1990 350SDL Cracked Water Jacket??

[davis_321]

I own a 1990 350SDL w/150,000 mi that recently leaked coolant and caused it to overheat. A mechanic said it is probably a leaking water jacket and the motor is probably junk but have not done a teardown to see if that is the problem for sure. Does anyone have any suggestions or experience with this. The mechanic said it was "normal" with this engine but it would cost $8000 to replace motor. I love car and would like to keep it. Can this motor be replaced easily with another cheaper, more reliable engine easily(any brand)?? I would like to convert it or the new motor to SVO so a engine that converts well to that would be great. Not sure where to go from here so looking for any/all suggestions. Thanks.

davis_321
Cale