What are the best options as far as a replacement engine goes and who is the best supplier? I have read some other forums, looked in magazines and the more I read the more confused I get.
1- The option of replacing with a reconditioned versus a re manufactured comes down to price and availability. I can find places that sell reconditioned engines, but re-manufactured are rare.
2- Reconditioned ones are cheaper, which as long as they are done properly I don't have an issue with. I know the saying “you get what you pay for" definitely exists here.
3- There are quite a few companies that do re-cons. There is: The VW Engine Company, The Engine shop, Just Kampers, VW Heritage, Brickwerks, and another on E-Bay.
4- There is also the option of removing my old engine and doing the job myself. But am I really any further ahead by the time I replace all the gaskets, bearings, pistons, heads, etc? If I was to do this I would replace everything that is offered in a reconditioned engine whether it looked like it needed it or not. My labour would be my own, but how long would I need? (And do I have this time to spare-I don't know)
Who offers the best engines? For example Just Kampers offer Verge, I've heard of Remtec too, and good things about them both. Someone said to stay clear of The Engine shop, another says Elite is terrible.
Any opinions Pro/Con about these or others that could sway me or make me think. Verge use Reconditioned heads, but I'd consider buying brand new heads if a company would do that option.
I realise this is a bit of a loaded gun to be handing around, but I figure that there may be a pattern about who is better, who can offer different options/deals, quality service and customer care and after care.
Thank you
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