Nissan Repair: exhaust manifold problems, mileage engine, manifold problems

Question
Hello, Today I dropped my 95 pathfinder se off to have the exhaust manifolds replaced. Yes I miss the recall by Nissan. I was quoted 525.00 to replace both manifolds. I supplied parts.

I received a call from the repair shop telling me that they found rusted studs that they could not drill out and that they would have to remove the heads to have the studs removed and the holes retreaded.

they said the total cost would be $1250 including the parts that I supplied. I told them to stop work. then I went to the Internet and found out that I could purchase a engine with 76000 miles for about the same price. the engine that's in the truck right now has 167000 miles on it.

Would you consider replacing the engine if you were me or would you spend the cash on repairing the manifolds.

If you suggest to replace the engine. can you give me some information on the cost to swamped the engines and what problems that could arise from doing this. Could they use the timing belt and water pump from my old engine as the are only three month old.

the engine I have in my truck right now runs well no misses or anything just the manifold problems.

Answer
Darryl,

EIther way you are going to go is the same cost but if you get the other engine you will probably have to replace the bolts and manifolds on it anyway.  What is the cost going to be to remove your engine to put the other one in?  Yes, it is smart to go with the lower mileage engine so I would go with the new engine and then you will have a spare for down the road.  And, plenty of parts to scavange for later.