First let me say hello I am new to the site. I have really enjoyed reading and learning much about the Savage.

I have recently come into possession of a basket case. The Engine was run hard with low oil and according to a mechanic that looked at it said the cam and a rocker arm needed to be replaced. However upon looking at it myself I noticed wear on the head as well. So my question to all you experts out there is should I try and rebuild the top end or I have found a used engine for $500. Additional info is my bike is the '87 savage and the used engine will come out of another '87.

Thanks for taking the time to look, and hopefully respond.

The cam isn't even there with the parts. So it is gone. Not sure what to call it but I believe where the cam journals rest on the head that is where I see the additional damage. So it sounds like it might be best to pick up this used engine?

I am in Utah and finding used parts is proving a bit of a challenge.

Personally, I would get the used engine. You're gonna pay upwards of 500 for the top end anyway, why not get the whole thing? Mix and match to make the best whole, and then you have spare parts for other stuff.