Decision made...head is coming off and being sent to a machine shop Monday after Thanksgiving. Thanks for all the advice and recommendations about timing, water pump, etc.

My mechanic just moved to a new (old) shop and doesn't want to paint it himself. He's buying paint at my contractor price, I'm buying parts at his discount cost, and we're swapping labor, even Steven. Sound like a good deal on both ends?

 

So here's a new angle. Mechanic found a used engine with under 50k for $750. Who's in favor/opposed?

 

bhamsoxfan-
I would try & get same year & size engine, there are some subtle changes to sensors & etc that could be a nightmare on hooking everything back up..

 

Yes, it is the same year/size.

 

read my post on your vote for it post!