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Jim
Grant has been working in the automotive industry for over twenty
years. In addition, Jim is an ASE Master Technician with advanced
L/1 certification. He works as manager and technician in his
family's automotive business in New Hampshire. He writes weekly
automotive consumer columns and is editor of an automotive newsletter
that is circulated throughout North America. |
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Jim Grant's Tech Tips
'93 Chrysler Concorde, Engine Noise
Q:
I own
a '93 Chrysler Concorde with a 3.5 liter engine. It has 109k miles on
it. It has always been taken care of, serviced and was running excellent.
Recently out of the blue it experienced a very loud banging noise. Upon
inspection at the shop they found no compression on the #2 cylinder and
the piston was seized up. It appears to be what I would call gold glittery
flakes in the oil. What may have caused this and will a complete rebuild
of the engine need to be done? Parts for this motor rebuild are very expensive...
-
Dan & Rhonda
A:
What
may have caused it? That's the problem with machines. You can do your
very best to maintain them and out of no where bang, all you get is pieces
of parts. Due to your vehicles age you will want to evaluate the complete
vehicle. How are the brakes, suspension & steering? Is there body
rust? Is the interior in good condition? What is the current market value
of your vehicle? Why these questions? You do not want to be rebuilding
an engine and installing it in a vehicle that is worth less the engine
work. Also, do not rule out a used engine from an automotive salvage yard,
(my wife says automotive recycling facility but that doesn't work for
me yet). A low mileage engine from a salvaged vehicle can be an affordable
option.
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