When your ATV engine is on its last legs, that doesn’t mean you need to part with your beloved four-wheeler! Rebuilding the engine will give your trusty quad a second chance at life. This guide from Honda Parts Direct covers all the basics of rebuilding an ATV engine. If you need original Honda® parts for your upcoming rebuild, you can find them right here on our website! Just use our handy Parts Finder to get started.
When to Rebuild the Engine
First, you will need to know when it’s time for a rebuild. Ideally, you shouldn’t wait until the engine has heaved its final breath. The best approach is to install an hour meter on your ATV. This will keep track of the usage hours on your ATV engine, so you can plan ahead for when the engine is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Even with an hour meter, you should still be on the lookout for the telltale signs of engine failure, such as hard starting and exhaust smoke. In the meantime, keep up with regular oil changes, and make sure to use the right oil and fuel types for your ATV.
Where to Get Help
If you know your way around an ATV engine, you might be able to handle this task on your own. This is not too complicated a procedure for home mechanics, so long as you have a proper service manual on hand. Even so, if you run into more trouble than you bargained for, you might end up turning to a professional. That’s why we recommend having a backup plan.
Powersports dealerships often have service departments that specialize in ATVs, and you might also be able to find self-employed mechanics in your area that can rebuild ATV engines. Just make sure to get references or read some online reviews before you proceed.
How Much to Pay
Most dealerships charge around $80 to $100 an hour, while the average self-employed mechanic gets around $50 an hour. As for the hours required to complete an engine rebuild, this will vary depending on the make and model of engine, the condition of the engine, and the expertise of the mechanic. In any case, a reputable mechanic should be able to provide you with upfront pricing for the entire job.
What Needs to be Done
Of course, this mostly comes down to reading the service manual for your ATV. Even if you will be hiring a mechanic, it can be helpful to understand the procedure, so you can confirm that everything has been done properly.
Engines are complicated, to say the least, and they contain several components that may or may not need to be repaired or replaced during a rebuild. These include the piston, the valves, the cylinder, the crank, and the gears. Your service manual will explain how to inspect each of these components to judge their condition, and how to repair or replace them if needed.
Where to Find Parts
Most dealerships will charge the suggested retail price for each part used in a rebuild, and this can get expensive. If you work with a self-employed mechanic, they might also purchase parts from a dealership, and mark up the price to cover their expenses. Sourcing your own parts instead can save you a lot of money, so long as you know where to look.
If you are in the market for genuine Honda parts, you came to the right place! Honda Parts Direct is your trusted online source for all things Honda. We ship to customers all over the world from our home base in Palestine, TX. Shop with us today!