When your truck engine fails, or you’re modernising an older truck, you have two choices: rebuild or source a complete engine replacement.
On paper, rebuilding might appear to be the most cost-effective option, but a complete used truck engine is the smarter choice in many cases.
For example, if your engine needs a rebuild and the cost is in the thousands, a complete engine might be cheaper.
A complete engine replacement will also be the best solution if the parts you need are only available with a whole engine assembly.
Join us below to find out about the cost advantages of complete engines.
The hidden costs of rebuilding
The initial parts list might appear manageable when rebuilding a truck engine, but as you dig deeper, you’ll discover that the expenses for parts quickly pile up.
The costs include new components and the substantial labour hours required for a complete rebuild – including all the problems you encounter that extend the build time.
Time is money in the trucking business
Every day your truck spends in the shop is a day you’re not earning.
Rebuilding an engine can take weeks, mainly if unexpected issues or parts delays occur. In contrast, swapping out your old engine for a complete used unit can often be done in a matter of days, getting you back on the road and generating income much faster.
Quality assurance with complete engines
Buying a complete used truck engine from a reputable supplier means you’re getting an engine that’s been tested and verified.
Related: What size engine is in the average lorry?
For instance, a Cummins engine from MW Truck Parts will have undergone thorough inspections to ensure reliability. This level of quality control is much more challenging to achieve when piecing together an engine from various parts.
The advantages of matched components
Complete used engines offer the benefit of components already well-matched and broken in. For instance, an Iveco engine running smoothly in another truck will likely continue performing well when transplanted into yours.
Think of this as harmony among parts – it’s difficult to replicate when rebuilding with new and old components that must learn to work together.
The simplicity of installation
Installing a complete used engine is generally a straightforward process.
Most mechanics are familiar with swapping out entire units, which means less room for error and a quicker turnaround time.
Related: A rundown of popular Volvo truck engines
This simplicity contrasts sharply with the complexity of a full rebuild, where countless small mistakes can lead to big problems later on.
A smart investment for your business
Running an ageing fleet is difficult when engines and other mechanical components are becoming scarcer. Your engine will eventually need replacing, and the price for used engines is on the up, making the investment now worthwhile.
The combination of lower upfront costs, reduced downtime, and potential performance improvements over rebuilding make choosing a complete truck engine a compelling option if you intend to keep your truck on the road for a few years.
Further reading: The lifespan of used truck engines
