I am looking for a ASE Certified mechanic on the west side of LA to install an engine in my '83 300CD Turbo Diesel. Any takers? My usual guy really doesn't want to do it and is not certified. Also I am debating buying a car that has been in an accident that has/maybe had a good engine or buying a rebuilt one on-line with a warrentee. But there is a list of things that have to be done to validate the warrentee that I am guessing are going to be very expensive. Any thoughts? How much do you think this will cost? Man I wish I didn't love my car so much!

 

I wonder why you "usual guy" is unwilling to do the Job.

With the exception of maybe needing a Heavier Duty Engine Crane/Lifter it is much the same a changing any Engine (the Engine is heavier though).
However, it is a lot of physical labor.
The Factory Service Manual has some instructions on pulling the Engine.

Now that I am thinking about it I think the Engine pulling job would be easier with an "A" Frame (looks somewhat like a Heavy Duty Swing Set Frame on wheels) than an Engine Crane. Easier to pull something up high and you can move it around easier.

You might take a drive by some Repair shops and see if an "A" Frame is in their yard. It could be an indication that that frequently pull Engines.

Also look for a shop that is used to working on more expensive Cars. That way someones Belt Buckle will not end up scratching your paint job.

It can also be a good idea to take some detailed pics of the outside of your car and the inside too. Cars have been know to get dinged up/scratched while being repaired and Carpets and Seats can end up with grease stains.