i found a 2.3l (full)
 

i found a 2.3l engine with 85k miles on it with a t5 transmission for $300 in clearwater. i also found a 2.3l engine with 67k miles on it with a t5 transmission for $400 in st pete. would either of these be a good idea to get and drop in my car or no? thanks.

Clearwater and St Pete are not that far from each other. Maybe if you can look at both and then choose? Prob the lower mileage would be best.

are there any things to look for? any signs of wear or things that will tell if the engine isnt worth it? and good things to look for? i just dont wanna drop $400 to get an engine that will dump on me soon. is there any way they can crank it without it being dropped in a car? thanks, josh:doh:

I assume the engines are out of the cars so you can't run them? If so, check the front and rear seals for any sign of leaking. Take a tool set along and pull the plugs and look for any sign of oil burning from bad rings or worn valve guides. Put a wrench on the harmonic balancer and make sure the engine turns smoothly. Take the valve cover off and check the condition of the top end. Take the distributor cap off and check for wear.