So, I have made a few posts on here after I purchased my 2000 1.8 Club SE. Absolutely love the car. Up to now has has given me very little trouble. Aside from track rod ends it has all been preventative maintenance.
The issue I am having? I recently noticed an oil leak coming from the front of the cylinder head, not drastic but notable. It is also starting to 'use' a little water, not a lot, maybe 500ml a month. It never overheats or has overheated, the needle never moves over half.
So the dilemma I found myself in is this; I would like to have a 'rebuilt' engine. I'm not talking a bare block, just new gaskets, stem seals etc. So my options I see are this.....
Do I buy another engine give it a make over with new gaskets and paint etc and swap them over.
Which begs the question is/will matching numbers be important? (I aren't planning on selling)
The other option is the price of engines floating about on eBay would it be easier to get a whole car for the engine and break it? (Not sure I am 100%
OK with breaking one, unless it was a true basketcase.)
Or do I remove the current engine and store the car while I rebuild it?
Answers on a postcard
