65 Barracuda... Got BAD News...

I have the same question.....how did the compression fail? Rings? Valves? If it doesn't smoke or use oil, I'd just do a valve job if money is tight. If it's a high miler/smoker, plugging in another good used 273 or 318 is the next cheapest route. A 318 or '68-9 273 will need a bushing for the crank to center your '65 torque converter. Everything else should bolt on if you use a '74 and older engine. Newer than that, you may have to modify smog provisions in heads and manifolds. You'd have to call around your area to get rebuilding costs from machine shops and parts suppiers. A lot will depend on how much of the work you'll be doing yourself.

Let me first start by thanking everyone for all of the help. I am a Novice swimming in a big "fish" tank...

She is definitely a high miler/smoker. Pouring out from everywhere. I am new to Mopars and bought this car because I saw it and the ad said buy or it will be parted. I had to save her. With that being said, the dilemma I am running into is what direction to take. Would the 318 be better? Should I rebuild the 273? Problem I have is that the 318 sounds like a bit more could be done with it in the future if I wanted to modify. Either way, I feel that the "excuse" is real and the dilemma is going to be which route would be better in the long run, more economical and cost effective.

How much does just a basic engine 273 or 318 run when finished? This would be rebuilding the 273 or buying a 318 and rebuilding.

Thanks again everyone.

Bill