GarryJG

Hello All, I’m looking for some advice about either replacing my engine, or rebuilding my engine. What’s going on is, my 78’, 280Z has the original engine with 200,000 miles and really never had any major engine work done. Recently, the vehicle will not pass smog because I have low compression in #6 cylinder. My mechanic (friend) replaced the timing chain, and replaced the top end because he told me that the valves where causing the low compression for #6 cylinder. However, after he changed the head, he told me that the #6 cylinder still has low compression. So much for good troubleshooting ? I still have low compression, and now the vehicle will not stay running because it’s flooding. My mechanic told me that he did nothing wrong and he’s not responsible for the flooding because it must be an electrical problem. Since then I have replaced the computer, AFM, throttle positioner, and one other item. Basically the car has been not running for two years now, and he will not open the top end to inspect the timing chain to ensure everything is okay. Anyway, I am concerned about the age of the engine and was seriously thinking about replacing the engine with a either a V6, or a small block V8, or rebuilding the original engine. The question is which would be more cost efficient to due, replace the engine with a new V6 (as im not sure which engine was be a good fit)or V8, or rebuild the original engine. Also, I’m looking for a good mechanic to handle this for me, as I live in the Northern Cal in Solano County. Any information would be appreciated.