Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

Hi all! I'm new to Roadsters and recently purchased a '70 1600 that blew the head gasket this weekend. Interior inspection (camera) showed scoring and old rust evidence on cylinder walls and it seems I'm looking at a rebuild or finding a replacement engine. I did search the forum quite a bit and see a lot of info, just wondering if there is a thread that maps out cost and options for rebuilding vs. replacing the 1600? I'm in the Raleigh NC area and would like to get in touch with any other local owners as well. Thanks!

Hi spdrcrpete, it all hinges on whether you intend to keep the car stock [worth more and will appreciate in value] or modify [maybe worth more, will be a lot of fun and may cost a fortune to achieve].
The original R16, if it has matching numbers with the ID plate, is easily repaired.
I can't quote you $$$ but, just my opinion, well worth the effort for originality.

You might want to check into machine shop availability , with the change in the majority of engines in ?2000 which aren't machineable /rebuildable.
Many here closed /consolidated and then went to diesel truck fleet work .
But then there's less trucks now too
Bet you'd want the block decked

Hi Peter. Welcome to the site - You found the right place.
Two good points above: Keeping it stock and machining costs/availability. If you are trying to keep it stock/numbers matching (we don’t really have numbers matching cars but you know what I mean), you need to set a budget early on and stick to it. If you go looking for things to replace, you will always find them. I think about $3k would be a good place to start (if you’re doing most of the work yourself) as far as budgeting goes for a complete stock 1600 rebuild with basic machining costs (assuming it can be rebuilt of course) - The Vendors here can certainly help you out with all the parts you would need. As for the cost of a decent running replacement, a R16 will cost notably less than a U20 since a lot of people do U20 & 5 speed swaps into SPLs and then have good used R16 left over - That will help you out cost wise. Availability will be much better down there so you should be able to find one with relative ease for considerably less than the cost of a rebuild. In the end, it comes down to your budget and the level of originality you want.