As I posted in an earlier thread, I just experienced a pretty bad day when my 98 D1 (Petrol 3.9L) suddenly lost a water pump at 130 km/hr here in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and in less than 5 minutes, fried my engine.

Mechanic opened the engine and discovered two burned pistons, rings and a few other parts. The good news was there was no major damage to the block, or the heads, didn't lose any sleeves and he is putting together the list of items that would be required to do a engine rebuild. We will decide tomorrow whether to rebuild or purchase a used engine (new engine out of the question because of vehicle age/my budget).

Would really appreciate some insight as to which direction is better considering that I plan on owning the vehicle for another five years.

Thanks
1998 D1 82,000 miles

 

personally I wouldn't trust a rebuilt aluminium engine once it's been over heated, but a good mechanic can rebuild it.

 

Depending on your budget...

The rebuild would be the better way to go, it will be almost as good as new.