Replace an engine? Short block or long block?

Question

I have a '98 6 cyl Camaro with standard transmission, about 80K miles; recently had a "tap" and was told there was a cracked lifter so replaced 1 lifter and 12 push rods. ($1300) Had it out of shop about 2 1/2 wks and it shut down on me while driving; a look under the hood revealed bolt on water pump was backed out about 1 1/2" and it had apparently run hot; dash gauge never indicated it was hot. It cranked up again when cooled off, but now there is a knock. Towed back to same repair shop and now they say I need an engine. ($4300 estimate for labor and all). I have checked with a couple other shops in the area and they tell me about $2300 for entire job for re-manuf. Short block or long block better in this case? Funds are tight, but need a ride and this is a beautiful car interior and body. Advice anyone? Oh yeah, bought the car used last Nov. supposedly one owner, a middle aged woman (yeah, right) and I HAVE NOT dogged it out.

Answer 1

Easy, long block. You'll have new heads/valve train, and you won't be paying the labor to swap the heads.

Answer 2

The long block would be your best choice and includes the cylinder heads, oil pump, and many times the oil pan, valve covers and etc.

I would run the vehicles value on Kelly Blue Book also to see what the car is really worth, might be better to put the monies towards a good used car with a good warranty. Because you are looking at a car which is worth about 2000 dollars when running.

Answer 3

Long block, by far your best choice and it should have a better warranty. A short block re-uses your old heads and if the engine has been run hot there's a risk your old heads may be cracked or warped.

Answer 4

Maybe a middle aged woman with a wild son?  I'd look at what kind of warranty comes with each engine and make sure I went to a different shop from the last time.  A good used engine would probably last as long as the car.