Well the hits just keep on coming...
I was waiting to pick up my "new" Raider when just after installing the rebuilt transmission my mechanic informed me that the head was cracked. For those of you at home keeping score that's:
New brake system
Body work
Paint job
Rebuilt transmission

Now I need to decide if I want to fix the crack in the head and finish the top end job or start over and install a used or remanufactured engine.
Does anyone now where I can find a working 2.6 L engine?
I am just about at the end of my rope here...

Too bad he waited until after the transmission was done to figure out that the head was cracked. Sounds like something I would do (to myself).

All used 2.6 heads are cracked, its just a question of is the crack leaking? Or was it a head gasket?

Kevin

Clearwater head-about 350, plus install, but it won't break again

or

There are 2 2.6s in a yard in Bradenton, FL as of couple weeks ago

That is discouraging. I've been in a similar situation with an Isuzu Trooper. I just wanted to take it to the junk yard after it kept breaking down (head gasket problems et al) The good news is, you have a great looking truck with a rebuilt transmission and brakes, what else could really go wrong other than regular maintenance? I'd probably go with the clearwater head and get that sucker running again, if you go with a used engine, not only are you going to have the labor to remove and replace, the replacement is gonna likely have issues too.

Now isn't the time to bring this up but that is why I held out and waited for the right V6 raider, less problems. (with the heads anyway)

Good Luck, it shant be long before you're ready to roll

Please provide contacts for both the Head and Engines.
Thanks

No one here will recommend a reman engine. Only advice there is to find a reputable local shop.

As for the head, like mentioned above, Clearwater Cylinder Heads (cylinder-head.com, I think). Yes, as is Clearwater FL. Get their new cast non jet-valve one.

Your right, good thing you didnt. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif" alt="" />

I think I'm going to bite the bullet and buy a remanufactured engine for $1480. The old one needs a new timing chain and guides, oil pump, water pump and the new head. Once I added it up there was less than $500 difference between a fixed engine with 200,000 mile and one with a 3 year unlimited miles warranty.
Sometime next week my Daughter will have a brand new 22 year old truck...

If you go the entire rebuilt engine route, make sure it comes with a new non-jet valve head. Probably many more things to look for also - something about crank bearing journal grinding technique if I remember correctly...