I was thinking about doing the 87/88 thundercoup turbo mod. I was wondering about how much it costs for getting the motor say from a junk yard. then getting it rebuilt so I have a like new motor. Then putting an exhaust on for the turbo engine. I'm just wondering what people are spending for their mod.

Thanks

I wouldn't pay over $500 for an engine, complete and including the turbo. Rebuild costs will vary depending on what the engine needs and your local machine shop prices. Exhaust will vary depending on what you get and who does it for you.

Basically it will depend on who you know and what you find, but I've seen it done complete for as little as $300 and as much as $3000...

I'm thinking rebuilding it so it can handle a higher boost. a 300 exhaust including install. or something like that.

Just a note: Bone Stock 150,000 mile 2.3Ts are handling 20+ lbs of boost. These things are really tough, and unless you're wanting to drop the compression ratio even more than the stock 8:1 with custom pistons, there's not much to do in a rebuild to increase the boost potential. If you can hear and see it run before you buy, you won't need to do anything to it unless you see smoke, and then it may just be the turbo. If not, pop the head off and check the bores. Mine had 116k on it and I could still see the factory hone marks on the bores. Check the #1 bore for a ridge at the top, and check the head for cracks around the exhaust seats. If you don't find either, slap a Fel-Pro 1035 head gasket on it, bolt the head back on, and drop it in. Anything more is really a waste of money. Cams and other things can be changed in the truck, but I would put a roller in it while it's off, but that's just me...