Value of a 3.2l engine. ...blown

[A&F]

Looking to see what the value range of a non running 3.2 would be. I've yet to pull mine apart but I fear some sort of rod issue (spun bearing).

Also what about an excellent condition 915 with newer clutch assembly.

Thanks

[COLB]

Bummer about your engine. I read the thread on the technical board:

Did I just Grenade my Engine?

I hesitate to offer anything -- there are several posters who have intimate knowledge on situations like yours. But since no one else is chiming in, I will give a SWAG.

The range on "core" engines seems to be rising with everything else. Lots of 3.0 motors out there on the Marketplace, but not many 3.2s.

I would guess a low of $2500 (for a seriously bad one) and a high of $3500 for a motor that is known to be "bad" -- depending on what is wrong with it. Runners seem to be going for $5-6k -- more if the mileage is verified as low, and the compression/leakdown is good. Maybe even $8-10k if it has been recently rebuilt (with paperwork).

Like the cars themselves, if the problem is localized (and the motor is not a rusty corroded mess), complete motors are worth more in pieces than as a unit. Just the crank, case, and pistons & cylinders are worth more than $2k (if they are not trashed.)

That is why you are probably well served by disassembling it, inspecting, bagging & tagging all of the components, and finding out exactly what is wrong. I assume you already pulled the valve covers and checked for an easy fix (damaged/loose rocker, etc) and checked the cam timing to see if a chain slipped?

However, if your time is worth more than the money, I would start at $3500 and see what happens.

As I mentioned in the original thread, since your coupe is otherwise solid, I would just source a replacement engine and keep the original with the car while you decide what to do with it. There is not much financial downside, and you avoid a major hit on the value when it comes time to sell.

One other option is to part out the busted engine, and keep the numbered case with the correct chassis -- then use the money you make from that to offset the cost of a replacement motor. You then hedge your bets on value for the car a little. You then save up to build a new motor on the old case, and build it the way you want it at some point in the future.

[pors1968]

I would rebuit that engine.If you buy a 3.2 it will cost 5-7k and still used .The value of core engine complete with injection exaust dist alternator is 3500.00 if it only engine with bad crank 2000.00

[COLB]

Originally Posted by pors1968

I would rebuit that engine.If you buy a 3.2 it will cost 5-7k and still used .

If he is going to drop it off at the garage and write a check, then I agree with you.

I was just offering a different option for someone who is willing to do the work himself, but doesn't want to have months (or a year+) of "down" time -- while he is rebuilding it in his spare time.

Pay for the used engine, drive it a year while you are rebuilding, then resell it for close to what you paid. Just an option for someone who doesn't want to park his car for the entire summer.

[pors1968]

Agree with you .Save time and you resell probably little bit more the buyer see engine running.