1987 marathon top end overhaul or engine rebuild?

[bigonpig]

So my '87 Marathon was losing power, running very hot, then eventually would stop running if got too hot. Heard a loud pop then whoosh, whoosh sound when trying to turn over--figured head gasket was blown. Went to change gasket and noticed that the piston is in bad shape--has a large metal spur on top edge and seems to have separated from cylinder wall. My question is: can I just do a top end overhaul on this or should I do the full engine rebuild? I have some basic mechanical skills (better on the electrical side) but have never rebuilt an engine before.

[cart around]

If the engine is already out, you should absolutely change the crankshaft seals.

The deciding factor on a full rebuild is the bearings.
Are they loose enough to move the crankshaft up and down?
Did any crap drop down into the case from the piston that can ruin the bearings?

You could always split the case to clean everything out, and use the same bearings if they are tight. Then again, you could say why go that far and not spend another 30 bucks on bearings?

[bigonpig]

Ok, I'll check it out more this weekend. Thanks for the advice. Is this something someone with limited mechanical skills can do, or should I seek more experienced help?

[cart around]

Start with studying the manual.
The piston goes in with the side port facing the intake.
The rings go bevel side up.

The flywheel requires a steering wheel puller to replace the front seal.
The rear seal requires a short rod, and 3/4" bolt to pull the clutch. A powered impact is most helpful, and a hydraulic press is almost required to put new bearings in unless you get real creative.
What some people call limited skills, others might call expert.

Do you cut your grass with a lawn mower, or a checkbook?
If the only tool in your toolbox is a checkbook, then I would say let somebody else do it.

[cart around]

This guy has two videos, and there is a guy called donyboy73 you might want to look up.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ik0yZmG6gL8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iB054pB2en8

After this guy removes the belt, the primary clutch removal is the same. You don't need the fancy tool. Just a rod, and 3/4" bolt.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OO0TDsZqFkE

Picture of home made puller.

http://www.buggiesgonewild.com/gas-e...-gas-cart.html

[bigonpig]

Thanks for the links and advice. I've watched a couple of videos but always wonder if they leave steps out. I'll check those out too and see what I think. Thanks again!