So when does a Metric Motors Engine make sense? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

NoSparkNeeded · #1 06-13-2010, 06:18 PM

For a long block? That seems like an awful lot. I've built balanced and blue-printed Chevy hot rod motors for quite a bit less. What is it about the 617 that is so expensive? Is the long block brand new? I'd guess if you supply a core, that it is not. Good machine shop work costs the same as a Chevy. I wonder what parts are replaced with brand new ones? Just what do you get for eight grand?

Jeremy5848 · #2 06-13-2010, 06:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NoSparkNeeded

For a long block? That seems like an awful lot. I've built balanced and blue-printed Chevy hot rod motors for quite a bit less. What is it about the 617 that is so expensive? Is the long block brand new? I'd guess if you supply a core, that it is not. Good machine shop work costs the same as a Chevy. I wonder what parts are replaced with brand new ones? Just what do you get for eight grand?

Yes, plus $500 core charge! The Metric Motors web site describes what they do. Remember that these are Los Angeles prices.

Even worse, the 603 engine is $8900 plus $1200 core!

The warranty is pretty good (given that you would have to pull the engine and return it to them, presumably at your expense):

"1983 - Current 4 years or 50,000 miles
PRE 1974 18 months unlimited mileage
1974-1982 3 years or 36,000 miles
Type 601, 602, 603 3 years or 36,000 miles."

A couple of years ago I had a local shop quote me $2500 to rebuild my 603 engine, including R&R. They probably replace parts only if they're badly worn or damaged; Metric probably replaces (for example) pistons whether they need it or not. If they use a lot of new factory parts, that would partly explain the high prices.

Jeremy

NoSparkNeeded · #3 06-13-2010, 07:10 PM

My view of things has changed over the years. Once, I always wanted the best deal, always. In the past it seemed there were LOTS of competent business people vying for the same job. Now I struggle to find someone to
provide what I need, at ANY price. So I guess sometimes, if I can rely on
a vendor I'll pay a premium, but only IF they are consistently reliable on a long term basis,hehhe, i.e., once you are "in" I'll pay the price. I wonder if you had a problem, MM would really fix it no problem? If so, then perhaps
the price is fair. It's about 40% high imho. I never pay for an extra warranty
on anything. I guess MM includes it in the price. I'm not knocking their business model. If they are honest, I'd look into them, if I needed a motor,
however, since if they fail, I still have to take out and ship a whole motor, at my expense, and put another one back, I might as well just buy 3 junkyard
motors and take a chance,hehe.