Thanks again for all the replies to my last update. I found a used '89 740 turbo engine with only 66,000 miles on it, complete. The price was $995 with shipping included and a 100 day warranty. Given that my current engine has a bad rod knock (piston slap)and potential blowby issues I elected to get the engine replacement. As for the job being any cheaper, the mechanic didn't say it'd be cheaper, just that it would be another option if I wanted to spend the extra and just put a lower mileage engine in the car. Another mechanic the car had been to was also quick to point out that it had a very pronounced piston slap, so, rather than dump more money into the higher mileage engine I'm hoping spending a bit more now will save me more later. So, the engine is paid for and on it's way. I'll probably be driving my beater for another three weeks or a month, but hopefully I'll be happier albeit with a lighter wallet when it's all said and done. Anyway, I figure the head replacement was going to cost in the neighborhood of $1200, so for an extra $600 I'm getting an engine with much lower mileage. I will also be able to take my old engine and strip off the turbo (a Mitsubishi TD-05) and sell it to make a few bucks, I hope. I'll be sure to let you all know how the swap goes.

Matt Campbell
'89 740 turbo wagon (still inoperable)