After 212K miles & years of helping me save money, my mechanic finally said to go ahead and trade/get rid of my baby due to some metal shavings in the oil pan. Bought her brand new thru the overseas military sales program and would like to pass her down to our college-bound kid since we know the history & all. Body is still in great shape and everything that's come up wrong with her, I've been able to fix thanks to this forum.

Bottom line: Outright exchange (with warranty) will run bet $2,500-3K. Although friends say it will never be the same afterward. Better to have the engine rebuilt instead (for exact/proper physical fit/match etc.) What do you think? Thank you.

I have swapped quite a few motors and with junk yard motors from yards that give you warrenty and have no problem. Yes they don't seem to run the same because you where used to the old engine and the prformance it gave you. Depending on who doe's the work, that will be the determining factor and the price. Yes you don't exactly know what you are getting with a junk yard motor but a bad rebuild could result in the same situation. Since the motor has not given up yet I would lean towords a rebuild. Take it apart and see what the damages are. The deciding factor will be how much $ for a rebuild, used motor or new motor. Good Luck................

Thank you very much! I have some homework to do figuring out the best option. Take care.