How much does a 350 engine rebuild cost?

Answer 1

The cost of a rebuild can vary quite a 'bit depending on what you need to replace, the level of machining work that needs to be done, and obviously, who you bring it to and how much they charge. A typical rebuild will consist of cleaning all the parts to be re-used (including the engine block, cylinder heads, crankshaft, and connecting rods, which is usually done by the machinist). Milling the cylinder heads, boring the block, and sometimes turning the crank under, to ensure consistency, and a good fit well within tolerances. Usually it will also be left to a machinist to install all the bearings and plugs in the engine, as well as pressing the pins into the piston, and installing the piston on the rods. A lot of this can be done by a good mechanic as well, as long as they have the proper tools and machines to do so. The rest of the assembly can usually be done with a basic garage setup, just so long as the builder knows how to properly lubricate the parts, torque everything down, adjust the valve lash, and if in charge of the first firing and break in, properly adjust timing, check pressures, and look for any problems. But to address your original question of how much it costs.... Rebuild kits for Chevy 350 engines range anywhere from $400 to $800 for basic setups, and should include most, if not every part you'll need to replace (bearings, plugs, seals, new pistons, rings, cam, etc.) These kits do not include things like water pumps, alternators, belts, manifolds, etc. If you are building for higher performance, expect to pay at least in the $1,500 - $3,000 range and up, depending on how much power you want to make. Basic cleaning and machining by the machinist usually doesn't exceed $300 - $500, but if the machinist finds other things wrong than the basics, expect to pay more. Re-seating valves, and rebuilding cylinder heads can typically run you anywhere from $200 - $600, not including parts........just to give you an example. Anyway, to bring this ramble to a close, on the low end, I would expect to pay at least $1,500 - $2,000 for a decent rebuild, and on the high end (as long as your talking basic, not performance), expect around $3,000 and up. Keep in mind, again, this does not usually include parts like water pumps, belts, fluids, etc. And you'll also have to keep in mind extra expenses like removal and re-installation of the engine, and some places also charge for the disassembly of the engine as well. Your best bet is to talk with a few local, reputable mechanics and/or machinists, and they could give you a better idea of the service they offer, the prices they charge (as a lot of that varies by region, etc.), and what sort of turnaround you'd be looking at. Hope this was some help, and good luck!