How To Make An Engine Last Longer

1 - Less RPM This is the number one killer of your car engine. If you can make enough power at a lower RPM you should do it. Don't forget missed shifts, now that's also a real killer.

2 - Optimal Coolant Temperature Running an engine while under power and with too much water temperature can be harmful. High temperatures are even worst. A blown head gasket is one of the first signs of looming trouble. A temperature of somewhere between 160' and 210' is usually best, but never over 240' or you can blow your engine.

3 - Low oil temperature lowers oil flow. Higher oil temperature breaks down your motor oil, and can be a cause for the metal parts coming into contact with each other. Drag Racers usually race with the oil temperature too low and stock car racers too high. Try and see if you can get it near 200'.

4 - Less Compression Less compression is considered the best. If you don't need the additional power then there's no need of having an engine melt down. Best to keep it under 12 if you don't need the power.

5 - Proper Ignition Timing Too much timing leads to pre-ignition, which is like hitting the piston with a sledge hammer. Too little timing can lead to extremely hot exhaust valves.

What happens if an exhaust gets too hot?

The engine head eventually cracks or worse falls off. The only way to know the right timing is by dyno testing, track testing or reading the spark plugs.

6 - Tighter Lash The weakest link in most engines today is the valvetrain and nothing kills it faster than too much lash. Just adding .010" of lash can double the force on the valves. The only negatives to tight lash is usually less torque and the chance of holding the valve open if you go too far.

Consult your cam maker for a usable range.

7 - Optimal Oil Level If you're thinking too low is the problem, then think again. Why? Because 90% of the time it's going to be too high. Too much oil can lead to the crank and rods whipping it up and adding air, and that's not a good sign at all.

Most applications are very safe at 6qts.

8 - Proper A/F Ratio Too rich a mixture can cause serious problems. For instance, carbon can build up and wash the cylinders down. The real risk is from too lean a mixture. Just like ignition timing the only way to know the right mixture is by dyno testing, track testing or reading the spark plugs.

8 - Proper Clearances Rod bearing clearance, main bearing clearance, piston to wall clearance, lash, etc., all are extremely important. You'd be shocked to know how few engine builders know exactly what these specs are. My advice, buy the tools and learn how to assemble your own engine.

10 - Proper Startup We've all seen this someone starts their car completely cold and proceeds to rev the engine between idle and 7000 RPM. All engines NEED sufficient time to warm up.

Better yet, how about the motor oil and coolant system?