The Engine Build Process Explained

From Concept to Completion...

At CDK Tuning, building engines is at the heart of what we do. Whether it's a high-revving track weapon, a drift car chasing podiums, or a street build that needs reliable power, every engine we build is designed with purpose. But what actually goes into a custom engine build? Let's take you behind the scenes of the engine build process - from the first conversation to. the final bolt.

1. The Concept Stage

Every great engine build starts with a conversation. We sit down with you to understand your goals - are you chasing horsepower, reliability, or a balance of both? Will the engine be used for drifting, track days, fast road use, or daily driving?

At this stage, we'll discuss:

• The intended use of the car

• Power targets and performance goals

• Budget and timescales

• Any existing issues or weaknesses in the current setup

This helps us create a tailored plan that suits your needs, not just a one-size-fits-all solution.

2. Planning The Build

Once we understand the goal, we start putting together a build spec. This includes:

• Choosing the right block and head

• Deciding on pistons, rods, crank and bearings

• Selecting cams, valve gear, gaskets and ancillaries

• Planning supporting mods like turbo systems, fuel setups, ECU choices, and cooling upgrades

We only use trusted, high-quality parts - from forged internals to uprated pumps and hardware. Everything is chosen to work in harmony with your intended use.

3. Teardown and Inspection

If we're working with your original engine, we'll begin by stripping it down to the bare block. Every component is cleaned, measured, and inspected for wear or damage. This helps us identify any issues early on and decide what can be reused, reconditioned, or replaced.

4. Machining and Preparation

Precision is everything when it comes to building an engine. If required, we'll bore and hone the cylinders, deck the block, and ensure all surfaces are true. Crankshafts may be polished or ground, and heads can be skimmed, pressure tested and ported.

We use trusted machine shops to carry out in-house work, depending on the build, to guarantee everything meets our tight tolerances.

5. Assembly

Now comes the magic - putting it all together. Every engine is meticulously assembled in a clean environment by experienced hands. Bearings are measured and clearances checked. Ring gaps are set. Torques are verified.

We don't rush this process - it's where all the planning pays off. Attention to detail here is what ensures your engine lasts and performs as it should.

6. Supporting Systems and Final Setup

Once the long block is built, we focus on the supporting systems:

• Oil system

• Fuel system

• Cooling system

• Turbo/supercharger installs, if part of the build

• ECU mapping

We ensure everything is plumbed, wired, and configured correctly, ready for dyno tuning or initial start-up.

7. Testing and Aftercare

Before the engine goes into service, it's tested thoroughly - whether that's on the dyno, on the road, or in a drift environment. We make sure temperatures, pressures, and AFRs are all in the safe zone.

An engine build isn't just about power - it's about trust. At CDK Tuning, we build engines that you can rely on, built to suit your style, your needs, and your goals. No shortcuts. No guesswork. Just proven performance, from concept to completion.