I need an engine building checklist...

R Q

R Q

Well-Known Member
Joined
Apr 4, 2005
Location
Charlotte
Building a motor this winter, or having one built. I usually just go into these things and pay as I go but I'm trying to plan this out so I know end costs so I can decide on mods. So I'm doing a stock vs. modified scenario.
I know I'll have machining costs that will be needed with either plan so some items will be there either way. Is there something easily available somewhere?
I kind of checklist is what I'm looking for.
Thanks
 
Shoot me a message with your email and I can send you one of our itemized quote sheets in excel.

Buddy of ours also has some on his website...but I can't seem to get them open on my phone...

Documents
 
Let me expound a little. I am not an engine builder. I have a buddy who built my last one that lasted 15 years of my abuse. I have two scenarios. One is a pretty much stock build with a mild cam, better pistons, lighter flywheel, much more free exhaust. The other option is to raise compression, aftermarket complete fuel injection system, extra machine work, same exhaust, more radical cam, etc.
Machine work, headers and exhaust, and some things will be close to the same either way. I'm looking for a simple way to compare the two and decide on the final product.
 
Got your note...I'll send you the file when I'm on a computer tomorrow to make sure I send the correct format.

Short blocks...for most guys, the parts cost will be the parts cost. Whether you go with a stock rotating assembly and cam or a stroker assembly and a cam with 1" of lift (assuming quality remains the same).

It's where you get to the long block parts that stuff starts getting silly. Heads could be a $2500 upgrade. And injection upgrades are another big cost. Most pre-2000 efi V8 systems are capped at supporting a max of 350hp.

But that's the delicate line of diminishing returns you're trying to figure out now, is 50hp worth another $2500, probably not in a 5000lb rig, but could be in a 3000lb rig. Or if it's 125hp for $2500, I'd say that's worth it to me.

Our standard 4-600hp builds generally work out to $100/10hp
 
What kinda motor are you going to be dealing with? That makes a lot of difference...
 
Yes, that's why I'm doing research to see what it's worth. I am keeping my 4.3, going with a Vortec block and heads and using a manifold for the TBI, very much like a marine motor. I have reasons not to just go with the Vortec so I am doing my comparisons. Swapping in a V8 seems logical but its a lot of changes and I can just bolt the 4.3 back in, I just want a little more pep.
 
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