Rebuilding advice?

I figured. It's time to activate my chatterbox powers!

 

I use two machine shops. If you’re wanting quality machining I’d recommended L&M Engines in Hatboro, PA. They seem like an overall good shop. https://lmengines.com/

I also use ECAM in Glenside because he’s closer to me. He’s a nice guy and has done me some favours, though honestly his machining on my cylinder head was not very good and I had to take it to L&M. But he knows engines and does other things well (for instance he resurfaced by DMF with no issues, or getting the ridiculous phaser bolt out of my Audi’s exhaust cam, etc.).

 

After the holidays I'll give them a ring and see how much this is going to run me. I hope they don't burn too much of a hole in my pocket! Are there any other shops in the local area that you recommend to do work on your car? Ideally I'd like to build the block myself, but if I mess something up I'd like to have an expert do it before I waste thousands trying to fix it myself.

 

I know the feeling and I’d like to encourage you. I asked a lot of newb questions on this forum and people were generally very helpful. I also chatted with Joe at ECAM, and my brother in law who has rebuilt a number of engines—their advice to my concerns was often, ‘don’t worry about it’

Rebuilding the MS6’s engine really helped me to develop the confidence to do most anything on my cars. I don’t hesitate anymore. My daughter (17) bought a non-working Mini over the summer because I knew I could fix it. Or when I was troubleshooting a misfire on my Audi and happened to notice some scraped up rocker arm rollers, that huge escalation in disassembly didn’t phase me (however annoying it was).

With that said, I’m sure L&M or ECAM could help with rebuilding. Both of them do a lot of engine work. If you’re looking for a general mechanic I prefer Hillside Auto in Jenkintown because they’re very honest.