My wife's '08 Expedition has just over 330,000 miles on it and it's been pretty good to us. Some common items have been replaced, like the rear air shocks, and a transmission valve body, but other than that, no engine work beyond plugs, oil, and filters. Yes, all original valve timing equipment. A couple of years ago it started making timing chain noises so we parked it and it hasn't been started since. At least that's what it sounded like.. a chain slapping around for a few seconds before going quiet again. It did this again on the way home but once the noise stopped everything sounded normal. I'd like to add that even for the few seconds the noise was there, power was normal with no hesitation, so I don't think I've jumped a tooth. I know this engine has oiling issues but I haven't dug into it yet so I cannot speak to what the rockers or cam bearings look like. All that said... I'm looking at putting this thing back on the road and I'd like to do that as cheap as reasonably possible. In my head, here are my options:
1. Purchase a reman engine. This option is likely the most foolproof as I don't have to worry about all the things that are likely wrong with my engine. It's also the most expensive. I've seen reman's online for around $3,200 shipped.
2. Do a compression test and check the crank for excessive play. If these look good I'm probably OK to do a full timing kit and maybe the passenger head depending on what that looks like. Chain kits I've seen for under $500 and heads for just north of $600 for a total of around $1200 worst case.
3. The engine ran very well other than the event with the noise that I suspect was the timing chain. I could just replace the tensioners and guides and call it a day. I realize there is risk with this option, but honestly, if it goes another 50k miles I'd be satisfied. I've bought 4 cars over that past 24 months for family members so I'd like to hold off on another for a bit.
I'm looking for thoughts and advice... Is there anything I'm missing?
1. Purchase a reman engine. This option is likely the most foolproof as I don't have to worry about all the things that are likely wrong with my engine. It's also the most expensive. I've seen reman's online for around $3,200 shipped.
2. Do a compression test and check the crank for excessive play. If these look good I'm probably OK to do a full timing kit and maybe the passenger head depending on what that looks like. Chain kits I've seen for under $500 and heads for just north of $600 for a total of around $1200 worst case.
3. The engine ran very well other than the event with the noise that I suspect was the timing chain. I could just replace the tensioners and guides and call it a day. I realize there is risk with this option, but honestly, if it goes another 50k miles I'd be satisfied. I've bought 4 cars over that past 24 months for family members so I'd like to hold off on another for a bit.
I'm looking for thoughts and advice... Is there anything I'm missing?