Thanks for the reminder. I keep forgetting about startekinfo. I'll do just that.

$1750 seems like a damn good price for an entire good engine.

Who is LKQ?

LKQ

They have a very nice pull a parts place in Savannah and have always been a good place to do business.

Over half way there with "new" engine and transmission bolted back in the car. Will probably get it all buttoned up over next few days. Only surprise was realizing the transmission has it's own ground strap.

car is back in operation
 

Replacement engine seems to be a good one. No smoke, smooth, starts easily and runs out good. The oil level sensor on the old engine was new so I replaced it on the "new" engine. Took a peek inside the engine and it was spotless:). Now if I could just get the a/c going - another thread. Oh yea, I found out which of the transmission hoses at the radiator is the line from the transmission - it is the top one;).

Congrats! Now you can get rid of the eyesore lurking behind the engine in your garage. ;)

btw - just a q on the M112 engine there, mine starts with a strange rattle, like its dry, then goes quiet after half a second. I had a dealer look at it and also 2 indy mechanics - both say that its good. One even showed me another similar engine vehicle (ML) whose engine sounded exactly like mine.

Do these sound like that?

The eyesore behind engine is next in line. Seems to be something going on not allowing valves in #2 cylinder not to close. Plans are to pull the head on it. It is a customer's car.

This is normal for the M112. The hydraulic lash adjusters bleed down when the engine sits. They take a second to pump up when started. It's normal, and it's harmless.