GMC Repair: S-10 / Sonoma Engine Question, mileage engine, electronic sensors

Question
Dear Pete,

I own a 1997 Chevrolet S-10 ZR2 pick-up.  My question is in regards to the engine, which has recently expired.  I was wondering if it would be better to rebuild the engine I have, or should I find a low mileage engine to replace it?  I have a source where I believe I can get a reasonably priced 4.3.  Thanks for any suggestions, and I hope to hear from you soon.

Thanks Again,
Simms L. Porter

Answer
NEVER NEVER EVER install a USED engine into ANY vehicle unless you know EXACTLY the COMPLETE HISTORY of the engine.

Don't believe ANY HE SAID or SHE SAID about the engine.

Personally, Unless I knew EVERYTHING, FIRST HAND about the engine you will in MOST cases have continous problems with getting it to run RIGHT.

Either buy a REMANUFACTURED engine from the vehicle maker (GN) or if you can get some EXCELLENT references from a local or out-of-town engine rebuilder, These are the ONLY sources that I would use, UNLESS I was rebuilding it myself.

With the complexity of today's engine, and the numerous electronic sensors if you have NOT replaced one, I would leave it to someone who has.

There have and continue to be to many DISASTERS that I am expected to answer via this board of someone who totally screwed up installing a replacement engine and had PARTS LEFT OVER. OOPPPSSSS.

Obviously the choice is yours to make. I am just givning you YEARS of experience and the problems that can occur.

NEVER purchase or have installed an engine at the BEST PRICE. ALWAYS go with someone with REPUTATION. It may cost more, But you won't be constantly taking it back to fix this and fix that time after time.



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