I would like to hear your opinions on whether to replace the engine in my 91 Explorer or just replace the vehicle. Here is the history.
91 Explorer XL (no power anything) 2WD ; 229K miles.
I have owned this vehicle since it was new and it has paid for itself many times over so far. Engine has never been opened up except for lower intake to fix an external coolant leak. Trans was rebuilt in the last 2 years and appears to be solid. Body is excellent, never wrecked and has never had any rust. Was re-painted 2 years back (due to clear coat peeling off), but new paint is starting to peel from primer in spots.
Engine uses some oil as follows: 10W-30 Penzoil goes thru it at a rate of 1 qt per thousand miles. Normally I run straight 30 weight with a shot of STP (I live in a hot climate near Mexican border) and usage is about 1 qt per 1500-2000 miles. At an idle, I am starting to hear some sounds from the engine, that indicate engine is getting sloppy internally. No rod/main thumps, but more like a cam/crank slop against the thrust surfaces. Sound is not audible except at idle.
Other than this, engine runs perfectly and strong, and all accessories work perfectly right down to the cruise control.
I found a local machine shop that will do a complete engine R&R with their product for around $2100. Sounds like a good deal. They will give me option to use one of their stock rebuilt long blocks, or rebuild my original engine (I perfer this option since I know the history of this motor). All parts will be hot tank cleaned, bead blasted, and new engine will be painted. Engine bay will also be steam cleaned, and R&R includes all new belts and hoses, and radiator clean (rod or flush as needed).
Problem is my wife is hesitant about putting 2K into this vehicle, versus replaceing it. I have been unable to find a suitable replacement PU in the condition and price I can live with (retired and all that so finances are tight).
My inclination is to replace the engine and keep this vehicle on the road another 5 years or so. I know I can never sell it for what I will have put into it if I do the engine, so I need to decide if it is time to stand, or cut my losses and move on.

Any and all comments will be appreciated.
Dialtone

 

When I began reading this I was thinking to replace it because it is pretty old and things can start going wrong with it, but if it works better for you then I would say rebuild it if you are going to drive it for two years. It could be a good time to update vehicles but I can see the practical side of it also...that doesn't help any doe it?

 

You know what you've got now; who knows what problems you'll inherit with another PU/SUV? I'd rebuild and keep it - good luck whichever way you go!!!

Steve

 

MY opinion is to rebuild the engine, like stated previously you really don't know what problems you will get if you buy another PU/SUV. especially if you are tight on finances. Good Luck

 

I'm with you, rebuild it. You know what you got. Good Luck.

 

Quote by Dialtone:
"Body is excellent,"

These 3 words make it worthwhile to rebuild.

 

Does the $2100.00 include the install? If no, will you be doing it or will you have to pay to have this done?

If your out of pocket cost is $2100.00, and you just want to get 2-3 years out of it, I'd rebuild. You should be able get that much back out of it with a new engine if the body and interior are in good shape. Big advantage to the existing vehicle is that you know the history and know the problems.

 

As long as your still happy with your rig, you answered your own question.
Rebuild it, and keep rebuilding it until it either disappears in a pile of rust or your needs change.

 

The $2100 figure is all inclusive. Drop it off, wait 9-10 business days, and pick up completed vehicle. R&R includes new belts, hoses, steam clean engine compartment and clean/rod out radiator.
Sounds like the kind of job I would do if I were doing it myself.

Thanks so much to all who took the time to answer. Think I will take it down tomorrow and get them started, then go off for a 1-2 week visit to family up state. Should be ready when I get back.

Dialtone

 

I say rebuild it.

 

IF $2100.00 is turn key I'd do it. Where else can you get a vehicle with a new engine for that price assuming everything else is OK.

 

chance are as soon as you get the engine rebuilt the crappy a4ld will take a crap

 

I disagree... I'd say buy a new truck. By the way I'll send you my address and phone number as I just happen to be in the market for a used 91.... just kidding - rebuild for sure. I like blly177's optimism. The A4LD is a piece of crap but since you had a major service done "within the last 2 years" I think you will be OK.

Best of luck. Post again and update us after the job is complete.

 

did you look on autotrader online to make sure of available prices for replacement trucks? some of em are surprisingly cheap if you find the right person looking to sell fast. also you could look into a used truck and an aftermarket warranty that covers the major repairs. otherwise its probably worth it to keep yours and replace the engine. maybe even upgrade with a newer drivetrain from a different newer truck.

 

OK Took the beast in and dropped her off for the engine. I even talked them into changing out the power steering gearbox & hoses if I supplied parts (no charge for additional labor).

My biggest problem was convincing the wife. I talked, she interrupted, then she talked and I listened and then.................well you know how it goes from there, I said that was how it was going to be and she ...............not sure if I will get supper tonight or not.

I have been looking for a replacement truck for almost 2 years with no luck. I live near the Mexican border, so ANYTHING that can be driven off commands a premium price here. Most end up in Mexico or Central/South America. I had a junk yard dealer tell me he cannot keep any small trucks (foreign or domestic) in his lot for parts as people buy up the wrecks for rebuild/parts south of the border.

Will keep you all posted.
Dialtone