New versus core and rebuild versus running used??

[2wrench]

It's either a blessing or a wolf in sheep's clothing,
but here it is...and I don't have pics.

Came accross a '72 while looking for good cores.
Seller seems to be a nice fellow who tinkers with
different cars. He owns two MGB's and came into
possession of this '72 TR.

Says the engine runs so well that he wouldn't
even suggest a rebuild, just pull it and swap.
Says only thing I can do to determine its viability is
a compression test.

My first visit to take a look-see I popped in because
I was working in an area he lived. Battery was weak
and car wouldn't turn over. He still stands unwavering
the engine is a good runner.

Going back tommorrow morning for a redo. Taking a
fully charged battery (he says cool idea).

Seller says he will perform a compression test and
says to note the oil pressure.

Car has an overdrive tranny and engine and tranny is being offered for sale as a unit.

Anything I could/should ask or do in considering
this purchase for my '74 TR6?

Feedback is appreciated.

 

[NutmegCT]

Paranoid Tom thinks it would be a good idea if you do the compression test yourself, as well as check the oil pressure. Etc. Etc.

Unless you know the guy pretty well, and live next door, and get a money-back guarantee in writing.

If you're getting an engine only, the engine only shouldn't hold major surprises. Like my buddy who got an MGA 1275 "no problems - it runs like a dream!" and found all the bearings were shot, the crank warped, and the head cracked.

Just my 2¢

Tom

 

[WA1KWA]

Compression tests are good as far as they go, I suggest a leakdown test, which has been discussed on this forum previously I think. You will need a source of compressed air for a leakdown test & a leak down tester like this:

https://www.eastwoodco.com/jump.jsp?itemID=12386&itemType=PRODUCT


Colin

 

[Brosky]

Caveat Emptor, "Let the buyer beware".

You may have a great deal, you may not. I won't really know if my newly purchased spare engine is any good until I pull it apart in the spring.

If you are going to the trouble of pulling it and can afford the costs, now is the time to do it right once and for all.

I'm hoping, but time will tell.

You do have the benefit of the O/D, which is valuable on it's own.

 

[TR4nut]

And since you'll be there you should be able to do a quick check on thrust washer health.

I'm not sure you mentioned price in the other threads (and you don't need to) but I'm of the opinion that price rules this - if the price is low enough, what risk are you taking? As a 72, I think that would be an A type tranny and people pay over $500 for them completely untested, and around $1000 or more if they are know they are good.

If the seller is looking for something like $1000 for the combination, I say get the compression numbers, smile, and pull the trigger on it. Just my opinion.

Randy

 

[TR3driver]

Paranoid Tom thinks it would be a good idea if you do the compression test yourself, as well as check the oil pressure. Etc. Etc.

/bcforum/images/%%GRAEMLIN_URL%%/iagree.gif Unless the price is good enough that you don't care. Even friends sometimes make mistakes, right Chad ?