How many hours are billed (estimate) for rebuilding an engine vs. replacing an engine? 2009 Subaru Forester

A days worth of labor for which one? Or should the hours be about the same for either one?

If a replacement engine is available for your vehicle, it is usually the most economical way to go. Parts and machine shop labor usually are much more than a crate engine. But of course there are always exceptions. And if you do a custom rebuild you can include performance parts that won't be included with a stock factory replacement. If you want more power, and have the money, now is the time to do it.

Rebuilding a Subaru bottom end is no fun. Better to chase a whole preowned motor with good provenance.

I just wanted to know how bad I'm getting ripped off.....After someone telling me they could rebuild my engine (and I paid them) now tells me it needs to be replaced and needs more money for an engine (vs parts). My thought was that he should have extra money from the labor (for the engine) because it won't take nearly as long to replace it.

R&Ring a motor is 4-5 hours. Subie guys do it in 3.