Folo: Indy mechanic says cylinder head was damaged when water pump seized and snapped timing belt. I am considering replacing 1994 motor with one from a 1997 with 82,000 miles. What should I look for when inspecting it and does this sound practical? Or should I try for repairs to the head? My old motor has 184,000 miles on it.

Looking for advice. I am running out of time.

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 replacement parts come with 90 day/3,000 warranties.

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

Well, it looks like I will be going with the replacement motor. I have a choice of the 97 with 83,000 miles and a 95 with 93,000 miles. I am leaning toward the latter, hoping that it will be closer to my car with is a 93/94 volvo.

Do i still need to get the harness, egr valves?

You have a 94 with EGR or without EGR? The 95 motor, is it with EGR or without EGR. I know the 96 is doable with a few changes. I know the 97 is a pain in the ass. I still think the harness is different. I'll compare the schematics when I go in tomorrow.

Chris

My car is an early 93/94 and has EGR. I will check on the 95 and let you know by midday Friday. My mechanic won't be able to start work until early next week so I am marooned here in suburbia for several more days.

There is a 94 motor w/EGR with 116K at East Coast Imports in Jacksonville, FL for $900.00. They also have a 95 with 106K for $900.00. Phone number 1-910-324-2158. The EGR set ups are similar in 95, as are the wiring harnesses. The big change over years are 96 and 97.

Chris

Thanks. I checked with Jax. The freight is abut $80 so either way I am paying a grand. It's nice to have another option. Glad to hear that the 95 wiring set up is similar to my car. I figured as much. I will probably go that route. Will let you know what happens.

Chrissj,

What is the number for the shop with replacement heads? I need it fast.

Alarm went off at the shop; came in...

Here you go:

1-800-572-1963

Clearwater Cylinder Head

Talk to Bob,

Chris

I won't be back into the shop until Tuesday. I can get you the number then. I hope that is soon enough.

Chris