Looking for some advice or input on the best direction to take....

I recently blew up the engine on my 2021 UFORCE 1000. The front connecting rod is broken according to some diagnostics done by my local dealer. I did have the head gaskets replaced about 8 months ago after the rear gasket started leaking which caused the UTV to overheat. I now think that the overheating is what caused the connecting rod to break. My dealer quoted me around $5,000 to get a new engine put in, which is what they recommend since they feel there could be other damage caused by the overheating and broken rod, which makes sense to me. I would like to know if anyone had any experience buying a new engine and swapping it out, and if so, what should I watch out for? $5,000 is a little rich for me right now, so I picked up the UTV and brought it home for now. I have experience working on cars and equipment, and would like to tackle it myself with some help if possible. Does anyone have any recommendations on where to purchase an engine? I wanted to put some feelers out before I dive headfirst into the project. Thank you!

[2015 Z Force 800 53/Trail EPS]

First let me say I am sorry for your loss. Second-the dealer is right in that once a rod breaks so many things are effected prior and as a result that must all good mechanics will recommend a complete replacement. You might save some on a new crate engine if ordering one straight from a parts house and doing the work of installing it yourself. Maybe as much as 1800+ in savings overall...but I see a complete engine for an 800 is now over 4700 so the 1000 will be more then that. Bummer. You might also look to places like ebay for complete used engines but be warned-expect these will need a full rebuild no matter what the seller says...and that's in the 3500-dollar range to do one right. Regardless on what direction you take, make sure the causes for this failure are eliminated...and do replace or flush-out that oil cooler. Sometimes a bigger one also helps.

How many hours and miles on the engine? If the head gasket was replaced 8 months ago, why would it now break the connecting rod? Usually if the motor gets hydro locked that would bend or snap the rod, How did it run after the head gasket was replaced?