Mitsubishi Repair: 2001 3.0L Time to Make a big decision, interference engine, chrysler sebring


Question
Hello, I have a 2001 Chrysler Sebring w/ the 3.0L Mitsubishi engine. I have a big problem and am looking for some input. I had the timing belt & pulleys replaced at 90K. Unfortunately when it was re-installed, one of the brackets that holds one of the pulleys had two bolts of different lengths that were put into the wrong holes. 17K later it finally let go causing the assembly to jar loose and off came the belt. Of course, it is an interference engine and has definitely bent the valves. I was wondering if anybody has had any success or experience with doing a complete valve job and it going back together successfully on these motors. Or is it time to start looking for a different engine? I'm sure there aren't many problems out there with these motors that would result in a valve job being necessary. I am very meticulous about my maintenance, too picky at times I am told. I do everything usually before the recommended mileage. I run BG full synthetic 0W30 oil with MOA additive. I have done crankcase flushes as well. I am hoping that this will have kept the bottom end in good condition, even at 107,000 miles. Any input would be great, I just want to make a wise decision and definately want to get my car back on the road. Thanks for your time and look forward to your response.

Answer
Marie: I don't think anyone can be to picky on the up keep of a car, when you think what that car costs you and how long you want to keep it on the road. What of the shop or person that put those bolts in the holes; will they not stand behind their work and so help you with this? I have to tell you, work mostly on older cars with the engines of 1.8L and 2.0L but these are older cars yes, but I know people that have overhauled these engines and things have turned out great. 90K is not a lot of miles when I work on cars with over 165,000 miles and one of those cars has a rebuilt engine in it. Due to the timing belt breaking and messing up the valves at or around 98K. You could check around at junk yards to get another engine but with that you have no idea how that person took care of it. You on the other hand has taken great care of the one you had. It was not your fault that someone did not read their repair manual very good and put those bolts in the wrong holes. I would get the engine you have now in your car, rebuilt. Because of the great care that you have taken of it. But I think I would ask who ever does this for you, to read up on their repair manual and make sure they do it right! Never let anyone tell you, you are to picky because you can never be to picky with the care of your car. Hope this helps and good luck!