It had to happen sooner or later.
I was on the way home last night in my Caravelle when I noticed the temperature needle on the dash had shot up, shortly followed by a red flashing light. As I was about to pull over to let the engine cool down, there was a rather loud bang and a large plume of steam (I think) from the back of the van
After being recovered and getting the van back home on the drive, an AA mechanic came out and took a look and diagnosed a buggered Head Gasket; this is what I'd already guessed.
I've looked after the engine in all the time I've owned the van, inclusive of coolant and oil checks at regular intervals, so I know its not been neglected, however, I don't how the engine was looked after by previous owners.
All this said, I'm not prepared to have the engine repaired, as I know how costly/labour intensive this work can be, so I'm looking for a replacement engine which was something I was thinking of anyway, just not this soon.
I'm looking at spending around £2500 for a replacement engine/fitting, and was hoping somebody on here would be able to point me in the direction of somewhere that could help me out.
I'm based in Birmingham, so somewhere as near by as possible would be ideal, although, I guess that may not be possible and I may end up having to go further afield.
Anyway, I'm off for a cry now. If anybody can help, give advice, then I'd really appreciate it.
Mark
