The 10 Commandments Of Crate Engines
1. Not all engines are created equally, even if they share the same parts. Stick with a reputable builder even if it costs more. And purchase the best parts you can afford. It's easy to cut corners on preparation and some of the machining processes. Remember, you get what you pay for.
2. Know what you are ordering. Picking cams and heads that are big may sound cool on paper, but it could negatively affect driveability and power. Most street engines will provide better performance if they are big on low-mid-range torque rather than a big horsepower number.
3. It's OK to swing for the fence and order that killer 700hp engine package, but realize you'll need the rest of the combination to make it work. This includes a quality fuel system, transmission, rear, suspension, and chassis. Also, you should know how to tune properly to keep it all in one piece.
4. Always consult the builder before firing the engine for the first time. Every engine builder has specific recommendations for priming the oil system and breaking in the engine.
5. Know your parts. For instance, short-block is the term given to an engine with only the rotating assembly (crankshaft, connecting rods and pistons) installed. A complete short-block will generally include the oil pump, pick-up and pan, camshaft, and timing chain assemblies. A long-block includes the cylinder heads. A complete long-block will normally include lifters, pushrods, and rocker arms.
6. Know your strokers. A stroker engine utilizes a crankshaft with a longer-than-stock stroke on the connecting rod journals. This increases the cubic-inch displacement of the engine and generally adds power.
7. Be specific when asking questions, especially when it comes to delivery, tuning, and oil type. For instance, know what company will be delivering your valuable engine, how much it will cost, and how much it is insured for. Ask whether the truck will have means to unload your engine once it arrives. Some trucks have a hydraulic lift gate, others require you use a forklift or engine hoist to remove the engine. As far as tuning, ask what carb or injection will work best and what exhaust you should go with.
8. Ask the builder to provide a buildsheet that lists the tolerances, the tightening specifications, and all the part numbers. This will be helpful when it comes time to rebuild or freshen the engine with new rings and bearings. If you ever sell the car, you'll have documentation that could add to the value of the engine.
9. Every engine begins with the block, and we recommend purchasing the best one you can afford. Modular blocks are strong and can handle over 600 hp quite easily. Older 5-liter blocks aren't quite as strong, but they are inexpensive. For some, it may be better to use a $200 stock block and replace it down the road than to spend $1,800 on a race block. Thankfully, the aftermarket is responding to this issue, and there are some affordable alternatives such as the Ford Racing Performance Parts 302 Sportsman block and the soon-to-be-released Boss 302 block, also from FRPP. Other aftermarket companies selling blocks are Dart and World Products.
10. Lastly, smash the gas and have fun!