So my 2002 disco 2's engine has crapped the bed. Needs new timing cover and the shop recommends having over sized pistons made instead resleeving worn cylinders. Looking at over $2000 in work, not to mention the headache of reinstallation. What should I do? A used engine seems like a gamble. Drop a chevy in her? I'm pretty new to engine work but in pretty mechanically inclined. HALP!

 

mileage?

 

Front timing cover will just improve oil pressure. Seems unrelated (?) to oversized pistons...which seem like a bad idea compared to resleeving...if resleeving is needed.

To really get a good decision you've got to factor in your budget, daily vs weekend use, mileage, compression test, etc.

 

find a used engine from a supplier who may be able to give you some history and guidance, refresh the used engine before you install it...that way you'll know exactly what you have, and learn as you go.

 

To be honest, it's a lot of work any way you look at it.
I just finished rebuilding and swapping an engine, and it really just depends on how much you're willing to spend.
If you can buy a new engine, that's great. Hell of a time putting transmission bolts on without taking off your intake manifold, though. So don't expect to buy a new engine and not have to even touch it.
In my opinion, rebuilding would be much better for you.
Cheaper if you just get your part replaced, headgasket set and all, turn your crankshaft, blah blah blah. All that is a machinist's work.
If you do go through the rebuild, then holy hell do you walk away with a lot more experience than you started out with.
Either way, do you value work or do you value money more?