1996 Chevy lumina engine question?

There is no certainty of what OTHER wear and potential failures lurk in the future, and disturbing some of the engine parts to repair just the head gasket can be a drain for the "nickel and dime" issues subsequent to the head gasket.

in addition, while replacing the gasket, there are other repairs that REALLY SHOULD be performed (grind valves, surface the head, re-bed the camshaft etc)

All of this extra effort will cost a bit, and when you are done, you still have an engine that has 199K on it and is subject to failure at any time. More expense and inconvenience.

For the bit MORE money necessary for the entire crate engine, it is more prudent, and the warranty will be much better.

Ask the shop to give you a "Worst-case scenario" estimate for the repair, and the estimate for the new engine. I don't think it will be that much of a difference, and in the long run will pay dividends in repairs now not necessary.

Good Luck

That's too old an engine to start spending large amounts of money fixing things. You'd spend $400 on a new head gasket and still have an old worn out motor.

It has 199,000 miles. Replacing the engine is better than fixing such a high-mileage motor.

You may want to consider another car. Replacing that engine will likely cost more than that car is worth.

Good luck

Because you have 199,000 miles on it! How long do you think they last? He's telling you not to waste your hard earned money putting a head gasket in something that is closed to being classified "JUNK"! Listen to your mechanic, that's what he's there for!

It cannot be bypassed, this is a passlock-1 system. The PCM from the two cars are not compatible with each other. You would have to use the entire body and engine electrical system from the 1991 i order to get that system working. The computer is designed to prevent starting when it thinks the systems have been tampered with.

Replace the engine and get the transmission checked good. If the car is in as good of shape as you say, it should last you a long time.

either u have blown head caskets, or worst a cracked engine. are you losing antifreeze? check your oil dip stick, if it has a white substance on it, than u have blown head casket.

you only need a new head gasket, you should do it real soon otherwise you will need a new eng.