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I have recently purchased a Triumph 2500TC with a badly damaged big end bearing and crankshaft due to loss of oil pressure. I suspected this may be the case when buying, but it was very cheap and I fell in love with the car.
Apart from the engine problems it is in immaculate, rust free condition, and was sold with a new WOF. Therefore it is a good candidate for a replacement engine, as I believe it has the potential to go many miles yet.
Although I am no mechanic, I managed to get the engine and transmission out without any problems myself, using a Haynes manual. Now I am looking for a replacement engine, and there are a few available on Trademe.
The problem I am having here is choosing a good replacement engine, without overspending. Obviously a rebuilt engine would be best but that is out of the question with my student's budget. How can I check an engine for oil pressure and other concerns when it has been removed from the vehicle?
Is there anything similar to an AA vehicle inspection available in such situations?
Andrew
From the "Ask Jack" archives - 23 April 2010
Unless somebody can show you receipts for any previous major mechanical repairs or reconditioning work then buying a second hand engine is going to be a big risk. Most of these vehicles have long past their used by date and owners normally don't spend a lot of money keeping them on the road. You may get lucky and find somebody selling for the right reasons but you need to be very careful as most of these purchases are very much buyer beware with no refunds.
There is a Triumph car club (www.atcc.org.nz) which may be worth a try. They are obviously very passionate about Triumphs in general and if there are any good second hand engines for sale they may know about them.
There are no services available that I am aware of that will check the condition of a second hand engine. One very basic test is to ensure the engine will turn over by hand and ensure it has not been left outside exposed to the elements. Any water or moisture in the engine sump or on the cylinder bores would not be a good sign.