--- title: "Short Block vs. Long Block Engines: Know the Differences" description: "Wondering what short block and long block engines are? Want to know the differences between these? Read the Drive’s Garage guide for all the info you need." date: "2020-11-28" modified: "2021-08-06" authors: - name: "Tony Markovich" job_title: "Contributor" link: "https://www.thedrive.com/authors/tony-markovich" url: "https://www.thedrive.com/cars-101/37487/short-block-vs-long-block" categories: - "Cars 101" - "The Garage" tags: - "commerce" - "NoAds" --- # Short Block vs. Long Block Engines: Know the Differences ![]() *\www.thedrive.com\* When building or rebuilding a car, few decisions will be as important as which engine you choose to power your new ride. Not only do you need to decide which engine you need, you also have to decide how complete the new engine will be upon acquisition. Do you want to do most of the work yourself, or do you want something as close to plug-and-play as possible? When picking a new motor assembly, you’ll have the choice between three levels: short block, long block, and deluxe long block. Each is priced differently and offers a different package of parts. But contrary to what the terms suggest, short and long blocks are not related to determining the size of the engines like small vs. big blocks. To better understand what’s involved with motor assemblies, how the different types vary, and which is best for your project, *The Drive’s* wrench monkey editors have built an explainer with all the information you need. Let’s explore short blocks vs. long blocks. ## What Is a Crate Engine? In the traditional sense, a crate engine is a fully assembled replacement engine that comes in a crate. For example, a fully dressed or turnkey engine that can drop right into an engine bay as soon as it arrives is a crate engine. In the broadest sense, however, a [crate engine]() is any manufacturer-built replacement engine, whether fully assembled or not, that is shipped over in a crate. Under this definition, short blocks and long blocks would both be considered crate engines. ## What Are Crate Engines Used For? Crate engines can be used for any project that needs a new engine or an engine with different power. Think [classic Corvettes](), [wild Porsche projects](), [race-prepped Donks](), and [homebuilt racecars](). ## What Is a Short Block Engine And What’s Included? Although some brands offer slightly different packages, a short block engine is generally a motor that includes the block and the rotating assembly. That includes the pistons, the rods, and the crankshaft. Short block engines might also come already balanced. ## What Is a Long Block Engine And What’s Included? A long block engine assembly is slightly more expensive because it includes more parts and is slightly more assembled. In addition to the parts provided for a short block engine, a long block engine also typically comes equipped with cylinder heads, camshafts, and valvetrain components. Again, these parts might vary depending on the manufacturer. ![A fully dressed engine block is pictured against a white background.]() *This is a dressed BluePrint Engines General Motors stroker long block with aluminum heads., *Summit Racing** ## What Is a Deluxe Long Block Engine And What’s Included? Deluxe long block crate engines are also known as fully dressed, turnkey, or complete crate engines. They come virtually ready to go, though the exact parts might vary between manufacturers. Some might require additional accessories to fit the car, but it’s mostly ready to drop in. ## Pros and Cons of a Short Block Each type of package has its own benefits. You’ll want to know what those are to determine which type of block is right for you. Let’s dig in with a short block first. ### Pros - Cheaper upfront costs than a long block - More room for customization - The learning experience of doing it yourself ### Cons - Extra assembly work - Added installation time - More complicated - You have to buy other parts that could be more expensive - You have to tune those parts for your block - Only the block is warrantied ## Pros and Cons of a Long Block Now let’s dive into the pros and cons of a long block. ### Pros - Included parts are already tuned - More parts included in the warranty - Closer to plug-and-play ### Cons - More expensive upfront costs than a short block - Eliminates a lot of the fun of building an engine - It’s not complete like a turnkey engine Hopefully, these pros and cons will help you determine which is right for your specific project or application. ![A blank engine block sits against a white background.]() *This is a Summit Racing 5.3-liter Chevy LS long block., *Summit Racing** ## Popular Crate Engines and Crate Engine Manufacturers Most American manufacturers build and offer ready-to-rock crate engines designed to slot perfectly into your project car or rehab, but there are a multitude of others ready for your dream car. From Dodge to Porsche to Formula 1, along with a handful of aftermarket manufacturers, if you’re looking to buy and install a new crate motor, these links are great places to start. - [New Crate Motors on eBay]() - [Chevrolet]() - [Ford]() - [MOPAR]() - [Blueprint Engines]() - [JEGS]() - [Ed Pink Racing Engines]() - [Judd Power]() - [Rothsport]() ## FAQs You’ve got questions, *The Drive* has answers! ## Featured Products [Ford Performance 5.0L Coyote Gen III Crate Engine]() [Chevrolet Performance 6.2L LS3 Crate Engine]() *Got a question? Got a pro tip? Send us a note:* [*guidesandgear@thedrive.com*]() ## Author Tony Markovich is a former Senior Editor at The Drive, departing in 2022. ### Author social links [Instagram]() [Twitter]()