How To Rebuild Your Car Engine

Does your engine experience performance issues? Well, if this is your case, it might be time for an engine rebuild. Most people are sceptical about rebuilding their car engines. However, this maintenance protocol is often unavoidable. Besides, it's often the only way to avoid replacing the entire engine. This article gives some insights into the engine rebuilding process. 

Work With Experienced Builders

Unlike other car repairs, engine rebuilding should be left to the professionals. Minor mistakes during wiring and sealing the engine could blow the engine or damage expensive components. These questions will help you interview an engine rebuilder: 

• What is your experience with the make and model of this vehicle? If possible, work with a rebuilder experienced in the model of your car.
• Do you have any accreditations or achievements? Some rebuilders have accreditations from manufacturers, renowned vehicle forums and magazines. Others have worked with racing teams or rebuilt famous cars.
• Do you give guarantees? The rebuilder should give free repairs if the vehicle develops problems after the rebuild.
• How long will the works take? The rebuilder should detail a timeline of how they conduct the rebuilding works. 

Test The Vehicle 

Before conducting the rebuilding works, test the vehicle to establish what issues it might have. For example, a low compression test could indicate damaged valve seals. On the other hand, low power could be caused by worn-out spark plugs or damaged injectors. Take the vehicle on a dynamometer to determine how much power the engine has lost. This information will give insights into the amount of work required. 

Determine Your Rebuilding Goals

Why are you rebuilding the engine? Engine rebuilding is an opportunity to adjust the manufacturer settings to increase the torque and horsepower of your engine. For example, if you intend to use the vehicle on the track, you could opt for a performance camshaft, water pump, crankshaft and turbo. If the vehicle will haul heavy loads, the mechanic could adjust the ECU to improve the vehicle's torque. 

Go For Quality Parts

The golden rule is that you should use quality parts when rebuilding the engine. If possible, go for new OEM parts. If this is not possible (it could be you are on a budget or your vehicle is no longer in production), refurbish used parts to give them a new breath of life. Seek your mechanic's opinion when buying performance aftermarket parts. Remember, you want the rebuilt engine to last a lifetime. 

When rebuilding your car engine, work with engine rebuilders, test the vehicle, determine your rebuilding goals and buy quality parts. 

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