I have a 91 lwb montero auto that is my family dd. It had been burning quite a bit of oil and also needed new valve cover gaskets. Last week my wife was driving home from work it started losing power, making all kinds of grinding noises, and smoking horribly (she hadnt added oil like i asked her to). It also kept shutting off. When I looked under the hood the next day, it looks like there is a hole busting through some aluminum casing towards the bottom of the engine on the drivers side. So, i was wondering if anyone has any ideas. Also, would it need rebuilt, replaced? Anyone know a good, reasonable mechanic in Cincinnati? And what engines from other vehicles would be direct swap (tried to search for that). Thanks in advance.
-Eric

Yes, I would day it's blown <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/zombie.gif" alt="" /> The block is toast so there is no fixing it.

If you don't have the ability to remove and replace the engine yourself it would be cheaper just to buy another truck.
Not that I want to see Montero's in the junk yard but unless you can wrench dumping money into a 18 year old truck will drain your wallet fast.

You could could get a engine out of Rising Sun. IMO your way better off with a tested used engine than remanufacutered craptastic one. Your looking at a 2 grand fix on a truck that's not worth 2 grand. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif" alt="" />

Well, I've had a couple backyard mechanics off craigslist tell me that they can replace the engine for between 6-700 including labor, but I would hate to waste that money, if they dont know what theyre doing or the replacement engine is crap too. I just hate to get rid of the truck....trans was rebuilt 30k ago

Well a rising sun engines are low miles, tested and warranty. I don't see how Craigslists backyarder can get a engine and install for 7 bills? Maybe times are tough, could be a deal, could be a disaster.

FYI I edited your post title to fit the posting guidelines.

The block is not aluminum.

I have no idea what the aluminum part is, I thought the block was cast iron. Was thinking the aluminum was a heat sheild or oil pan??? I have no idea... i'm no mechanic <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

How about you post some pictures for us to take a look at. If you want to keep this vehicle, get ready to shell out about 3k for a replacement engine.

Yeah post some pics. We can help you out

are'nt those the guys that are afraid to post their prices ????? you call and get one price and when you call to order the price has gone up 50%