S-Class (W126) 1979-1991: 300 SE, 300 SEL, 380 SE, 380 SEL, 420 SEL, 500 SEL, 560 SEL, 360 SEC, 500 SEC, 580 SEC, 300 SD TURBODIESEL, 300 SDL TURBO, 350 SD TURBO, 350 SDL TURBO

fix the engine or replace it?

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Old Dec 5, 2004 | 01:00 AM
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trust's Avatar
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fix the engine or replace it?

Well, I've been saving up money for a engine transplant but now that plan is out the door. I've had for about 5 months now in a somewhat driveable condition but on numerous occasions my car failed on me when I needed it the most (timing belt, battery, engine pump, etc.). So I've been thinking about just getting a salvaged engine from an auction and what not to do an entire engine assembly.. not by myself of course. That would end up costing me more money in the long run.

So - should I? I think an engine with a reasonable mileage on it and the entire job should cost around 5000-6000? Is it worth the effort? money?
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Old Dec 5, 2004 | 11:53 AM
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S600 Coupe. 560SEC, E55
I wouldn't take a chance on transplanting somebody else's problem. Consider getting a rebuilt motor for not much more money.
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Old Dec 6, 2004 | 01:11 AM
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1986 560SEL, 97 BMW 740iL
You can order a rebuilt engine from Adsitco.com with one year unlimited mileage warrantee. I've ordered a few things from them in the past, and their shipping is fast.

In their catalog, a rebuilt 5.6 (560) engine is under $6000.00 with a $800 core fee.
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Old Dec 6, 2004 | 01:45 PM
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From: Milford, CT
1987 300SDL aka the "Money Pit"
Timing belt? What did one of the guides take the chain out? You need to pull the heads and see what is damaged. You might get lucky and only need new valves on one head. Or you hurt the pistons and it is new long block time.

I have heard mixed reviews of the Adsitco engines. They are just a short block anyway. You will still need a rebuilt starter, alt, new water pump ect. Not to mention new engine mounts and if your radiator is older a new one of those while your at it. Probably close to an $8k job if you do a lot yourself.
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Old Dec 15, 2004 | 11:06 AM
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Patch the car up with some Lucas, CD2,etc and sell it.

Trust me, after a certain point, its better to just sell the car.
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