For UK drivers, there are few things that can be as traumatic as hearing a squeal from beneath the bonnet. If your engine is damaged it is often confronted with a tough financial choice whether to scrap the vehicle or buy an entirely new crate engine from a major dealer, or explore the possibilities of reconditioned – or “recon”–engines.
In this article we’ll break down the market for recon engines that are available in the UK. We’ll discuss the specifics of what you’re buying and how it is reconditioned, the British requirements for reconstitution and the environmental impacts, and if this is an intelligent option for the vehicle you’re looking to purchase.
What Exactly Is a Recon Engine?
Reconditioned (recon) engine is an engine that was previously used, but has gone through an extensive engineering process in order to restore it to its specifications originally set by the manufacturer.
It is important to differentiate it from an “used” or “second-hand” engine that you can find at an online or scrapyard. An used engine is usually taken from a donor vehicle and is sold “as is,” with all the wear and wear. A rebuilt engine, in contrast, is stripped down to its components and then cleaned, machined, and then rebuilt using new internal components.
In the UK an engine specialist with a good reputation adheres to strict tolerances in engineering. When you purchase a reconditioned engine from a highly skilled British workshop, you’re basically purchasing an “zero-mile” unit that is fully functional and ready to go.
The British Standard of Reconditioning
Reconditioning an engine isn’t an easy fix. UK engineering firms are known for their accuracy, and a top-quality recon procedure typically includes the following steps:
1. Strip and Clean
The whole unit is disassembled. Each piston, bolt and valve is taken out. The block and the cylinder head are cleaned chemically or hot-washed in order to eliminate years of carbon build-up, dirt, oil sludge, and dirt.
2. Inspection and Measurement
This is the most critical stage. Technicians utilize precision micrometers to determine wear of the crankshafts, bores of cylinders, and camshafts. If the components aren’t within the tolerances of the manufacturer–even just a tiny fraction of millimetres–they can be remachined to meet the manufacturer’s specifications or taken off.
3. Machining and Engineering
British machine shops utilize special equipment to smooth the heads of cylinders (skimming) and re-bore cylindrical cylinders grinding crankshafts. This guarantees perfect sealing and a smooth running.
4. Reassembly using New Parts
Engines are rebuilt with new gaskets, seals for oil piston rings, bearings. Important components that are vulnerable to failure, like timing chains and pump oil, are typically replaced with newer versions to prevent any future issues.
5. Pressure and Crack Testing
When the engine leaves the workshop the block and cylinder head are tested under pressure to ensure there aren’t any hairline cracks – a frequent problem in modern aluminum engines found in UK automobiles like that of Ford EcoBoost or Land Rover Ingenium series.
Why Choose a Recon Engine? The Benefits
For a lot of UK drivers Recon engines are at”the “Goldilocks” zone–better than used and less expensive than brand new.
Significant Cost Savings
A brand-new engine made by manufacturers such as BMW, Audi, or Jaguar Land Rover can cost up to PS10,000 or more. A top-quality recon vehicle typically costs between 30 and 50 percent less. This means it is a feasible financial option that can prevent many cars from being deemed “uneconomical to repair.”
Environmental Responsibility
The UK is a force to be sustainable. Reconditioning is essentially the best way to recycle. By recycling the heavy metal castings from the head and engine block you can save the huge energy needed to melt and make new aluminum and steel. It drastically lowers your carbon footprint that comes from repair work on your vehicle.
Reliability and Warranty
Contrary to a bet on a scrapyard engine A professionally restored engine from an UK specialist is covered by a warranty. Most reliable companies provide an extended warranty of 12 months or 12,000 miles and legal security as per the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
Addressing Factory Faults
Recon engines may be superior to the original. Reconditioners with experience are aware of the common manufacturing flaws that affect particular engine models (such as the fragile timing chains found on BMW N47 engines). In the course of rebuilding they will install modified or strengthened parts to fix the design flaws that are inherent to.
Potential Drawbacks and Risks
It is important to note that the UK markets for recon are not regulated in part, which means that the quality may differ. It is crucial to know the potential dangers.
- “Reconditioned” vs. “Refurbished” Certain sellers who are not reputable employ the terms in conjunction. The “refurbished” engine might only have been cleaned and a head gasket replaced. Always request specific details of what the work has been completed.
- Time to Lead For shelf-ready parts an engine that is specifically reconfigured may require to be constructed on demand if there is no inventory available. This can keep your vehicle away from the road for up to three weeks.
- The Surcharge System UK providers use the “exchange basis.” The surcharge is a fee (deposit) that is then refunded upon return of your damaged or old engine. If the engine you purchased has a hole in its block (catastrophic failure) it is possible that you will not receive the full amount returned.
Is a Recon Engine Worth the Investment?
Choosing whether or not to proceed is contingent on the specific circumstances you face:
- The Value of the Car The Car’s Value: If the vehicle is valued at PS5,000 and the repairs cost PS2,500, it makes sense financially. If the car’s value is PS1,500, it might be time to sell it.
- Your Expectations If you intend to keep the car for a period of 3-5 years, the recon engine is an investment worth it. If you intend to sell the vehicle next month, it is possible that you will not be able to recoup the expense.
- Classic Cars Owners of old British automobiles (MGs, Triumphs, old Land Rovers), reconditioning the engine that was originally installed is crucial to ensure “matching numbers,” preserving the car’s historical value.
Conclusion
Reconditioned engines can be an alternative for vehicles that are good enough to throw away but are too costly to repair using brand-new parts from dealers. It’s a perfect combination of ecology, economy and engineering. But the secret to success is choosing the best partner.
In the UK Look for engine builders who are honest about their processes, offer solid warranties and positive reviews from independent sources. If you do your research and ensure you are aware of the best engine builders, you can provide your vehicle with a new look that’s as secure as when it was first parked in the showroom.
If you’re not sure about the condition of your current engine, or want an estimate for a recon unit, get in touch with our expert team now. We will guide you through the best options for your particular vehicle’s model and make.
FAQs
What is the cost of the cost of a recon engine when compared with a brand new engine within the UK?
You could expect savings of between percent and 50% when compared to the main dealer crate engine. For premium brands it could be thousands of dollars.
Does a recon engine affect my car insurance?
Generally replacing an engine with the same model as the original is considered a repair not the same as a modification. But, you must notify your insurance provider that the engine has been replaced to ensure that your policy is in effect.
What is the difference between a short block and a “long block”?
You’ll often encounter this terminology on the part of UK suppliers. A short block is the bottom part of an engine (block or crank, pistons). Long blocks include the cylinder head, and is a larger engine and ready for assembly.
How long will the warranty run on a UK ref engine?
The industry standard for 12 months is 12,000 miles or 12 months depending on what is first. Certain premium rebuilders provide extended warranties that extend to 2 years at an additional cost.
Can I fit a recon engine myself?
Although technically feasible for a trained mechanic at home however, modern engines require specialized computer software for diagnostics to set ECUs as well as code injection devices. We strongly suggest professional installation to verify your warranty..
