[teamgn87]

I recently spoke to someone about a rebuild for the motor in my GN.I went to Jack Merkel in NJ.This is what he has to offer:
short block:
block bored on precision stand & 2 step torque plate honed
speed pro plasma moly rings
TRW forged "turbo" pistons
Federal Mogul HD main bearings(3/4 groove)and con rod bearings
Speed Pro HD double roller timing set
replacement turbo hydraulic cam
hot tank block,heads,misc,install new core plugs
precision ground crank
precision balanced rotating assembly
Other Components:
rebuilt timing cover including Speed Pro HD oil pump w/thrust plate
new engine gasket set
hi-po hydraulic lifters
Heads:
Rebuilt cylinder heads with competition valve job,includes 4 angle valve seats,exhaust seat bowl area enlarged.Reconditioned intake valves,new exhaust valves.Exhaust valves undercut to enhance flow.Machine exhaust guides to accept stock type valve seals.Assembled with stock replacement viton seals,HD LT1 spec valve springs.Cylinder heads are cleaned and glass beaded.
All this work will cost me $3499.Does anyone have any other ideas?Do you guys think its worth it?I really need some help here,this is a lot of money for me. dunno

 

[firebird_1252]

well when my motor goes i plan on haveing merkal build my motor.

 

[Steve Wood]

Why don't you talk to Jack Cotton? His engines are built by RPE and they have an excellent reputation, as does Jack.

That way you will have some basis for comparison. In the end, you have to separate the hype from reality and understand what you are really getting for your money.

 

[teamgn87]

My motor already went.So I dont have many choices.My car is there now.The only way I had to get the motor there was to drive it.Not an easy task when you have 2 dead cylinders.When they told me the price,my jaw dropped so they told me to think it over.Thats why I am asking for opinions before I commit to either the rebuild or parting the car out. ugh

 

[The Radius Kid]

That sounds a bit pricey for what you're getting.
I agree with the comment,talk to Jack Cotton.

 

[ULYCYC]

firebird_1252:
well when my motor goes i plan on haveing merkal build my motor.

Rob, This is "not" the same Merkel near you in Long Island. Same last name but not related. Jack Merkel of Long Island has a great Reputation of building fast motors and Buicks too. Merkel of NJ is teamed up with Ron's Custom Auto.

With any rebuilder do your homework and get it in writing what he is doing and what parts are going to be used before you hand over the money. Do a search on both boards about Merkel/Ron's engine service and e-mail happy and unhappy customers and form your own opinion.

 

[firebird_1252]

ed the one by me is he good? i mean reliablity wise?

 

[ULYCYC]

If you are planning on limited track time and 12.0 and slower I would try a ATK remanufactured engine. They run around $1400 and come with a 3 year warranty. I know a few around here and have no complaints. one racked up well over 200 track passes of 12.0 -12.5 Even if you just use it to sell the car it is worth more running good then if you part it out.

 

[ULYCYC]

firebird_1252:
ed the one by me is he good? i mean reliablity wise?

Yes, I believe Jack retired and his sons Scott and Todd run the shop. You should have no problems with them other then rolling your eyes when you see the bill eek!

 

[teamgn87]

Who is ATK?

 

[ULYCYC]

www.atkengines.com You can buy the engine direct and install yourself or find someone to swing it for you. going price is $800-$1000 in this area

 

[channer]

Just checked out their website!!!

Are those ATK engines real turbo motors' with 109 block, 8445 heads, turbo cranks etc...

dave

 

[TWIN86GNS]

Channer,

They are supposed to be real turbo engines, I am pretty sure you will get a 109 block, but it might not have the correct 8445 heads and it might not have the correct crank. You could get lucky and get all of the correct parts, it is a crap shoot and I think that is why ULYCYC says to use only in a car not destined to go faster than 12.0

 

[ULYCYC]

Motor has correct heads but and drilled 109 block for turbo oil return and knock sensor. The crank may or may not be a turbo crank. It depends on availabity at time of purchase. But running 12.0 or slower and no crazy boost levels it should be fine.