Short Block vs. Long Block Engine: What to Know
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When it comes to building or rebuilding a vehicle, a few decisions are as critical as your choice of engine for powering your new vehicle. For crate engine installations, you’ll often hear the terms short block and long block being thrown around.
If you’re new to the motor assembly game, you’re probably wondering which is better: short block vs. long block? In this case, short and long refers to the completeness of the engine that goes into your car.
Do you want to do most of the work yourself, or do you want an engine you can install on the fly?
Today, we’ll talk about the difference between short block vs. long block engines, their pros and cons, and how to choose the right engine block for your new car.
What is a Short Block Engine?
When purchasing a crate engine, the smallest configuration that you can avail is the short block. By definition, a short block type is an engine that’s partially assembled - basically, it’s just the engine block with a few major components.
A short block typically comes with the block, connecting rods, pistons, crankshafts, gaskets, freeze plugs, and more. All the components included in the block are assembled, machined, and balanced, with the rings gapped and ready for action. Other components such as timing gear and camshaft may be included depending on the manufacturer.
Short block engines are a favorite among DIYers, fans of customization, and those who want to learn the engine building process. After all, you get to pick the parts based on your needs. For instance, you can choose higher-quality components for enhanced engine performance.
The short block is the way to go if you prefer a more hands-on approach to engine building.
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Pros and Cons of a Short Block
Before you consider buying a short block engine, consider the following pros and cons first.
Pros
- Lower upfront cost
- Best for customization
- Better learning experience
- More flexible and versatile results
Cons
- Additional parts will cost more money
- Requires extra assembly
- Time-consuming installation
- Only the engine block has warranty coverage
- Additional parts need to be tuned
What is a Long Block Engine?
In contrast to the short block, a long block engine is more of a complete variation of the former. While the short block focuses on the engine block and the bottom end rotating parts, the long block takes it to the level with the addition of more components, essentially completing the engine’s primary assembly.
At the minimum, a long block engine typically includes the camshaft, cylinder heads, valvetrain, intake manifold, pistons, rods, valve covers, timing chain, etc. In essence, you get everything included in a short block and more.
However, a long block engine isn’t exactly a complete package. Depending on the manufacturer, you may need additional components like an exhaust manifold, a fuel system, and some electrical parts.
A long block is ideal for someone who’s inexperienced in motor assembly or prefers an almost plug-and-play approach. The long block is more expensive because of the preinstalled parts, and most of the hard work is taken care of.
Pros and Cons of a Long Block
Is a long block engine right for you? Here are some advantages and disadvantages to consider.
Pros
- More of a complete package than a short block
- The entire package has warranty coverage
- Almost plug-and-play with the addition of several parts
- Easier assembly
- All included components are tuned
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- Less flexibility and versatility
- Leaves little space for customization
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Short Block vs. Long Block: The Cost
As of this writing, a short block engine will cost you around $1,000 to $3,000, while a long block sells for between $1,500 and $5,000. Also, the price difference depends on several factors like the make, model, and year of the vehicle.
At first glance, you’ll see that a short block engine is a lot less expensive in comparison to a long block variant - but it’s not that clear-cut.
As we’ve discussed earlier, short block engines require more parts to be fully functional. Plus, it requires more installation time due to the extra parts to be fitted. Depending on your needs, all the extra components and labor costs can really add up and may end up more expensive than a long block package.
Thus, if we factor in all the preinstalled parts, a long block package is likely more cost-effective since it needs a few more parts to function. In addition, the labor cost is also kept to a minimum if you decide to have your vehicle serviced. But of course, a long block build doesn’t have as much versatility and customizability as a short block package.
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Which Engine Block Should You Use?
Between short block vs. long block, which is the right engine block to use?
In general, a long block engine will provide you with a more stable and reliable performance when compared to a short block. Since long block engines come factory preinstalled with parts, they’re less likely to fail because of the fitting process. In addition, since components are made by the same manufacturer, there’s a good chance that they’ll wear out at around the same time.
Like with most partially assembled automotive parts, not all long block engines will fit right in with the make and model of the vehicle. For example, to complement the stock engine’s performance, you need an engine block that’s compatible with the transmission and electronic control unit (ECU) of the vehicle.
On the flip side, a short block is the only way to go if you want more customization and flexibility with your build. Since you can choose which parts to install, you can easily outperform a long block engine if you invest in high-quality parts and accessories.
For example, a short block doesn’t usually come with a cylinder head, unlike with long blocks. A quality head on a short block can do wonders for enhancing your car’s overall horsepower output. Opt for a short block over a remanufactured engine if the important internal components of the old unit are non-functional, but the external parts are still working.
Choose a short block if you’re looking to squeeze as much performance as you can from the motor. Otherwise, a long block is recommended for a quick and cost-effective engine replacement.
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