Ask ten people for advice and get ten different answers. Maybe it’s not that drastic, but if you’ve ever built an engine or asked for engine advice then you know there’s many different approaches to it.
I’m very intrigued by engine builders though, because for so many people to have so many different “ways”, “tips”, “advice”, “rituals”, or whatever it may be, they can still produce the same end results. I get plenty of people who ask me who the “best” engine builder is, who I use, how I build mine, etc., etc…. I can never answer that question the same because there are too many variables that I believe play an integral part in answering it. Some builders are known for producing the best combination of a certain bike model, others are known for being meticulous in the specs of a motor, some for big bore stroker motors, and so on.
Learning to strip and rebuild an engine
All things considered, rebuilding an engine is no small task, however, with the right tools, knowledge, and time, this is a task that is very possible to do on one’s own. Instead of having someone build my engine, I chose to do it myself under the guidance of an experienced engine builder. I can’t rebuild my engine without my trusted engine builder & friend, Stefan Schmidt. Stefan fit me in his already crazy busy schedule and we were able to get the engine back together.
So, you want engine advice? Choose an engine builder that you trust and get along with, but also listen and follow their advice/expertise. Also, choose quality products from companies who support the sport!