97 5SFE replace or rebuild?

[sbushnak]

Good day all,

I know this question has been asked before but I would still need your opinions on this problem of mine.

To make a long story short, I need to either replace or rebuild the 5SFE engine in my 1997 Camry. The oil pump leaked and there is a knocking noise now. My mechanic suggested these options for me:

1. Replace engine with a used one. Labor will be $300 plus engine and parts.
2. Sell car AS-IS and get new one.

If I decide to sell the car AS IS, how much can I get based on your experiences?

I am leaning towards to replace the engine since I know what's wrong with my car, not to mention I would tell my mechanic to replace all seals, gaskets, timing belt, water pump, mounts and anything he can before he installs the new (used) engine.

Here is some brief info: Please let me know if you need any more information:

1997 Camry LE
5SFE engine with 190,000 miles
Automatic transmission - shifts perfect.
ABS - works fine
OEM Alarm system
CD player
Cloth interior, rear spoiler, sunroof
Blue exterior, beige interior - both in very good condition
Rust spot back on the trunk
Pirelli P4 All season tires
New timing belt job at 180,000 miles + water pump, seals and gaskets

Thanks in advance.
SMB

[Chris Crash]

I would repair your current engine instead. Don't buy someone else's problem!

[hill8570]

Why not just rebuild the current motor? You know what's wrong with it.

Selling as-is, you won't get much at all -- whoever buys it will, at the very least, assume the engine is complete toast. Heck, without being able to drive it, I'd assume the tranny is toast, too. With a zillion Camrys in running condition, no one but a complete lowballer is going to be interested in a hulk.

If you're feeling ethically challenged, drop a running, used engine into it without doing any other work, and then sell it. At least there you'll get something more than junkyard value for it.

[ONE_to_HATE]

if you have sentimental value with that car, get a rebuild with forged goodies!!!