Buying a DSM with a busted engine

[Ciraeon]

I'm new to the board here, for the simple reason that I came across an offer I couldn't refuse. A Laser up for around $100. Problem is that something's wrong with the engine. A quick question would be that since I'm going to have to get it repaired anyways, would it be wroth my while to perform an engine swap. The car's pushing around 150,000km (somewhere near 95,000mi) anyways...

 

[Rogue9]

Well it all depends if its the engine or something like the wiring that is making the motor not work. You didnt say what type of lazer ( turbo or not) but it might be worth yor while to check the motor out to see if you have anything broken and just do a mild rebuild. Or if you dont have a turbo car and want a turbo car then do a motor swap.

 

[icedearth15]

Exact thoughts I had. If its a non turbo and you want a turbo, do a swap from NA to Turbo. If there is something wrong with the engine internally I would just do a rebuild on it. Why? That why you know what you got under your hood and I think you will have saved money doing it that way if you are plaining on keeping the car a while. And as far as the rebuild I would consider: Valve seals, guides, get it decked....and if you want to go further you can get performance oriented things done such as: Larger valves, port work, beefy valve springs and titanium retainers. As far and the block, while you have it out you might as well throw some higher compression (8.5:1) 2G pistons in there as well as some new rings, all while using some 1g "big rods" (2g pistons will need to be machined to fit the 1g "Big Rods"). New bearings, and top it off with new bearings. But if you do this you are going to have to think about what you want done while your in there and what your goals and power levels are. Its also a great time to get stuff done such as belts (timing, and acc. belts), tensioners, and seals (cam/front/rear Seals). Also if you are just looking do do a mild rebuild like the above poster suggested, Top Line has a great kit I hear. If you are looking into making some power then you may want to also consider come stronger rods (eagles are great for the price). Well, I hope this is going to help you out a little bit. There is a much better post in these forums about rebuilding and what to consider, I will try to post up a link.


Good Luck,
Dave

 

[T_S_I]

BUY IT!!! OK BUY IT!!! first off, u can get more put of the car by parting it out, then a $100 so its a good deal, and that way if u dont part it out then u can get a engine or build it up... is it turbo awd fwd what is the body in good condition?

 

[shashu]

well... $100 bucks.. wouldn't cost that much to swap a used turbo motor in there... then you got yourself a decent car. all depends on if you like it and the condition (rust, dents, tranny, etc)

 

[Ciraeon]

Well, bought it after. Thing is it's registered as scrap (plates are removed) and the person who's selling it has no clue what year it is. So, since I'm new to cars in general, it's a Laser RS, fwd, non-turbo, manual. Newfoundland is high salt, but surprisingly only the two front fenders are showing rust, and the rear left wheelwell is rusted slightly. I think it's got a short-shifter, since the stick is lower than I've seen before, and it's got rear discs which I don't think is normal. I might be wrong on some of the technical aspects, so correct me if you will. I'll take a few photos and post them up as soon as I get the car towed.