is it worth it?

[kahjdh]

I have the opportunity to get a 97' camaro for $500 but it has a siezed 3.8 V6. It it worth the money and labor to put a used motor in? That plan would be to fix it and sell it. I know that I would have to drop the engine cradle and everything attached to it. I have access to a lift and tools. So is it worth it?Any input would be great.

[GreyGoose006]

well it all depends on the body i guess.
if it is in good shape and you like the car, then go for it.
if you arent sure and cant do the engine swap yourself then forget it.
unless you like the car a lot, then go for it.

[kahjdh]

Strictly on a profit situation. Dont have the $ to insure my truck and a camaro being only 18. I feel I can do the swap but I dont want to lose money. Either I buy the car or it gets scrapped and it isn't too bad of shape. Needs a window motor and tires from what I have seen.

[blindeyed]

You can pick up a used 3.8 for around $500-$800. So you would first have to be willing to spend around that amount (if not cheaper). Then I would look up on Autotrader, craigslist, ebay, etc.. to see comparison prices in your area for that type of Camaro and see how much they are selling for. On average, I'm guessing you'll spend between $1000-$1500 fixing it up (including cost of the car). So the comparison prices in your area should help you find out how much of a potential profit you can make. I personally wouldn't bother unless the average comparison prices are above $2000. This would give you a rough estimate of at least $500 at bare minimum potential profit. If you can get more for it than that, then that's even better. Try looking for a 3.8 from a 1995 1/2-1997 Firebird or Camaro. That will be an identical 3.8 engine. the ones from 98-02 had different intake manifolds. The rest from it should bolt up and work fine, but you will have to swap out the old intake off the current engine to the new one you just bought. Could cause some unnecessary headaches, because I think there may be more to it than that, not entirely sure on all the exact details. But it does sound like a fun project and you could possibly make a nice profit. Let us know what you decide to do.

[72chevelleOhio]

If the cars in good shape and it has a clean title, do it. I searched around my area, an engine goes for $450 to $1k depending on miles, and the cars go for $4k to $8k depends on condition. sounds like you can walk away with some good money, check it out, let us know...

[kahjdh]

I'll keep you posted.

[GreyGoose006]

if it were me, id look for a buyer first.
that way you can find out if its worth it.