We get a lot of calls here at ConEquip Parts from people wanting to get a used engine for their machine. Although there are some advantages to getting a used engine such as cost and time, in the long run it's our experience used engines are more of a headache than anything else.
People who are looking for a used engine often want something they can just "drop in" and go. Time is often a factor and they don't want to mess with swapping over components, getting the engine timed, and other important steps when installing something less than a complete engine.
The brutal truth is more often than not, that good used engine you expect to simply drop in to your machine will inevitably have something that will slow the process down. The oil pan may not fit, the exhaust could be located in a different place than your original engine, the injection pump may not match, the timing cover may be different. It's surprising how many times our customers would call us to complain about the used engine they received.
One of the biggest problems with a used engine is just that - IT'S A USED ENGINE! There may be blow by, knocking, restricted air flow, fuel problems, timing problems. A used engine is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get!
Things at ConEquip got so bad with used engines, it is now actually a policy not to sell one to any of our customers. Instead, ConEquip Parts encourages customers to consider a rebuilt long block. This option reduces risk tremendously. A long block if you didn't already know usually consists of the assembled block, crankshaft, cylinder head, camshaft, and valve train. A long block does not include fuel system, electrical, intake, and exhaust components, timing cover, as well as other components.
There will definitely be added cost when getting a rebuilt long block but the extra money spent over a good used engine will likely actually save you time and money in the long run.
