1996 Maxum 1900sr2 engine makes knocking noise and lost power

[MikeW]

do you think this warrants a second opinion. I am curious as to why the first place dismissed it as a definite rebuild/replace so quickly --- dont want to drop cash into a hole, but any chance it coud be a more simple fix than replacing the engine? I guess Im just loking for a more positive solution.

[MrMarty51]

Originally Posted by MikeW

do you think this warrants a second opinion. I am curious as to why the first place dismissed it as a definite rebuild/replace so quickly --- dont want to drop cash into a hole, but any chance it coud be a more simple fix than replacing the engine? I guess Im just loking for a more positive solution.

If You can get the engine started, then, pull plug wires and replace them back onto the plugs as You go along until you find the faulty cylinder. Just have the plug wires loosened for easy removal before starting the engine.
Go to Oriellys parts store and rent/borrow a compression tester and see what compressions the cylinders is producing.

If You have a decent selection of tools and a little mechanical understanding, get the book for the engine, at least do a partial disassemble to see just what it was that went bad then base Your decisions on the new found knowledge.

I am not a throw away sort of a person so, to Me, I always try to repair what it is that I already own. it is a sort of a curse.

[MikeW]

The shop checked the cylinders
4 we okay and 1 was 110 and one was 55

They didn’t go any further...just said engine was shot.

[mmwjr]

Originally Posted by MikeW

do you think this warrants a second opinion. I am curious as to why the first place dismissed it as a definite rebuild/replace so quickly --- dont want to drop cash into a hole, but any chance it coud be a more simple fix than replacing the engine? I guess Im just loking for a more positive solution.

Since the shop has to warranty their work it’s less risk for them to install a rebuilt engine instead of trying to diagnose the issue and hope they don’t miss anything that can result in either more work or the engine failing which will end up costing more in the long run. This is typical of most shops and is good business sense.

[shrew]

Originally Posted by MikeW

do you think this warrants a second opinion. I am curious as to why the first place dismissed it as a definite rebuild/replace so quickly --- dont want to drop cash into a hole, but any chance it coud be a more simple fix than replacing the engine? I guess Im just loking for a more positive solution.

You somewhat answered your own question. The cost of labor to tear down the engine. You don't really want to go down the 'repair' road only to find out that it is 70% of the cost to replace. You don't really want to pay $1,500 just to get a definitive answer on what is wrong.

These guys know enough to know that it is repairable, and it will be expensive.