Engine building
Our process for engine building begins with a consultation. We always speak to our clients to be sure that we understand their needs, goals, wants, application, and what car they have. We tailor our builds and services to exactly what they tell us they need, we don’t make our clients fit into a package or combo that might not be best for them. Our business goal is transparency, communication, and quality.
After we understand our client, we can recommend what we think is best based on our level of knowledge and experience. Whether it’s an LS/LT, what horsepower or reliability needs are, and the level of build desired are all factored in.
If a client provides an engine for us to work with, we will disassemble and diagnose the engine before finalizing our quote. This helps us to determine what can be reused, what machine work is needed, and what needs to be completely replaced. This only applies to rebuilds. Once any necessary autopsy work is complete, we can proceed with a quote to give our client a baseline to review.
If the quote is accepted we’ll internally assemble a build sheet, accounting for parts availability and exact costs. This will also give us an exact timeline to share with our customers. We will write up a contract and send a deposit invoice.
Once the engine building process begins our clients receive regular updates. Updates may include photos or videos with parts, delivery updates, assembly status, machine work, etc. Clients can also touch base with us via phone or email at any time to receive an update. Communication is not an issue and one of our strengths is fast turn around.
The engine will be fully finished in the quoted time, and if any delays are applicable due to parts availability or machine work issues it will be communicated straight away. We accept final payment and deliver the engine. Local delivery is available for clients located in Southern California, and shipping is available for clients located in any of the contiguous states. We also have a local shop that we partner with for any installation, maintenance, or other upgrade needs specific to your vehicle. We build the engines, they install them and provide supporting modifications/maintenance as needed.
For a detailed explanation of the comprehensive engine building process, click the button below.
Frequently asked questions
Building an engine, or a car in general, is difficult and often very confusing. Here are some of the frequently asked questions we get, and our ideas. You can always Book a Consultation to discuss your particular build and situation in more depth.
Do you only work on LS engines?
Yes. Our focus is solely on the LS & LT platform. In our experience, the LS & LT engines are some of the most reliable and well rounded, with amazing power for dollar ratios and fantastic aftermarket support. There is a wide selection of parts and industry support, including popular events such as the Holley LS Fest. This platform is our choice for delivering power, reliability, and availability within a client’s budget.
Do I need to provide an engine block for a build?
This is your choice. We have blocks available that we can sell to you, you can also choose to provide a good condition block or give us a core for a core charge. In the event that you do provide an engine block, the block will be assessed and a list of needed machine work will be provided. Any engine price quote we provide assumes the block is in serviceable condition. If the block is not within normal parameters and more machine work is needed than normal, the price is subject to change. We are always up front about pricing, no one likes surprises.
Do you work on cars?
Flag Motorsports focuses on engines, motorsport wiring, and consultations. We don’t work on cars, but we can recommend a fantastic local shop that we have a long term relationship with to perform fabrication, engine installation, paint/body, transmission service, driveline, starters, and more. We frequently use this shop for our personal cars and can vouch for their work. Contact us for more information on our preferred shop.
How long does it take to build an engine?
This depends on a number of factors. Currently the automotive industry is experiencing a massive manufacturing issue worldwide. Parts are backordered 6+ months in some cases. Every professional in the industry has had to get creative in sourcing parts, and sometimes even finding quality labor is difficult. That said, most of what Flag Motorsports does is in house. Almost all machine work aside from specialty head service is done in house, assembly is fully done by us, the only delay we run into is parts. If parts availability is not an issue (if it is we will communicate that up front) we have had engines go together as quickly as a few days. In fact, one of our Google reviews mentions a weekend turnaround. This is something we pride ourselves on, and something almost unheard of in the automotive industry. Depending on any change orders, parts issues, or other outside delays not within our control the process can take longer. We will always keep you updated on the status of your build.
What is your warranty?
Flag Motorsports offers a 12 month engine warranty covering parts and labor defects. Proper engine break in must be followed, as specified in our contract, to receive the warranty. Flag Motorsports also requires engine maintenance to be closely followed to receive a warranty. Each engine build will specify what oil to use, and that oil MUST be used in the engine. Oil must be changed every 3,000 miles OR 6 months, whichever comes first, with reputable shop documentation. There is no additional warranty expressed or implied. For any high performance or racing applications including but not limited to road race, drifting, drag racing, or circle track racing, there is no warranty expressed or implied. High performance motors run at the edge of parts tolerances and often operate in harsh conditions. A client choosing to build an engine understands that for racing applications Flag Motorsports makes no guarantees of engine durability.
How long have you been in business?
Flag Motorsports was officially incorporated in 2020. However, our owners and operators have been building engines, racing cars, and professionally involved in the automotive world for over a decade. We are HPA certified, and SEMA members.
Do you offer a military discount?
Yes we do. We’re proud supporters of our military and believe in reflecting that through our business. We offer 15% off of labor on engine and wiring harness builds. Simply mention that you are military and include a photo of your ID via email to receive the discount on your invoice. Thank you for your service.
Have any other questions for us that we didn’t cover? Contact us to learn more.