How hard to source a new engine

[gem2430]

Hi all,
I've been on this forum for awhile looking for an e28 or e34 and would like some advice. I found what could be a deal, w/ some work. There is a 1995 540i auto w/ 110,000 miles w/ a blown engine in my neighborhood. Clean body and interior. He is only asking $600.
How hard is it to source a good engine? I would need a shop to install it, though. Would it be worth it? Thanks in advance.

[sfgearhead]

You could probably find an engine for $500 if you try. But installation will likely run $1k-$1.5k, so you're looking at $2600 to get a running 540i. And you still don't know what else is wrong with it. Budget at least another $500 for new cooling system while you're in there.

If you could do the work I'd say go for it, if you can't I'd just find a good one.

[Evole]

s38 or bust!

[jfj707]

Hi all,
I've been on this forum for awhile looking for an e28 or e34 and would like some advice. I found what could be a deal, w/ some work. There is a 1995 540i auto w/ 110,000 miles w/ a blown engine in my neighborhood. Clean body and interior. He is only asking $600.
How hard is it to source a good engine? I would need a shop to install it, though. Would it be worth it? Thanks in advance.

What exactly does "blown engine" constitute? You need to find that out, it may be a relatively easy fix (relative to replacing the engine).


s38 or bust!

Too bad it doesn't fit in an M60 car.

[zubbie]

If you are handy then a $600 540 is a no brainer. Buy it, check it for all the problems and either fix it or part it.

[gem2430]

Thanks for the replies.
Unfortunately, I'm not too mechanically inclined, or I might take a chance on it. I don't know what is wrong w/ the engine. Plus, I don't have any place to store it if the engine is truly dead and I were to part it. Maybe somebody in No VA can take advantage of the opportunity. I'll keep looking.
Here is the craigslist ad:

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/cto/2063346162.html

[K Fox]

So I guess I'll ask the next important question - 6 speed or auto? That will make a big difference to anyone trying to decide whether or not to try saving it. And FWIW, the ad said 'may have a hard time driving away'. I wonder if it just has really bad vacuum leaks... :stickoutt Someone nearby really should at least take a look at it, if for no more reason than giggles.

Fox

[cmgreensr]

Paging Trevor Greene, where are you?