To rebuild or not to rebuild

[towens777]

I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice. I recently purchased a 1982 Bronco XLT with the 351 engine. The motor has white buildup on the dipstick and in the block where the oil is added. Based on previous experience and research, it could be a blown HG or cracked block. The guy that sold it to me said that it was just the rings going bad. Either way, am I better to buy a rebuilt motor to replace, have mine rebuilt, or buy an entirely new motor? My intentions are to eventually do a total revamp and make this vehicle like new. Of course, I would like to do it with the least cost yet have a very strong vehicle as if I were driving it off the lot new.

Also, should I bite the bullet and replace everything in the engine compartment to make it like new again? I know it needs a new carb as well.

Any suggestions? All advice is appreciated.

 

[bluesman17]

Im a fan of rebuilding, but if its a cracked block its not worth it IMO

 

[ole betsy]

go to summitracing.com and they sell engine rotating kits, you can choose youre compression and type of pistons, bore and bearing sizes. there around $600 for a kit plus the machine work u need to have done. i would rebuild it myself. while i was doing it i would also get a nice cam and degree it, and do a roller lifter conversion.

 

[towens777]

any other advice from anyone? Should I have my engine rebuilt given it is not a cracked block or buy an already rebuilt motor. Is there any way to know for sure whether or not it is a cracked block without tearing it apart? Again, much appreciated. I am not sure which would be the better direction to go.