So I did the HG , new water pump and thermostat. No longer getting over pressurization in coolant overflow and back to normal coolant temps during driving. BUT this motor is worn out and showed signs of neglect. Cylinder bores had shiny areas . All piston tops were ok, and traveled to top of cylinders evenly. So I'm researching options. Brand new short block. Used long block. Local sourced long block vs JDM long block? I'm in Maine USA so far away from California. The body, paint and interior all in very good condition.
How does it run? I would not change it unless it's burning lots of oil or it's still rattling. A dealer would do a new short block assuming the head was flat. But having them do it is ridiculous. But if you can do it you would end up with a reliable engine. I would have someone like Hybrid Pit ship me a rebuilt engine. For cost reasons I might go JDM but you could get an older 2010-14 engine with the low tension rings or you could get a used in Japan 2018-21 engine. But there is no way to id the year.
