Checking Condition Of Engine?
 

OK, I know you are all gonna come in here and tell me to do a compression test...BUT thats not the part Im worried about.

Is there a way to check the condition of the coolant/oil seals without putting the engine in a car and firing it up? I bought my car with a used engine and I dont have the time or money to rebuild it. With my current engine reaching 125,000 miles very soon its time for me to look into what to do next. Would it be possible to check all the internals of an engine without opening it?

The previous owner of the engine said it was rebuilt and had about 50,000 miles on it...but who knows how much I can actually believe him....

Im not saying as a permanent solution...only for a few months while i save for my rebuild, and do the rebuild...sort of as a temporary engine...


-Matt

the only way i can think of is it needing to be in the car, If it blows bubbles out of the Rad, you need coolent seals, if it smokes, you need Oil seals... How's the current engine thats in the car? if its not smoking it should be alright... Just be easy on the car and dont worry about it untill it happens.

The current engine has 125,000 miles, but runs very strong. Pulls hard, and smokes only for a minute when its cold in the morning. Doesnt look like anything is gonna go wrong soon but I would like to be prepared if something does happen...

check for oil in the coolant or for coolant in the oil

pressure test the coolant system, there are kits that attach onto the filler neck.