Getting your classic car’s engine rebuilt is a worrying process. Many people worry that their vehicle will lose some of its authenticity once the original engine is replaced, so they must get an auto repair shop that can do a very good job of rebuilding their engine. Here at JD’s Auto Repair, we know a thing or two about rebuilding classic car engines—it’s something we do all the time! That’s why we’ve put together these FAQs and answers to help you understand what to expect.
What’s the Difference Between a Repair or Rebuild?
There is a lot of confusion about the difference between a classic car engine repair and a rebuild. There are, however, major differences between the two. All engines will need to undergo repairs from time to time which may include fixing or replacing broken parts. However, a total rebuild includes stripping the engine down to its component parts and then rebuilding it back up with new parts that replace the worn or damaged old parts. This isn’t really a repair job as an engine might have no broken parts but could still require a rebuild. But, by replacing worn components, an engine rebuild reduces the risk of engine problems down the line and can dramatically improve performance—both of which don’t usually come with repairs.
What’s the Difference Between a Rebuild and a Swap?
If you’ve been driving your car around without repairing or rebuilding the engine for decades, it may be cheaper and more effective to do a full engine swap. As you may expect, an engine swap includes fully replacing the engine with a new engine. Depending on your vehicle’s model, you may be able to find an engine that meets similar specifications to your old one. But, you should always expect an engine swap to have a more dramatic effect on the feel of your vehicle when compared to a rebuild. It’s important to remember that this could also mean a dramatic improvement in performance.
When Should I Get an Engine Rebuild?
If you regularly take your vehicle in for maintenance, it’s unlikely you will need regular engine rebuilds. Using better quality fuel and oil will also help prolong the longevity of your engine’s life. Inevitably, every car engine will eventually need to be rebuilt or swapped—the time this takes really depends on how aggressively you drive and how much you care for your car’s engine. If you need a full engine rebuild, your mechanic should explain why they think this is the case and how it will improve your vehicle’s performance.
Engine rebuilds are complicated things, but they are also a necessary part of owning a classic car. By regularly maintaining your vehicle and driving with care, you can avoid the need for a rebuild for longer. At some point, however, every vehicle will need to have its engine rebuilt. If you’re worried that your vehicle needs an engine rebuild or would like an expert to determine the status of your engine, look no further than JD’s Auto Repair. Our experienced team of mechanics has rebuilt countless classic car engines and can guarantee success!
