I can get an ecotec donor car for a crusher price (about $300) that still runs (40K miles) but it was on its roof. I thought I read that these cars have a rollover safety switch. Is that true? And would it be a safe engine to use or is there anything I'd have to do first?
yes and no. if it rolled over and landed on it wheels it is probably fine. if it sat on its roof for awhile id avoid it. but it still runs so that a good start, most of the bad rollovers we get run like crap and usually smoke. id suggest checking the engine bay and see if theres fluids all over it as well as the inside of the hood.
Ive never hear of a rollover safety switch in the J-body but its possible.
http://registry.gmenthusiast.com/images/my2005cav/my%20car%20the%20bash.jpg
But, what I'm really asking is if the engine can be revived and what I have to do to get it back to normal. I find it hard to believe that if you put a car on its roof that it will continue to run. If if it's not running upside down, It should be fine, but I would guess the head might need refreshening.
Honestly I guess I'm looking for a mechanic's opinion, or someone that's restored one of these.
I mean, if a Tucker 30 years ago can rollover and keep going, why can't GM's new "hotrod" Sport Compact Performance engine do the same.
you can revive any engine with the right amount of money. Just check as much of the engine as you can for leaks, cracks, holes, things of that nature. You really only need to worry about the thing your interested in off the car.
i bought an engine that was in a rollover and it worked fine just took out plugs and turn it over a few time to make sure the cylinders werent full of fluid. also rolled my grand am race car and didnt have any trouble.
Can you see this engine and hear it run before you buy?
I would make sure it dosnt smoke.
See the problem with engines in rollovers, in the oil pump is in the bottom of the oil pan. When it flips the oil all goes downwards, oppoiste the oil pump. Running the pump dry.
I wouldnt do it.
- 2004 Cavalier - 124k, owned since new
Never mind. Just got a call from my dad a few minutes ago. I'll get the hook up on an entire engine bay. Actually, my choice between four different engine bays. None rolled.
