Installing Remanufactured Engines, a new engine, seems like a simple job on the surface. But there’s a lot more that goes into it than just taking out the old engine and bolting in a new one. There are several common mistakes that mechanics make when putting in a new engine; the following is a breakdown of what you should avoid. Discount Powertrain wants you know the most common mistakes mechanics make when improperly completing an engine replacement installation. So then you can avoid the expense and hassle of an engine installation failure.
Top Ten Mistakes
1) Replacing Parts Instead Of Diagnosing The Problem
A new engine can fix a wide range of mechanical problems. However, some problems may be fixed without swapping out an engine. Additionally, there are issues that appear to be caused by the engine but are not, and swapping out the engine in these cases is an expensive waste of time. Be sure that you know that the only way to resolve a problem is by putting in a new engine before doing so.
2) Forgetting To Prime The Engine
Engines of all types need to be primed, and automotive engines need to be primed with oil. If you forget to do this, it will cause the new engine to lock up, and you’ll need yet another replacement engine.
3) Allowing Old Engine Debris To Damage The New Engine
When you are Installing Remanufactured Engines, if you don’t also clean out the EGR and intake manifold. Or replace the EGR valve, EGR gasket intake, intake manifold and manifold gasket, debris from the old engine can get into the new one and cause damage. Even if the customer won’t swing for the replacement parts, be sure to clean out the old ones.
4) Failing To Inspect The Cooling System
One of the major reasons automobile engines need to be replaced is that they are driven without being cooled properly. Be sure to inspect systems related to the cooling fan as well as hoses; if any aren’t in good condition, replace them.
5) Reusing The Oil Cooler
It seems logical to keep parts that appear to be working rather than to replace them. But there are some parts, like the oil cooler, that this kind of penny-wise and pound foolish approach is more trouble than it’s worth. If oil that contained antifreeze, metal shavings or other debris went through the cooler, this debris will stay in the cooler. And it can contaminate – even destroy – the new engine.
6) Using The Old Water Pump
Failing to replace the water pump can lead to major issues with cooling. It can be difficult to tell just by looking whether a pump suffered heat damage or internal corrosion. Since it’s a relatively inexpensive part, it’s best to just replace it when you put in a new engine.
7) Failing To Completely Bleed The Coolant System
The coolant system in a vehicle will need to have the air forced out of it, and that involves bleeding the system. In older vehicles, you can usually do this by filling the system with coolant until coolant comes out of the bleeder valve. For newer vehicles, you may need to also run the engine with the coolant system filled until you see bubbles rising from the fluid. Which is the last of the air escaping the system.
8) Not Ensuring That Accessories Are Installed Correctly
When you are Installing Remanufactured Engines, you’ll also need to make sure that the new engine connects to things. Like the alternator, power steering pump and cooling system components. It’s essential that they are installed and aligned correctly and do not bump up against other parts or the engine. If you’re not sure if everything is set up correctly, you can turn the engine over by hand and make sure everything is clear.
9) Failing To Replace A Sub Par Radiator
Outside of friction issues caused by a lack of oil, one of the biggest destroyers of engines is overheating. Even if someone’s engine didn’t require replacement as a result of a bad radiator. It’s a good idea to make sure the existing radiator is in good shape. Failing to do so will almost ensure a short lifespan for the new engine. And putting in a new engine is a good time to deal with installing a new radiator.
10) Using Worn Out Or Dirty Parts
Installing Remanufactured Engines involve using a variety of parts that were already attached to the vehicle. It’s essential that you inspect these parts and clean them off before putting them back on. Failure to do so can mean that you install parts that are worn and dirty and may cause damage to the new engine or contaminate it with debris.
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