Engine Block Machining Services

Engine Block Machining Services

Precision Engineering for Powerstroke, Cummins, and Duramax

At Choate Engineering Performance, we don’t just repair engines; we re-engineer them for maximum durability and output. Our engine block machine work is the foundation of every high-performance build that leaves our shop. Using state-of-the-art CNC technology and decades of specialized diesel expertise, we correct factory imperfections and reinforce structural integrity. Whether you are looking for a reliable daily driver or a competition-grade powerhouse, our machining process ensures your block is blueprinted to perfection, providing the ultimate canvas for your engine build.

Why Choose Choate Engineering Performance?

Dedicated Diesel Specialization

While general shops divide their attention between various engine types, we focus on high-output diesel platforms. We know the failure points—like core shift or deck thickness variances—that general shops miss.

CNC Precision vs. Manual

Many shops still rely on manual equipment. We utilize advanced CNC machining for decking and boring, ensuring every cut is perfectly square to the crankshaft centerline, repeatable to within ten-thousandths of an inch.

Torque Plate Honing

A block can distort once the cylinder head is torqued down. We use heavy-duty torque plates to simulate cylinder head stress during honing, ensuring piston rings seat against a perfectly round cylinder in real-world conditions.

Advanced Thermal Cleaning

Our multi-stage process uses heat to break down contaminants at a molecular level, followed by shot-peening to stress-relieve the casting and reveal microscopic cracks that chemical dipping cannot find.

Strict Ra Finish Control

Modern MLS gaskets require an incredibly smooth surface. We measure the Ra (Roughness Average) to ensure it meets the exact specifications required for high-performance diesel gaskets.

In-House Quality Control

Unlike shops that outsource specialized tasks like line boring or O-ringing, every stage of our machining process is performed in-house at our facility. This allows us to maintain strict oversight and ensure that every measurement meets our rigorous "Choate-Certified" standards.

Our Specialized Machine Services

CNC Block Surfacing (Decking)

Achieving a perfectly flat mating surface is critical for head gasket retention. Our CNC decking process ensures the block surface is perfectly parallel to the crankshaft centerline. We achieve a specific Ra finish tailored to your gasket choice for a leak-proof seal under extreme cylinder pressures.

Starting at $300.00

Precision Boring and Honing

Using torque plates to simulate an installed head, we ensure cylinder walls remain perfectly round and straight. Our diamond honing creates a cross-hatch pattern for superior oil retention and rapid piston ring seating.

Starting at $425.00

Line Boring and Honing

A straight crankshaft path is non-negotiable. We perform precision line boring and honing to ensure the crankshaft rotates with zero binding, reducing friction and preventing premature bearing failure.

Starting at $200.00

Cylinder Sleeving

For blocks with excessive wear or cracks, we precision-machine the block to accept high-strength chromoly or ductile iron sleeves, restoring or improving upon factory specifications.

Starting at $2,000.00

Precision O-Ringing

To prevent head gasket failure in high-boost applications, we machine a high-precision circular groove into the deck. A stainless steel wire is seated to create a localized high-pressure "crush point" for a superior mechanical seal.

Price: $500.00

Thermal Cleaning and Advanced Inspection

Before work begins, we use a multi-stage thermal cleaning process to remove carbon and oil. We then perform Magnetic Particle Inspection (Magnaflux) and ultrasonic thickness testing to ensure structural integrity.

Price: $500.00

Shipping & Logistics

Not local to our Tennessee facility? No problem. Choate Engineering Performance serves customers nationwide with extensive experience in LTL Freight logistics.

  • Custom Crating: We recommend shipping blocks on a sturdy pallet or within a custom wooden crate.
  • Preparation: Blocks must be completely drained of fluids and stripped of external accessories before shipment.
  • Residential Services: We can easily arrange for residential lift-gate services to pick up or deliver your engine block directly from your home or personal shop.
  • Nationwide Rates: We leverage high-volume shipping discounts to provide competitive freight rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the machining process typically take?

While turnaround times vary based on current shop volume, most engine block machining services are completed within 2–4 weeks. Custom sleeving or complex blueprinting may extend this timeline.

Do I need to remove the oil galley plugs before shipping?

Yes. For our thermal cleaning process to be effective, all oil galley plugs and freeze plugs must be removed to ensure every internal passage is thoroughly decontaminated.

What is the difference between O-ringing and a standard gasket?

A standard gasket relies on the clamping force of the head bolts alone. O-ringing adds a physical stainless steel wire that creates a mechanical "bite" into the gasket, allowing the engine to handle significantly higher boost levels.

Can you machine a block that has already been bored over?

In many cases, yes. If the block is already at its maximum overbore limit, we can utilize our Cylinder Sleeving service to bring the bores back to standard size or a safer thickness.

Service Request Checklist

To ensure your consultation is as efficient as possible, we recommend having the following information ready. However, it is perfectly fine if you don’t have all of this information available. Our diesel specialists are experts at identifying engine platforms and requirements.

Engine Identification

  • Series & Year
  • VIN / Serial #

Block Condition

  • Current Bore Size
  • Known Damage

Performance Goals

  • Target HP
  • Turbo Setup

Warranty Information

At Choate Engineering Performance, we stand behind our workmanship. We understand that high-performance diesel engines are a significant investment, and our warranty policy is designed to give you peace of mind that your block has been machined to the highest industry standards.

  • Workmanship Guarantee: We warrant that all machine work—including decking, boring, honing, and line boring—is performed to the specific tolerances and blueprints discussed during your consultation. If any machining defect is discovered prior to assembly, we will correct it at no additional cost to you.
  • Inspection Period: Upon receiving your machined block, customers have a 15-day inspection window to verify the work. We encourage all builders to perform a final clean and "white glove" inspection before beginning the assembly process.
  • Limitations: Because Choate Engineering Performance does not control the final assembly, component selection, or tuning of the engine, our warranty is limited strictly to the machining services provided. We cannot warrant against failures caused by improper assembly, contaminated oil, overheating, or extreme competition use.
  • Core Policy: All blocks sent to us are subject to our initial inspection. If a block is found to be non-serviceable during the Thermal Cleaning and Advanced Inspection phase, the customer will only be responsible for the inspection fee and return shipping.

Build Your Foundation Today

Give us a call today for a professional consultation.

Call 901-553-9847 Request a Quote