| Yeah, a good way be to become un-friends is to engage this learning experience on your engine. Not to say the effort may go fine and we're all full of hooey.
A properly rebuilt engine is reliable and pros pull it off with good long term success. Sure a "crate" motor is dandy but engines can be successfully rebuilt and run out as new - or better. Talk to rally guys. I've spotted Mercedes engine rebuilders on the web that I'm betting produce a quality product I'd have no problem swinging under the hood. It's their gig with all the tools and toys. Specs and tolerances are critical. Pro shops have the trick, specialty equipment and experience. Shop classes have somewhat tired gear, often not calibrated and fewer resources. Higher risk for errors and possible failure.
Your engine isn't exactly exotic but a typical first engine isn't diesel. The shop may offer diesel as part of its course of study, that would be promising. The shop time your friend gets may be slower paced then you want to absorb. You get what you pay for, give some consideration on how you would feel if it got ugly after buying parts.
__________________
Anything Made can be Made Better |