I am considering buying a 1994 Rodeo. The engine (4 cyl) has a blown head gasket. I haven't contacted the seller for more information, yet. The question of the day: If engine rebuild, or replacement, is necessary, how easy is it? Do I need to remove the body to get to the engine? Can I substitute a non-Isuzu engine in there?

you can put any engine in the cr that you would like, the question is how much time and money do you want to put into it? if it is just a head gasket then it would be an all day project. the gasket is cheap. you can pout any motor you would like in the car as long as it fits. i belive a buick 3400 or a 3100 will bolt up to your transmision, if not there is a place in michigan that will custom make a mounting bracket for the new motor and old trani. if you place a new motor in the car you will have to relocate a lot of stuff. it's all how much time and money you are willing to put into the project. i would start w/ the head gasket, all you're going to have invested in that is time and $80. good luck

I'd take a closer look at the motor and find out what's really wrong before I go ahead and tear the engine out.

Like mtxking said if it's just the head gasket, one day and $80 is not a lot to invest, but if don't have a need for the car and wish to spend a week / month/ year on it lots of options become available.