240SX Engine

[msantos45]

Hi!
I am a new member. I need help. I have a Nissan 240SX 1989. My mechanic said that I need to change the engine. He said that the car blew the head gasket between cylinders 3 and 4 and the timing chain is loose. I have been looking for an engine, but when I find a place, then I search for reviews about the place and the reviews are horrible, so I don't know what to do and I want my car on the street again.

Can you give me some suggestions on what to do? Thank you so much for your help.

[PapaSmurf2k3]

Local junkyard, ebay, the classifieds here, or upgrade engines to something else I guess are your options.

[msantos45]

You sound like a knowledgeable person. Based on your experience, what do you think is the best option for an upgrade? Thank you.

[MikeRL411]

Giving your location [ HINT ] just might yield to a local solution ! If you were in Maine, a replacement engine in Hawaii doesn't do you much good .

[PapaSmurf2k3]

You sound like a knowledgeable person. Based on your experience, what do you think is the best option for an upgrade? Thank you.

I guess that depends on if you're looking to make a ton more power, a little more power, or just improve reliability.
If you go all-in, you could do a chevy smallblock (LS) swap, but you're looking at 10 grand or so for all of that.
A KA24DE from a later 240sx will be newer and has more options to grow your power as funds and time become available.

You'll definitely want to purchase a new engine wiring harness when and if you swap engines. 240sx harnesses don't fare well over time. I recommend www.wiringspecialties.com

[msantos45]

Thank you. Well, I'm not looking for power. I had a long conversation with the mechanic yesterday and he insists that the best thing to do is change the engine. He suggested Jasper engines. He said he can fix the head gasket but no warranty and also said that fixing the head gasket will not do any good to the car. It will run worse. Still looking...

[janda240sx]

Lol. Run worse after he fixes it? Find a new mechanic. A head gasket and timing chain is a simple 1 day job on these engines as long you don't have any other issues that need sorting out.