Crate Engine Question? would you trust it?

[johnd]

I just found this guy on ebay that builds crate engines that are 5 year 50,000 miles warrenty, they do not come with the "tin" but for 1,695 plus 100 shipping these are the specs...

We sell a CHEV 350/363HP engine for $1695.00 with no exchange or
$1495.00 with an exchange.

The engine uses Speed Pro Hypereutectic Coated 10.72 to 1 pistons. Speed
Pro Race series rings, Double roller timing, HV oil pump. The camshaft
is Speed Pro .468/.480 lift & 220/231 duration @.050. We use MES
Performance 64CC cylinder heads 2.02/1.60 with screw-in studs & guide
plates and the engine assembly is fully balanced.

Thank you for your request!!


Just seems like an awesome price and I don't wanna jump the gun and wipe my butt with 1700.00 ya know?

Thanks,
John Dykstra

 

[JrdnsEdu]

John- Ask him for references from folks who bought already... and what state is he in? I'm sure someone in the CAC lives there...
-Eric

 

[johnd]

they are from oregon, he is new on ebay so feedback is nill and I am waiting for him to e-mail me back on a couple of questions I had for him

 

[Mako]

they are from oregon, he is new on ebay so feedback is nill and I am waiting for him to e-mail me back on a couple of questions I had for him

Too many unknowns to yea or nay. The heads i've never heard of, I"m willing to bet they are Chevy heads that have had a valve job done and that's it. You need to know the entire valve train specifics including spring type, push rod and rockers etc...

In fact I'd just pass and buy a Chevy long block instead. Cheap is cheap, why risk paying for everthing twice?

CYa!
Mako

 

[johnd]

I was contimplating buying a long block but I really have to clue how to build an engine...I am a body technician not a mechanic...I can weld a car back together but trying to set valve lash is still something that escapes me...

John Dykstra

 

[Mako]

I was contimplating buying a long block but I really have to clue how to build an engine...I am a body technician not a mechanic...I can weld a car back together but trying to set valve lash is still something that escapes me...

John Dykstra

Ah, I applaud your interest in diving into the engine world then, cool :cool

In that case I recommend you rebuild your current engine into a 355. You re-use most of the parts to hold down costs.

You bore the cylinders .030" over, install new pistons and rings, recondition your old rods, deck the block and surface the heads, do a valve job and then bolt it all back together with a nice cam, new timing set, bearings and ARP bolts.

You'll have an excellent engine and a fun project. Budget $2,000 and your golden.

CYa!
Mako

 

[JonM]

You may want to phone the Department of Consumer Protection in his state. See if he is licensed, and has registered with the taxman. Also the Better Business Bureau may help.

 

[BeaterShark]

I would not buy a mail order engine, especially if I was not engine savy. If I would buy a mail order engine, I'd tear it down and double check the work.

The warranty is probably almost useless. Usually, it does not cover uninstall/install and shipping and this is the way they will insist it is done. You will go broke with these charges if you have any problems.

My advise would be to find a reputable local builder/installer who really stands behind their work. It will cost more, but if you want to gamble, go to Vegas.

 

[Mako]

My advise would be to find a reputable local builder/installer who really stands behind their work. It will cost more, but if you want to gamble, go to Vegas.

Yes, please do come to Las Vegas, we need your money! ;-)

CYa!
Mako
Vegas Shark

 

[johnd]

I have been talking with a engine builder that has a good reputation...the one that I am looking at is a 383/440hp engine, edelbrock alumininum (sp?) heads, arp everything, melling oil delivery, felpro gaskets, 4 bolt main, and I could keep going. For 3000.00 plus 200.00 shipping which sounds better then the last I think...

John Dykstra

 

[Vett-Less]

If I were you I would stick with the GM crate engine They are 100% new, Many choices If you are looking for a cheap way to have great fun with your vette the GM plain jane engine is the way to go it sell for $1300.00 and best of all you can buy it from your local gm dealer.

 

[rgtrough]

Beware

Hey guys, BEWARE of anyone selling on ebay without a ton of positive feedback!!! I have a friend that has lost money twice, yes twice, to lowlifes representing themselves as "new to ebay." Each time the offer was to good to be true and guess what? It was. Very little can be done once they have your money. Rebuilding your own engine is not that hard if you have the want to. There are many other legitimate sellers on ebay. Use the ones with the positive feedback or do not pay until you receive the engine. Just my three cents worth. peace Bud :cool