I may need a new engine, 175k and blown head gasket. Do I repair or replace? If I replace what engines can I swap in and out, no modifications? How much work? Estimate of hours and cost?

Greatly appreciate advice and help with this issue. This is a great truck and I would rather put a few bucks in tan try and buy another. Symtoms below.

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Here is what happens. Truck starts Ok, warms up and there is some heat, warm, in 5 minutes or so. In about another 5 minutes the temp goes to the middle and the heat goes cold. Then 5 minutes later the temp gauge goes all the way up for 5 to 10 seconds then drops to normal and the heat comes back very hot.
I am losing antifreeze and the drivers wheel well appears to be sprayed with anti freeze, no visable leak or fluid on the ground. If I leave the Pressure cap off while the truck is normal temp there is some back pressure pushing some coolant out.
No oil in coolant of coolant in oil. Truck runs fine, no issues except this problem.
What do you think? I am all ears. One more thing, the car never overheats, ever. I replaced the thermostat last year when it stuck open and the truck ran cool. It does misfire from time to time, but not in a few weeks, not during this recent events.

A friend mentioned the head gasket, I know it is possible but I am not sold yet. Could it be something else. If it is a head gasket how is the repair? What would be a decent price? Should I rebuilt or replace the engine? Help !!!<!-- google_ad_section_end --><!-- / message -->

 

look at your tailpipe for signs of coolant.
could be air in the cooling system or just over full.
a pressure test of the cooling system will usually tell if its leaking.
or compression test on the cylinders.

 

thanks, definitly air in the cooling system, but where is it coming from? Where could it come from?

 

There are several reasons for trapped air,
1) improper coolant refill and/or flush,
2) bad coolant tank cap,
3) leaks in hoses and/or clamps,
4) leak in heater control valve, or
5) blown head gasket.

 

Moved from Testing forum...signatures, avatars, etc...

 

Just a thought, check the radiator hoses, especially the drives side. Check it while under pressure.

 

i blew an engine at 20k. they gave me a rebuilt and i swear its so much a better engine. i had them tighten up the shifts. if u do need a new engine go for the rebuilt. just my two cents. (copper pennies)