Should I have the engine replaced or just fix what is wrong with it?

Question

Its a 1994 Pontiac Sunbird V6 3.1L. I just had the oil pressure sender replaced but that didnt help. The engine gets hot quick, and the oil pressure gets low. Should I replace the oil pump or just have a rebuilt engine installed? I am willing to spend the money if it is worth it!

Answer 1

A rebuild will cost ya $ 1500 - $1900. Try to find a crashed car wth a good engine to put in your 13 yr old car for the best Value.

Answer 2

I have no clue how this engine has been maintained.

If it's been neglected, you may have an undue amount of rust built up in the block, perhaps even blockage in the crucial distribution gallery.

On the other hand, if you simply replace the engine, you may find that the radiator is the culprit responsible for the overheating issue, and the replacement engine may also overheat!

Since you have an overheating problem, your best course of action would be to get to a COMPETENT radiator repair shop (check the Bureau of Automotive Repair and Better Business Bureau) and have it checked for flow. You can do this yourself by disconnecting the bottom hose and run your garden hose into the top and see how much flow you get out the bottom.

If your radiator flows ok (but I think you'll find it won't), then your engine is a candidate for replacement. If it doesn't flow, that's where you need to start.

As far as your oil pressure issue, older cars need thicker oil. If your user's manual calls for 5w30, step up to a 10w40 or even a 15w50 at your next oil change. If this doesn't bring the oil pressure up to an acceptible level, then you may be in the market for a replacement engine.

If your radiator needs replaced and the overheating problem is resolved, but the thicker oil doesn't help the pressure issue, you might try replacing the oil pump if the engine has been good about not burning oil, but if the engine is old enough to wear out an oil pump, chances are the toleranced parts in the engine are getting pretty tired too.

If you do decide to replace the engine, you may want to try car-part.com for a replacement. Wrecking yards always sell their best stuff first, you'll get the lowest mileage tightest engine they have, and it may even have a factory build (always better than a rebuilt).

Good luck and God bless.
.

Answer 3

Have the pump check. Engine flush and new oil. May be clog.. How many Miles shown? Is it burning oil, is there a leak? Does it heats because of oil, or maybe coolant temp.?1994, 13 yrs. water plug on block OK? Worn piston rings? If a check up shows any sign of worn parts, heavily worn, then replace engine, check best given guarantee. If not, repair. DO NOT SAY REPLACE ENGINE IF====as this is a hint, lets sell the entire engine, the shoppeee will think.

Answer 4

Steve,
That is hard to say. You didn't mention how many miles are on the old engine. Since the engine is 13 years old, I would think it has some miles on it.

Have a mechanic check it out and run a compression test on the cylinders. If all that is wrong with it is the oil pump, then replace the pump and drive it longer. If the readings on the test aren't that good, you can either get a used engine, or rebuild the one you have. You will have to decide on how long you want to keep this car. If you are about ready to trade, then do as little as you can to get rid of it.

Answer 5

i would suggest a rebuilt engine as a last resort if your engine oil pressure is low. buy some gear oil at your local walmart put it in with your oil that will boost up your oil pressure. put the entire thing of gear oil in with your regular oil. if its getting hot its probably your radiator check the water and anti-freeze levels. if you use the gear oil trick you will probably have to empty out a quart of oil if its got the correct amount of oil in it. then you will just have to add it as it needs it when your oil pressure gets low then add a little more gear oil. but i must warn you you cannot have straight gear oil in your engine it will mess it up but as long as its mixed with regular oil then your fine. oh and check your fan make sure its turning on when it gets hot if not that may be a problem and it may need replaced. also that would cause it to get hot while idling but when traveling down the interstate its fine. oh and another thing check you belts make sure everything is properly running for the most part. and it should run with gear oil. and i would recommend doing that before you decide to have a rebuilt or replace the engine its must cheaper go with the cheapest things first. oh and by the way check your thermostat look it up on the internet with yahoo or something and you should be able to figure that out the thermostat could cause it to over heat.

Answer 6

A rebuilt engine should not be purchased with out a t12000 mile waranty that 99% of rebuilt engines come with.

I would forgo the hit or miss on a 94 that you want to keep for another 4 years as the new engine will put new life into the car..

Go for the engine...

Answer 7

If your estimate for an engine repair is over $1500, consider replacing your engine. Also you may want to get an opinion from another technician.

Answer 8

I would replace the engine. You can find cheap rebuilt 3.1. There are everywhere. I'm didn't last long ether. Put a 3.8 in :)

Answer 9

i would find whats wrong with it might be a head gasket ,wouldny go as far as a rebuild ,how many miles .try the oil pump ,you said it get hott and low oil presser,,work on what causing the low oil presser,that why it get hott,so try the oil pump but rement to prime the pump use vasilem to prime it ,,good luck

Answer 10

Check cooling system for proper operation first, might be just a bad thermostat or clogged radiator. If it's more it could be a bad head gasket or cracked block. If it's a cracked block you might be best off with anew long block and go from there.