2.0 JTS Engine Swap cost

[Monaco]

Hi guys,

My Alfa 156 JTS manual has a big end knock. My mechanic has pulled the head off and can move a piston side to side thinks it has been taping the head. He suggested swiping the engine with one he has with 70,000kms. He has quoted $4,200 to swap which includes 16hrs labour, Cambelt and auxiliary kit, thermostat and water pump.
1) does this price sound right?
2) the car is mint otherwise but probably only worth $4000 running. Should I just stop throwing good money after bad?

[carlo rossi]

evidently a common problem around 90 to 120ks
the gudgeon pin gives way
how much to swap
if you are keeping the car rebuild it should only be around $2000

[GG105]

Monaco,

I'm afraid I don't have any good news.

1. You can't rebuild an engine properly for $2,000 unless you know what you're doing and can do it yourself.
2. Yes, buying a second hand engine with 70K on it at $4,200 in a car worth $4,000 running is giving money away.

Better to walk away I think.

John

[Monaco]

Do you think it would return much if I was to wreck it? Is there much demand for parts?

[carlo rossi]

Have  a bit of fun you might enjoy the experience of tinkering
pull the motor and if you have some savy mates
or an engine rebuilder guy you know ask them
the real cost is the assembly and dismantle the rest is R and R
maybe a hone as well
But it aint that hard really
and because its a manual even better
what have you got to lose? you can still wreck it after!
get them to pull the motor take it to a repudible rebuilder
put new pistons and bearings and off you go ( ps pistons and bearings $800)
labour $1000 roughly for the work on it
but even if its $4000 which it wont be you have a new motor not 70Ks on it

[Mick A]

The crankshaft journals will be stuffed. Just buy a good complete SH engine from a wreckers if you want to fix the car. It'll be the best result for you overall i promise. Money wise and effort wise.