[DETON8R]

I checked Craigslist for a few months and found a wrecked 1999 SLP Camaro complete with 140,000 mi for less than $3000. All the parts I needed on the engine, T-56 transmission, brackets, ECM, air cleaner set up, etc. Yeah, I needed to have the transmission and engine torn down and rebuilt, but I didn't need to lay out extra cash for accessories, pedals, air cleaner, radiator, electric fans, etc. And there is plenty of info how to tear down the wiring harness and modify it yourself for your needs, depending on your skill level and desire.

I'm not sure that I agree that buying a crate motor is cheaper in every case, or easier either. Depending on skill level, and availability of parts and whether the owner pays someone to do the installation vs do-it-yourself, it can be much less expensive for the do-it-yourself owner if they have the tools, creativity and patience to make it work.

To each his own. I'd prefer to re-purpose the parts from the donor car, even if I need to do some extra sheet meal and welding, and massaging to use those parts, and put that saved money into other parts.