Cost for the rebuild of a 4.9L 300 V8 engine

[maseusmc]

Hello,

I'm in need of help. I purchased a 1965 Buick Skylark from a friend of my earlier this year. I took it to a mechanic in early April and was given a price quote of roughly $2500 to rebuild my engine. So I paid $1300 up front so that the stop could get started. Today, 11/07/2013 I spoke to the mechanic and he told me that It would cost $2500 to finish the project. I wanted to know if someone could help me out. What is average cost to rebuild a 300c/ V8/ 4.9L engine?

Thanks,
Mason
maseusmc@gmail.com

[bob k. mando]

sounds shady. there's no way a basic rebuild/refresh takes 6 months. you're getting booted to the back of the line for some reason.

has he stated that there have been extenuating circumstances or unforeseen problems like a blown head gasket? more importantly, did you get written estimate with a detailed breakdown of what was to be done?

where are you at? we may be able to recommend a local Buick specialist. if you can't find a Buick guy, a Land Rover guy should be able to help you out ... even if he isn't aware of it.

you did get a receipt for your downpayment, yes?

[maseusmc]

I did get a receipt and the engine is currently broken down. He told me today that the cam shaft was not straight and he had to get a new one from his contact. Plus he told me that I would still have to use a lead additive every time I fill up with unleaded gas. I'm by far not a mechanic but I do think once the heads are ported? And sealed I should be good with regular gas.. Please correct me if I'm wrong. I'm stationed in Quantico VA and I live in Stafford VA.

[maseusmc]

_{just an update, i finally got my car back. The engine runs and I'm good with the results. I actually drove it in reverse in my driveway. the brakes are no good but it run. I used the E-brake to stop it. Next step is getting the radiator fixed this weekend. It has a leak in it.}

[bob k. mando]

i'm glad you got it back, but holy crap! an entire year + for a rebuild?

here's hoping the rest of your resto goes smoothly.

[65specialconvert]

I know it's too late for you but maybe someone else reading the thread needs one.17K mile original for $450.00
http://spokane.craigslist.org/pts/4498087651.html

[maseusmc]

I'm trying to go forwarded with the restro but do to my knowledge on this car I'm going pretty slow I just took off the old radiator .. The old upper and lower radiator hoses weren't removed and had a build up of rust in both. The person the fixed the engine could had told me and I could have just fedex him the parts to include the thermostat w/gasket, new radiator, and condenser. I didn't want to have the engine start off with rusty hoses.. Plus there is a belt missing off the AC (a least I think its the AC) and I need to buy a new air cleaner and the 1965 service book and beer. Advice advice advice...

Gunny Greene

[bob k. mando]

wow. i've driven through Kettle Falls. and that engine shore do look purty.

makes me leery that the guy was trying to sell that engine for $1000 though. he's also out of his mind if he thinks it's got 325hp.

possibly just applying some 'advanced sales techniques' ( mark up price so you can put it on sale, talk up the good points of the merch ) but he could just be a bullshit artist.

[bob k. mando]

and I need to buy a new air cleaner and the 1965 service book and beer. Advice advice advice...



here's the 1966 Chassis Manual:
http://www.teambuick.com/reference/library/66_chassis/


as far as the rust, get some old pantyhose, cut off one leg ( with no hole in it ) and put the toe into the inlet side of the radiator. bring ~3" out of the nipple and pull it back on the neck like a sock. when you attach the hose, the clamp will hold it in place.

this will make a good screen for scale and rust that you can pull out after a week or so of running the car.

[maseusmc]

thanks I will use that advice. I'm having a issue with connecting my new Spectra Premium Radiator. The original transmission lines are not long enough to contact. What are some options I have at this point? Take it back and buy a different radiator?