Problem after getting car back

[OneBad9D5]

I took my car to get it fixed after i broke the bolt off in the thermostat housing and its fixed the guy had to get a new manifold and replace it but now that i have it back its running like crap.

I got it back and it started ok but not great like it used to, then i was driving it and then it started acting wierd like i was running out of gas but if i power braked it a little at the light it wouldnt die. then it started to get hot and it was running real rough like maybe the timing was off or soemthing. when i gave it gas it wold sputter after about 2500 rpm and try to die but if i kept it below that it wouldnt die it would go. then everytime i come to a stop it would want to die. then it died at a stopsign and i couldnt get it to start again. I got it back home and let it cool down. i checked my radiator and it was almost empty but it was full before i left. so i filled it up and started it and it was running real rough and i kinda smelled gas. i called the mechanic and he said it was probaly a blown head gasket and said he wanted $960 to fix it. would there be any other thing causeing this like maybe bad timing or bad sensors or soemthing? i really dont want to spend that much but i need a car this is my only transportation. any help would be appreciated.

[LwnGy83]

Sounds like that guy is trying to rip you off. It sounds like you're misfiring on a couple cylinders. I would first suggest making sure all your plug wires are going to the proper cylinder. He may have mixed up a one or two when he was putting your car back together. If they are correct, I'd replace your plugs and wires. If it's still running choppy, then it could be your coil packs. I'd first start there b/c that's a lot less money than a new head gasket, if that fixes the problem. Good luck

[majeskyb]

Check your oil. Does it look like a milkshake (antifreeze mixed with oil)? Also, after you fill your radiator, you could run a pressure test to see if there are any leaks.

[OneBad9D5]

Ok ill check right now its at my friends house in the street I have to tow it to my house