How much to have engine out back into car?

Question

I am looking to buy this SAAB from someone. They have the saab but with the engine out of it because of repairs, but the mechanic that was suppose to do the job for them ran off with the money. So now the car is just sitting there with the engine beside it ready to go in. Im not exactly sure what is wrong with is, i think the guy had to order new heads gaskets but they the peices are sitting there ready to be put back together. I want to know how much it might cost for labor to just install the engine back into the car? If all the parts have been ordered and are ready to be put back into the car. (2000 SAAB) And if you think that it would be a good buy. He is selling the car and the engine and parts for 950.00.

Answer 1

You ever done an engine swap before?  They can test your patience at the EASIEST of times.

SAAB was originally a Swedish aircraft manufacturer and some of their engineers got together and went on a side project building cars. So you know they know what they're doing.

But..  by that same token, they are in a world of their own. Be ready to buy parts and  even special tools that aren't available everywhere.

You'll need a spec sheet to know how tight to tighten the head bolts onto the block, an engine hoist, jacks, jack stands and the usual tools..

But if you start, you gotta commit to it. It's definately possible!

And if you decide to take it to a shop, don't take it to just any shop. Shop around (pardon the pun). Not alot of mechanics will touch Saabs and if they will, some of them will get in over their heads and bail on you.

That's a h**l of a good deal.

P.s. My girlfriend thinks Saab's are hot. She used to have a 900 Turbo Sport... pretty sick little car.

p.p.s. if you live in Canada, PM  or e-mail me and i'll hook you up with parts sites and date on the cars if you need. Goodluck,