Hey, I have been thinking lately, it seems like I fix one problem, and another arises, as of right now I'm broken down completely and haven't been able to drive it for about a month now. So my question, I have been thinking maybe its time to rebuild this tired, 27...almost 28 year old engine. I called around and the cheapest price I have found is 1300$ IF I TAKE THE ENGINE OUT AND BRING IT TO THE SHOP. If I bring the whole car down it is 1300$ for the rebuild, and an extra 1300 for the install/un install of the engine, which includes all new fluids and filters (woo hoo ) Every where else just seems to be a bit more expensive, the next cheapest is 1500$ and he only works on the engine, he wont take it out for me so I would have to do it. I'm in northern california and its an 83 z28 with a stock 305. Do these prices sound fair or should I just think about buying a new crate motor since it wont be a whole lot more expensive?

 

a crate engine from a reputable place is a good option, but a rebult by a local shop (who know what they are doing) is not a bad deal either.

There is a lot of work involved in removing, rebuilding and reinstalling an engine. Those prices seem fair to me, honestly, maybe even a little low.

Since you are in cali, you are a bit limited to replacement engines since you have to pass smog and visual inspections.

If you go the route of a crate, make damn sure you research the company you are getting it from and the builder. Many out there have a very bad rep for making crap engines. The same can be said about having a shop rebuild it. Make sure the place is reputable and will stand behind their work (warranty).