rebuilt engine

[Author nameAuthor names are only available to PAS members.]

I’ve been offered a rebuilt ’29 engine, complete with manifold, distributor, water pump, starter motor, generator and fan. Rebuilt about 10 years ago and mounted all assembled on a rolling stand. What would be an appropriate price to pay; seeing it would be a spare for my ’29 convertible coupe? Near show quality.

[Author nameAuthor names are only available to PAS members.]

Hi- well, used basic engines sell for $800 to $1500, depending on model, and without accessories. With all the accessories, probably add anoher $600 or more unrestored. Then, to rebuild an engine will cost $3000 to $10,000, depending on who does it, how it is assembled (by owner or not), etc. So, $5000 to $10000 is one range, and I am sure that many people have more than that in engines.

All these numbers are just guesstimates, and refer to an 8 cylinder engine.

I remember talking to Tom Lester back in the ’80’s, when he had a shop doing engines. Price was "basic rebuild, $500 per hole (cylinder); Great Race ready, with a modern engine inside a cosmetically correct original engine, $1500 per hole". And that was 20 years ago.

What is that engine worth? Not a clue, just thought I’d throw numbers out. Remember looking at a restored 1911 Buick for sale, and I asked ":where are all the spare parts?". The reply was that the late owner did not keep any spares, he figured he could always fix what was on the car.

dc

[Author]

Posts