How to Rebuild a Car Engine

Rebuilding your car's engine will give you such detailed knowledge of the car that you may never have to take the car to the shop again. If you're planning on rebuilding an engine, read these steps to get started.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

1. Make sure the engine can be successfully rebuilt without using complex computing mechanisms. If it's an older car, make sure that the engine is in reasonable enough condition to successfully rebuild. Get a once-over from a mechanic to answer both these questions.

2. Get the tools you need. You'll need an engine jack-crane, a set of wrenches, an air compressor, an impact wrench, welding tools and safety gear.

3. Disassemble the engine. As you disassemble the engine, photograph it from every angle. Make notes, detailing how parts fit into each other. Note any possible flaws or problems with the engine configuration. Bag, seal and label all loose parts, such as nuts and bolts, so that you can find them for reassembly.

4. Visit a machine shop and gather parts. Order any parts from your car's manufacturer or from an auto parts store. Gather all the new stuff together and clean all the old parts.

5. Reassemble and rebuild. Using your manufacturer's engine guide, your detailed photos and notes, put the car engine back together again. Take your time and test the process at every step. Consult an expert if you get tripped up.