nixwiz

Okay, here are some pics of the damage:

First, the gouge in the #4 cylinder, doesn't look like much does it, you really need to run your finger over it to get the full effect:
<img src="http://members.***.net/nixwiz/images/cylinder4.jpg" alt=" - " />

Second the head, just to the right of the pointer is where the gasket blew.
<img src="http://members.***.net/nixwiz/images/head4.jpg" alt=" - " />

Last is the gasket itself:

<img src="http://members.***.net/nixwiz/images/gasket4.jpg" alt=" - " />

M758

Well it does not seem that bad. From where the head gasket blew it looks like these were not in the same spot.
So... My guess is that the gouge in the #4 has been there a while. You probably want to pull the piston and check the piston ring to make sure it is not damaged. A craked ring may have caused the gouge. Now it is quite possible that you can install a new head gasket and the car will run just fine. This is obviously the cheapest solution. It may not work however as I cannot be sure. You will need to have the head cleaned-up, machined and some holes possibly welded-up.

If you do decide to go with a replacment engine let me know as I might be intersted in this engine. I would need to take look at it first and feel it for myself first however.

nixwiz

I'll send you a PM. I would assume that the head gasket blew at its weakest point, not necessarily in line with where the cylinder damage is, but that is my assumption.

Probesport

Why do you need a new engine? Why isnt a bore or a bore & sleeve possible?

nixwiz

Yes, the option of a bore and new, larger pistons was discussed, but the decision was made for a new engine.

nixwiz

Got her back last night!!!! Drove her to work today, man she feels tight! Here's the rundown:

New engine stuff: replacement engine, belts, tensioners, idlers, oil pan gasket, rod bearings, oil cooler seals, etc., plugs, numerous little items (o-rings, bolts, etc.)

Stuff my old engine: fuel rail, water pump, injectors, distributor, plug wires

Additional stuff: new right A arm bushing, shift lever and h/w

Free stuff: new left bumper shock (old one was pushed in), belly pan (PO had gotten rid of it)

I gotta say Stuttgart Southwest is a great shop, Joe kept me updated about the work, didn't mind my stopping by all the time and showing me where things were at with the replacement. They did a lot of "since we've got her apart why don't we go ahead and replace this or that" which I liked since that meant I wasn't paying as much labor now as I would later. And they double checked everything else. Just gotta take her back after 1000-1500 miles to have the timing belt retensioned.

Gonna give her a really good wash this weekend and take some pictures to post on P-CarOnline.

Oh and WOO HOO, post #100 for me.

elf89

Todd,

Congratulations on getting your car back. That is a fast turn-around for a new engine. I bet it's running like new. Did you re-do the clutch while they were in there or had you done that already?

How many miles did you get out of your original motor?

Take care,

joseph mitro

hey todd, congratulations. it's good to hear some good stories at times. my car has the head off and is waiting for some new parts - mainly just a money issue now. i feel encouraged after reading your post.

nixwiz

Elf and Joseph,

Thanks! I got 105K out of the original, still not sure what screwed up the #4 cylinder. As for the clutch, they said mine was in good shape and left it alone.

GOBOGIE

Sorry to hear about your misfortune. At least you did it at the track having fun!