Engine rebuild versus purchase

[AmadeusCharger500]

I am trying to get my 318 rebuilt to drive my newly restored road runner for the summer. It looks like the machine shop would get to it in 6 months. This made me think. Would it be worth looking for a new engine instead of a rebuild?

Line Hone   130
Deck   100
Wash   75
Recon Rod   160
Press Piston 80
Hone   125
Valve Job   300
Balance   225

Total 1195

These are the costs of machine work. Factor in another ~500 for parts. So could I get a decent rebuilt 318 for $1700?
What are the drawbacks of this approach other than non original engine?

[deathcharger71]

6 months seems like a very long time to wait for a fairly simple engine build, theres no other machine shops around your area?

[AmadeusCharger500]

Good question. I am just not sure how to find one. I have experience with these guys and know they can do mopar engines correctly.

Anyone  know a shop in Eastern Pa or New Jersey?

[bordin34]

Why not buy a 360 and put it in the roadrunner? Is it a real roadrunner? Where in PA are you?

[AmadeusCharger500]

OH Man am I busted.

Its a Satellite!

I was kinda liking the idea of a 318 just for fuel economy reasons, although I was going to spruce it up a bit.

I live in Bethlehem, near Allentown.

[bordin34]

Oh ok, I thought it would be weird to put a 318 in a 'runner. For fuel economy, why not I may have to do that with my charger.

[Steve P.]

Hey, what's in a name? As long as it doesn't say COMET on the sides!!!   

Finding a good machine shop can be a powerful pain in the aZZ.. I would start with asking the guys around town and shows near by who they use and trust. Then go talk with them and if things don't feel right go somewhere else..

Oh, and you didn't mention any head work..

Also, if you don't have the 318" now I would also go to the 360"...