I dropped off my block, supertech pistons m-tuned rods, etc at the machine shop. I was expecting to get back a short block. Instead I got back my parts, cleaned and bored block, balanced rotating assembly.

I asked them how much it would be to build the short block and they said $175, they priced bearings, gaskets etc. I don't make quick financial decisions so I said I would hold off and bring it back at a later date since it went slightly over my planned budget. This is a very reputable shop so it was an honest mistake.

I plan on taking it back unless you guys think I should just assemble the short block myself and lower my cost by $175.

 

If you know what your doing then do it yourself, if you don't then trust someone with a good reputation.

 

Do you have the right tools to assemble a engine?

 

No, but they are easily rented or bought. I think I had made up my mind before I even posted. I just get a little rattled when things don't go as planned, and then I start hearing quotes for gasket sets that are twice as high as I originally priced. Turns out that their gasket set included the head gasket. Which makes their price actually better than autozone. One of the positives I heard about this shop was that they sold there parts for the same price or better than summit or jegs.

Thanks for letting me vent I feel better now.

 

If you dont have the tools I would say no, just because you can get them doesn't mean you know how to use them. Im not trying to bash you but it would suck If you missed something and ruin all the money you put into it. If you lived closer I would help you build it sorry.

 

I'd pay them the $175 if they will stand behind the machining and the assembly. That's cheap insurance IYAM. Especially when you consider the cash invested at this point- right?

 

Torque wrench, dial indicator w/ magnetic base, and some plastigage. Am I missing anything?

 

You guys are all right. I just got back from the machine shop (dropped) motor off. Turns out it willbe a better deal than I thought becauss the will install oil pump, pan, well anything that goes with a short block.

I don't know what I was thinking. Momentary clouding of thought process.

In the end the total will come to $680 which includes engine gasket set (including head gasket), main and rod bearings, bore and hone, balancing, and assembly of short block. I think it's a good price and am happy.

 

Piston ring compressor, feeler gauges for piston ring gap.

 

I'd definitely pay that for machine and assembly.

 

i would let the shop do it. i would use an OE mazda headgasket.