My son bought a nice looking 2005 GT with some upgrades done to it. supposed to be only 83k miles on it...but the guy lied. there is over 200k miles on the engine and it's starting to have tapping noises. local mechanic says the compressor is weak and the engine needs replacement. so we are discussing some options on how to proceed. I told my son that there is most probably someone on this forum that's been there and done that and can offer some help.

option 1) order a rebuild engine with a warranty for $2500-3300.

option 2) buy a used engine off ebay or LKQ for $1299-1499 and take our chances.

option 3) go coyote and spend some money. I know it involves a wiring harness that is pricey too. a local guy has a coyote engine with transmission for $3k. no idea if it's got a ton of miles on it though.

option 4) get a different engine that will fit with some minor mods and improve horsepower. 5.4L?

what say you guys?

 

And Yes my son plans on keeping the car forever so he wants to repaint and spend the money to fix or upgrade the engine.

I'm guessing that 200k miles is just a tad much for a rebuild?

 

200K is nothing for a rebuild, as long as the block is not cracked or have a window in it from a thrown rod, your fine for rebuild terriroty, It may need to be sleeved depending on the wear, but usually not, just a hone with fresh pistons and rings.
There's also the option of rebuild the block you have.but beyond the basic items in the block (rings, pistons, bearings, rods/sleeves if necessary), there are the heads, at the minimum a valve job, but plenty of things that could be refurbished there. on the front side the oil pump gears, water pump, timing chain, tensioner and guides. then you get into the accessories: that may or may not need to be replaced/refurbished... almost best to just replace them when they go rather than be proactive... A/C compressor, alternator, serpentine belt.

One piece of advice, while the engine is out, paint the engine bay, if it's a forever car, that little bit will really let it shine.

 

We aren't really in a position to do the rebuild ourselves but it's good to know it's an option. I guess we should be looking for a mechanic who specializes in rebuild with upgrades for more HP. thanks for the reply.

 

Option 1 is probably your best bet. By the time you add parts and labor to rebuild your existing engine, the cost will be about the same and you won't have a warranty.
While the engine bay is empty, you could have it repainted and have the AC compressor rebuilt (or replace it). Before installing the new engine, you could use the opportunity to bolt on a pair of long tube headers and add new engine mounts.

 

I'm curious as to how you know the car has 200K+ miles? Sorry, I'd either sell the car for what I could get out of it or get another built engine... if you're not into rebuilding engines.