Blown Or Cracked Head On A 2000 X With 257k Miles

[Oquigon]

My 2000 Xterra, 3.3 v6, 5-speed manual, jist shy of 257k miles, has a cracked or blown head (not sure exactly yet as I have not torn down into the engine to find out). Coolant POURS and streams out of the exhaust until the radiator is empty. I spoke with a mechanic, that confirmed its very likely a blown or severely cracked head. His advice, were I to keep the vehicle, is to just replace the engine. Cost more, but safer option.

Looking for any other opinions or thoughts. I am looking at getting a little xommiter car for work, and have the space to park and store my X. Is it worth replacing the head (about $500, give or take) with 257k miles on the rest? I also need some basic maintenance like CV boots, brake calipers, etc...

Buy a used engine (about $2k)?

Buy another X with similar or less miles but running and functional, and salvage what parts I can from mine, like the new tires and wheels, etc..(Also about a $2k for similar condition)?

 

[G34RH34D]

If I were in your position, I would Titan swap the engine. Or maybe go with a VG33ER.

 

[HolyGhost]

There are a lot of variables with this like how the engine was maintained before the coolant issue. How much water got into the oil and how long the X was driven around with coolant in the oil. 257k is still a lot on a well maintained engine and it's pretty much end of life on a poorly maintained engine.

Are you able to do this work yourself because really pulling the head is not that hard but it's a fair amount of shop hours. I would say look at the overall condition of the X and decided if you put the money into the X that is needs would you just be able to pick up a new X that is in the same condition as yours will be after the repairs.

Personal opinion I would not pay 2k for a used engine these VG engines are not worth that price no matter what someone on the internet tells you. 2k puts you halfway to another used X that may be in better condition and you could part out the old one for some cash that's the route I would look at.

Or you know LS swap that thing. z31 aftermarket has an adapter for the 5 speed to LS.