[1]
Have you ever given any thought to buying crate engines? Sure, having a custom-built engine from a local machine shop could afford you the freedom to choose each part used during the build, but is that always a good thing? Sometimes, blindly choosing what you think will work can sometimes result in a combination that doesn’t perform as you had hoped.
That’s why buying a crate engine from a reputable company like Pace Performance [2] can be a better option. As you could imagine, not all crate engines are created equal. Costs can vary immensely, but most times, that still means a lesser expensive alternative to a custom build. But, choosing a reputable supplier of a crate engine can be a daunting task.
[3]
That’s why Pace Performance should be the place where your search ends. Pace only sells crate engines built by professional engine builders that use parts from companies that are known for quality. Not only that, but many of Pace’s crate engines come with a warranty, that gives an exceptional level of personal comfort after the purchase.
Not only should the reputation of Pace’s suppliers be a comfort, but knowing that they themselves will go the extra mile to ensure quality and deliver a guaranteed engine should really seal the deal.
For instance, they have what they call their Pace Prime And Prep Package, which is commonly performed on long-block crate engines that don’t include an intake manifold. Let’s face it, the performance, drivability, and longevity of any new engine requires proper engine pre-run preparation. To insure engine life and dependability, the following procedures are preformed prior to shipment:
[4]
- All external engine bolts, fasteners, and pipe plugs are checked for proper torque spec.
- Pipe plugs are added as needed.
- Bolt holes are checked with proper bolt size.
- Cylinder head bolts are checked for proper torque spec. Bolts are not retorqued, but are checked slightly below spec (excludes any fasteners requiring torque angle procedure).
- Harmonic balancer is checked for exact TDC (Top Dead Center) location, and the timing pointer is modified/adjusted to the correct location.
- Valvetrain is disassembled, and Pace applies a coating of zinc-enhanced assembly lube to all metal-to-metal surfaces.
- Install oil filter and fill crankcase with break-in oil.
- During the oil priming process, the crankshaft is methodically rotated for two rotations. This insures complete oil gallery alignment throughout the engine, and gives the camshaft a 360-degree coating of break-in grease.
- Rocker arms and valvetrain is adjusted.
- All external engine ports are covered, and the engine is bagged and crated.
They also offer their New Crate Engine Dyno Break-In Service. This service cis available with the purchase of new crate engines, and they feel this procedure is very critical, and many times, can’t be done in the typical home garage.
[5]
This service includes all the steps performed in their New Engine Prep and Oil Priming Service, but adds:
- Engine is installed on the dynamometer.
- Cooling and fuel system is filled and checked for leaks.
- Engine is started and timing is set to manufacturer’s specification.
- Engine is run with various loads applied by the dyno. This eliminates ring chatter, which can cause non-repairable damage to the cylinder walls.
- Engine is run approximately 30 minutes and then allowed to cool for final inspection and packaging.
- If you want to take your break-in one step further, you can opt for Pace’s New Crate Engine Dyno Testing and Tuning package. This service includes all the steps performed in their New Engine Prep and Oil Priming and Break-In Service, as well as:
- A minimum a two performance pulls are performed to provide comprehensive base line.
- Dependent on how the engine is equipped (inclusion of carburetor, distributor, EFI controller, etc.), It will be tuned/programmed for optimum power and torque.
- After testing, the oil, filter, and fluids are drained from the engine.
- Any openings to the internal parts of the engine will be covered or plugged.
- Engine will be bagged and sealed then installed in a shipping container.
- Engine dyno sheet, invoice, and any other documents will be bagged and attached inside shipping container.
So, why insist on building an engine and hoping for the best when you can simply call Pace Performance [2], get the crate engine you need, and even have it prepared and tested before you get it. That’s some serious insurance to help ease your mind about the engine choice for your pride and joy.