Not my mopar, but need advise on 5.7 vortec chevy

CPMotorworks said
How did they determine its a cracked cylinder? Pull a head off? Depending on mileage and how you use it vs cost is what it boils down too. Swap any Vortec engine in from 96-99 or 2000 on some of the larger GM vehicles.
The last time I had one of those with a cracked cylinder was because the mechanic that fixed the leaking intake gaskets (common on those) managed to drop a nut down an intake port and it jammed against the head and piston when he tried to start it.

Yes I'm not sure what happen but the shop owner said he would take care of me. Big dent in the top of the piston, no marks on the head or valves. Unless they were sticking a scope /camera in there and the piston hit it. They did take the head off to see what was happening and noticed the crack in the side of the wall. Not scored/scratched just a little fine crack. I suppose from heat at some point, not since I have owned it.
Talked to the shop today about the whole deal and he said he would put the motor in for free if I bought the motor just to make sure I was happy.
I looked at used motors from 450 to 1200, remanufactured from 1500 to 1700 + gaskets. I bought a new Chevy crate motor for 2100.
Thanks for all the suggestions.