Well, the replacement engine is in. It rides fine. Now, my check engine light has come on. It should be noted that it had been on for months with the old engine. Should I be concerned?

Also, I read that I need to baby this engine for about 600 miles. Is that true?

Florida Girl,

Compare total costs of each of the repairs (engine replacement vs. head rebuild).

I wouldn't think that there would be too many issues with replacing the engine with a later year if you used only the long block. There aren't too many sensors on the motor itself, knock sensor, cam position sensor, etc. If the your indi used the intake and exhaust manifolds off of your old engine, problems should be minimal.

As for what to look for on the used engine, rear main seal. That could be replaced before installing the motor. Does it come with a warranty/trusted source. Can you hear it run? These are good motors, many out there with over 200k on them.

In any case, please post the decision and outcome. Good info for others.

Phantom

The EGR system on the 97 will be different. As will the wiring harness. I replaced a 94 motor with a 96 motor, but I got the harness, the EGR valve, and the air pump valve as well, and I still ran into a few "?!What?!'s" along the way. No hope of having your head rebuilt? I have a number at the shop for a machine shop very close to you that does great, and affordable, work. If it's not rebuildable, why not just purchase a used head, have it checked and resurfaced if need be, and stick it on?

Chris