BOB URZ wrote:
>
> If the bottom end is intact, why just not machine shop the head
> and put a new head gasket on it? Should not be much more than
> a few hundred in parts and services. Some junk yards sell refurb
heads off
> the shelf with core.
>
> I don't think a quad 4 is going to be a easy or durable swap.
>
> Bob
>
>
You're probably right. I'm thinking the Quad 4 is a bad idea.

He definitely wants something different, and he wants more power as
well. And for him, junkyard engines are really cheap (he has a relative
who owns a junkyard).

Right now, we're down to:

- 4.3L V6 with automatic transmission
- 350 small block V8 with automatic transmission

And yesterday he took the Mazda RX-7 for a test drive up and down the
driveway here. He liked that. So that adds a third choice:

- Mazda 13B or turbo 13B with matching Mazda 5 speed transmission

At least with the last choice he won't be burning any more valves. I'm
not sure about the fabrication to pull that swap off, though. But it
would be something unique if it's done right.

Thanks for all the comments and keep them coming.

--

Racer X
1984 VW Jetta Diesel GT
1992 Mazda Miata (looks OK for a car that's been hit by an 18 wheeler)
1994 Caravan (OK, maybe it's a keeper, but I still want a VW Caddy)
1995 Ford Escort (may it rest in pieces)
1983 VW Rabbit GTI (ITB racer)
1988 Mazda RX-7 (maybe for sale, make offer)
1992 GMC Topkick (portable garage for racecar[s])