fifth cylinder is dead

[lrcrna]

Hi. I have a 1992 325 I bought 9 yrs ago with 110k miles. It now has 250k miles. Son has been driving for the last four years. He commutes to college. Just moved and with out of state tuition can't afford to pay for apt. 150 miles round trip. Yeasterday car was shaking all over, took it to non-dealer guy. He said the fifth cylinder is dead, needs a new engine. Where do you find one? what kind of cost? Anyone know a good mechanic in the Portland OR area?

Thanks

[AlpineSixAndSeven]

^ alot of recyclers due busness on ebay... what is exacally wrong with cylinder 5? so you know he is legit?

[drivinfaster]

did the tech do a compression test or a leakdown test?? a fouled spark plug could cause a miss, as well as a faulty injector. so can a burnt valve (although this would be more noticeable at idle), or blown headgasket (which may or may not include smoke and overheating).

a good auto tech will at least rule out simple basics first (plugs, coils and such) and go from there. the compression and leakdown test usually are chargeable tests, but are negligable when compared to the cost of an entire engine replacement. i would ask specifics and have detailed estimates.

thre are some yahoos out there that will take advantage of the consumer, but there are some good guys out there as well. your best defense is to ask LOTS of questions and understand the answers. don't be intimidated, just be polite. if you don't feel comfortable, don't allow yourself to be forced into a repair. get a second opinion if you feel it necessary.

good luck.

df

[lrcrna]

My understanding is that all the other cylinders are fine and the the coils and injectors are all working properly. We are trying to find an engine now, that my son and husband can then replace.
Thanks