What to know about the rebuild

[Wag Chip]

Okay, I think it's getting to be time to have the engine on my '86 GW get rebuilt. What should I look for in a shop to do this? Any pitfalls? Also, any recommended upgrades to this thing while rebuilding? I just need it to be the wife's daily ride, so reliability is going to be the key.

Thanks,

[joe]

Ask around...a lot. especially amoungst the hot rod, 4 wheeler etc crowd. They're usually more up on who does good engine rebuilds than the average sedan driver. Also ask if the shop could call a previous customer and ask him if it would be ok for you to talk with him. I'd also call the Better Business Bureau and see if any complaints have been filed against the shop.

[ February 24, 2004, 10:05 AM: Message edited by: -joe ]

[J4GRAND]

I think one of the most important things is finding a shop that has done some AMC engines in the past and will stand behind their work. Call the better business bureau to find out if the shop has had complaints lodged against them. Ask the shop what parts or rebuild kit or engine supplier they'll be using. A lot of shops will not do their own work. If this is going to be your wife's DD, you definitely don't want to skimp.

As for upgrades; if emissions testing is not a factor, go with an aluminum intake and 4 bbl carb or fuel injection. A slightly bigger cam is good too. I'd do a search on engine rebuilds here on the forum. A lot of us have done them and have posted our mods and results.