I see the terms "long block" and "short block" being thrown around alot and I have no freaking idea what the difference in between the two. Anyone care to explain?

 

The long block is a little longer than the short block.

 

I think the long block includes the heads, valves, cams... etc along with the bottom end with the pistons, crankshaft, cylinders.. etc

The short block is just the bottom end IIRC

 

^^^^^


The short block engine is normally just the block with pistons and a crank, and no heads or intake. The long block is the full engine, everything on it

 

^^^^ The 2 posts above are correct.

I work at nissan, when we order a long block it comes with the head and block, all you have to do is swap over the accessories from your old engine(I.E. alternator, power steering pump,a/c compressor etc) and a couple of sensors and drop it in the car.

If you get just a short block then all that is is the block with the bottom end in it (I.E. crank, rods, wristpins, pistons, piston rings). And you have to swap over the head or heads with all accompanying valvetrain hardware including the timing chain or belt with there sprockets and tensioners on the front of the engine before putting on any accessories.

 

Forgot I asked this question until just now. Thanks for the clarification, guys.