Fix it or buy a new engine...Advice please !

[chalander3443]

So here is my dilemma, I have an S13 with a CA18det swapped in it. I recently pulled the motor to install a new Spec stage 2+ clutch in it along with a new MLS head gasket. I put the engine in and ran it low on oil due to an oil leak i did not see, congratulations stupid - i know. The result has left me with a spun main bearing and a possible toasted crank shaft. The engine has mad vibrations that make the engine rock as if it has a bad motor mount, that is my "noobish" self diagnosis.

What i need advice on is have i dug my whole too deep with this engine already or is there truly light at the end of the tunnel?

What i have invested so far:*MLS head gasket*ARP Head studs*Mines ECU*Godspeed FMIC and plumbing*550cc injectors*Spec stage 2+ clutch*Turbo timer*Aftermarket Radiator 3-4 inches thick (its the SR radiator but i used a flex hose to connect the off positioned top radiator port to thermostat)*Manual boost controller*New Slave cylinder for clutch*Cusco suspension*Rear camber kit

My worries: (mainly b***hing and moaning)*The engine since i have bought it has never ran quiet right...I have had notorious oil leaks from the head gasket and what i now think the rear oil pan seal.*I have put in two new clutches only to find that they both "slip" i believe that the issue runs in the either the slave cylinder or elsewhere in the hydraulic system, maybe a higher grade of DOT fluid is required...i don't know. I have replaced the slave cylinder but haven't had the chance to see if that truley was the underlining problem due to the engine biting dust prior to me being able to try it.*I had to tap a new whole in the #3 sparkplug whole because it seized on me, and i didnt do the best of job... It holds compression! but it is a b**** to do a compression test on...*Also there is always a light ticking sound in the valve train from what i think is a worn spring that doesn't fully expand leaving the lifter short of contact to the camshaft.*The timing belt will need to be replaced, its looking haggard.

Side note:*Transmission is smooth as butter

So what do you guys think? Should i go with another CA rather a different engine? I have everything ready for a CA to be dropped in but frankly, with my past experiences with the CA, i am scared s***tless of that motor, i think it is hexed... lol, well not really just mine.

IF i do go with another CA should i get a long block? Short block?

My intentions with this vehicle: daily driver and more importantly, DRIFT! i know how soundly built the CA's are so i am not concerned in upgrading the internals. Correct me if i am wrong but for my 270-300 RWHP goals i think the stock internals will hold there own. all i am missing is a bigger turbo, camshafts, and a professional tune, cooperative engine (upgraded valve train if my decision promotes it, i'd rather not pull off the head)

Side note:Can one replace Pistons/connecting rods/crankshaft from the bottom without ripping off the head?...I cant think of any complications...

Thank you VERY much for your time and "expert" advise )
Modified by chalander3443 at 1:47 PM 5/24/2009

[Vegascorbin]

Generaly I advocate rebuild rather than replace.

I would recomend that you tear down the engine and see just how bad things are. If they are rebuildable the go for it.

Do a total rebuild including head. I would go with slightly upgraded parts. Why not? stronger and not much more expensive.

I think the rebuild will fix alot of your problems.

Stay with the beast you know insted of fighting a new one.

(of course I am assumeing you will be doing most of the work. If you are paying sombody to do it just swap it out)

[kpodj61240]

s*** happens man.

[chalander3443]

Generaly I advocate rebuild rather than replace

Stay with the beast you know insted of fighting a new one.

Haha, i like that quote. Yeah i will be tearing it down, probably not until i am done with my spring quarter at college. Also, i am the one who will be doing the work. Thank you for the reply, i was beginning to think that no one would

[Vegascorbin]

"Stay with the beast you know insted of fighting a new one."

Honest Honey, being married for over 26 years has NOTHING to do with that quote.

[chalander3443]

ROFL