Engine Kits & Rotating Assemblies

What bore, stroke and compression should your engine end up with? In this category we bring together engine kits and complete rotating assemblies with crankshaft, connecting rods and pistons that need to match. The kits are for you if you are rebuilding a worn engine or want to increase displacement in a project with more power.

What do engine kits and rotating assemblies include?

A rotating assembly typically consists of a crankshaft, connecting rods and pistons. An engine rebuild kit, on the other hand, usually combines wear parts and gaskets for a major overhaul. The contents depend on the specific kit, so check the product description. One example is Eagle's rotating assembly for the Chrysler 440 with H-beam connecting rods and dish-top pistons. With a stroker kit, the engine gets a longer stroke and therefore greater displacement. One example is Manley's Stroker Series piston kit for the Chrysler 6.4L Hemi.

How to choose the right kit

Choose based on several factors combined, not just the largest displacement:

• Bore and stroke: must suit the block, the crankcase and the displacement you are aiming for.
• Compression: the piston dish, e.g. -12 cc or -20.5 cc, affects the compression ratio together with the cylinder head and gasket.
• Power target and boost: high boost or high revs can require stronger connecting rods and pistons. It depends on the engine and application.
• Balance: if your engine has balance shafts, you will find parts for them under balance shaft kits.

Installation and accessories

Installation typically requires measuring bearing clearance, ring gap and piston clearance, and the cylinders may need to be bored or honed for the new pistons. It pays to replace bolts and gaskets at the same time. Additional parts such as bearings and pistons and piston rings are found in the sister categories. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for break-in and the first oil change. Brands in the category also include Athena, ARP and Victor Reinz.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a rebuild kit and a rotating assembly?

A rebuild kit typically combines wear parts and gaskets for rebuilding the engine. A rotating assembly typically includes a crankshaft, connecting rods and pistons, often with altered dimensions. What is included depends on the specific kit.

Does a stroker kit require machining of the engine?

It depends on the kit and the block. A longer stroke can require extra clearance in the block, and new pistons can require boring or honing of the cylinders. Check the dimensions and installation instructions before you order.

Does an engine with larger displacement need to be approved for road use?

It depends on the product and the car. A change in displacement or power can require registration and inspection. Check the requirements and any documentation for the specific part number and your car before the engine is used on the road.

Why is the piston dish important?

The dish in the piston crown is specified in cc. It affects the compression ratio together with the cylinder head, gasket thickness and stroke. Incorrect compression can cause knocking, especially at high boost, so calculate the ratio based on the entire engine.