Extreme Budget Engine Rebuild- Part 1

DIY Home mechanic rebuilding an engine on a budget. This part covers how to know if you need a rebuild, guaranteed minimum expenses you will have, teardown, and how to measure for wear on the bottom end to determine if parts can be reused or if new part replacement, or machine shop work will be required and what it will cost. Strategy is to develop a complete budget needed for the rebuild before investing any money in the project at all.
Part 2 is here: kzbin.info?o=U&video...

[@richard1835]

I just want you to know that you have taught me some things I needed to know about. That is how knowledge is passed from one generation to the next. You are the Master Mechanic teaching younger eager future Mechanic's the Trade. Keep up the Good Work!

[@DJDevon3]

Really wish you wouldn't be so negative to those who leave negative comments. It really doesn't behoove your personality to respond in that manner. Just ignore them and don't let it affect your videos. There are 100 times more people that actually love your videos than attempt to bring you down. You and many other DIY'ers on KZbin are extremely methodical in your knowledge, preparation, and execution. Don't lower yourself to their level. You're better than that. Just my opinion. Love your videos. Wish you would put out a new one every day actually. I would watch every single one. Stay positive!!!

[@spelunkerd]

I was going to say the same thing. Throwing mud gets everybody dirty, not in a good way, (grin).

[@SchrodingersBox]

duly noted, will take into consideration.

[@wdhewson]

And you can't win. There are simply too many that are "uninformed", and sometimes we are among them, as life tests our humility.

[@SchrodingersBox]

Corncob Bob I know, they are!

[@ThatDanDude]

spelunkerd Of course. but it is frustrating for those that are actually turning the bolts an nuts to rebuild. There is no excuse for bad manners. Some people make money on these video's, ( have no problem with that ) to share what they know for a fact. I've already made a rep. for leaving negative comments on many engine builders channel. I would say, leave the builder alone, at least let that builder prove or debunk his own logic.

[@HenryHHolmes]

Just recently got my first Haynes manual and it told me to go to a mechanic. I'm sticking with Chilton's

[@MegaGreenman28]

Chilton's are done by Haynes now. If you're working on anything from the 90s and newer get the factory service manual you will save money.

[@JeffReeves]

This is one of the best automotive videos I've ever watched. You are concise, detailed, informative, and entertaining. I'm looking at rebuilding my 4AGE possibly due to low oil pressure at idle. Tonight I'm going to be dropping the oil pan to check for specs of metal from the main bearings, and check the crankshaft journals for wear. I'll certainly be watching all of your videos to get some more information on the bare minimum I need to do, and plan any additional things I would like to also have done. Thank you for taking the time to film, edit, and upload these videos!

[@JohnMSawyer]

Matt shows that he has a logical and practical mind, and knows what engine facts matter. He's confirming a lot of what I've learned about engine rebuilding over the past couple years, summarizing it very clearly. Not sure I'd trust that tray method though--I might drop it. I put the parts in ziploc bags that I label with their location, though I'm planning on getting some parts cabinets with large drawers to do the job.

[@pby1000]

Awesome video. I can appreciate your humor in dealing with those that annoy you. Thanks for taking the time to post this. It is very useful.

[@ryanhodges7101]

Hey Matt, I really enjoyed your videos on the 352 rebuild. I just got finished rebuilding a 390 so your vids helped a lot. Thanks for taking the time to make and upload them. I know there is a lot of work involved in making them and I appreciate it. I have a factory service manual so no Haynes books for me! Ha Ha. Thanks again

[@andre-michelgoulet6933]

Love your delivery style, very well spoken! Nicely done videos, great content thanks.

[@theflyingdutchman787]

Eloquent, informative, precise. Exactly what I was looking for. Thank you, Sir.

[@smithraymond09029]

Awesome! I took this approach when rebuilding a POS ford 3.8L 6 cylinder. My goal was to make it a very usable and reliable ride. I spent about $300 total by only replacing what needed to be replaced (all new bearings and rings, gaskets, etc) and only getting the heads done by a shop for $115. Note, I did mic everything to determine wear. Ran like a top. The proof? No oil burning, no funny noises, pass CA smog with better numbers than when it was new. BTW, love the Fod FE. Very well supported aftermarket parts from Edelbrock. Love the ADD and Haynes manual comments, lol. Too many "experts" on here. Subscribed pal!

[@240kDatsun]

Great video dude. The fact that you have taken the time and effort to do this video is terrific. And to me any engine rebuild video is enjoyable. Thanks for your effort. cheers.

[@thetruth888]

awesome video, very detailed, and professional, easy to understand, thanks for taking your time to do this for us!

[@ElVic82]

Keep doing what you're doing sir. I really enjoy the videos.

[@JahanZeb1976]

Awesome rebuild video! You discussed great deal of information. I hope the next part will be same way excellent as this first part was. Great job done. Regards,

[@qwertyuiopas87]

Steve Rob

[@qwertyuiopas87]

I am a 56-year-old woman and I wanted to see how it was rebuilt remade because I don’t because my mechanics my husband does on everything but I’m learning all the sounds and everything but you break it down for anybody you don’t understand and thank you for telling me I can’t do it my myself my hand won’t let me no more I won’t even attempt it but thank you very much very understandable Thumbs up

[@Robertfyfe62]

Mate I love the commentary and the subject. A no crap humorous approach. Just bought a T bird with a 390 so looking fwd to getting into it. Thanks for this is fantastic!

[@weissmag]

Wow this is a great video. Schrodingers box you are obviously a good mechanic and I will tell you Sir that you are a great teacher! I will try to learn and do some work on engines somehow. Thank you.

[@nytrox84]

Technical, helpful and straight to the point. Loved all the advices on what to and not to do, avoid focusing on trolls, they don't deserve attention. Liked and subscribed.

[@juanmata5292]

Thanks for all this good knowledge my brother you are changing people's lives many blessings!!!!

[@beernd4822]

This is the best beginners guide to rebuilding engines. Never mind the negative comments from the "know it all better than you do crowd". You do a perfect job.

[@russelblackwell6041]

i have no problem with your explanation Sir i learnt a lot even though ive had a go in the past with a 351 cleveland engine here in Australia for a 1971 xy ford here its very easy to make mistakes we must take notes and check things thoroughly you cant mess with an engine rebulid thanks a lot enjoyed your video

[@SteveRobReviews]

Fantastic Matt. Lots of great tips. I have one for you for a budget build or not. I gave up years ago on the spray cans of carb cleaner or any type of penetrating fluid, for a 50/50 mix of acetone and trany fluid in a pump oil can. Works better and low cost.

[@schizencephalymama1730]

This was my moms first truck, she was born in 65 and this was the first truck my grandfather bought brand new!! Omg this is amazing! Thank you so so much for posting, you are and have been my favorite DIY mechanic. 😊✌🏼️

[@SchrodingersBox]

No kidding?? Thats so cool! Well you can identify with the owner of this truck then on the sentimental value! You'll be glad to know the truck ultimately got a replacement engine from a shop and last I heard from owner is it runs but had some hesitation on acceleration issues. Maybe we'll see it again someday.

[@schizencephalymama1730]

+Schrodingers Box +Schrodingers Box Maybe you will! It was a nice thing to see, haven't seen one in a long time. Thanks again, really enjoyed it 😊

[@dirtybugs2]

You did a very good job - Im a total noob, but want to start learning - Seen many videos now, but yours got deep into the real world of engines and possible issues associated with them. Not just a crate build with everything brand new. Keep making them :D

[@codybrookehanson2346]

I really appreciate how detailed you get. Thank you

[@dadegixxer]

You’re very detailed. Learned a great deal from this video. Great job!!

[@v-modsolutions6946]

Hey man, i appreciate your whole approach and intellectual sense. Very interesting videos for sure.

[@luismedeiros1490]

Guy works hard and explains very well, you just got another subscriber.

[@jaredwhitby4633]

I wish this guy was my apprenticeship teacher! So good love your videos, keep up the great work I am learning more on your channel then at tafe (apprenticeship school)

[@zachreyhelmberger894]

Such a great job! Nice camera stand and great audio! Bravo! And bravo on the clear explanations and discussion!!

[@SchrodingersBox]

Many thanks my friend. It takes a lot of effort to produce these. I know many people are better videographers than I, but I do my best. It's nice to see someone appreciate it!

[@55commander]

Thank you for a very good tutorial, I am planning on using it as a guide on rebuilding a Studebaker V8. Thanks

[@ImJustinAndIknowIt]

Man I know this video is almost a couple years old now, but I love how you respond to the negative youtube users whom have never cracked a bolt loose with their fruit-scented, moisturized hands, featuring fresh mani pedi's. I have to say I like your style in this video, its the first of yours I've watched and I'm thoroughly entertained. I have an itch to rebuild another engine I have laying around, however I don't have the "proper" place to do so. Everything I do is outside in the elements. If I'm not standing in dirt, its either grass or gravel. I'd kill for a nice shop floor, but life is life. I've rebuilt several engines outside and they all are still going as the years tick by. The key is trash bags and duct tape, you can never have enough. Ever.

[@SchrodingersBox]

+ImJustinAndIknowIt Thanks man. We seem to agree- ignorance must be challenged, not tolerated.

[@area46241]

What's up Stallsmith!!! you remind me of an old mechanic I once knew...anyway build on...I'm interested...your knowledge is right up there with the best of them and I have known a hell of a lot of mechanics...

[@n.h.sulleman8538]

Thanks for the vids, learning new things all the time. Keep it up 👍

[@marshallborges9606]

Cool video and great instructor! Tells it like it is! Thumbs up, sir!!!!

[@AkantorkrilleX]

hahahaha dude, the passive aggressiveness against ppl who skip the boring part of ur video is priceless :’) keep it up 🤙

[@choppagunz]

never done a rebuilt but good to know thank you for ur experts and thought on the job its always good to know

[@estebandavilaruiz22]

Muy bien y gracias por compartir. FELICIDADEZ

[@MysTiKRevolt]

Actually 22 years old. Good stuff man. Keep up the videos.

[@pby1000]

Great video! I love your rants. Please keep it up.

[@jimmyray2008]

Great video ... Don't let the wannabe ..haynes ... Backyard mechanic get you down! My first week of mechanic school opened my eyes! I now source out factory manuals wherever possible and give my haynes manuals to my newbie mechanic friends if they need them!

[@BigHairyDwarf]

Thank you. Subbed for straight to the point no BS.

[@tonypotter8280]

Well done! Great instruction

[@wolfenpixels]

ty for being realistic on rebuilds and the complex proceedures involved.

[@stocks4bt]

I like how you have a plan or list to guide you. Somethings need to be non-negotiable not only on engine building but on life choices itself.

[@benstill571]

Thank you for making a how to vid on engine basics. Paint and body has always been easy for me but motors mostly elude me. Best regards.

[@mitchm.3997]

Hey, I just wanted to say, good info! You've obviously done this for a bit =) It was fun to watch and very well explained.

[@Havok577]

"I don't want to do calculations on cost. I want to see bolts move and parts come off." lol Spot on assessment. Between that and the shots at the Haynes manual jockeys, you may have my new favorite channel.

[@SchrodingersBox]

+Havok577 Lol glad you get it hahaha!!

[@CeltofCork]

Interesting, informative video thanks for posting it.

[@techgood]

Thank you very much for your time and knowledge.

[@Nasonix2]

First minute into the video and subscribed. =) GREAT content!!!!!

[@ronicard]

Outstanding video! Well done.

[@intercitydude]

Hi, thanks for taking the time to post most informative, and a funny dude, love the Haynes manual, and AD&D quotes. "Those that can do, those that cant talk about it, and criticize KZbin uploads." Once again sincerest thanks. PS wenches are call spanners over here, then again we have boots and bonnets........................quite worrying.

[@iiirbob]

Hi... Matt I am a big fan of your videos... I don't bother with the negative and you shouldn't either.. I think your videos are the best I have found on KZbin and I watch them over and over again.. You take your time and show detail and explain unlike others who are commercially supported I know that you are doing this out of your own personal interest and enjoyment of the craft and I am honored to learn new things from you... Please keep the great videos coming and your head up and be proud of the value of what you are sharing with aspiring mechanics like me.. no if i can just find a good deal on craigslist I cant wait to get my hands dirty...shoot I might even share a video with you of my efforts,, thanks again.. Robert

[@SchrodingersBox]

Thanks Robert! I would love to see a video of your efforts. Glad you found the channel!

[@ThrashedChassis]

This video is f*ing great. Any real mechanic 100% understands the 'Haynes Jockey' comment(s). Great informative video! I appreciate the guidance on how/what to look for when preparing for a rebuild.

[@joelalleman9591]

these fe motors are great !! I have a 1968 360 fe and it is a great motor !!

[@MrRay3801]

I know this is an old video but it's hilarious to watch you tuber's progress from the "wanting everyone to subscribe" stage to the "f-you, I'm doing it my way" stage! great video and great info at the start.

[@KOSerg-vo2qb]

you're the best my friend ,appreciate the information

[@BuddyCoopers]

Brilliant Video. Thanks for taking the time to make it.

[@schrodingersboxquantummeka2008]

+Buddy Cooper Thanks for taking time to comment!

[@mopartruxtv9285]

Haynes is a good tool if your restoring an old truck from the ground up. It's also a good source of information for novice DIY. Also, Haynes is an old fella mechanic posting info for profit just like yourself on youtube. He's also got his way of doing things just like yourself. Anyhow, I've watched these videos years ago and like your content.

[@HeavyForge]

Glad to see some New videos!!!

[@stevenlaban4326]

This video is very useful. I'm trying to lurn for my own car . I'm swapping in a second hand engine into my xtype. I've got one from a low mileage grandad speck auto. so it won't have had the hard time the one in my manual sport has had . Then I plan to rebuild the original engine massively upgraded piper cams oversized shells etc . I've never done anything like this before but I think with enough research and just being anul enough il be able to do it . Thanks you video has been helpful.

[@falcon9282]

very informative video...thanks much

[@TheUltimateCrash1990]

Your videos rock man, you'd be a great Auto Shop teacher.

[@egibson2266]

love your videos and the logical informative content you provide, comment section is almost more entertaining though.

[@eddiewatson7192]

great information thank you for the video

[@omargonzalez1413]

thank you Mat. very informative. great work bud🍻

[@dangore590]

you tell them put the book away guys lol ...great video bud i learn alot when i watch your clips keep them coming !

[@firefalcon9368]

I am acutely aware now that you have a very sarcastic sense of humor. Love it. hahaha!

[@samjames1253]

I think the easiest way to think of oil pressure is to take a leaf from the hydraulics book: the load sets the pressure. The larger the bearing clearances are from spec, the less load there will be and the lower the oil pressure. Great channel by the way. Its good to see someone using logic to find a diagnosis and not doing a spray and pray. Greetings from Australia

[@polymetric2614]

i also think it lines up very well with electricity: less resistance = more current/flow = more voltage/pressure drop. more resistance = less current/flow = less voltage/pressure drop

[@SchrodingersBox]

Totally!! It’s a great parallel!

[@wyattandwill12]

I started this series again after learning more about engine work and ordering parts/tools with my financial aid check I was waiting for. It makes such difference to do things yourself both on the pockets and on your "brain muscles." The money saved, tools purchased for future use, and the knowledge gained is great and you can use that money to go towards parts instead and spend less than paying for at least one tow and the labor, parts markup, etc. I'm planning on doing something frowned upon, but I think it'll work out pulling the engine from the bottom (with the car lifted but not with a hoist) and getting it on an engine stand, then reversing the process for reassembly, obviously planning everything out beforehand. That way that I can check the cams and crankshaft instead of risking something being/going bad and needing to buy $200 worth of gaskets again.

[@SchrodingersBox]

Pulling the engine from the bottom is a viable strategy and in fact on some cars is the only way to do it. My trans Am with LS engine is an example- you remove the car from the engine, not the engine from the car.

[@vimzzz]

Thanks for a good video. And for your engine build you are probably right as regards to putting the pushrods, lifters and lifter arms back to the same place. But I however feel like commenting this has to do with wearing pattern, or not. I just assembled a motor last spring, and pulled it apart again in the fall after 1000 miles on it. There were less to none wear patterns on my pushrods, lifters or rocker arms. Thus, by that time there was no need to put them back in the exact same place or order still. I myself have never had any problem with that, or heard any other person on the internet who have had it, as long as there are no real wearing pattern to it already. As long as they are straight.

[@DJDevon3]

Give this man a thumbs up and show him that WAY more people like his professional approach than he realizes.

[@brandonking277]

Thanks! This kind of tied all my random bits of knowledge together. I am now confident that I want to attempt an engine rebuild.

[@SchrodingersBox]

It's one of the best experiences you will have. Go for it!

[@danielbriese3972]

if you actually read your comments i just want you to know you are my favorite youtuber. love the attitude, im definitely coming back to see more of your videos

[@SchrodingersBox]

I read them!!

[@danielbriese3972]

we are going to be best friends!

[@SchrodingersBox]

Daniel Briese Bromance is in the air!

[@danielbriese3972]

I've been working on engines since I was 14 years old. Went to college and at 23 years old I am the youngest person I know who can successfully rebuild a carburetor. You have shown the internet that you don't have to have a mechanical background to show a little common sense and fix problems yourself. It's not bromance, it's respect. Rock on, brother.

[@kaoshavoc]

I love your commentary. You just say what so many others want to say. And I love that!

[@SchrodingersBox]

+kaos havoc Hahaha I have no filter.

[@kaoshavoc]

Well, in the middle of this 'budget rebuild' series because I saw the title and wondered to myself, "How does that work?" Looks like it is much like I expected so far, it doesn't. You have earned my subscription.

[@SchrodingersBox]

thanks! actually it can work but this truck was just not a good candidate.

[@blondegaijin]

u r incredibly helpful and a gifted explainer. I also like your style, you're articulate like a pointy-head but also know all the hands-on stuff. Big ups..!!! ^_^ hi from Calif.

[@SchrodingersBox]

Like a pointy-head lol!! Love it haha!

[@Odin3v]

Dude, I love your style. To the point and no bullshit. Thank you for alot of info. About to go into my first ever rebuild on my 302 that lost oil pressure after a new oil pump. And I suspect bad bearings. The original oil pump did seize and break the oil pump shaft.

[@SchrodingersBox]

You will do quite well with the rebuild. Do your research and take your time

[@richard1835]

Great Video. Thank You

[@fury3600]

"i wana see bolts move i wana see parts come off" - been there done that, learned it the hard way in my younger days, hell i still feel that way from time to time lol i like your vids, subbed

[@keondn]

Great Video. I might attempt this.

[@camtheham13]

I would say to keep parts until you get their replacements, if for no other reason to confirm that the parts you got are correct

[@DrRawley]

Couldn't find a used engine for my ride that didn't cost way more than doing a rebuild myself. Machine shop on block and head was $500, master rebuild kit from engine tech was $400, other random stuff (that didn't come with a used engine anyways) was almost $400. Cheapest used one I could find at the time was $1700 before shipping.

[@strategicthinker8899]

The first one you can do yourself as well as all the others. You don't even have to take the engine out.

[@demarcot]

Thank you so much for this video

[@splashman63]

Matt great video, I just getting ready to do a rebuild myself just pulled it out today. Ford 2000 F-150 4.6L , Oil pick-up tube clogged with debris from timing chain guides. Damage to left side over head cam. Lot of good info its been along time since I've been in a car motor. Maybe I'll shoot some video of my advanture

[@scottpugh4587]

I like u guy keep up the good work. Interesting to listen too an watch.

[@ericjohnston9272]

lmao got a kick out this vid!!! nice job good info and cool old engine

[@ricere4647]

love your videos

[@rbbrown2106]

Good to see a guy who loves his work.

[@adamprzybyl17]

good job keep up the great videos

[@buzzycharpia8648]

GREAT video ! thanks.....

[@michaelwitt7443]

i laughed out loud when you said they can take that haynes manual and show up right up there butt i def subscribed very informative and straight to the point

[@jackson73ford6]

Man I love this guy. Tell em how it is buddy. Nice vid

[@leespiderpod]

Great video, cheers

[@zdravkomomci7570]

Hey dude love your upload LMAO your the man !!!

[@dontp1]

Thanks S-box : your uploads and your down to eath normal explaining of what to do and how to do it . is giving me hope that i can do my first engine rebuild and small tun up when i get my first V8 in 14 dayes. 1979 olds 403 6,6L from a trans am. until now i have only found video´s of Extremly detail and hig price rebuild videos of the old and cool v8 engin´s. i will be following you channel her from Denmark.

[@SchrodingersBox]

Thanks my friend. I have quite a few subs from Denmark now- they really seem to be into this as I have thousands of views from there! LOVE the 79 Trans Am btw- the 77 is what started it for me- Smokey and the Bandit of course lol!!!

[@dariuszklak012]

Like your video, great sense of humor :)

[@TheCookinHam]

Really good video. New viewer here and I really appreciate the channel and the videos you make. Could you possibly ignore the haters though? They're stupid and take time away from good learning material. Thanks again! Great channel! Keep up the great work!

[@manolosanchez1917]

Hi from Spain, I am a student and your chanel is amazing, thanks master,

[@jimjim2119]

I am impressed how a young guy like yourself has so much knowledge and experience in the ins and outs of car mechanics. This said by a non-mechanic who is interested in mechanics only.

[@jimjim2119]

I am 62 years old, retired from medicine, and wished I career in mechanics instead. Oh, well, can't reverse time.

[@luislascurain8668]

great video