New Engine where to get one - Recommendations?

[deanandeva]

Hi I am looking at a Sandman Van (HX) that has a dodgy 253. Does anyone know of a site that does reconditioned V8's?

Once upon a time I remember one reco motors but cant seem to find it?

Doesnt matter where they are based, just looking for a good daily runner 253

Also any thoughts on how much to expect to pay ?

Appreciate any thoughts as I may slip in a reco tranny as well (auto)

[Blocker]

You can pick up a 253 anywhere, but I would suggest you hitting a 308 which are probably even easier to find. You haven't said where you are from so that could be a start so other members can direct you to a workshop that can build one for you.

[deanandeva]

Thanks Blocker Im in Melbourne.

Too be honest Im torn, put a 253 to match the tags and keep it original or put in a 308. Does it matter given that the motor wont ever match anyway whether its a 253 or 308?

Will putting in a 308 dimisih its originalty ?

[Vombil]

Thanks Blocker Im in Melbourne.

Too be honest Im torn, put a 253 to match the tags and keep it original or put in a 308. Does it matter given that the motor wont ever match anyway whether its a 253 or 308?

Will putting in a 308 dimisih its originalty ?

253's are worth the same as 6cyl now. you MUST use a 308!

[Blocker]

Put in a 308. You will not get any financial resale benefit from putting a motor in it that matches the tags, unless it is THE original motor.

[wbute]

About three people would notice if you put a 308 in it and left the 253 stickers on the air filter lid anyway. Finding a good running motor is what you are after though. I would buy whichever motor that was in the best condition. Rebuilding a v8 properly would have to be up in the two to three thousand dollar price now? It might be more. 15 years since I did one.
I don't know if you can still get exchange motors.

[Vombil]

try $7k at a shop with a few good bits.

i don't think if you buy the parts and outsource machining you would get away with less than 3-4k

- - - Updated - - -

ppl are still giving 253's away. they have such a stigma

[rocky]

send me a pm with your phone number and you can speak to my engine builder cheers rocky

[Valencia]

A full recond engine with heads will cost at least 5k plus easy with your eyes shut
spend it on a 308 instead if your going to go that way

[wbute]

Not surprised. Big dollars that's for sure.
The stigma with 253 is mostly because they killed red 253 with the two barrel carny. Blue 253 go well with the quadrajet and electronic ignition.
People have been saying for years that good 308 blocks are getting hard to find. Most have been bored out 60 thou by now.
Personally I would put a fuel injected 5 litre in. I think I will go that way with my sandman.