engine and drivetrain 02' Engine Rebuild

[U2002]

This spring I plan to replace the engine and possibly the drive train in my 1976 02', which I have owned since new. Now I need some advice. She's wearing 203K. Questions:

1) I'm looking for a reliable engine capable of long-distance use; 120H.P. is sufficient. I put a Metric Mechanic 140H.P. Hi-Flow engine in her in 1988. In 84K that engine recquired 1 tear-down and 2 head-rebuilds. Any comment on recent MM engines? Any comment on Bavarian upgrade engines? I don't want another "hanger queen."

2) Are factory-rebuilt engines still available?

3) Any recommended 02' engine builders? I live in the Hershey, PA area.

4) In 203K my gear box/differential have never been apart. Should I leave them alone or replace them? Any thoughts on upgrading to a 5 speed?

Thanks!

[/i]

[Guest Anonymous]

Maximillian used to sell new tii longblocks for ~$3500. As far as I know, they still do. That should be a great, reliable engine.

76s had the best transmissions. If the fluid changes have been kept up, I would just keep it and not worry about it. Same thing for the diff (unless it's noisy). That said, anything can fail after 200k miles. But both (especially the transmission) usually give ample warning if they're getting too frail.

[Guest Anonymous]

I'm interested in why the MM engine failed the first time- why did you have to tear it down? Was it a failure, or did it run low on oil, or did you not change the oil for a long time? I'd like to avoid tearing into mine also...

John