Mechanic replacing Cummins 1986 34

[Moonstruckmantis]

I am looking for a mechanic in NC to replace the engine on our 86 34' Albin. Oh, I am also looking for an engine On our maiden voyage engine overheated and seized. The guy that we have been talking with comes with guite a few referals but my problem is that he can't seem to give us an estimate on how many hours/ $$ this may take. I do understand that there may and probably will be unforseen things arise. But would like to have a general idea, maybe even a written quote as to what he will be doing as we know really nothing about this. We have been told the the rear portion of the flybridge will have to be removed in order to to do this? At this point we have looked into a couple of rebuilt Cummins at an approximate cost of 5-6 grand with no type of warranty. Does that seem resonable? Seeing as we bought the boat in July of 2012 and have taken it out once I am eagar to get this rebuild done yet mechanic can't tell me how long he thinks it will take him once he gets engine. I am hoping for guidance/advice from more knowlegeble than me! Any info shared will be greatly appreciated

[marko]

I purchased my Albin Express Trawler in Annapolis, but for several years it was taken down here near Southport during the winters. The previous owners had the twin Cummins serviced by Tom DeMann of DeMann Marine Power in Wilmington, NC (which is where I live, but my boat's in New Bern, NC). I've meet Tom, he's very knowledgeable and used to work for Cummins. He's a little rough around the edges, but may be able to help you out. Setting a price range with service guys is always difficult, there are unknowns. Tom referenced me to a mechanic in New Bern who has worked out fine. I have NOT had any work done by DeMann, so... for what it's worth.

[Russell]

Maybe they are out of your price range but Cummins factory recon engines come with a 2 year or 2000 hour warranty. The Cummins dealer in your area might be able to recommend a mechanic.

[Robb]

$5-6k for a marine rebuild is very cheap an I would be suspect. I expect to pay that for a good long block. For a rebuilt complete expect about $12k, and $18-20k for a Cummins reman. The Remans are a really good engine, essentially new. Probably another $10k to remove/install by the time any issues are worked through. Just FYI I pulled my 370 this winter for a light refresh, cosmetics, water and oil pumps, seals, cooling system maintenance, etc. and I'm into it about $4k with me doing all the labor.