How to buy an engine

[thistle3585]

I found a 360 in a '72 AMX for $400, Edlebrock intake for $100 and brand new in box flywheel for another $100. Its currently in the car and he wants 50% down and the balance after he pulls it. He has left in the car so I can see how well it runs. So, I'm wondering what people think of the deal and what type of questions I should be asking. I figured I'd do a compression test on it. Any other suggestions? I've never bought an engine. I'm going to replace my AMC 304 in my CJ5 and am looking for something that is a fairly easy swap.

 

[Scooter402]

A running 360 for $400...I'd be all over it like white on rice in a glass of milk on a paper plate in a snowstorm! Just saying... And the intake..well, if it looks new, it's a good deal. If it's crusted up...I'd give $50 for it.

 

[Old Dog]

I'd run a vac. check on it also.

 

[Deerejeep]

I'm a first timer and just bought a 360. No testing, $250. No a huge gamble in my opinion. There is another for sale in the quad cities on Craigslist and he says make an offer. Just as an option for you.

 

[thistle3585]

Another question on buying an engine. How do I determine what fits? I am told the AMC 304 in my Jeep is an H block. Do I need another H block? The 360 is an N block. I'm not sure what that means but just trying to make sure I don't get something that isn't going to fit.

 

[mtnwhlr]

All AMC engines have the same bolt pattern for the bellhousing.

 

[thistle3585]

Great. I'm hoping to get a 360 pretty inexpensively by a guy that is upgrading.