1993 240SX Engine Replacement

[col_blu]

I've been losing a lot of oil (1 qt/1200 miles) with no external leaks. With 121k miles on my engine, two highly recommended shops (one of which didn't even want the work) have told me I would be better off with a replacement engine that trying to get to the problem and fixing it. Since I intend to keep my car until I die and be buried in it (not really, but I'd like to get another 100k), I'm willing to follow their advice.

But....what's the best bang for the buck? Should I go with a remanufactured engine, a rebuilt engine, or a refurbished used engine? Should I opt for the complete swap (including transmission) or keep my AT? Can I get a better engine--e.g. more hp, with turbo) and still have it fit? I trust the shop that's going to do the work, but I'd like to understand my options. I think they are talking about a reman and quoting around $4k.

[180fan]

screw that. you can rebuild an engine and find a replacement for less than half of that reman cost. just it'll take time to find the replacement engine and get it rebuilt at a machinist. You can pick up a 5 speed along the way if you care for it, and deal with it at the same time.

If you plan on going turbo, do that with a rebuilt engine to reduce headaches and more work later.

[col_blu]

Thanks. I've seen some used engines for sale on ebay and places like JDMRacingMotors.com for about $1600 plus shipping. If these are reputable places, I could have an engine shipped directly to the shop for the install since I no longer have the motivation or the time to do it myself. I know the SR20DET will fit my car, will any others that might give me more advantages?
Modified by col_blu at 2:27 PM 7/7/2006