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| − | ====What tools are needed?==== | + | ==== |
| − | The first tool you need is a service manual with complete specifications, such as torque values and tolerances.
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| − | You will need a basic set of hand tools, such as a good variety of boxed end wrenches, ratchet and socket set, screwdriver set, and a gasket scraper. This basic set of tools will get you through the majority of the disassembly steps.
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| − | You will need a few special tools when it comes time to build or reassemble the engine. A good torque wrench, Plastigauge [http://www.plastigauge.co.uk/], and a cam bearing installing tool (unless machine shop installs cam bearings). Also you may need a ridge reamer, a ring groove cleaner, a ring expander, a ring trimmer, a ring compressor, and a good cylinder hone.
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| − | Depending on how indepth and involved you want to get with your rebuild(s) and how many engines you think you are going to rebuild, you may want to acquire some additional measuring equipment.Items such as a set of outside micrometers, an inside micrometer, vernier, dial or digital calipers and maybe a dial bore gauge can let you know precisely what your sizes are. Think of these tools as indispensable if you are planning to blueprint your engine(s).
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| − | you will also need a decent engine stand, It will make your build easier to support the engine keeping it from the ground, And also helps in tearing the engine down and also keeping the engine clean at assembly time.
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| − | ====Selecting tools====
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| − | For each tool needed to rebuild an engine, we'll need to know:
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| − | *Approximately how much do the tools cost?
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| − | *Is it better to buy a cheap version of this tool, or should you spend money to buy a high-quality version of this tool? If you're starting a "project" or work on cars often it would be wise to spend the extra money on higher quality tools. SK, Starrett, Craftsman and Snap-On are commonly known to be the "best tools". Snap-On is a little better quality, but cost considerably more and can sometimes be a pain in the butt to exchange your broken tool since you would have to chase down one of their trucks. Craftsman is a good brand of tool too and can be bought at almost any Sears department store. Both of these brand tools come with a lifetime warranty which comes in really handy, especially when your removing a bolt and the tool breaks.
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| − | Eventually it will come time to install your camshaft as well. If you are planning on doing this yourself, you will need a degreeing wheel for sure! You can buy these alone, or in comprehensive kits from somewhere like JEGS, or Summit Racing Equipment, maybe even the local shop. They go for around $200. You will also need a dial indicator as well as a magnetic stand for it. These can also be purchased at Jegs and Summit.
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| − | The larger (diameter) the degree wheel the easier it is to be accurate.
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| − | ====Purchasing tools====
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| − | When purchasing tools it is best to consider the application and frequency of use. If the tool is intended for infrequent to frequent hobby use, the purchase of cheaper brands of tools such as Craftsman may be appropriate. If however the tool is intended for daily use in harsh conditions, especially in the context of automotive repair, an investment in higher quality tools produced by companies such as Matco, Snap On, Mac and Cornwell should be considered.
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| − | ====Borrowing tools====
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| − | If you decide you need some specialized tools that you really don't want to invest money into right now, ask around in your circle of friends to find out if anyone has the tool(s) and will loan to you for the task at hand. It is common courtesy to return borrowed tools promptly and in better condition than they were lent: If a tool was dirty when it was borrowed, clean it before it is returned.
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| − | Be aware of the industry notion that a tool that has been borrowed more than twice should be considered for future purchase.
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| − | Also, Autozone will lend out tools for free, often Auto Zone may require a deposit on the tool.
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| − | ====Renting tools====
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| − | There are some tools you will want to rent instead of purchasing, such as a cherry picker to remove and replace the motor in the car.
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| − | ===Work area===
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| − | Most people who are going to rebuild their own engine will be tearing it apart before taking it to a machine shop and then reassembling it when the machine work is done. When tearing it apart, try to work in an area that you can get dirty and where bolts and other small items won't get lost.
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| − | When assembling an engine, your work area can't be too clean. A clean, well-organized space makes project completion easier and faster while minimizing the loss of tools and parts due to misplacement and/or damage. Tool storage chests/carts, a label-maker, crafts carriers, magnetized trays and even muffin trays do a fantastic job of keeping a workspace organized and tools/parts in their place. Plastic trash bags of various sizes can also serve in the shop by covering an engine on an engine stand, heads and other items that need to be kept dust free.
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| − | In order to minimize the risk of sending dust up into the air and settling on work area surfaces, a floor sweeping compound, damp saw dust or damp cloth should be used. If the space is small and/or enclosed, an air filtration system may also provide aid in minimizing the presence of particulate matter.
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| − | === Skill level ===
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| − | The amount of skill necessary to rebuild an engine depends on what engine you are rebuilding and just how much of the work you plan on doing yourself. If you are rebuilding a standard pushrod V8 such as the small block Chevy with all the machine work being performed by a reputable shop, then the skills needed are basically nothing more than being good with your hands, the ability to take and read measurements, use tools properly, the patience to do things right the first time and the ability to read, understand and follow a comprehensive manual on the subject. If you don't understand or are not certain of a procedure, ask an experienced professional!
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| − | If you are rebuilding something more exotic, such as a rotary engine or a turbo diesel then you should take the time to research and familiarize yourself with them. Some engines require complicated computer controlled management systems which may require extensive modifications depending on how the engine is to be rebuilt and will therefore also require a greater skill level.
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| − | The main thing to keep in mind is that there are close tolerances to check and a certain order of steps to follow. Just take the time to research your engine and above all, ask questions when necessary.
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| − | Today there is much information available on the internet. Be careful! All information is not correct! Verify any information with several professional and/or reliable sources.
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| | == Deciding on an engine == | | == Deciding on an engine == |
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