[FWDLK] general question

[van Hoy <vanhilla@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Though the application is not F-L, the question has general application.
It's an in-law problem, you know how that goes.

Problem is a blown head gasket.  Coolant in the exhaust and intake
manifolds.  Engine starts, runs about 45 sec., dies, then gurgling into
radiator and overflow tank.  The dipstick and filler cap show no coolant in
oil.

The local garage says that since the manifolds have coolant in them there is
"corrosion" and that the whole engine is ruined and must be replaced due to
bearing damage.  Seems to me that if the oil is clean there is a good chance
of no bearing damage.  I'd think that the coolant in the cylinders would
mostly go out the tailpipe as steam, and the 40# or so oil pressure would
keep the bearings lubed.  It's a high mileage but well maintained engine.  I
further think that the shop is using scare tactics in order to sell an easy
rebuilt engine swap that, in my mind, would be a lot more profitable to them
than just replacing the heads, and gets them off the hook for further
problems to boot.

What are your thoughts on the matter?

--Roger van Hoy, '55DeSoto, '42DeSoto, '66Plymouth, '73Duster, '81 Imperial,
Washougal, WA