I only jump in because I happened by early, I put my P2 head back on with a new used cam, and I replaced what I thought was a good Audi engine with used not too ago. Replacing was a pretty big job time-wise. Others here will have way more direct experience for you. My questions would be: How many mi...

Given it's R, new gasket won't help. Need another engine.

vtl wrote: ↑17 Mar 2020, 21:18 What would you do with a cracked cylinder sleeve?

Most of us would cross that bridge when we come to it, not before.

How many miles on the current engine? Here is what I would do - create your build list for a head gasket job. Usually the kit comes with almost every gasket and seal you need. Then decide if you are going to do the timing belt and related - add it to the list. Next up is whether you rebuild the turb...

Lots of good comments, here would be my main thoughts: - Having done both in the garage a few times, swapping the engine is much less technical than the repairing the head. As long as you have an engine hoist and some room and can be careful, this is a good option. Unbolt a bunch of stuff, remove th...

... I could DIY it myself, as I've rebuilt Alfa motors before, which have got to have served as some PAIN TEST for this kinda project yes? I'm an old Alfa guy! I have an extra 1600 on the garage floor in case I need to build one. Glad to see you're getting some really knowledgeable advice from thes...

Something to consider to determine the condition of your existing engine is using an endoscope to check for cracked sleeve and evidence of head gasket leak. For $80 you can get one with two cameras; front and side or $40 for the single camera version. I recently bought one to help me determine what'...

humanatek wrote: ↑19 Mar 2020, 14:50 Does this officically render my beloved R motor unrebuildable and dead forever?

It is inconclusive. It could be a blown head gasket. It may just need a head gasket and some work on the head.

Lots of good comments, here would be my main thoughts: - Having done both in the garage a few times, swapping the engine is much less technical than the repairing the head. As long as you have a lift and some room and can be careful, this is a good option. Unbolt a bunch of stuff, remove the engine...