Hi Gang,
I have a /6 255 in a 2-door 1966 Dart GT. The engine (original?) that is in there is an RG model- #2806830-6 with a forged crank and 5 freeze plugs. A compression test shows the following: #1-130, #2-120, #3-130, #4-130, #5-115, #6-125.

A very kind benefactor just gave me a chunk of change ($) to do something with my engine. My car is a daily driver. I am not interested in having a hot rod. I do not mind paying for premium components however.

It seems like my options are as follows:

1. Pay a local shop to drop in a rebuilt engine including all labor and discard my present core. My guess is that they will simply order an engine from a big national distributor. Which distributors have quality rebuilt engines? I see a bunch of companies on the web with warranties ranging from 12-72 months. Some list the parts they use and describe the rebuilding processes, others don't. Many engines are not in stock (they would need me to send them a core).

2. Remove my present engine and have it rebuilt by someone locally. I would remove and reinstall the engine. I have a friend up in the Longview, WA area who is willing to help me do this (he seems to know what he is doing) as I have never done anything like this before. Only problem is we would lack shop space, though I might be able to find a friendly homeowner who will donate their garage for a week. Any recommendations on decent rebuilding shops in the Portland, OR metro region, possibly Seattle?

3. Rebuild it myself (with assistance of above mentioned friend). Does anyone make a good rebuilding kit with good components or so I have to spec all the individual parts? I'm not adverse to this as I would kind of like the experience of rebuilding my engine.

Basicaly, I want a good engine and I don't want to get screwed on price or quality. I also don't mind putting in some sweat equity as it seem ludicrous to pay someone big dollars to remove and reattach a bunch of simple components. At the same time, there is something to be said for simplicity (pay a few extra bucks and have a relatively quick, trouble free, successful install). I'm in no hurry. I want to do this job right.


Thanks,

Tom Kimpel aka "Spazus"

There is only one I'd recommend. Dale Green's in the Auburn, WA area. In case you're unfamiliar with the place, Auburn is just off SR167, SE of Seattle, NE of Tacoma, WA. I live in No. Seattle and I'd rather drive 45 miles to Auburn, than take it anywhere else.

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'66 Cuda 225/4spd
'66 Dart GT convertible 225/auto
'64 Dart GT 340/4spd