Motor Rebuild Alternatives?, What do you recommend? Options

[vesnyder]

I am in the process of restoring a '73 1.7 that is getting close cosmetically but mechanically still has a long way to go, but would like some opinions on what I should do about my motor? I current have a 1.7 in the car that is leaking and blowing smoke, but seems to run strong, so I am not in a hurry to do anything but a replacement/rebuild is inevitable. I also have another 1.8 removed from a '74 that has about 90k on it. I plan on primarily using the car for spirited Sun driving with the occasional DE and Auto-x. I am a novice motor guy but would consider trying to rebuild the engine myself, particularly since there is no hurry. What is the price difference between rebuilding myself and having a pro do it? If I were to do it myself I would need a complete recipe! Looked at the rebuild kits provided by RAT but after I add all the options am I better off having them do it complete? Keep in mind this project is on a budget and a RAT engine, although ideal, may be some years away? What do you recommend?

[Gary]

Depending on your budget, time table, and mechanical skills, I'd say you have spectrum of options. About 6 years ago rebuilt my 1800 into a 1911 (66x96) before there was a Jake video or many of the resources out there today. It lasted about 5 years / 50k miles before gernading a lifter and wiping the cam. There are a bunch of vendors who could help you with a kit that your gather parts for yourself.

If you have the benefit of time, it would be hard to beat one of Jake's kits. I went another route this year and have been sorry for it.