Possible 6 bolt swap, opinions needed

[Quicksilvergsx]

I'm planning on rebuilding my engine in my 98 GSX. I have found a 91 tsi locally that they are parting out. It has a melted piston. But the rest of the car is in good condition. He said he would sell the whole car for 800. But all I was really thinking about getting is the engine. Maybe even just the block. I was just wondering if an engine with a melted piston can usually be fixed with just boring a little? Also what should I expect to pay for the entire engine, or even just the block? Any input would be helpful, Thanks.

 

[freshlane]

i would just buy the whole car. You could part it out yourself and probably not end up spending anything. But, for the motor id say >200 since you do not know if he is telling the truth or not

 

[brute]

In my opinion, buying that car and/or motor would be a large risk. Like stated, you don't know if he's telling the full truth. Just think if you bought the motor, pulled it apart, and found out the block has been so severely damaged that you cannot bore it. You'll never know what a motor needs until you take it apart. Assume nothing. You don't want to be spending more fixing the motor than it's worth. These engines are dime-a-dozen, so keep your eyes peeled and you'll find a better deal.

 

[Quicksilvergsx]

The guy has the head off the engine so I would be able to see the damage. So I should be able to tell if it is fixable or not. Can anyone describe the kind of damage that would let me salvage the block?

 

[Quicksilvergsx]

I ended up getting the tb, intake, head, block, exhaust manifold, turbo with all lines, and bov for $400. The melted piston cylinder appears to have very little cylinder damage. Does $400 sound like a good price for all that?