Which Engine

[Sblattenberger]

Good morning everybody I was wondering if I can get peoples opinion on whether I should buy a used engine rebuilt engine or remanufactured engine it’s for a 1990 Ford ranger 4.0 V6 OHV. I found a used engine the total for install and engine is 2400$. I’ve just been scratching my head! Not knowing what I should do. Thanks everyone

 

[franklin2]

No difference between remanufactured and rebuilt. If your used engine is low miles, it should work fine. If you are rounding up the used engine, then yes you have to worry about it. If you are going to get a shop to put a good used engine in place, make sure they worry about it. If it turns out bad, they can take the hit and argue with the junkyard about it. Make sure you get the deal straight first.

 

[19Walt93]

$2400 for a 34 year old used engine?? Make sure they'll gurantee it for that price.

 

[rusty ol ranger]

$2400 for a 34 year old used engine?? Make sure they'll gurantee it for that price.

Thats install and engine.

Seems a bit lofty but depends on area

 

[SenorNoob]

OP's location says California.

Have you asked price if the shop sources a rebuilt rather than salvage?

 

[Sblattenberger]

That’s for engine and install. 1500$ for engine and 900$ for install. I just don’t know whether to have it rebuilt if it’s cheaper or to get a used engine, but then I’m wary of a used engine.

 

[Sblattenberger]

The mechanic that found cylinder 5 to be bad said he’d install a reman for 7500$ and to rebuild for 5400$. Those prices seem really steep to me.

 

[SenorNoob]

Seems weird to me that it's cheaper to rebuild in house than buy one already rebuilt. Usually the shops that do that kind of thing all the time are cheaper.

 

[franklin2]

I guess it depends on the area like was said. But we live in different times now. Most all the machine shops in my area have closed. There are a few left, and of them, the ones that do quality work are backed up with a long waiting line.

You can't even get a hamburger and fries for less than $15.00. Probably higher than that in california. Those guys have to eat too I guess.

 

[19Walt93]

That’s for engine and install. 1500$ for engine and 900$ for install. I just don’t know whether to have it rebuilt if it’s cheaper or to get a used engine, but then I’m wary of a used engine.

I'd be suspicious of a 34 year old engine at any price. If I got it for free I'd rebuild it before installing it.

 

[gaz]

@Sblattenberger
I do not know how urgent your situation, how mobile or mechanically inclined you are but:
• i have bought two OHV 4.0 in the past few years
- first was a "recent" rebuild from a 94 Ranger V8 conversion with little other information and no supporting documents; it included a M5OD and a set of 14" deer hoof Ranger wheels for $200. I have to drive 180 miles
- the second was a 95% complete, drivable 94 Explorer, $450.
- used engine hoist for $120

An engine hoist, the most expensive tool needed to remove and replace and engine is $250 or less used; can also be rented by the day (or borrow a friends).

Both engines were "turnkey" engines though not in perfect condition or working order...both could have been installed and used immediately with varying resulting performance levels. There are at least 25 wrecking yards within 120 miles of me and each one has 3-10 OHV 4.0l's in it...a very common Ford engine.

Everyone has a buddy, cousin, neighbor or coworker that is willing to be BBQ/beered or peel off a Ben to assist an engine swap.

If you decide to do a rebuild, it can be done better and for much less than a crate engine or off the shelf rebuilt.
Replacing the lifters is the highest expense, followed by machining, then the remaining needed components.

 

[pjtoledo]

The mechanic that found cylinder 5 to be bad said he’d install a reman for 7500$ and to rebuild for 5400$. Those prices seem really steep to me.

those appear to be "I really don't want to do this job" prices.