As far as overhauling the motor yourself versus paying someone - there are factors...
For example, you may or may not be in a position to do more of "what you do" to make the money to pay for the overhaul.
Also, if you have a decent workspace and can be without your car for a while (or buy a used motor and overhaul it while still running your existing unit)
My 03 Regal LS is now gone - still ran fine, but I already had a replacement and it was time for it to go. It was hit while parked, and ins company is totaling it. Good timing.
Poor thing, I did feel really guilty. I bought it used in 03 and had put over 230k on it myself.
