So to start off I have been in the market for upgrading my motor for some time now. I am looking to upgrade my long block and I just wanted to ask those that have experience with this, have any of you ever bought (or know someone who has) a used substantially modified motor from anyone?

If so how has it treated you? Was it as they had described?

I have been eye balling some motors, but I am reluctant because my tuner said he has never seen/had a good experience when a customer has bought a used race motor.

The reason I am contemplating this, is I could save myself a substantial amount of coin and also have the car up and running, as it is currently down.

Let me know what you guys think! Thanks.

 

I wouldn't. Unless the shop is selling an older motor that was used and replaced with something else, but usually motors are pulled and sold for good reason, and you don't want them unless you have the $$ to invest

 

Building yourself is obviously more costly but you'll get so much more out of it.

 

If I knew the owner and history, was able to hear it running and compression test it, I'd think about it at the right price

 

Buying a used race motor is a lot like buying a used clutch which in turn is like like buying a used condom. Sure it might work but YECH!

 

These are all unfair assumptions. I sold my Evo IX with close to 100 passes on the track (25miles of hard driving) and 26k miles on the car in almost 4 years. My friend now has 58k on the car and another 60 or so passes. Same motor and has only swapped the clutch once (exedy twin). When I owned the car it never seen boost except the track. I drove it like a NA car pretty much no need to be on the gas to speed up. That's how I have driven all of my Evos. So yes its possible to get a race engine/ car that is better then most. Most people change oil after track days not based on miles on the car, most race engine owners are always looking over and checking the engine for any signs of failure. I know some that rebuild after 10-15 passes. My advice is to buy from someone you know or a shop with a good reputation.

 

^ there's always going to be exceptions, but is it really worth the risk? Not usually. You're going to invest the same amount of money anyways if there is an issue, so why not be there from the ground up?

Was your car built or a stock motor car?

 

Buying used/raced motor to save money is not a good idea.

 

It depends on the price. If you know the tune was good, you could save on a lot of good parts. Rods, crank, cylinder head work, valvetrain, cams, etc are usually still good to go as long the motor doesn't pop (break a piston/rod, lose a bearing, etc). And if it needs a refresh from normal wear, expect about $2k for machine work, pistons, bearings, gaskets, etc..

 

And this is exactly why I would rather sell my used shortblock as it is. I know once I have it rebuilt it will be hard to find someone who will want it. Everyone wants there guy to do all the work and also they will be looking for the CR they want.
If I build it it will be what it is and a hard sell at that.....

 

Once again, if you know what you are doing and what to look for, there are deals to be had. However, if you really know what you are doing, you probably don't have to post threads like this.

The fact that you can buy a built engine "only slightly used" for a lot less $$ than the same engine costs brand new should tell you something.

 

I recommend building it yourself...the peace of mind outweighs the cost by a mile!

 

if you are good enough to do 100% of the wrenching yourself take apart the motor and inspect it's contents, then use buy it. Otherwise no.