Well, that figure may reflect the mechanic's cost at standard shop prices
and parts mark-up, but it's really rather high when you consider you can buy
a high-performance V8 motor for that kind of money (not for an MG, of
course).
That price probably includes lots of stuff that you don't need, or could
easily do yourself, even if not immensely experienced. I would guess the DIY
price, parts and machine shop labor included, would be 1/3 to 1/2 of that,
depending on how many "while I'm at it" items you go for; possibly much
less, if you just fix the problem and don't try to rebuild everything (this
may or may not be advisable). Most of the work is just disassembly and
reassembly, with some machine shop work in the middle. These engines are
pretty simple, but if you have to do it on the curb or in a driveway (or in
your living room), it may not be viable with the domestic partner. If you
have some garage space, and 4-6 weekends to devote to it, it can be a fun
and educational project, and will leave you with a sense of accomplishment.
Other alternatives include swapping in a working used engine from a wrecking
yard or parts car (this is what I did), or sending to the UK for a rebuilt
block (if they are still available -- they were 10-15 years ago, because
that is where the engine in this parts car came from).
on 6/21/01 11:37 AM, Greg Bass at bass_c@bellsouth.net wrote:
> Well... the B's engine is making severe knocking noises. Sounds like a cap
> or a bearing problem to me and the mechanic I talked to. The car cranks but
> I'll end up towing it someplace for repairs.
>
> My question is this: since I am not an experienced mechanic (understatement
> there!!) which is the best way to go. Have this engine rebuilt (if possible)
> or purchase a engine to drop in the B. The one place I talked to gave me an
> estimate of $3000 - $3500 to do a complete engine rebuild. Is that a
> reasonable cost? LOL... I don't know what I'm worried about it for since I
> don't have that to invest in it right now anyway. Plus the wife would
> probably shoot me if I did. :-)
>
> Greg Bass
> '78 B
--
Max Heim
'66 MGB GHN3L76149
If you're near Mountain View, CA,
it's the red one with the silver bootlid.
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