Realistically, What Should A Motor Cost?

[moldyoldy]

Still pondering which way to go with my summer diesel project, but seems like I'm leaning towards a non-VW diesel due to cost concerns. VW diesels open up a whole different set of possibilities, due mostly to their low weight. Seems like every VW diesel I've seen has been running over a grand, in some cases, over 2 for a fairly low mileage (under 100k) 1.9  Then, I still have to locate a tranny.  Somehow that seems pretty high, especially when I can get a Mercedes turbo 5 with the automatic tranny for 1,000 bucks. The GM 6.2 diesels are even cheaper (though I've heard many mixed things about them, and due to weight, I'd be limited to a full sized car)   I've been calling local boneyards, but here on Long Island, anything over 10 years old is like trying to find parts for a Packard or Stanley Steamer!  What do you guys usually pay for your engines? Suggestions?  Thanks!  

[Dirtrag2]

for used with tail-light warranty, I wouldn't pay much more than 500$ + tranny
check local E-postings you'd be surprised what some people want to get rid of

[rabbid79]

It's hard to go wrong with the Mercedes engines.  A couple of weeks ago I was at a GTG at Kerma TDI.  They were kind of having a "house warming" party for their new shop.  I was looking around at all of the neat stuff there, when I spotted what looked like a Cummins sitting on an engine stand in the corner.  Upon closer inspection, I only saw 5 ports on the exhaust manifold.  Hum?  Then I got even closer and that's when I saw the Mercedes symbol on the valve cover.  I'm telling you that engine was huge!  They weigh something like 700 lbs., so make sure whatever you're putting it in originally had the springs to hold a BB Chevy off the ground.