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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.

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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.

 

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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.

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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Where Do The Words Engine & Transmission Come From?

The term “engine” has its roots in the Latin word “ingenium,” which translates to “talent.” This connection highlights the idea that engines, much like talents, are designed to create and produce, showcasing the ingenuity behind their development and function.

The term “transmission” has its roots in the Latin word “transmissio,” which translates to “sending over” or “passage.” This Latin term is further derived from “transmittere,” a compound of the preposition “trans,” meaning “across” or “beyond,” and the verb “mittere,” which means “to let go” or “to send.”

Understanding the etymology of “transmission” reveals its fundamental meaning related to the act of conveying something from one place to another. This concept of sending or passing something across distances is central to various fields, including communication, technology, and even biology, where it describes the transfer of signals, data, or diseases.

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

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Do You Have Engine Block?

engine blockWe’ve all encountered the term ‘writer’s block’, but have you ever heard of ‘engine block’? Let’s kick things off with a trivia question, even though the answer might be quite clear. (For more details on what an engine block entails, keep reading below.)

Where are engine parts such as the pistons and cylinders housed in your car engine?

  • Engine block
  • Sump
  • Side wells
  • Trunk

Correct Answer: Engine Block

The engine block serves as the substantial core of your vehicle’s engine, housing a variety of essential components that work together to power your car. Within this robust structure, you’ll find critical elements like the pistons, cylinders, camshaft, and crankshaft, all intricately designed to function in harmony.

This central unit is often referred to as the cylinder block, highlighting its role in the engine’s overall performance. As the heart of the engine, the engine block is crafted from durable materials to withstand the intense pressures and temperatures generated during operation. Its design is crucial for maintaining the alignment and integrity of the moving parts, ensuring that everything operates smoothly.

The arrangement of the cylinders within the block is particularly important, as it directly influences the engine’s efficiency and power output. In essence, the engine block is not just a mere component; it is a vital assembly that supports and connects various engine parts, enabling them to work together seamlessly.

Understanding its function and significance can provide valuable insights into how your vehicle operates and the importance of regular maintenance to keep this essential part in optimal condition.

Have questions about engine blocks or have powertrain product needs? Contact Gearhead Engines – we are here for you!

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Engine Trivia – Crankshaft

A crankshaft’s job in an engine is to:
  1. deliver fuel to the cylinders
  2. change linear motion into rotational motion
  3. keep cylinder heads in place

 

Answer is #2.

When gasoline catches fire inside a cylinder, it causes the piston to slide up and down in a straight path. However, your wheels require a different kind of movement—they need to spin. This is where the magic happens: the piston is linked to a connecting rod that transfers its linear motion to the crankshaft, which then converts that straight-line movement into the rotational motion necessary to turn the wheels.

So, picture this: as the gasoline burns, the explosion pushes the piston down, and that’s just the beginning. The connecting rod plays a crucial role here, as it takes that straight movement from the piston and translates it into a circular motion through the crankshaft. This transformation is essential because it’s what ultimately gets your wheels rolling and propels your vehicle forward.

It’s fascinating how this whole process works together seamlessly. The energy from the ignited gasoline doesn’t just push the piston for the sake of it; it’s all about creating that rotational force. Thanks to the connecting rod and crankshaft working in harmony, the linear action of the piston is effectively turned into the rotational action needed to drive your wheels, making your car move down the road.

Have crankshaft questions and/or need to purchase powertrain products? Contact Gearhead Engines today!