Reputable source for KA24DE pulls/rebuilds

[slipnfall]

Hey all, I'v seen similar questions posted previously but no solid sources. As the subject reads I am looking for a shop or group of individuals who deal with KA engine rebuilds or working pulls. I am suprised to find that many of the SR swap shops(heavythrottle for example) do not source KA's. I find this difficult to believe based on the popularity of SR's within the last couple years. I thought KA's would be in abundance. All I can seem to find is personal sellers. While this may be a viable option, I won't be ready to purchass one until next summer - it seems hit or miss with finding one. Either it's high milleage or questionable condition. Also I am located on the East coast so shipping/travelling to the West coast can be costly.

While I'v got your attention I may as well ask you opinion on my engine condition. I purchassed the car for very cheap. The seller said he had a timing belt(chain?) installed along with new cams at a mom 'n pops. Couple dozen miles down the road the car filled the cabin with smoke, coming from the air vents. Had it towed, been sitting ever since. I don't see any visible signs of leakage externally. Between now and the time I purchass a new long block, where should I focus my attention when tearing the motor down? I would like to do this to a)become more familiar with this particular engine and b)possible find the source of the smoking. It's got 120k on the clock. In your opinion does this sound like worth a rebuild? IMHO I feel that I should purchass a new pull, and use the original engine for spare parts if necessary. What are your thoughts on this? I imagine that if the timing went, it more than likely took some internals along with it(this is an interferance engine, correct?)

Thanks for any input you can offer.-Jamie

[slipnfall]

I should probably mention that I do _not_ plan on turbo'ing this KA. About the most I plan to do internally is swap cams, lighten the flywheel, cam gears, pully. MAYBE port 'n polish with slightly larger injectors(pending on funds). I will start with a cold ram-air intake, decent quality headers, straight pipe for the resonator, and a good cat-back. What suggestions do you have for keeping this non-turbo setup running cool?

Thanks again,-Jamie

[SingleCamSam]

There is at least 2 of these threads on the front page. Check them out. Aries can get a completely rebuilt KA for about a grand.