Originally posted by Kerry2Kool4U:
Yes and no. I meant newer by barely used, not year wise.
'Fresher' is the word you were looking for... 
I'd take a look at the wiring before buying.
Once I had it in my garage, pull the head & check to see what kind of damage on the pistons & cylinder walls, then pull the crank down & check all the bearings for both the crank mains & the lower rods for scoring & such. If they look to be in good shape, I'd consider buying a new or re-man head for about $300 and add a fresh set of bearings for good measure. If there are obvious signs of wear, just replace the engine.
If a replacement is in your future, research what engines will fit into the '97 without fuss - Contour, Escort, etc. Find a CRASH donor at the bone yard, fresh bearings, rings, water pump, belt, and go to town.
Must be that jumbly-wumbly thing happening again.
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