Cost to have a mechanic remove and install an engine??

89Bronco_EddieBauer · #1 (**permalink**) 12-28-2003, 08:42 PM

I have a 315W 5.8 with 170,000 miles on it. I plan on restoring my 89 Eddie Bauer and am currently contiplating swapping the engine with a rebuilt 351 W. The rebuilt comes with all NEW interior parts, such as, pistons, rings, lifters, crankshaft, oil pan, water pump etc. The cost of the rebuilt is $1200.

My question is, does any one have any idea what a mechanic would charge to remove and install one of the beasts? Has any one ever done this with a mechanic before? I would do it myself but honestly dont have the time.

What are the pros and cons of having a mechanic do it for me?

Thanx fellas....

crazed87bronco · #2 (**permalink**) 12-28-2003, 09:33 PM

my freind owns a body shop he has all the tools for doing engine swaps ive seen him do them for $ 40 but im not sure how much a real mechanic would cost im thinking $ 100-150

fordguy351w · #3 (**permalink**) 12-28-2003, 09:41 PM

i would think it would cost more that 150$ i mean with all the little extra parts you need to put in and the labor charges i would guess it would be more than double that around here

Howdy · #4 (**permalink**) 12-29-2003, 12:40 AM

I figure on at least $400, but probably more. I don't know if you're planning on the long block or the short block. Even if it's the long block there's removel, transfer of parts, install, fire-up and tune.

bronco351 · #5 (**permalink**) 12-29-2003, 12:42 AM

Down here in Arizona, EVERY auto shop that does engine swaps, charges atleast $1000 to remove and install an engine!! It's ALOT of work!!

Hope this helps!!!

stepbyrd · #6 (**permalink**) 12-29-2003, 03:55 AM

I've had mine replaced twice in this past year. Ran about $600 each time it was done.

89Bronco_EddieBauer · #7 (**permalink**) 12-29-2003, 08:19 AM

Thanx guys, I was figuring the $1,000 marker. Im here in NYC. Im sure i could find a Chinese ran auto shop somewhere. They usually charge half the amount of any work, as long as you pay cash.

bronco351 · #8 (**permalink**) 12-29-2003, 06:32 PM

Yeah you could go to one of those Chinese shops. Personally I thing that is a BAD decision.

Sure you will be saving yourself a few hundred up front BUT, I doubt they have much if ANY experience Installing BIG AMERICAN V8"s with all these computer stuff.

Really pay a GOOD REPUTABLE shop the $1000 and get it done right the first time. You will be happy in the end. I Gaurantee it!!

Just remember the old saying...... "If a job is worth doing, It's worth doing right"!!!

rbrewrr · #9 (**permalink**) 12-30-2003, 12:22 AM

Got my rebuild done by a mechanic for about $1700. This included the block, mild cam upgrade, install, and new exhaust (including cat) all the way back. Took a little shopping around to make it happen, but it did and it runs great now.