Another opinion thread.

[unlinkedeclipse]

Going in for an engine rebuild. Not mandatory, just upgrading. Would it be cheaper for me to buy the rods, bearings, pistons, rings, cams, and MLS gasket, and just pay for the labor, or just have them buy the parts too?

 

[dieseltech]

It depends. Shops make their profit off of the parts. Labor pays wages and keeping the lights on. I know sometimes shops add extra time on if a customer brings in his own parts. To be honest I myself do not like it. It's probably going to be cheaper for you but you also might risk pissing the owner/tech off. I know it might not seem right but it's not much different than going to Burger King with your own meat and buns and condiments and asking them to cook it for you. ha, that would be funny. Most shops will say they don't mind, but if every customer did that they would be out of business. Let the shop make some money off of you and support your local economy or wherever your having your work done. If needed specify the brands that you want them to use, they should be more than happy to accomidate you! Never hassel them about how long it's taking. Making them rush only leads to leftover parts and a not so perfect job

 

[unlinkedeclipse]

Well a big part of it is I was planning on buying the parts over time, and when I finally had compiled them all, take it all in. But maybe just saving and having them do it would be better. Any averages on how much beefing up a 4g63 lke that would be in-shop?

 

[GST with PSI]

I would let the shop do the work and supply the parts. Most shops when ordering parts and recommending parts to customers, refer to those they are familiar with. Shops will install and use parts they are familiar with, thus improving the reliability of not so much the parts themselves, but the way they were installed. I don't think throwing a bunch of parts in a perfect strangers hands, and trusting your car's well being on it is a good idea. I would let the shop pick the parts, or find a shop that specializes, or at least is familiar with installing the parts you buy.

 

[unlinkedeclipse]

What does it usually run to get this done?

 

[GST with PSI]

Well, you pay for what you get most of the time. This applies to parts and labor/workmanship. Plan on spending in the $2000 dollar range with parts and labor added.

 

[boosted-dsm]

buy the parts your self so you get just want you want.. andthey wont try n rip you off. just have them pay for labor.

what are your plans with the rebuild?

 

[unlinkedeclipse]

Pretty much a full on rebuild. New cams, pistons, rings, gasket, crankshaft, valves, bearings, and rods. Might as well do it right right?