Engine Building/Re-building Class

[juels98]

Hi,

I'd like to learn more about how to pull apart an engine and rebuild it (just as a hobby- shady tree type a thing). Anyway, I've been looking at things like Community Ed but don't see any classes in automotive. I work a full time job so I can't do the college class, but wanted to get some input from you guys if you know any evening classes or if anyone is willing to teach

I took engine classes at high school-- but I guess they don't do that anymore. So I kinda know my way around a car but have never pulled an engine. I have an 89 Mustang 5.0 that I'd like to eventually recondition and maybe put some new heads/cams.

Thanks in advance!
Julian

[2Point3TSi]

Youtube son. I have renovated my house with that site. To find a single class about rebuilding engines is going to be very difficult. There are tons of tutorials on Youtube however that can help you understand and visually see. It just won't be as hands on.

[theduckylittle]

1. Buy an engine or two from the junkyard or craigslist.
2. Tear down, learn, experiment.
3. Build a good one.
4. Swap into car.

[mnstang]

check out your local library, they are sure to have some good books and manuals on engine operation and repair.

hands on experience can't be replaced but you also need to understand what all the parts are, what they do, etc. and you'll need a few special tools like torque wrenches, ring compressors, calipers, micrometers, etc. the sbf is a nice simple engine to learn on. ideally it would be nice to have someone show you the way and explain and teach you, but if you don't have that there are resources out there. Every engine has it's own little tricks though.

[2Point3TSi]

Check this one out, guy rebuilds a 1990 5.0 out of a truck.

https://www.youtube.com/user/waxwings123/videos?shelf_id=3&sort=p&view=0

[theduckylittle]

While making a list was a sarcastic bastard thing to do, I really think you should build a separate engine from the one that is in your car. Having dead cars around are a real pain in the ass, and it's nice to enjoy your car *while* you are building the new engine for it. An engine swap takes a weekend and a case of beer, rebuilding an engine can take over a year (if you are on a budget and/or DIY'ing stuff). The $500 for another engine is well worth it in the end.

[juels98]

Thanks for the link 2Point3TSi. I'll take a look. I remember in my automotive class in high school there were a lot of small measurements and exact dimensions.. I can't afford to just play with parts and see if it works. I know my way around the engine as far as what parts do and where they are-- I just need someone to show me hands on what's allowed and how it's done. Anyway, good advice-- please keep them coming.

Julian

[2Point3TSi]

Where in St. Paul are you. I have had to rebuild a number of engines before. As long as the machine shop does their part and gets the measurements right for the new parts it's really not too difficult.

[Sleepin96]

We're going to be going through a 302 here shortly(week or two). You're more than welcome to bring the beer and help out.

[juels98]

Sleepin96, are you pulling it from the car-- or is it on the stand already? Where are you located? When eve/weekend are you planning on doing it?

[squeeezer]

to assemble an engine is different than building an engine

[juels98]

Well, mine is an 89. Just want to bring it back to life and maybe wake it up a little while I'm at it.

[Sleepin96]

Sleepin96, are you pulling it from the car-- or is it on the stand already? Where are you located? When eve/weekend are you planning on doing it?

Its currently together and on the stand. It needs to be completely torn down and rebuilt. Its going into a 64 Falcon that was originally a 6 cyl car.
We're in Lakeland right off 94 on the St. Croix River. Just pm me if you're interested in coming down sometime.

And on a side note we'll be starting an 88GT build here shortly as well. Stock 302 switching to gt40p heads, gt40 cobra intake, e303, long tubes etc etc etc....