Rebuild engine or go with used?

My 67 GT has finally decided it wants a rebuild. By all opinions, I think I lost a rod bearing yesterday (LOUD knocking, no power, low/no oil pressure).

First thought was a complete rebuild long block.

Next thought was how much $$ would a "decent" (hah!) used engine go for? And of course, how to find a "decent one".

Any ideas as to the cost difference between a full rebuild and a "decent" used engine?

This is for my 67 GT daily driver, so I'm not looking for anything special as far as performance or show is concerned.

Thanks for the thoughts....

Dave

I picked up two decent used engines for about $150, total. YOu can check with the local clubs and internet classifieds, and prbably find a good used engine for less than $500. A rebuild will cost much more than that. Parts alone can run over $800. Then there is the machine work.

drop in a used engine and then rebuild the GB block in your own time for the experience. try and stay with an earlier block. I think the RBs had different mounts and they can be pita to retro.

I have a 1975 block as my spare to rebuild. How different is it other than the mounts? ( I have a 1974 CB)? :)

I picked up a very clean rebuilt engine, with about 40k miles on it for $400. I mean clean. You could eat off the valve train, and he didn't clean it up for me either. Only
"problem" is a leaking rear main seal....easy fix.

I made out well, and he even delivered. I got this from a club member, so that is the route to go if you can.

I'm not sure when the change happened, but the earlier engines have a protrusion cast in the LH side of the block that interferes with the rubber bumper style engine mount. It's not a problem if you're putting a "newer" engine in an "older" car, but it does cause a problem for the opposite. Does that make sense? At any rate, to use a 74.5 or newer engine in an older car (or vice versa), you have to change the front plate on the engine. In my opinion, none of this is a serious enough problem to pass up a good used engine. If the engines good get it and we can walk you through the changes.

You live near Glenn Towery in Delaware, he has built and sold lots of MGB engines.
Glenn Towery, Dover De. U.S.A., mgv8glen@bellatlantic.net
Getting a used engine is a gamble unless you know it's history.

Clifton

Hello Clifton -

Thanks for the lead.

I'll give Glenn a call.

Thanks!

Dave

Looks like Clifton may come through for ya. I would rebuild with a reputable shop that can get you in and out in a few weeks. I would stray away from the guys that say, "Well, I could get around to it." Just ask Skye about those guys. Drive a rental for a few weeks or better yet car pool if possible. It'll be worth it to get it done sooner than later. MGB's have a way of getting pushed aside if they are in "rebuild stage". Also, any money you put into a non-running MG will easily be recouperated down the line. A fresh motor is the best resale value!

HTH!