Purchasing Question for PWC with problem

[malkinfan]

Hi, first off I'm new to the boards. I am a newb so I don't feel I should ask a mechanic before I have a little background on the subject to avoid getting ripped off.
I found a 2000 xp for only $1000, problem is that there is a whole through the engine block and it will obviously need to be replaced. The guy claims that it should cost less than 1200, which is cool with me. My questions are:
-How hard is it to find a replacement engine and will it be as reliable as a new engine?
-How can I tell if there is anything else wrong with the machine if It can't be started?
-Would you risk buying this machine for the projected costs?

 

[RFoster130]

A 2000 XP, should be a 951 engine. That would be 1200 to 1500 depending where you buy it. Problem is, you need a core to send in. Some places arent gonna take yours with a hole in the block. You still need a to find a blown engine that can be used as a core. SBT says they will take it with a hole in the block, but will charge you to fix it, up to like 3 or 4 hundred bucks i think. The other option is to find an engine in a ski that has hull damage.

I would only buy it if you could do the work yourself and get it cheap. Id offer the guy like 500 bucks. Honestly he would be better off to part it out.

 

[malkinfan]

Thanks a lot, I avoided this because I am definitely not able to repair by myself and just seems like more than a hassle than I originally expected.