Shortblock build pricing?

[JoshK]

Can someone please give me a rough idea of what it would cost me to build a shortblock myself, ie. parts cost. I have a block i am thinking about getting and would like to know how much more I would need to put into it to get it ready to go in the car. I would reuse my top end, just build a different shortblock and swap it in.

I have done a lot of research but not sure on what parts would be good for my shortblock build. I am running a turbo and the end goal is about 650hp.

thanks guys

 

[BAKnBLK2010]

Better off just buying one from a shop with a good reputation and saving yourself all the headaches. Plus you get a warranty that way.

 

[JoshK]

I am mechanically inclined enough that I am not afraid of building an engine. Also, I know two people that would help me at the drop of a hat and both of them have built dirt track race car engines.

I think that I would be able to save myself some cash doing it myself and know that a few others on here have done it. Would like some personal experience with the option that I posted please

 

[BruceH]

Can someone please give me a rough idea of what it would cost me to build a shortblock myself, ie. parts cost. I have a block i am thinking about getting and would like to know how much more I would need to put into it to get it ready to go in the car. I would reuse my top end, just build a different shortblock and swap it in.

I have done a lot of research but not sure on what parts would be good for my shortblock build. I am running a turbo and the end goal is about 650hp.

thanks guys

I can fill in some of the blanks from my experience.

Machine costs:


First motor build. Hone, balance, clean, fit rings, $550.

Second build. Bore, hone, balance, fit rings, hone rods, check line bore, plugs and dowels, deck, clean. $980.

Gaskets, hardware, fluids: $400.

Pistons, rods, bearings, and crank you will have to fill in the blanks because there are too many choices with a wide range of parts.

On the last motor I used Mahle pistons and rings $520, no name used rods with arp 2000 rod bolts $300, used stock crank $75. Bearings were about $140 and the block was $205.

Total cost about $2600 but that includes all gaskets and fasteners required to assemble the entire motor.

 

[JoshK]

Thank you Bruce, I was thinking that with machine work and parts I would be into it about 2k without the cost of the block. that sound about right? THis is going to be a drawn out build as I will collect parts slowly, but I have a block I am interested in right now so that is why I am asking.

 

[BruceH]

Thank you Bruce, I was thinking that with machine work and parts I would be into it about 2k without the cost of the block. that sound about right? THis is going to be a drawn out build as I will collect parts slowly, but I have a block I am interested in right now so that is why I am asking.

I don't know. I'd imagine machine work is less expensive in NE than it is where I'm at. Most everything around here (WA) is more expensive due to higher labor cost and high tax rates for consumers and business.

Bargain parts pop up from time to time. You just have to be looking and be able to recognize a good deal when you see it.

 

[char259]

I think you have the right idea, Fuel. Im looking to do the same thing. My car is running fine in the high 400 range. Im looking to slowly assemble the pieces for a forged build at a later date as well. I have seen some deals on parts, but you have to be ready to jump when you see them. The really good deals dont last long at all in the classifieds. I think you have the hardest part locked down.. A good deal on a block is hard to come by. Im still looking for one. Good luck!

 

[eddieval5]

Looking to do the same been looking at build but still not sure to stay 281ci or 298ci. Debating buying a block this week for $100 from a local. Is it safe to run a stock crank with forged pistons and rods?

 

[eddieval5]

I think you have the right idea, Fuel. Im looking to do the same thing. My car is running fine in the high 400 range. Im looking to slowly assemble the pieces for a forged build at a later date as well. I have seen some deals on parts, but you have to be ready to jump when you see them. The really good deals dont last long at all in the classifieds. I think you have the hardest part locked down.. A good deal on a block is hard to come by. Im still looking for one. Good luck!

+1 think ill get that block after all and save till im ready to jump on parts.

 

[JoshK]

Looking to do the same been looking at build but still not sure to stay 281ci or 298ci. Debating buying a block this week for $100 from a local. Is it safe to run a stock crank with forged pistons and rods?

Stock crank is a good piece as long as you don't rev too high. $100 for an aluminum block is a steal.

Lightblade on here is running a stock crank with forged rods and pistons in the 650rwhp range.

 

[JoshK]

Well guys just bought myself a block. Going to be a lot of fun putting this thing together as I gather parts!!!!

 

[eddieval5]

Congrats Keep us posted!

 

[BMWM3]

I can fill in some of the blanks from my experience.

Machine costs:


First motor build. Hone, balance, clean, fit rings, $550.

Second build. Bore, hone, balance, fit rings, hone rods, check line bore, plugs and dowels, deck, clean. $980.

Gaskets, hardware, fluids: $400.

Pistons, rods, bearings, and crank you will have to fill in the blanks because there are too many choices with a wide range of parts.

On the last motor I used Mahle pistons and rings $520, no name used rods with arp 2000 rod bolts $300, used stock crank $75. Bearings were about $140 and the block was $205.

Total cost about $2600 but that includes all gaskets and fasteners required to assemble the entire motor.

I've built 3 engines and I'm not a mechanic a high compression 302 and two low compression 302 and 2600 is about the ball park figure it cost me parts and labor. .... Ebay/Cragslist is how i saved money buying parts ended up finding the engines form junk yards around 100 to 250

 

[BruceH]

I've built 3 engines and I'm not a mechanic a high compression 302 and two low compression 302 and 2600 is about the ball park figure it cost me parts and labor. .... Ebay/Cragslist is how i saved money buying parts ended up finding the engines form junk yards around 100 to 250

Exactly, I'm not an auto mechanic either but have been able to assemble motors without issues. I think the most important part is finding a good machine shop.

 

[JoshK]

Congrats Keep us posted!

Thanks man, this is going to be kind of drawn out as I hope to be able to have it built to go in for next summer. I know that is a long time to draw something out but can't pass up on deals when they come. At least now I won't feel so bad about adding a little more boost to my stock motor!

 

[eddieval5]

Thanks man, this is going to be kind of drawn out as I hope to be able to have it built to go in for next summer. I know that is a long time to draw something out but can't pass up on deals when they come. At least now I won't feel so bad about adding a little more boost to my stock motor!

I hear ya. Good Luck with your build guess ill be fighting against you in the classified adds lol

 

[JoshK]

you already were and didn't know it. My block is coming out of texas all the way to nebraska! You need to be not afraid to ask questions when people offer things up for sale, you would be surprised what will happen.

 

[eddieval5]

Wait what? lol

 

[JoshK]

Can someone please post up a link to the engine build manual for me.

Does this manual tell you all the little stuff, gaskets and bolts that you need, I am just trying to get a list together of the parts I need to start collecting.

Thanks guys

 

[GB10]

http://iihs.net/fsm/?dir=159&viewfile=Engine.pdf

Service manual link