Engine rust

[Bob Kielar]

Went this weekend and looked at some 55 Cadillac parts. There is a engine and transmission for sale but the heads,intake and exhaust manifolds have been off for over ten years. I know this is probably hard to tell but how much rust on the cylinders makes this engine unusable?

Regards,
Bob Kielar

[Rob Leech]

 If the engine has been in a dry place and surface rust is in the cylinder, it will generally clean up with what we used to call a dingle berry brush. It spins at high speed in the cylinder and cleans up the rust and scratches. If the cylinder has had standing water in it from a leaking head gasket or rain water, then the engine should have sleeves installed in the cylinders.That would be an expensive fix. I would look on before I sleeved the engine. You can generally tell if standing water has been in the cylinders, the rust will be severe.

[fishnjim]

Does the crank turn by hand?   If so, inspect the cylinder walls.   If pistons are out, then the hone would be a good move, look for pits, cracks, or other visible defects.   Only a machine shop and die penetration will tell for sure.   Good chance to deal down.   Even if the look good they still might not be.   After all things are taken aparts and set for a reason...   Caveat Emptor.

[TJ Hopland]

If the pistons are not in the block they usually clean up fine.    With pistons as long as there wasn't ever standing water in them they can usually be broken loose and cleaned up without too much trouble.  If there was standing water then it could be bad.  Standing water for a couple years can cause pitting that could not even clean up with a 60-80 thousands cut which is usually as far as most motors go easily.

If it is rusty start soaking it before you try and turn it.   If you have a few months to wait keep soaking em and the may come loose with special force or tools.

[Bob Kielar]

I have not purchased the engine as of yet it comes with the transmission. What do you think would be a fair price for both?

Regards,
Bob Kielar

[cadillacmike68]

Not much.

[Bob Kielar]

What do you think I should offer 50,100,200?
Regards,
Bob Kielar

[cadillacmike68]

It depends on whether the item you really need most is the block.