Re-engine an Eldorado

[Roger97]

I was a member of this forum more than 10 years ago when I owned a '97 Eldorado. I absolutely loved that car then the rear head bolts pulled

at 97,449 miles. Disgusted I sold the car (replaced with Jaguars). I am thinking about buying another last gen. Eldo with good body and interior and bad motor.

I'd replace the bad motor with a first class reman. Are my thoughts practical or harebrained pipe dream?

Thanks,

Roger

[Bruce Nunnally]

On the one hand, this seems a noble rescue effort and you know you enjoy the model.  Certainly it would be a project, and need some patience & funding, but assuming you are up for that then yes, you’d be restoring a car that will soon be an antique.  

[BodybyFisher]

If you like the car, which I do, try buying the newest example if you can 2002 ETC.  Personally, I don't think its hairbrained given how amazing they are, however if you put it on paper, based on what its worth in the market there are those who think its foolish.  Whats it worth to you?  

If you install a pool at your house will you get your investment back?, or is it enjoyment?

[Roger97]

I thoroughly enjoyed my Eldo and could care less about market value. My Jags have proven to be the most durable and reliable cars I've ever owned, but there's always my Eldorado. I would consider a nice low mileage Eldorado but my northstar nightmare continues to haunt me and that's why I may look at a "nice" car with a trashed engine and replace the engine and trans with reman units incorporating the latest and greatest upgrades. Price estimate - $10-$12K. perhaps.

[BodybyFisher]

3 hours ago, Roger97 said:

I thoroughly enjoyed my Eldo and could care less about market value. My Jags have proven to be the most durable and reliable cars I've ever owned, but there's always my Eldorado. I would consider a nice low mileage Eldorado but my northstar nightmare continues to haunt me and that's why I may look at a "nice" car with a trashed engine and replace the engine and trans with reman units incorporating the latest and greatest upgrades. Price estimate - $10-$12K. perhaps.

We think alike, let us know how we can help

[rockfangd]

I am very partial to the pre 99 engines.

They do not have the AIR system, 

Other than the headbolt issue and the crankcase oil leak I say the engines are pretty flawless. Very rarely have I ever had to work on mine other than general maintenance.

neither one of my 97s use a drop of oil. 

My Seville engine was serted and resealed 25k miles ago and has been flawless.

They truly run like swiss watches.

This may be just me but I see many 2000s Caddys that just don't sell. Nearly every one that I have come across used alot of oil. Its sad. When I had my 01 Eldo I had to put oil in it at least once a week. I never had to open the hood so much on any vehicle I have ever owned. 

Best of luck to you.