Buying “new” used KA with 18k for KAT project

[arcadiabc]

Hello all,

I got a deal on an 18k mile KA off a wrecked 1995 s14 for $500. The only thing is the owner doesn’t know how long it has been setting around. With that mileage, I am sure it’s been a while. However the mileage count makes it a great candidate for building a KAT.

What I am asking is some advice as to some of the things I should be looking for when purchasing a used engine. A thing that comes to mind is to test the compression for each cylinder, and look for cracks all around.

Can any one add their 2 cents? 

Thank you.

[fiznat]

Well, what are your plans for the motor? How much boost, how much money?

[arcadiabc]

At the moment my current motor is about to hit 140k, yet still running strong.

I have read many of the permanent post in regards to what I need to do, with that I pretty much estimate the amount of money I would need. But since you asked, I am aiming for 300 WHP. Money is not a problem since I am in no rush.

But I don’t want this post to steer way from its intended propose which was to get some advise on what to look for when buying a used engine. Since you can’t turn them on, what visual clues can I look for just so I know I’m not buying something with major internal problems?

Thanks for the reply Fiz

[babowc]

hm.check for obvious leaks.maybe get a feeler gauge to stick around the head/block mating surfacedrain oil to see how it is.i think theres a way to manually check comp. but i forgot where i read it.can you do leakdown tests on a non operating motor?