My SOHC is destined for DOOM... Need opinions on swap option...

[BeatJunky]

[this information can also be found in conjuction with this thread]

Get this one... BIG SURPRISE FOR ME!!!


So my engine has a noise I beleived was an exhaust leak via exhaust manifold. Today however, as I kept driving thru the day it kept getting louder and louder and LOUDER so I decided to fiddle with the engine a little. I let it idle and popped the hood. Stopp there and listened trying to pin point the source. The noise is loudest from within the valve cover gasket. I then checked the engine oil dipstick... and to my surprise it is DRY LIKE A BONE! I couldnt beleive this! I double check.... same chit! Pop open the oil cap, all looks empty in there. Popped the little bit of oil I could find (1.5 bottles of 10w30) into it and the drove it around the block, noise is reduced 80%. Called my mech buddy up, sz he strongly beleives I have a bad lifter so I have to figure out which cylinder is bad and fix all that junk plus re shave the heads etc etc etc etc. So my engine problems havent been simple, I just plain purchased a straight up lemon.



So I've decided to get rid of this engine/tranny get up.

My question to you guys is:

- Should I swap in another SOHC or go straight for an SR???

Biggest concern is reliability. Is an old SOCH KA loaded with miles more reliable than an SR? When I go to the shop for the SR swap (Im thinking of going with jdmspecperf.com cuz theyre somewhat local)will the SR come complete with all "basic maintenance" items already in perfect working conditions? E.G. All ignition parts working properly, All hoses checked and good, etc etc etc etc...?

My biggest fear is getting into another problem.

So for reliability... an SR swap or SOHC KA swap?

I wont be ready for SR swap until feb/march of '04 but if really needed I can pull some strings to do it sooner. If not a new "used" SOHC KA can be attained for a minimal price but with the risk of having it not be fully dependable.


:::edit:::
For more info on my situation... this is the link to the thread where I explained how I came about this car and my initial impretions of it. I've only owned it for 2 or 3 weeks, this may help understand my situation.