97 ka24e. 400k + miles....rebuild? or buy totally new long block?

[cwkewel]

My 97 truck has 403,000 miles...head never been worked on niether has block. its running but been leaking from head gasket. What is the smartest way to go about repairs?
New long block with all new quality parts? Do engine rebuilding companies really do good work? Or should I do it myself? I bought this brand new in 96....thanks ya all.

[m tr4nch]

first of all, wow that is impressive! very cool that you are the original owner and put that many miles on it with an original bottom end and top end

i have to ask though, have you considered doing an engine swap rather than sticking with the ka24e? just a thought.
if i was in your situation, i would pick up a spare block/long block, tear it apart and rebuild it, then swap it in. honestly not sure about buying one from a remanufacture company so i can't help there. if going with the ka24e or ka24de, you can find them in decent shape for pretty cheap. i've seen them anywhere from $100-500 depending on condition and who's selling it.

[cwkewel]

..Thanks for compliment....I changed the oil a lot...lol.
I have thought of an engine swap, but the cost is kind of expensive. The Ka24de is nice upgrade but am told a harness change is required? This motor is still running strong, just leaking from passenger side pretty sure its head gasket.... It doesnt overheat...luckily. But it all needs to be rebuilt...simply because only a fool would spend the time and money just doing the top right? Lol....Its like this in my head...if I start withe a head set, bolts, w pump...etc....why would I leave the heater core in there with 404,000 miles?
Thats my logic anyways....So if Im gonna do it, I pretty much feel need to change it all. Thats why I thought if can find long block all done....(hopefully they did it all and good job)...then I save all that time and work. What you think?