So I frequently go on craigslist and lowball people resulting in really good deals. But I am looking at a VQ35DE that came out of a 2003 G35 Sedan (same as what I have) that was pulled because of a Ticking from worn Lifters. I did do some homework and see that worn lifters can mean more is damaged. He wanted $400, I offered $100, and he dropped to $200. Thinking about buying it to rebuild and basically play with. I was going to counter with $150. I have no idea what the price of this is really worth but I know you can't find a engine for $150 and assumed as parts is worth more than that. (His wife wants it out of the garage.)

Basically I am asking your guys opinion. How easy would a top end rebuild be? Good buy or pass? G35driver is my source of a lot of my knowledge so figured I'd ask a great community! Thanks in advanced

 

Check out my post right above yours - just did my upper end in my '04 6MT Sedan.

Reconditioning my heads cost me $475 at my local hi-perf machine shop, including replacing two valves, new valve guides, and a hi-perf valve job (5-angle instead of standard 3-angle).

Don't know what the lifters will cost you, nor if you'll need a cam or two replaced (can't imagine why, unless that engine was run low on oil or without oil changes forever).

Head gasket set will cost about $200, and you'll need another $100 for new head bolts (they stretch and shouldn't be re-used if you want a complete and proper seal). I'd recommend replacement of the drive belts at that time too, and maybe the water pump (since you're 90% of the way there anyway).

I'd budget $1,000 for the whole top-end rebuild if you're doing the labor yourself.

 

I check out your thread. Thanks for the input. Still debating really. Thanks for the info!