What to look for when buying a used KA24E + transmission?

[kyle1911]

First time buying a engine, what should I look at when I go to see this engine and transmission set?

- Corrosion - Leaking gaskets - Can you compression test an engine that isnt in a car? I would assume so. - Acc belts - Pull the plugs to check for oil/running rich

He claims that it has a centerforce stage 2 clutch, could I tell by looking at it? He also says it has 139 xxx KMs

Is the only way to really know what shape it is in is to tear it apart correct or is there visuals I can check?

Kyle

[Thee 240sx Owner]

Honestly... being that i've looked at 5 motors ... what i do is normally check the plugs... look at the exhaust side of the valve seals... check oil if still in it. pop the valve cover off and check to see if timing is right on it by rotating the crank with a 26mm socket and wrench to TDC and check the cam to make sure its lined up. rotated the crank also and to feel if theres compression which you will feel and hear.. rotate it 4 times to listen and feel compression. inspect flywheel for cracks and about the clutch. i honestly don't know. Also check inside the intake manifold for oil.

[kyle1911]

**** I donnot have a timing light.

[Altiman94]

You dont need one to inspect a motor when its out o fthe car. Reread his post again..

[Thee 240sx Owner]

Side note as well.. pop off the valve cover and check down inside the timing chain housing to see if both guides are still intact and if the tensioner has pressure on it.. also check on the inside of the valve cover to see if theres any pieces from shreded up timing chain guides...

[12er]

oh, don't forget to check the oil pan..usually broken chain guide pieces can be found down there as well..and some what nots..

centerforce usually runs orange pressure plate cover, but any monkey can paint it...and usually a CFDF sticker on the cover..

as for transmission, see if there's excessive play on the input shaft..