1992 Dodge Dakota blown head gasket

Tiny
DOUGIEFRESH
  • MEMBER
  • 1992 DODGE DAKOTA
Engine Cooling problem
1992 Dodge Dakota 4 cyl Two Wheel Drive Manual

I bought the the vehicle 4 years ago for $1,500. In the next few months I had to invest around $5000 into it including a rebuilt engine, new clutch, brakes, and other parts. Since then it has run quite well with few problems. I have maybe invested another $1,000 into it over those 4 years. Given this information, do you think that it would be worth while to have a blown head gasket repaired? I'm assuming it could run me anywhere from 600 to 1000 dollars; I will get an estimate tomorrow. Should I just get rid of it for as much money as I can and start over or get it fixed and have a vehicle that runs. The issue is that I was just laid off and have limited funds so I would hate to invest the money in a losing battle. Any advice would be helpful.

Doug
Monday, January 12th, 2009 AT 11:50 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • MECHANIC
  • 16,542 POSTS
That is ultimately your decision, however it seems like this vehicle has a lot of major problems. In your situation, you will be better off fixing the head gasket (estimate for 4cylinder 2.5L engine is below) until you can afford a more dependable vehicle. You will not get anything out of your vehicle with a blown gasket, so unless you can already afford another vehicle then you will be better off paying repair costs and purchasing a more dependable vehicle as soon as you can.

I am just putting myself in your shoes and telling you my opinion. I hope this helps in your decision. Below is the estimate to replace your head gasket.


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/261618_Noname_129.jpg



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Tuesday, January 13th, 2009 AT 1:36 AM
Tiny
DOUGIEFRESH
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Thanks for the input, I'm leaning in that direction. I just heard back from the garage, they said they will have to rebuild the head, and that everything including labor will be $900. Does that sound about right?
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Tuesday, January 13th, 2009 AT 9:54 PM
Tiny
BLUELIGHTNIN6
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Yeah, that is about right if the head was damaged and needing rebuilt as well.

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Wednesday, January 14th, 2009 AT 12:12 AM

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