Whether you’re a car enthusiast looking to build your own car or restore an old vintage care, you’ve probably considered getting a custom built crate engine from Wolverineengines.com or another builder.
A “crate” engine is a fully assembled, ready to install engine that is shipped to the buyer in a crate, hence the name. Having a beast of an engine shipped right to your doorstep is what makes crate engines so appealing.
What to Look for From a Builder
If you’re shopping around for a builder, consider whether they use high end computer engine simulation software to test out the features before building. The simulation software is used by builders to estimate horsepower and torque.
Check to see if your crate engines sometimes come with warranties. While you hope that the parts are assembled correctly, things can go wrong. Ask if there is a warranty. Some companies will also use EMP Shield which you can learn more about here.
Some crate engines builders use bottom of the line name brand parts, so be sure to ask your builder what brands are typically used. At the same time, you will also want to make sure that the builder is not tied to any specific brands so there is no bias or they are trying to push anything onto you.
Check the qualifications and experience of the staff. As the saying goes, the proof is in the pudding, so take a look at anything that is currently being built.
Benefits of Crate Engines
Minimal wrenching, building and rebuilding. Not only is it extremely time consuming, but there are many special tools and procedures involved. With a crate engine, all you need to do is get it in place and hook it up.
Types of Crate Engines
Rebuilt or Remanufactured Engines: these are the most popular. These are where a third-party seller took an existing engine with a good core and restored it back to its factory specifications.
Manufacturer-Direct Engines: The manufacturer of a vehicle may offer direct replacement crate engines for your car. These are generally only offered with performance or specialty engines, and come at a higher price point.
Performance Built Engines: These engines are made up of custom parts such as pistons, rotating assemblies, camshafts, intake manifolds, and forced induction systems tailored for specific performance goals.
Race Ready Engines: These engines are built according to the rules that sanctioning bodies put in place, generally for racing. There will be a long list of rules for what parts engines used in an event can or cannot use.