Superior engine rebuild kits can add years of life to a customized engine and help reduce wear and tear on parts in other aspects of your vehicle system (e.g. the coolant system and the exhaust system). Whether you get a rebuild kit fresh from the store or barter for a used one at discount prices, it is critical to understand the specs of your craft and to work with a professional shop to ensure top grade installation.

Often, complete kits will include a number of bearings, diverse rings for piston maintenance, cylindrical sleeves, and other potentially obscure components. Utilize your vehicle's manual to trace specs for the components, and clean your engine block and engine thoroughly (preferably hot tank it) to avoid rust buildup and grime clogging.

In terms of preparing your sleeves for installation, it may behoove you first to chill the metal in a cooler or freezer to shrink it. When fitting on the sleeves, be aware that the radiant thermo heat from the block may expand the metal quickly. Since you do not want your sleeves to get stuck half way on, you may have to act quickly and decisively. Of course, use common sense for installing all engine parts, and ask an experienced friend or professional to assist you.

You also want to check the tolerances of your piston pins, your valve settings, and cylinder bore gap specs. Do not be a hero. Home mechanics generally do not have the wherewithal or tools to perform advanced maintenance work, such as grinding crankshafts.