Refresh ?

Paul Hutt · Posted: Fri Jan 29, 2010 5:14 pm Post subject: Refresh ?

What is done when an engine is refreshed. Embarassed

How many hours is between this procedure.
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Race Grandpa
Panic Motorsports West

Chris Hatch · Joined: 02 Mar 2004 Posts: 405

At a basic level: new piston, rings, valves (including a cut and lap), and gaskets.

Depending on variables: New rod, crank, bore, cam.

Paul Hutt · Posted: Fri Jan 29, 2010 6:43 pm Post subject:

John Matthews · Posted: Wed Feb 03, 2010 8:22 pm Post subject:

Most shops charge a flat fee for labor and tack on whatever parts are required. When I started with Mike we charged $300 for a standard rebuild. The biggest job on most engines is just cleaning and inspection. I'm lucky to have an ultrasonic cleaner big enough to fit engine blocks in, it's the tool every mechanic dreams of....

Make sure whoever you go with has experience with your engine and the rules you are running with. If you're running WKA or IKF there are things that can get you in trouble in the tech shed that some builders will do just because they've "always done it that way". OHV engines like the Animal and WF are different than the flathead and different things are needed to make power.

As far as when to have it done it depends on too many different factors to give an exact time frame. If you run on asphalt, never over-rev the engine, always change the oil after qualifying and before the main, keep your air filter clean, etc. you should be able to get a whole season. If you run on a dusty dirt track with cheap filters you might need a rebuild after a single night. The best indicator is when you start to drop off on power but it pays to not wait too long. What might have been a simple rebuild 2 races ago could turn into a new engine if you ignore signs like knocking or grinding sounds.

Best advice is find someone you trust who will take the time to find out what your needs are, then follow their advice. Cool

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John Matthews
Heartbeat Power, LLC.