I found a used 351w locally for $800.00. The seller claims that the engine has 15,000 miles on a rebuilt top end. It is not in a car at this time. He replaced the motor with a crate racing engine and is selling this one. The used engine has a few things I want on mine. Namely an Edelbrock 600cfm carb and Edelbrock Performer intake and Petronix Igniter II. Also included is a stock distributor and 8mm Accell wires. I was going to buy these new for the engine I found and since this one comes with them already, I see a huge savings. Best pricing I have found for these items comes to at least $600.00. He is also including the heavy duty engine stand that the block is on. These start at $100 around here new.

So it looks like a pretty good deal to me. At this point, I would be spending a comfortable $700 for the parts and stand anyway. So, in theory, I am getting a complete used engine for like $100.00. Right?

Anyway, without the engine in the car, how do you check to see if it is good?
The plugs are new, so can’t check them.
The oil appears standard, blackish/dark brown. No sign of water.
Pulled the valve covers, looks pretty clean, again oil in this area looks standard.
Engine does turn by hand.

What else can I look for to verify that the engine is ok without tearing the thing apart? Or should I not worry about it for the price knowing I could rebuild it if needed, and at $100 who cares?

Your input is appreciated.
-Rich

 

A used motor that is not in a car running
is worth a lot less than one that can be tested.
With all the stuff on it you want I would offer
only $500 and would expect that he would be glad to get
rid of the boat anchor.

 

Stick a starting motor on it & do a compression check. And/or used a compressor & do a leakdown test.

And yea, lowball the guy for sure. See if he'll take $500

 

Got the engine for $500.
Will take off the heads and see exactly what I have to work with.

Thanks,
-Rich