Rebuild vs crate engine
 

I finished pulling apart the bottom end for the most part and not only is the crank snapped through, but the #3 cylinder is scored. It's obviously going to need to be rebored. It's currently running oversized rings from the last rebore 3 years ago. I'll definitely need all new gaskets and what not, at least one new piston, and exhaust valves are shot in that same cylinder (who knows what else in there). I already bought the new crank, but this project is getting more expensive by the day. We may be moving soon which has also thrown a wrench in things, not far away just in the area, so I've thought it might be cheaper and quicker to get a used engine to drop in there. I came across various S2 and 951 engines between $2k-$3k. Do you think it would be cheaper to rebuild mine or buy a used one? Assuming this is all the damage done, what would be a good ballpark estimate for repairs? For a used S2 engine? A used 951 engine?

lol - had me going for a minute. i saw "crate engine" and asked myself "do they sell those anymore?". i wasn't thinking about a used engine, but a crate engine, which is brand new from the manufacturer.

to answer the question, it would depend entirely on the condition of the used engine. a good used engine will be a lot cheaper than fixing a dead one, but not have the lifespan. a bad used engine could be more expensive.

LR sells rebuilt 'crate' engines....

I'd love a LR 951, but my bank account would lynch me

Can you say "parts car" ? For less than $1000, you could fid complete running gear along with other parts you could use or sell.

But I'm also moving and need to get this thing back on the road. I'd love a parts car but the real-estate agent would kill me

Rob,
doing a 951 conversion will require a 951 car for all the added parts. wiring : there are 2 computers instead of 1 , Exhaust : totally different . oil cooler different. clutch different. cooling system way more complicated and different.

Your best bet is a good running used S2 engine and just reseal the oil pan , reseal the front , reseal the oil cooler housing and do the timing belts, change out the chain guides.

I would not use your block after the crank breaking.

Clifton

Good advice right there.


GHEN

Read my old post. Rebuild your existing engine. Otherwise, you are throwing good money after bad.