I've been putting it off, but it's time to face the music...

The guilty party:

2005 STi.

The problem:

I threw a CEL for a cylinder 1 misfire. We replaced the plugs, and swapped the coil packs, and it still threw the CEL. The motor has just under 101k on the odometer. Leak down and compression test results were:

Leak down: 1: 15% 2: 5% 3: 10% 4 10% (with a note that says all leaking at piston rings)

Compression: 1: 120psi 2: 130psi 3: 120psi 4: 125psi (spec being 140ish through 170ish)

It was recommended to me to replace the short block as the next step.

The noob questions:

What I'm wondering is, with what information I have been provided (and shared here), would rebuilding the current short block be acceptable? Or does it need replacement?

Can anyone with experience tell me how much more labor intensive the rebuild would be over the replacement? Or is that completely reliant on what type of damage has occurred within the block?

Also, I know a couple shops to call like LIC and Garage1, but can anyone recommend any shops in the south bay or near by?

Unfortunately money is an issue so I am trying to walk the fine line between breaking the bank and breaking the car, haha. The good new is I have a daily driver so I can go for any length of time without the car so there is no rush on getting the issue resolved.

Thanks for any replies in advance!

 

Mert at RBMS can help you too.

 

Thanks for the non troll reply <3 Added RBMS to the "need to call" list!

 

RBMS build motors

 

RBMS did the swap on my car. probably your best bet.

 

Who did the compression/leak down for you?

 

check injector and injector wiring.

 

RBMS, if I had to choose. I'd say replace, that way everything is brand spanking new.

 

Not trying to troll at all, but a rebuild can be new parts as well right? I always thought replacing could mean buying a used engine.

 

A refresh shouldnt be to bad as you can typically reuse the crank and rods just need new pistons and bearings, and a rehone/surface. Compare that to a new shortblock which was around $1900. if you are not planning on future performance mods a new OEM would probably be your best bet. If planning future power go with refresh and forged pistons. The ****ty part is an R&R on our motors runs 2500 and up add that to list of parts and refresh labor.

 

^This. A rebuild is only beneficial if you plan to "Build" the motor in my opinion. Otherwise the labor cost of just rebuilding a stock block almost isn't worth it, compared to buying a brand new shortblock. Plus you also get the "updated" parts in the newer blocks as well. Since the car is a 2005 STI, I do not think there is a nitrated crankshaft in that one versus the new ones.

 

Not sure what your budget is, but I know several local folks who have bought assembled shortblocks from Rallispec and have loved them. Pricing is really pretty good on them too.

Just a thought.

Short Block Assembly

 

Chris,

Would is potentially be cost effective for us to pull your motor, deliver it to LIC/RMBS/etc., then pick it up and re-install it? Pulling the motor has got to be 2-4 hours worth of labor charge and re-installing would be the same. Could use some help with the timing belt, unless the shop would set that up, and all we'd need is an engine hoist.

I've always wanted to pull a Subaru motor, but don't trust myself to actually rebuild one.

 

Yeah but shops will not offer you any warranty on their work if you do install reinstall yourself.

 

This is very true, Captain Heedz.

Then again, if it's a built motor, and not just a stock block, there's a likelihood they won't warranty it anyway. Especially if you do a new block/internals, but reuse your heads, or end up modifying it in anyway.