HomeBlog

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!

HomeBlog

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!

HomeBlog

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!

HomeBlog

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!

HomeBlog

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!

HomeBlog

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!

HomeBlog

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!

HomeBlog

What Does 350 Engine Mean?

The Chevy 350 is one of the most popular engines in automotive historyThe Chevrolet 350 engine is a small-block V8 powerhouse boasting a displacement of 350 cubic inches, which translates to approximately 5.7 liters. This iconic engine made its debut in 1967, initially serving as a high-performance choice for the Chevrolet Camaro. Over the years, it found its way into a variety of other Chevrolet models, showcasing its versatility and appeal across the automotive landscape.

Beyond passenger cars, the 350 engine was also utilized in a range of General Motors vehicles, including trucks, vans, and even marine applications like boats, as well as in small aircraft. Its robust design and reliable performance made it a popular choice for many different types of vehicles, contributing to its reputation as a dependable engine option. The 350 engine quickly became synonymous with power and performance, solidifying its place in automotive history.

Although production of the 350 engine officially ended in 2002, its legacy continues as General Motors still manufactures it for use in industrial vehicles and marine applications. This enduring engine remains a favorite among enthusiasts and professionals alike, thanks to its proven track record and adaptability. The Chevrolet 350 engine is not just a piece of machinery; it represents a significant chapter in the evolution of American automotive engineering.

Looking for a 350 engine? Or any other powertrain product contact Gearhead Engines today.

HomeBlog

What Is Meant By Powertrain?

A powertrain refers to the assembly within a vehicle, boat, or various types of machinery that is responsible for generating motion. This system plays a crucial role in driving the vehicle forward, ensuring efficient performance and mobility. In the context of an automobile, the powertrain encompasses the engine or motor along with its essential components, which include the energy storage system, transmission, and driveshaft.

The powertrain is integral to the functionality of any moving vehicle, as it converts energy into mechanical power. In cars, this system not only includes the engine or motor but also incorporates various internal elements that work in harmony to facilitate movement. Key components such as the energy storage system, which may consist of batteries or fuel tanks, the transmission that manages gear shifts, and the driveshaft that transmits power to the wheels, are all vital for optimal operation.

Understanding the powertrain is essential for comprehending how vehicles operate. It serves as the backbone of propulsion, linking the energy source to the wheels and enabling the vehicle to navigate different terrains. The interplay between the engine, transmission, and driveshaft, along with the energy storage system, highlights the complexity and engineering precision involved in modern vehicle design, ultimately contributing to performance, efficiency, and driving experience.

Contact Gearhead Engines for all your Powertrain product needs.

HomeBlog

Happy Halloween – 10% Off Treat

Celebrate Halloween with Gearhead Engines, where we wish you a spooktacular holiday brimming with horsepower and safe thrills! Embrace the festive spirit and rev up your excitement with our top-notch engines designed for performance and reliability. As a special treat, ENJOY A HAUNTINGLY SWEET 10% off your next engine order simply by sharing your experience … Read more