Don't worry about me being depressed, I'm not. I planned to pull the engine and give it the once over soon anyway (probably in the spring). I'm surprised my engine has held together so well considering the pressure I was under to get it all put together. It was just kind of a surprise that the life expectancy was so short for something that looks a hell of a lot more durable than stock. I will inspect them before I replace them, of course. You're right, though, $250 after 55K miles is not really a whole lot of money.
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351W 89 Mustang GT Convertible