Auto Parts that Build an Engine.
The mechanic or shop is describing in detail what’s going on with your engine.
Short block, Long block, Heads, Mains, Rods??
Your thinking, this may as well be Greek!
We completely understand, Decoding mechanic lingo is like speaking a foreign language. We’ve put together an infographic to help breakdown what they are really saying.
What auto parts go into building an engine? What are the engine components?
Let’s get started, see answers below.
First, an engine is also known as a Long Block.
It has two main components- Short Block + Cylinder heads = Long Block Engine.
Various individual parts make up the cylinder heads. With normal wear and tear they can breakdown or wear down. A breakdown will occur a lot faster if you have overheated your engine. You may warp the cylinder heads and need them resurfaced, making the heads smooth again, ensuring a good fit against the block. You may crack the heads, if not too deep or wide, they may be repaired by welding. Welding can be done on aluminum or cast iron heads.
Cylinder head repair is very common. A Valve Job breathes new life into your heads. A Basic Valve Job includes: grinding the valves, cutting the valve seats, resurfacing the head, magnuflux for cracks, installing valve stem seals, cleaning the head, and assembly.
To be sure your cylinder head is up to par, we recommend ‘pressure testing’ it, to make sure it is holding the correct compression. Depending on the condition of your existing parts, if they are warped, bowed, broken, melted (it happens) or otherwise unusable, you may need to replace them with new parts. Some extra’s include: valves, guides, seals, seats, and gaskets.
Short Blocks are the bottom half of the engine, the cylinder heads sit on top of the block.
The main components are the pistons, piston rings, main bearings, rod bearings and cam bearings, timing chain and sprocket. Parts can vary depending on engine and vehicle type.
The short block can be rebuilt, giving you new pistons, rings, all bearings, timing set, freeze plugs, bore & hone engine block, grind crankshaft and camshaft, and assembly.
Together as a Long Block, both units can be rebuilt together. With heads, lifters, oil pump and assembly.
Sometimes you only need the cylinder heads repaired, that’s the Valve Job.
We can rebuild the entire engine (Long Block), the bottom end (Short Block), or the top end (cylinder heads). It all depends on what you need, if you have questions. Call us (818) 767-6603.
Use the CONTACT form to email your questions.