New Engine Needed?

**Neuance** · 10-18-2007, 11:09 AM

First off, my disclaimer ... I believe I'm the least knowledgeable "car person" on here.

I have 97 Camaro Z28 that has been diagnosed with a bad Crankshaft. One person said they could replace it, another said I need a new engine. My engine has 117,000 miles. What's the right answer here? Are there any good mechanics down here in South Orange County (Lagana Niguel), CA?

thanks ... Bob

**Hamrhead** · 10-18-2007, 01:29 PM

I would just look into buying a new short block. If the crank is bad and there is 117,000 miles on it then it won't be long before the rest goes so just get it done now to avoid having to pay to have the motor pulled twice. You can get some nice shortblocks out there for a reasonable price. Are planning on ever modding the car or keep it stock?

**Neuance** · 10-18-2007, 08:20 PM

Thank you for your information. Sure, I'd love to upgrade some stuff. I presume you're saying this because if I have to get a new engine the time is now to mod? Once again ... I know nothing! What could I add that has great impact at a reasonable price?

**Hamrhead** · 10-19-2007, 10:59 AM

If you are planning on modding the car now would be the time to get a forged short block. If money is a concern you don't need to go crazy either. You can look at a nice well built 348. Get the pistons with -2cc valve reliefs (won't cost extra) and you will be set for a stout head and cam car with some N2O later when you are ready. Knowing your block will handle it will be nice. Yes it is better to get a larger displacement block but again it depends on your budget. If you weren't planning on modding much then you could go with a stock short block replacement.

**RE AND CHERYL** · 10-23-2007, 04:20 PM

Originally Posted by Hamrhead

If you are planning on modding the car now would be the time to get a forged short block. If money is a concern you don't need to go crazy either. You can look at a nice well built 348. Get the pistons with -2cc valve reliefs (won't cost extra) and you will be set for a stout head and cam car with some N2O later when you are ready. Knowing your block will handle it will be nice. Yes it is better to get a larger displacement block but again it depends on your budget. If you weren't planning on modding much then you could go with a stock short block replacement.

He's got an LT1

Hey dude...Wrong furum.

Re'

**ATCharming** · 10-23-2007, 04:22 PM

if you buy a new crank, the labor will be pretty costly, so u might as well do some other internal work while the engine is out and/or get a new shortblock like stated above (in case u didnt know, shortblock is referring to the engine block minus the heads, cuz im assuming yours are fine)

**Mr. Luos** · 10-23-2007, 04:25 PM

I assume money is an issue here.
A new crank isn't cheap. Can you tell us what exactly broke?? How it happened?

**ATCharming** · 10-23-2007, 04:30 PM

i dont think the crank itself will be as expensive as the labor involved, am i correct on that? if so, to the OP, id try to find a friend that knows enough about engines to help you do this or do it for a discounted price

**Mr. Luos** · 10-23-2007, 04:58 PM

Depends on if he can do any of the work or not.
Might be cheaper to just get a used LT1 from a wrecking yard or something.

Cranks aren't cheap though either. GM techs can get the motor out of an F-Body in 45 minutes.