Aight...so, my worst fears have finally been realized. I've been told after a diagnostic check of my HT-4100 that it's falling apart and I need an engine.

So, my questions are:

1) What makes an engine "rebuildable," and does mine qualify?

2) Should I just search online for another HT-4100 and have it replaced?

3) Does it matter whether it's "transverse" or not (I don't know whether mine is or not, and wouldn't know how to figure that out)?

4) Anyone know of anywhere near Chicago where any of these options could be fulfilled? LOL

or...

5) Should I get rid of my '85 Eldo altogether?

 

A transverse engine is an engine in which the crankshaft is oriented side-to-side relative to the length of the vehicle, meaning FRONT WHEEL DRIVE.

I believe you have FWD .. so does the 1987 and 1988 Allantes with better 4100 engines, both in durability and performance. The 1985 4100 still had problems. Those got corrected in late 1986, I believe.


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...been having a lot of trouble locating a 4.1 engine online; a lot of sites have them listed, but don't carry them when you call & inquire.

...so, what I'm wondering is...can I just buy parts wherever I can find them and have someone "rebuild" my engine that way? I'm sure there are more parts than my limited knowledge tells me, but I'm willing to do the research.

(I know some of the big terminology like cylinder head, intake manifold, etc.)

..."bonus question" would be, "What are some of the parts that I might not know of but should definitely consider (should buying individual parts be the way to go)?