Engine 3.8L

GKEYS55 said:

Does anyone know an estimate on how much it would cost to install a 3.8 liter engine for a 1995 windstar. It's a Jasper engine.

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There is a mechanic around here that replaced a motor in my car about five years ago and it was $1500.00 and I had it back in 4 days. He finds the best block(lowest mileage) from the junk yard and puts all you're acessories(starter,alternator,etc.) on it. Not a bad deal and it sure beats payments when you can bring your'e buggy back to life!

You can buy a rebuilt, TDK engine for less than that if you're willing to ********************er. Guarnteed for 12 mos. or 12K miles. Check Pep Boys or Discount Auto. Don't forget your 'core' (old engine), it's usually worth at least $100.00.
My last 350 Chevy was under $800 with professional discounts.

Teetorbilt said:

You can buy a rebuilt, TDK engine for less than that if you're willing to ********************er. Guarnteed for 12 mos. or 12K miles. Check Pep Boys or Discount Auto. Don't forget your 'core' (old engine), it's usually worth at least $100.00.
My last 350 Chevy was under $800 with professional discounts.

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I looked at that option and when I added up tool and tripod rental, plus my time and a buddies,plus lack of experience in engine replacement I figured it was best left for a pro. I figured I was better off working and making money to offset the install.

Teetorbilt said:

Plumguy, wise choice if your not into it.
I'm one of the guru's of the 327/350 GM engines. Much of my input came from Ed Bourke, one of the engineers and a friend in later life. I currently run 350's rated at 330 HP in my boat. They grenade every few years but try and find a cheaper boat engine.

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Teetor, I like boats but, I think I would rather watch your'es from shore! Just curious how fast does a boat with 330hp go?

Yes, I know exactly how much it will cost. I just had a 3.8 Jasper put in the wife's 1996 Windstar in May. Total mechanic bill was $3843.67. That included the Jasper installation supplies kit, which I'd highly recommend. That kit was a bargain versus buying all the stuff piece meal. Be advised that the 3.8 comes out through the bottom of the van, with the transaxles and wheels and all still attached as an assembly. It's quite a project that really should be done with the aid of a lift to raise the vehicle up off the disconnected engine assembly.

Teetorbilt said:

Is a 10 yr old van worth 4K? Not here.

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Nope. Ain't worth that, but it's her baby. We certainly couldn't have bought another van for 4K. Plus I just had a new transaxle put in a couple of years ago. Now we're good for another 200,000. We've had it since new, so I pretty much know what we got. If this was a work van, it would surely have went to the salvage yard.

Teetorbilt said:

... Much of my input came from Ed Bourke, one of the engineers and a friend in later life.

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This Bourke?

That looks like something that he would have done. Date is right too.
He was one of the most fascinating guys that I have ever met.
I was once rebuilding an old Palmer boat engine (1923, I think) and needed pistons, I called Ed. He gave me the history of the company, the dimensions of the piston, which model of MG piston would fit and how much to trim off of the piston skirt. All of this right off the top of his head and he was in his late 70's at the time.

I don't think my nephew charges that much he is a ase certified mechanic. He use to do a lot of engines replacements at his old job. He is a hard guy to get a hold of because only has cell phone and he has voice mail answer. Last time i needed my Jeep grand cherokee fixed all it cost me was parts and a case 24 of MGB. Which is miller genium draft. What ever I don't drink any more think spelled wrong. Can't remember what i had him do. Oh a check engine light was coming on. He pulled out this nice square snap on computer got code and fixed it no problem

mdshunk said:

I just had a 3.8 Jasper put in the wife's 1996 Windstar in May. Total mechanic bill was $3843.67.

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Well at least you know the maint. hist. of the vehicle
I did just buy a '99 w/3.8 for $3800
Nothing's fallen off yet (crosses fingers)

a friend of mine converted a taurus wagon from a 3 liter to a 3.8 out of a mercury sable. he got lucky and bought a sable that the body was shot, and the engine half unhooked so it would not drive down the road. got a good engine for fifty bucks. converted it himself, with a bunch of other fixes like new steering, and new tires the total cost ran up at $400 if you can find one, another vehical with a 3.8 and a swap may be the way to go. i would suggest looking for something identical if that works for you, just with a good engine.