Replacing Engine (Please Chime In...Work To Begin Soon)

[TorchRedXCVI]

OK...after the shock of it all...I am replacing the engine. It's gonna cost me $3700 for the new engine and labor to do it all. I'm getting a 36 month/unlimited mileage warranty on the engine and a 1 year full labor warranty & a 2 year 1/2 labor cost warranty on the install. What I want to do is install the LT4 Hot Cam. I found the Hot Cam kit for $489 at SamTaylor.com. I have read other posts about grinding the valve covers, reprogramming the computer, and that the kit doesn't include roller tappers. It is starting to all sound discouraging! Bottom line...with a brand-new engine, what exactly do I need to install this Hot Cam and is it all worth it?

 

[vette1985]

What I can't understand is for that money you can have your engine all redone and to better satifaction. A reputable shop will provide you with some warranty ( maybe not a 36/36 ) to help in your decision. This way you get parts in your engine that may allow further mods later without wondering if the rest of the components can handle it. You also can do a 383 stroker and get more torque. The possibilities are almost endless.

 

[taegdh]

I must agree with vette85, if you want more power, most reputable rebuilders offer a warranty, and unless you go off the deep end will include your specs in the engine cost.

Pay for parts once, then have the engine built once! Don't push too much, but you must periodically pay a call or visit to see how the engine is coming along.

Also, MAKE CERTAIN YOU GET A WRITTEN AGREEMENT AS TO WHAT HE IS BUILDING THEN RECEIPTS FOR EVERY THING AND LABOR ALONG THE WAY.

Lots of Luck!

 

[Edmond]

I think you need to shop around some more because that price is way too high for a stock rebuild.

May I ask what is wrong with the old engine? Is the block cracked? What about the crank? Those are long life parts and shouldn't be replaced unless they're shot.

If you're going to have an engine built, may as well not half-arse it and have it done right. That means rollers, good cam, good everything to last you for many years to come.

And like taegdh said, get everything in writing. I'm not trying to offend any builders, but words mean nothing, get it in writing for liability sake.

 

[Moonunit 451]

Think 10 times, be forward thinking and try to do it right the first time. Don't rush your decisions. Don't let the difference of 1 or 2 grand be your guide. read, Read, READ! Good luck and ask all the questions, even ifyou think they're stupid. Lots of great info, help and patience here