I just started calling around to a couple machine shops to get an idea how much it would be to put in some new rings and bearings...

First place www.northeastmachine.com wanted 600.00 to put in new rings and bearings, without assembly!

And another place I called since its right down the street is Jan-Cen racing. They wanted 1500.00! For new rings bearings and assembly!

Is this the norm for such a thing? Im pretty sure this was without hot tanking, sonic testing the block etc!

Jeez

Anyway has anyone taken a look at the summit "LT1 rebuild kit" I wouldnt "need" the forged pistons but its a package deal....It comes with speed pro forged pistons, rings, and bearings.

I talked to Jason and he mentioned a couple places, did you hav those numbers Jason? What about Nutek?

Any other locals have a favorite place?

 

Those prices are way out of line....not sure what those shops are thinking.

Dont sweat that stuff Matt, we will talk about it soon. Rings/bearing is a $250 job (labor only) plus the cost of parts.

Heck, we should just do it ourselves...its easy

Jason

 

You should do it yourself, then come to the conclusion if doing such an easy job is worth that type of coin.

 

Wow!*wipes sweat off brow* I thought they were high!

What about assembly? I was always told that is a no-no to do by yourself.

 

Take your time and educate yourself.

 

Try Proformance in Rochester. They do a good job at a fair price.

As far as DIY goes: It's easy to install rings and bearings. But to do proper engine assembly you need a clean, well lit place to work. An engine stand is very nice as well. And a number of tools that most people don't have (mostly measuring devices). But if all you need to do is disassemble your motor, put in new rings and bearings, and reassemble (vs. a more extensive rebuild) that is a definite DIY possibility depending on having someone to help.

Sounds like jason and I are willing, if you trust us

Rich Krause

 

If Rich is up for it too, I would be. I have an engine stand and most of the measuring instruments needed. Its not too difficult.

What do you say Rich?

Jason

 

Hell ya I trust you guys. You guys have a combined knowledge nearing 10 fold over mine and I consider myself pretty knowledgeable with our cars.

We will talk more about this at the meeting Jason, and Rich i will email or PM you with questions or suggestions.

Thanks again guys.

 

Don't forget about me!!!!!!!!! I wanna be there with a pen and paper!

Besides, if/when I do a teardown/re-build I plan to do as much assembly myself as possible.

I can't wait to discuss all this at our meeting.

Dave

 

I am willing. It's a "good thing" that J has the measuring tools!

Rich Krause

 

I cant express how appreciative I am guys. Dave, Ill have my pen and paper going too LOL! Well all have to discuss a time and details!

Thanks again.

 

Let me know when this all takes place and I can try to help out.

 

hey, can i check this out too? I'm no where near as educated as you guys, but at least i can see how all this is done so when mine comes around ill have a good idea on what to do.

Jason, i have 2 trucks lined up, im about 80% sure i can make it this weekend with my friends truck. If that falls through, my parents are going to Corning next weekend and they said it would be no problem to pick it up, so im 100 % sure on that weekend. So dont worry ill get it. And i also have a friend thats dieing to see your car.

Rich, im thinking of NX kit for next spring, how much does Kennedy charge to install a kit with plugs, blow down tube, purge valve, and saftey switches. i'm also thinking of dropping the PCM for less idea and get it all done up there, how good are they with PCMs?

Thanks guys, see-ya on the 23rd
-Paul

 

Paul: Bob does excellent work, the price is fair but it is not cheap, and he bases it on how long it takes x the hourly rate. I think it's currently $75/h, but I am not sure. So it depends on exactly what you want done. He is fair and does not pad the bill but does take the time to do it right. If you look at the install on my car you will see what I mean.

The plugs are really something you should consider doing yourself, perhaps with some friends to help. A plug change is work that doesn't require a master mechanic! Now, in my own current stage of life it's worth it to me (bad back and all) to pay someone to do this. But if $$$ are at all tight and you have no physical limitations, I think you should do the plugs on your own if you are at all handy. Just my $0.02

As far as tuning goes, I might well never have gotten the tune on my car right by road/track v. dyno testing. My combo is fairly complex, but the principle holds true for simpler combos as well. Like the saying goes, you pays your money and takes your choice!

Rich Krause