. Granted, all engines are different and may require more or less. I installed new Goetez rings, I used a ball hone (dingleberry) to resurface/score the cylinder walls, had valve stem seals, and valve guides installed, fixed broken head studs, installed RSR rocker shaft seals (get them $90), all new gaskets and seals everywhere, and installed a New sachs clutch. I did all the work myself so it cost a good bit less than outsourcing. All together I've probably put about $1600-2000 into it, haven't added it up yet.
Sounds like your guy really appreciates His work.

Are you sure you need a top end job. What are the symptoms?

johncmng · 05-26-2006, 01:22 PM

WOW! You got a deal.
Compression is low on three cylider.
Blue smoke coming from the exhaust.

GotaT · 05-26-2006, 01:50 PM

Probably time to rebuild. Keep in mind John, I did the work myself and the car was down for about 5 to 6 weeks.

Lukesportsman · 05-28-2006, 08:17 PM

John:

Don't jump to conclusions yet. Find out what he's talking about in his "rebuild". Make sure what range he will guarantee. If your engine needs P&C's and that's included in the $9k, its certainly not out of line...if he's doing everything but splitting the case.

There are guys on here that will do complete rebuilds for that range, depending on the engine.

What engine? What's included? These two will help us answer your question. If its a 3.2 or earlier and he is not going below the heads and no performance mod's, he might be a little to precious with his time.

afterburn 549 · 05-28-2006, 08:45 PM

Here is the problem..you hope for the best and get the worst..buy (pun) that I mean once your there your wrench sees other stuff......catch 22 , he cant Winn for trying.......if he dose not tell ta he is a bad dude, if he tells ya he is a crook....well in some peoples eyes....in other words get a real good education.....on what a top end (pistons up ) and bottom end (rods dwn ).......better to do it once rather then twice...and if he pts out other things.....it coast less to do it once. You do not say where you are ,but get some reff. dont use anyone with the initials M.M.

BReyes · BReyes's Garage

You have labor in several thousand dollars and it begins with inspection, diagnosis, clean up, measurement.

Ok, add parts.

No he is not ripping you off.

Are you as good as our friend Gota? Probably not.

This is what I would do. I would make a budget. Seek advice. Refurbish or buy a long block. If you like to refurbish your car on your own, and have few months to refurbish components, then I would encourage you to consider that route. If you want it done right in three weeks, get an estimate on labor, including to have the heads rebuilt, along with using rebuild kit including rings, and head studs. But if you need P&Cs and bearings you are approaching 9k easily.

Remember a well serviced 911 bottom end goes for hundreds of thousands of miles before requiring further attention.

Good luck.

Regards,