I am not sure whether I should be happy or I am in for a major headache. I got this car free from a co-worker who does not want to spend anymore money on this car.

It is a 1991 420SEL with 171K miles. To date, he'd replaced the computer (4yrs ago) , rebuilt transmission (6 months ago), AC (2yrs), Radiator (2mo), Tires (3mos), sunroof, o2 sensor, battery last month and ect. Also the car was repainted a little more than a year ago. He gets so sick of the car that he does not want to deal with it anymore after recent incident.

Here is the damage. From looking at the pictures, I guess the rail or the tensioner failed and cause the timing chain to get loose and broke a piece off the valve cover. I do not think the chain is brokent because I tried to get it out but I could not. I have removed the engine but have not had the time to open it up to see the extent of the damage.

What can you tell just from looking at the pictures? Any educated guess is much appreciated. Am I better off rebuilding this engine? or just buy a used engine?

Thanks in advance.

Attached Thumbnails

   

__________________
1991 420SEL Project Car (Completed and rides beautifully) http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=112321
2000 BMW 740IL
2000 Integra Type R - Track Car - SOLD
2005 S2000 - Track Car
06 C230 Sport
89 560SL