Home › Blog

Gearhead’s Winterization Checklist For Engines

If your engine is on its last legs, don’t risk it failing in freezing temperatures. Gearhead’s remanufactured engines are restored to OEM or better standards, ensuring reliability and durability. Plus, they come with industry-leading warranties, so you know they’re built to last.

Winterization Checklist For Engines:

  • Check Your Battery
    • Winter drains battery power faster than you think. If your current battery struggles, a replacement could save you from an untimely breakdown. Gearhead Engines works with mechanics and vehicle owners to ensure engines and related systems, like charging components, are in top condition.
  • Flush and Refill Your Coolant System
    • Coolant is your engine’s lifeline in the winter. Ensure it’s topped off and has the correct antifreeze-to-water ratio to prevent freezing. When replacing parts in the cooling system, such as water pumps or hoses, our remanufactured cylinder heads can provide the durability you need to keep everything running smoothly.
  • Inspect Belts and Hoses
    • Cold weather makes rubber brittle, increasing the chance of failure. Gearhead Engines supplies mechanics with remanufactured parts, including cylinder heads, to replace damaged components that could otherwise fail under winter stress.
  • Oil and Filters: Start Fresh for the Season
    • Switch to a winter-grade oil with lower viscosity to ensure proper lubrication in cold weather. If your oil filter hasn’t been changed recently, replace it now. Gearhead Engines can help diagnose potential oil system issues if a replacement engine is needed.
  • Protect Your Fuel System
    • Condensation in the fuel tank can lead to water in the fuel lines, which can freeze. Adding a fuel stabilizer is a quick fix for vehicles stored over the winter. If you’re dealing with significant fuel-related engine damage, Gearhead’s remanufactured engines are ready to get your vehicle back in working order.
  • Gearhead Engines: Your Winter Solution
    • Winter can be tough on your vehicle, but with the right preparation—and the right parts—it doesn’t have to be. At Gearhead Engines, we’re committed to providing the best remanufactured engines, cylinder heads, and transmissions to keep your vehicle running strong, no matter the weather.

Ready to winterize your engine? Browse our product selection or reach out to our expert team for personalized recommendations. With Gearhead Engines, your engine can tackle whatever winter throws its way.

Home › Blog

Timing Chains: The Key to Engine Precision

Timing ChainTiming Chains: The Key to Engine Precision

Engine timing chains are fundamental to the operation of internal combustion engines. They synchronize the movement of the crankshaft and camshaft, ensuring that the engine’s valves open and close at just the right time during the intake and exhaust cycles. This precise timing is crucial for efficient combustion and optimal engine performance.

 

Why Timing Chain Maintenance is Crucial

Timing chains are built for durability, but they aren’t immune to wear and tear. A stretched or failing timing chain can throw off engine timing, leading to performance issues, reduced fuel efficiency, or even engine failure in severe cases. Addressing issues early can save you from expensive repairs down the road.

Watch for these signs of a timing chain problem:

  • Unusual noises, like rattling or ticking, especially during cold starts.
  • Poor performance or frequent engine misfires.
  • Warning lights indicating timing issues.

How to Keep Your Timing Chain in Check

  • Listen carefully for new or unusual sounds from the engine.
  • Monitor performance for signs like sluggish acceleration or trouble starting.
  • Schedule inspections if you notice symptoms, as a professional mechanic can assess and resolve timing issues before they worsen.

A properly functioning timing chain ensures your engine runs smoothly and efficiently. Regular maintenance not only preserves performance but also prevents serious damage, helping you avoid unnecessary headaches.

                

Contact a Gearhead sales representative for all your powertrain product needs.
Call Today 800-508-5999 or Request a Quote here.

Home › Blog

Combustion Engines Changed The World 

Combustion engines have been a driving force in shaping the modern world. From revolutionizing transportation to transforming industries, these engines have played a pivotal role in human progress. Here are ten impactful ways combustion engines changed the world throughout history.

  1. The Birth of the Automobile

The invention of the internal combustion engine made the modern car possible. Early vehicles like those powered by gasoline engines in the late 19th century transformed personal mobility, allowing people to travel farther and faster than ever before.

  1. Mass Transportation Becomes Accessible

Combustion engines powered buses, taxis, and other forms of public transportation, making cities more accessible. They enabled the rapid expansion of urban areas and the development of suburbs by bridging long distances quickly and efficiently.

  1. Agricultural Revolution

Combustion engines replaced horses and manual labor on farms, powering tractors and other machinery. This revolutionized agriculture, drastically increasing productivity and making it possible to feed larger populations with less effort.

  1. The Rise of Commercial Trucking

Combustion engines made large-scale trucking possible, transforming the way goods are transported. Trucks powered by these engines created a more efficient supply chain, enabling businesses to move products across long distances quickly and economically.

  1. Industrial Advancements

Combustion engines powered industrial equipment, such as pumps, compressors, and generators, leading to significant advancements in manufacturing and construction. These engines increased efficiency and reduced reliance on manual labor.

  1. The Aviation Industry Takes Off

Early aircraft engines were powered by internal combustion. These engines allowed heavier-than-air flight to become a reality, leading to the creation of the aviation industry and the global connectivity we rely on today.

  1. Emergency Services Become Reliable

Combustion engines made ambulances, fire trucks, and police vehicles more effective and reliable. Faster response times saved countless lives and improved public safety.

  1. The Development of Recreational Vehicles and Power Equipment

Combustion engines led to the creation of motorcycles, ATVs, and boats, revolutionizing recreational activities. They also powered tools like lawnmowers and chainsaws, making yard work and forestry more manageable.

  1. Advancements in Maritime Shipping

Ships powered by internal combustion engines replaced steamships, leading to more efficient and reliable global trade. This innovation lowered shipping costs and expanded international commerce.

  1. Electricity in Remote Areas

Combustion engines in portable generators brought electricity to remote and rural areas. They powered construction sites, homes, and even entire communities where grid electricity was unavailable, improving living standards worldwide.

The Legacy of Combustion Engines

Combustion engines have been at the heart of technological and industrial advancements for over a century. Their versatility, power, and reliability have made them indispensable in shaping the modern world.

At Gearhead Engines, we’re proud to continue this legacy by providing high-quality remanufactured engines, ensuring that these remarkable machines can keep powering progress for years to come.

Contact a Gearhead sales representative for all your powertrain product needs.
Call Today 800-508-5999 or Request a Quote here.

Home › Blog

Engine Rocker Arms: What They Do and Why They Matter

Engine RockerWhat Do Engine Rocker Arms Actually Do?

Engine rocker arms might not be the stars of the show, but they play a key role in making your engine work. These little levers connect the camshaft to the engine’s valves, ensuring they open and close at just the right time. This precise timing allows air and fuel to flow in, and exhaust to flow out, keeping your engine running efficiently.

Why They Matter

Without rocker arms, your engine wouldn’t function. Proper valve timing means better power, fuel efficiency, and overall performance. If they’re worn out or damaged, you might notice tapping noises, rough idling, or a drop in performance. Regular checks can help avoid bigger issues down the road.

The Need for Maintenance

While rocker arms are durable, they aren’t immune to wear and tear. Over time, they can develop issues like excessive play, cracks, or improper lubrication. Signs of rocker arm trouble include:

  • Tapping or ticking noises from the engine.
  • Rough idling or misfires.
  • A noticeable drop in engine performance.

Regular inspections and timely maintenance can help prevent these issues, keeping your engine in top shape.

Bottom Line

Rocker arms are essential for smooth engine operation. Keep them in good shape, and your engine will keep delivering the power you need, mile after mile. Simple as that!

Contact a Gearhead sales representative for all your powertrain product needs.
Call Today 800-508-5999 or Request a Quote here.

Home › Blog

Pistons: The Workhorses of Your Engine 

Imagine your engine as a team of rowers in a racing boat, all working in perfect sync to propel you forward. The pistons? They’re the powerhouse rowers, converting the energy from combustion into mechanical motion that keeps your engine running like a well-oiled machine.

In high-performance engines, pistons face incredible stress—intense heat, pressure, and wear. Over time, even the toughest pistons can lose their edge. That’s where remanufacturing comes into play, a process that’s all about giving your engine’s components a second chance at greatness.

 

How Pistons Are Remanufactured

When pistons need a little TLC, here’s how we make them as good as new:

  1. Diagnosis and Inspection: Damaged pistons are identified through precision testing, checking for cracks, wear, or distortions.
  2. Deep Cleaning: Built-up carbon and grime are removed to reveal the piston’s true condition.
  3. Resurfacing or Replacement: Minor flaws are smoothed out, or the piston is replaced entirely, ensuring the right fit and performance.
  4. Testing and Reassembly: Once restored, pistons undergo rigorous testing before being reinstalled in the engine.

 

Why It’s Important

Remanufactured pistons not only save you money but also reduce waste by extending the life of critical components. For those looking to keep their high-performance engines roaring, a remanufactured piston offers a reliable and sustainable option without sacrificing quality or power.

Keep your engine running strong and efficient—because those pistons are working hard for you every mile of the way. 🔧

Contact a Gearhead sales representative for all your powertrain product needs.
Call Today 800-508-5999 or Request a Quote here.

 

Home › Blog

Don’t Blow A Gasket

An engine gasket plays a crucial role in the functionality of an engine by forming a tight seal between two engine components, effectively preventing any leakage of fluids and gases. Constructed from robust materials, these gaskets are designed to withstand the demanding conditions within an engine, ensuring that pressure and temperature levels are maintained at optimal levels. This sealing capability is essential for the overall performance of the engine, as it helps to prevent any loss of efficiency that could arise from leaks.

The importance of a reliable engine gasket cannot be overstated, as it significantly contributes to the efficiency and durability of various types of vehicles and machinery, including cars and trucks. By ensuring that the engine operates under the right conditions, a high-quality gasket helps to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, which is increasingly important in today’s environmentally conscious world. Furthermore, a well-functioning gasket can extend the lifespan of the engine, making it a critical component in both assembly and repair processes.

In summary, the engine gasket is an indispensable element in the intricate workings of an engine, serving to maintain the integrity of the system by preventing leaks and ensuring optimal performance. Its construction from durable materials allows it to endure the harsh environments typical of engine operation, thereby supporting the overall health of the engine. Whether in routine maintenance or during significant repairs, the presence of a dependable gasket is essential for achieving peak engine performance and longevity.

Have gasket questions or need to purchase a remanufactured engine or other powertrain products? We are offering 10% off now – Contact Gearhead Engines – we are here for you!

Contact a Gearhead sales representative for all your powertrain product needs.
Call Today 800-508-5999 or Request a Quote here.

Home › Blog

Black Friday Meaning

black friday tagThe phrase “Black Friday” has its roots in Philadelphia back in the 1950s and 1960s. It was during this time that local police officers started using the term to capture the wild scene that unfolded the day after Thanksgiving. With hordes of tourists flooding the streets, the city was often thrown into a frenzy, leading to a bit of chaos that the officers had to manage.

As the day after Thanksgiving became synonymous with shopping sprees and massive sales, the term stuck around. The police were essentially describing the hectic atmosphere that came with the influx of visitors, who were eager to snag deals and kick off the holiday shopping season. It was a time when the streets were bustling, and the excitement was palpable, but it also meant that law enforcement had their hands full.

Over the years, “Black Friday” has evolved from its original connotation of chaos and disorder into a major retail event that many look forward to each year. Now, it’s all about the shopping frenzy, with stores offering incredible discounts and shoppers lining up early to get the best deals. The term has transformed into a celebration of consumerism, but its origins remind us of the wild scenes that once defined this day.

Need to purchase a remanufactured engine or other powertrain products? We are offering 10% off now – Contact Gearhead Engines – we are here for you!

Home › Blog

Holiday Engine Wear & Tear

Thanksgiving is a time when many folks hit the road, often traveling long distances to be with family and friends. However, this can lead to increased wear and tear on your engine due to several factors. For starters, the cold weather can thicken the engine oil, making it less effective at lubricating the engine parts. This can result in higher friction and, ultimately, more wear.

Additionally, if you’re packing the car full of passengers and luggage, the extra weight puts additional strain on the engine. Combine that with the stop-and-go traffic typical during the holiday rush, and you’ve got a recipe for potential engine issues if you’re not careful. One of the biggest culprits of engine wear during Thanksgiving travel is neglecting pre-trip vehicle checks. It’s easy to overlook checking essential fluids like engine oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid, as well as inspecting tires and belts before embarking on a long journey.

Skipping these checks can lead to problems down the road, quite literally. If your engine isn’t properly maintained, components like belts and hoses can suffer, leading to costly repairs and a less enjoyable trip. To keep your engine in good shape during your Thanksgiving travels, it’s wise to conduct a thorough pre-trip inspection. Make sure to check all fluids, tire pressure, and the condition of your lights and wipers. In colder weather, give your engine a moment to warm up before hitting the gas, allowing the oil to circulate properly.

Additionally, try to drive smoothly by avoiding rapid acceleration and hard braking, which can put unnecessary stress on the engine. Staying on top of regular maintenance, like oil changes and tune-ups, before the holiday season can also go a long way in ensuring a smooth ride. If you’re heading into mountainous areas, be mindful of the extra strain on your engine and adjust your driving habits accordingly.

Have questions about engines and/or need to purchase remanufactured engine or other powertrain products? Contact Gearhead Engines – we are here for you!

Happy Thanksgiving – safe travels!

Home › Blog

Do You Have Spark?

There are numerous factors that can contribute to engine failure, but the primary culprits usually revolve around three key elements: fuel delivery, compression levels, and ignition. Each of these components plays a crucial role in ensuring that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently.

Fuel delivery is essential for the engine to function properly. If the fuel system is clogged or malfunctioning, it can prevent the right amount of fuel from reaching the engine, leading to poor performance or even failure to start. Similarly, compression is vital; if the engine’s cylinders are not compressing air and fuel effectively, it can result in a lack of power and efficiency. This can be caused by worn piston rings, damaged valves, or other mechanical issues.

Finally, the ignition system is what actually creates the spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine. If there are problems with the spark plugs, ignition coils, or wiring, the engine may struggle to start or run smoothly. Addressing these three areas—fuel, compression, and ignition—can help diagnose and resolve the lack of spark, ensuring that the engine operates at its best.

Have questions about engines and/or need to purchase remanufactured engine or other powertrain products? Contact Gearhead Engines – we are here for you!

Home › Blog

What Does A Carburetor Do?

A carburetor is a crucial component in an internal combustion engine, primarily responsible for mixing air and fuel in the correct proportions to ensure efficient combustion. It operates by drawing air through a narrow passage, known as a venturi, which creates a vacuum that pulls fuel from the fuel bowl into the airstream. This precise mixture of air and fuel is essential for the engine to run smoothly and efficiently, as it directly affects performance, power output, and fuel economy.

The design of a carburetor allows it to adjust the air-fuel mixture based on various factors, such as engine speed and load. As the engine accelerates, the carburetor responds by increasing the amount of fuel delivered to the engine, ensuring that it receives the right mixture for optimal performance. Additionally, carburetors often include features like choke valves and throttle plates, which help regulate airflow and fuel delivery during different operating conditions, such as starting the engine or driving at high speeds.

While modern vehicles have largely transitioned to fuel injection systems for better efficiency and control, carburetors are still found in many older cars, motorcycles, and small engines. They are appreciated for their simplicity and ease of maintenance, making them a favorite among enthusiasts and hobbyists. Understanding how a carburetor functions can provide valuable insights into engine performance and tuning, allowing for adjustments that can enhance the overall driving experience.

Have questions about carburetors or engines? Contact Gearhead Engines – we are here for you!