Three options for three scenarios. The difference determines the price, the install time and how many original parts you can transfer. Here is a practical comparison and a guide on how to decide.
When swapping an engine, often less is needed than expected - turbo, injectors, alternator or starter from the original engine are usually fine and can be transferred to the new one. That is why we offer three "dressing" levels: complete engine (everything ready-to-fit), long block (engine core with cylinder head) and short block, sometimes also called the "bare engine" or "holomotor" (just the block with crank and pistons).
The choice mainly affects install speed and the total order price. A workshop with its own parts can save thousands of euros, conversely a fleet that wants the van back on the road as soon as possible goes for the complete option. Below you will find a comparison table, typical use cases and a decision tree.
Practical scenarios from the workshop. If you recognise yourself in one of them, you immediately know which option makes sense.
An experienced workshop that can remove and refit the cylinder head, injectors and other accessories from the old engine. The lowest acquisition price. Common with younger engines at low mileage - the peripherals will still last.
A workshop without capacity for disassembly and head inspection. Engines with overheated heads or worn valves - there a long block makes sense.
The most common case - original turbo, injectors and alternator are fine, but the engine block or cylinder head are destroyed. Ideal price-to-value ratio for most workshops.
Cases where peripherals are also past their prime - then the complete option is worth it. And conversely, when the head and valvetrain are fine, the short block is enough.
A fleet that needs to get the van back on the road quickly. A workshop without its own parts. Cases where the original engine was totally destroyed (seized, overheated, cracked block and head).
A workshop with its own parts stock that can save on turbo, injectors and peripherals. A vehicle with low mileage - the higher price takes a long time to pay back.
Detailed comparison of contents, typical install time and suitability for your case.
| Aspect | Short block | Long block | Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| Block, crankshaft, pistons, conrods | |||
| Cylinder head + valves + camshafts | |||
| Oil sump, gaskets | |||
| Turbo, injectors, pumps | |||
| Starter, alternator, wiring | |||
| Timing, exhaust manifold, flywheel | |||
| Typical install time | 14 - 22 hours | 8 - 14 hours | 4 - 8 hours |
The exact composition of each type is indicative - some complete engines, for example, may not include all the components listed above (depends on the brand, model and year of manufacture). The specific scope of the selected type for your vehicle will be sent along with the quote, based on the VIN and engine code.
Numbers are indicative - they depend on the brand, generation and workshop equipment. A more accurate estimate is in the remanufactured vs. new comparison.
Three options for three scenarios - from a complete swap to an economical solution for workshops with their own parts.
No accessories
Lower upfront price and the option to fit your existing accessories.
Best price-to-value ratio
The most frequently bought option. The engine core including the cylinder head.
Ready to install
A fully dressed engine. Built on the long block and includes all accessories.
Three questions that tell you which engine type to order. If you are not sure, send us the VIN - we will advise.
Send us the VIN and engine code. We will look at your vehicle and advise exactly which engine type to choose. You will have the quote in your inbox within 1 hour.
Enter the VIN and engine code. The rest is on us - we verify the match, calculate the price and reply with a specific quote.