If you know how to turn a wrench and have a vehicle engine guide and wiring schematic, your first thought on engine failure might be to replace it yourself. However, there’s a lot to be gained by using an experienced mechanic here, rather than going it alone. In fact, even with all the information, diagrams and schematics at your disposal, there are still five things that an experienced mechanic knows about engine replacement that you probably don’t.

Which Parts to Remove

When most consumers think “engine replacement”, they imagine dropping the old engine and replacing it with a new one. That’s not really how it works. Even crate engines arrive missing some specific parts, including the headers, valve covers and other pieces. In most instances, these have to be removed from the old, dead engine and installed on the new engine, a similar situation to rebuilt transmissions for sale or used transmissions.

Engine Installation Errors

Experienced mechanics have been around the block more than a time or two. A significant number of errors can happen during the engine removal and installation procedure, from failure to prime to failure to remove all the needed components from the old engine. An experienced mechanic knows the most common errors and how to avoid them.

Bleeding the Coolant System

Bleeding the cooling system in an engine installation requires two different steps. An experienced mechanic knows this, and knows exactly when to add coolant, when to bleed the system (and how to bleed the system as well). Failure to bleed the system correctly can result in locking up the new engine, or causing other serious damage before you even get to drive it.

Likelihood of Finding Specific Options

Replacement engines are available in several different formats, including remanufactured, rebuilt and used. Used is the most affordable, while remanufactured is the most expensive. An experienced mechanic knows what the chances are of finding a used or rebuilt engine that fits your vehicle in the local area. He also knows how long it will take to order a remanufactured engine (the mechanic also knows that a remanufactured engine is the most cost effective choice in the long run, and will often advise against used or rebuilt engines if you intend to keep your vehicle for a long period).

The Best Remanufacturer

There are numerous companies that offer remanufactured and rebuilt engines. An experienced mechanic knows which companies are worth your time and which should be avoided. A good mechanic will also know which companies offer affordable rates on the highest quality engine replacement options.

In addition to these five things, there are dozens of other important things an experienced mechanic knows about engine replacement. Before you decide that going it alone is the right option, consider working with an expert mechanic. It won’t be free, but the time, hassle and headaches you save (not to mention the potential damage to the new engine you avoid) will more than make up for that cost. Find a reputable, experienced mechanic who knows your make and model well.