Sometimes there is no choice but to replace. But it pays to way all the options outs for sure. It is always nice to save a few bucks by being able to fix things yourself or with friends. Plus the pride in knowing g you did it. There is no way to know what way is best, though sometimes the condition of the parts in hand dictate which way we go.

A good used motor is another way to save money, if you can find one. Over the last 15 years I have put hundreds in cars and only had small number less than 10 ever be bad when I put them in. So less than 1%.

But no need to do any if his motor still has good life in it. Cause no way around, reman, rebuilt, used it's a large bill to get it back up and going.

Jim if you have any questions about checking the condition of yours out just pm me and I will do what I can to help you check it out