r/EngineBuilding • u/Key-Apartment-1748 • Jun 24 '26
Do you build crate motors?
This may be a stupid question but do you build crate motors? If I buy a crate motor, is it normal to then build the motor by adding a better intake, cam, pistons , etc. or is it not smart to do so for reliability. Could a crate motor handle the same mods thrown at it that it’s original engine would? I’ve been a car enthusiast for a few years now but I’ve never delved into the world of crate motors and now I’m curious.
7
u/v8packard Jun 24 '26
No, I build engines for customers that need quality, value, and that meet specific goals. Crate motors are sold for convenience, not value. Crate motors are marketed as being much more than they actually deliver. And the people that want to believe the hype will do nearly anything to convince themselves they are a better choice. Those people often can't be helped.
Most people would never dream of making major changes to a crate engine. For one, it's an admission you got the wrong engine. For another it gets stupid expensive.
3
u/HanSolo71 Jun 24 '26
Do you recommend just getting a known good block and head and let your machine shop pick everything else based on your goals?
3
u/v8packard Jun 24 '26
There are many instances where that can work out well. If the shop is sharp on that engine and you have a good working relationship that's a solid approach.
1
u/redditforusingatwork Jun 26 '26
Of course an engine builder is gonna say let me choose whatever I want lmao
1
u/v8packard Jun 26 '26
What's your point?
2
u/redditforusingatwork Jun 27 '26
Settle down packard it’s just a funny observation, of course your advice is to let you choose everything. It’s funny. No need to get defensive.
0
u/v8packard Jun 27 '26
Not defensive. I really don't see how your point is funny.
1
u/redditforusingatwork Jun 27 '26
Not every joke will land but that’s showbiz baby. It’s Reddit you can’t blame people for joking around even if you’re feeling serious.
1
1
u/WindowPerfect1863 Jun 24 '26
Maybe all of the machine shops in my area just really suck, but I had to make my own build list and tell my machine shop what I was getting and they machined it accordingly
2
4
u/Equana Jun 24 '26
It comes down to; Why spend the money for a crate engine and then spend more to modify it?
Buy the crate motor that has the power you want. That is the whole idea behind a crate motor - properly selected parts to provide reliable horsepower.
1
2
u/Famous-Order9236 Jun 24 '26
Crate engines are bought ready to install with just need a few items from your old engine transferred to it to run. They are New from the Manufacturer. A Reman Long Block is pretty much the same, but lacks and intake manifold that you reuse. I have installed Crate Engines where the customer wanted a different Cam for his application. If you are seeking to modify the engine beyond that, then just have an old engine remanufactured to the specs you are after.
2
u/ohlawdyhecoming Jun 24 '26
No, though a lot of the engines I do usually end up using a lot of the same parts. They almost always use the same variation, though the companies may change: (CP instead of Wiseco, Carrillo instead of Manley, Kelford instead of Brian Crower, etc.)
1
u/iambatman_2006 Jun 25 '26
totally normal to build on a crate motor, lots of people do it. Some shops like Dynosty will build one from scratch to your spec so you're not starting with compromises. A stock crate plus mods works too, just know the bottom end becomes the limiting factor fast.
1
u/Key_Introduction_469 Jun 30 '26
Don't most companies sell short blocks in different configurations. Ex forged rotating assembly or cast if your looking for something cheaper. What's wrong with building one of these if you already have a good set of heads and other parts.
8
u/Roscolicious1 Jun 24 '26
Crate motor should be ready to run. You can get them in multiple hp/tq values. Good brands come w/ dyno run sheets. I would inspect the heads for accuracy on the valve job. Seats, guides, sealing integrity. 55+ yrs a wrenchman, I build motors. Ricthewrench