What re-maufactured engine do you guys recommend? I already know the reputation of Jasper. But these are so expensive. What about NAPA? Any others?

 

AutoZonealso sells reman'd engines.

They sell the following:

Surefire for $2055 with a 3 year warranty
Evergreen for $1904 with a 3 year warranty
Marshalls for $2460 with a 4 year warranty

 

Have you thought about taking it to the local ford dealer and get an estimate from them? I'm pretty sure the engine alone (AER version) goes for about 2500. and carries a 36 month, 100,000 mile warranty. Labor is probably another 850.00 and that gets you a bit short of your mechanic's estimate. Remember, labor is warrantied as is the parts, when done at the dealership.