replace engine or gaskets

[skit0321]

My crankcase gasket or whatever goes bad on these engines where they leak oil is bad, i believe the head gasket is bad also. I was wondering if i would be better off replacing these or just purchaseing a slightly used engine for the car? Also i am missing some piece that goes on the bottom in the front it is sone kind of air deflector, and seems to be why i am running a little on the hot side. I was wondering if anyone knew what it was exactly?

[Spinman]

Just purchased a new air deflector for my '96
SKU # 25677742 Deflector

[skit0321]

where did you purchase this from?

[madcatter]

If you can get your hands on a whole engine, by all means do it. These are fire and forget motors. Replacement is easier and cheaper than repair.

[skit0321]

any idea on where to find new engine at?

[zimaad]

first look is always a boneyard.

[RobertHammen]

I occasionally see Aurora 4.0 NorthStar engines on eBay... have seen them run $400-$3000.

Also check http://www.car-part.com to check junkyards in your area.

Might also want to call a Caddy dealer and ask them if they know of any engine rebuilders in the area that they've worked with/would recommend.

--Robert

[dsatt12]

Didn't that valuable norhtstar info page mention most rebuilders don't touch these engines since they can't replace the cylinder liners and other things?

If anyone hasn't read it yet, just search- it's defintely worth a read.

[RobertHammen]

http://www.babcox.com/editorial/us/us100232.htm

"In researching this engine, we discovered that few rebuilders are overhauling Northstar V8s - not because these engines are lasting forever (they're not) but because the Northstar V8s are such expensive and complex engines. Cadillac has no reman program for Northstar V8s (if one fails, replace it with a new one). None of the major production engine rebuilders are doing Northstar V8s, and some rebuilders told us certain critical internal parts are unavailable (such as oversize crankshaft bearings). Add to this the fact that the cylinder liners can't be replaced or overbored and it doesn't leave much to rebuild."

[97 silverbullet]

well if your going to replace the engine try doing the 4.6 swap.

[zimaad]

Is this a swap that can be done and still work with our ECM/PCM, etc?

[97 silverbullet]

i believe it can be done, as soon as i get the chance i'll let everyone know. and Im giong to have 300 hp.

[zimaad]

Nice...and I bet there are a few more upgrades you can do to the 4.7..but I'm just guessing. I'm almost tempted to keep an eye out in bone yards to see if one comes in and I can grab it for the future.

[RoraStar96]

Will it fit??

the STS engine bay looks bigger then ours

[skit0321]

any chance on swapping out to an old 305 small block or somethin and bypass all the computer bullshit