LALEX

I just acquired a '93 ES300 with a badly gummed up motor - reduced oil flow to top end resulting in valve train knock. Should I rebuild, buy remanufactured or buy used. I am open to all suggestions. This is a project car for me and my thirteen year old who can't drive till he's sixteen so there is no rush. What are my options?

Thanks Y'all

steviej

iTrader: (1)

rebuild if you have the time, specs and knowledge. Keep in mind the rest of the car still gets older if the rebuild is a "rainy day, weekend" project. On the other hand, this is an incredible learning experience for both parent and teenager.

reman. if you got the money, but you will know it's clean and almost like new. Pop it in, hook it up and off you go.

if you buy used, make sure it comes with complete maint. records. Ask why is it used, vehicle damage/total, etc?
Make sure it's clean, holds compression, nothing is missing. It may have been someone else's pride and joy or worst nightmare.

Whichever you choose, have fun and welcome to CL.

jaymode

Hey this would be a great project for a thirteen year old and their dad. I know my dad this with me, we built up an old honda. You could probably have the block sleeved, get a higher compression and go all out naturally aspirated, probably will need to increase displacement. THe other thing that you could do is go forced induction but it would be a custom job but if you know people with acces to the right tools it will be pretty easy. There is a lot that can be done to the car, but most things will have to be custom made but you will get a lot of performance out of it. Its also great to spend time with your kid, I know i did. Too bad my mom wrecked the car before I got to use it.