Hi Hugh,

Gee such kind words, but an Ann Landers for “gear-heads.”
I think that would NOT be something achievable in a “use it up and get another” mind set car world.
Nice thinking from you though, thanks!

The future is bringing forth a bunch of turmoil throughout the transportation industry.
The newest Volvo lineup has even got the China “Geely” rethinking their position with the Swedes. China is going to control many aspects of electric car manufacturing worldwide with tentacles!
Values are to be irrational as they have been for the last eight months!

You seem to be a person that has cultivated deep appreciation for this cars qualities.
It is admirable that your past efforts have paid back handsomely and to what’s going to happen in the next ten years, this car may float your daughter through the transition.
Time moves faster than one realizes and the daughter is probably close to graduating. That changes the work load on the car significantly.

Your mechanic seems very rational in his diagnosis and recommendations.
Did he do the compression testing?
Is he heavily into knowing about these FWD engine transmission combinations and have any track records with customers to do this work?
Research more for good rebuild outcomes where ever you can.
As far as a head, they can be remanufactured with decent quality for $600, I would hope!
They buy them for about the value of the aluminum from the recyclers.
Complete engines with testing certification are just as marketable.
I’m a little leery of businesses in Florida State, I have to say! Look for ratings with certifications, if possible.
Shop carefully!

You seem trusting of him as much as you trust this car to be worthy of all these thoughts?
I’m I reading this right?

As far as the emissions of a catalytic converter requirements, that might be something you can get a deferment for, due to the cars age and no factory provided parts.
The manufacturers limited their liabilities with miles and years, why not you?
It’s an “item to be present” issue at this juncture by law interpretations.
You should fall into a historical purpose category in your state. They All have something! Study!

In my experiences, a well tuned engine doesn’t need a converter most of the time to pass gas emissions. You only need good compression to start!
Hard acceleration and rapid rpm fluctuations dump uncontrollable burns for converters to clean up after!

I brought a car into California from Oregon that passed emissions and its converter was gutted, unknown to me, until way later! The engine started instantly and ran smooth before and during the test. In my county, it only had to pass upon entry to the state, as the county is exempt due to location.
Check yours states regulations over carefully for arbitration rules!
They have monetary limitations that are considered there!


I surely hope you can reach a decision and run into some good people in the process!
There is a good start here anyways!

Phil