Cadillac Repair: Do I Have to replace engine with another Northstar?, head gasket problems, head gaskets

Question
Hey,


I have a 94 Concours with a 4.6L VIN Y which actually came out of a 95.  Engine has blown head gaskets, and i cant find anyone willing to fix it yet in the Baltimore area.  So i'm guessing my next option is replace the engine. But I'm also aware NorthStars are notorious for head gasket problems, so my ? is; is it at all possible to replace the motor with a different brand? or maybe the 4.9L Cadillac engine for the Devilles? and if so, what will the change require? like new mounts? customizing? etc?

Answer
AJ,
You pose an interesting question. I feel your pain too but, you ARE in an interesting position. The '94 Deville DID come with either a 4.9 or 4.6 engine depending on what model you ordered. The base Deville got the 4.9 while the pricier Concours came with the 4.6 Northstar. So must believe that doing what you suggest IS possible. The question is, whether it's worth the effort? I would think that a reasonably talented mechanic could do the swap for you as long as a base Deville could be found as a donor car for the parts needed.