I know you can buy engines that you can just swap in with no work needed besides the work needed for the actual swap. But where could I find engines that need work on them? Would it be worth it to harass a few engine compaines to see if they have some blown motors they can't sell quickly? And what price am I looking at?

 

prolly sofast.com or any good junkyard.

 

what about the price? maybe 3/4 of what a good motor costs?

 

I would say price depends on whats wrong with it. If its blown most likely its junk. It would be a good idea take the valve cover off and look for missing retainers. Inspect it for anything out of the ordinary. Also talk them as low as possible.
Jason