Worth Fixing?

[Nadrek]

Hey guys,

Just got some bad news. My 05 XLT 4wd 4.0SOHC (144k miles) developed an engine Knock while out running errands last Saturday. Just got the confirmation from the shop that the engine is toast. They want $3800 to put in a used engine with 112k miles. They claim rebuilding it would cost more then the used replacement.

Trying to get some opinions on whether I should get it fixed or just scrap it? I figure its worth somewhere around $4000 if it was running. With the history of these engines I dont know if its worth putting a used one in for that kind of money just to potentially run into more problems not far down the road.

So what do you guys think?

Thanks,
Steve

 

[IPcamper]

Tough call, how much to do like the Explorer? If you do go with a used engine, replace the timing components before you put it in.

 

[lincolnshibuya]

I see a lot of 4.0 in the junkyard, if you see a 4.6 or 5.4 the engine (or the whole front end) is already gone. if you go with a used one have the tensioners, intake manifold and harmonic balancer replaced before putting in.

 

[silverfox103]

With the history of these engines I dont know if its worth putting a used one in for that kind of money just to potentially run into more problems not far down the road.

I think you answered your own question, Steve.

I don't think it's worth fixing for $3800, for an engine with 112K on it. In fact I know it isn't, that's crazy money. I would shop around, first for a new mechanic and then for a used engine. I would say getting a good used engine from a wreck and having it installed, should be no more than $1200. I don't think I'd spend any more than that on your car.

Tom

 

[Tech By Trade]

Knock you say? Or was it a death rattle? If it was still running you could probably do the timing yourself for about 1200 bucks. Most shops wont touch it, they will want to do a drop in instead.

 

[2Trux]

A rebuild might cost more but you are getting more. When you factor in the chain replacement it may be a wash.
My test for if it is worth keeping: Do I still like it, could I buy another one for the cost of the repair that has had the repair done, and is it worth the risk that other parts may go bad.
Don't forget that buying another used vehicle brings its own risk of problems.
The price seems high to me too, but that varies depending on where you live.

(edit)A little research shows you can find a lower mileage motor for under $1800, which is $2000 for the R&R, that seems crazy high.

 

[Tech By Trade]

15hrs shop time 1 way according to the ford book. I was quoted 5k up here. That's why I did it myself.

 

[2Trux]

15hrs shop time 1 way according to the ford book. I was quoted 5k up here. That's why I did it myself.

Wow that's a jaw dropper. Since I don't take my trucks to shops I had no idea prices had gotten this crazy. "DIY and save" is a true statement. You can buy a lot of tools and equipment for 5K.

 

[imp]

When I was an ARCO Dealer in Vegas, 1972, my labor rate was $10 per hour. I was floored to hear, years later (I was in the ARCO only a year), that labor at dealers was over $100! Today, it may be double that, even!

WTH is going on? Other than I'm getting mighty old......imp

 

[Nadrek]

Thanks for the feedback guys, appreciate it!

Doing it myself is not an option. I'm an autobody guy, not a mechanic. I can do the simple things but swapping engines is way above my pay grade. As far as the price for the repair goes I'm at the mercy of the shops. I made a call to another shop, explained that I need a quote for a used engine/installation and they where at $3800. None of those prices include changing out timing components either. And to answer Tech by Trade, it is a knock, not a rattle like I hear in all the timing chain videos.

They thing that gets me is that while it has a knock (and getting worse) it still drives great. I know its just a matter of time until it lets go but just seems strange thinking about junking something thats still running.

Right now I'm leaning toward scrapping it. Just not looking forward to a car payment again. How does a person go about getting rid of a vehicle with a blown engine?


Steve

 

[silverfox103]

Put it on CraigsList. You never know, it might be exactly what someone is looking to find. Emphasize the good points, maybe interior, exterior and relatively low mileage.

Tom

 

[dmenke]

Steve,

Can you send me some pictures, and a starting number to buy? I am in the same boat, but with a trans...I may be interested...