Hey all. Before I ask, treat this as purely hypothetical.

I ran across this ad on craigslist last night and sent an email about them. They're both SSEs. The man said the 93s engine 'probably' needs to be replaced and that the 95s transmission doesn't come out of first gear.

Now I could probably pick one of them up for $350. Both look to be in good shape. Which would be less work and / or cheaper? New motor or new trans?

Thanks! Like I said, I'm likely not going to do this but it'* just something I've been thinking about.

Well a trans is always gonna be cheaper than an engine, but if you know about engines, *most* stuff like upper valvetrain can be repaired pretty easy, if its something serious like low end or something requiring engine out, then its not so easy. i would say the one that needs the transmission would get my vote, BUT, they both use the same trans, so if you got both, you have a good trans. Not sure on the wiring or gear ratios tho. but they are both 4T60Es

final opinion? I would take the 95 no QUESTION.

Edit: BTW, by appearance of the 95, its an SLE. It doesn't have SSE badges, it doesn't have SSE tail lights and it has leather. Making it an SLE most likely.

ummm sadily mistaken

the 93 has the L27 you can find them easy dime a dozen....

95 will have the 4t60-e, and you have to have a trans out of a 95 or replace the wireharness inside the Trans....and then you still have to worry about the Upper intake on the 95 if it hasnt been service yet

This is true. My local junkyard chain sells engines for $150.

pat, he didn't say JUNKYARD engine or trans in the original post. I assumed reman, not everyone wants a JY 3800 even if they are one of the most reliable GM engines. As far as a transmission, sorry, I'm not a big believer in JY transmissions, I assumed he wanted to do it right and go with a reman. So. Remanufactured transmission is a boatload cheaper than an engine, JY, yes, they are a dime a dozen for an L27 but I've noticed that most the L36s I've seen have a failed UIM and have had coolant in the bearings for some time. Just my opinion.

If going with a JY trans, a reliable low mileage one is not that bad, but I've noticed that they are usually cheaper than engines, at least in my area.

Also... at only 130k that L27 probably does not have alot of problems...well..maybe it does, but its doubtful. 95'* int is better IMO, but the 93 would probably be the one i would go for actually. Just don't like that interior! Yuck!

Anyways

there is an L27 from a 93 LeSabre about 80mi from you in Rhoadesville with 100k for $300 at Tony'* Auto Parts. Theres a cheap viable option if you have a way to get an engine in.

You sure are lucky, engines start at about $550 up here for the high mileage ones.

I would go with engine replacement.

IMO....take both....use the best parts from the 2 cars and make one good one....850 is cheap for 2 cars....

oh ya and i found a 95 SE Trans with 86K for $50 in Hartford CT

and you still owe me a set of wheels too

I have a 97 tranny going in my 95.

I'm going to pass this deal up. I'd rather buy a running car. Thanks!