MRE Books and Automotive Publications
home  |  FAQ  |  about us  |  site map
Message Boards Contact us
Search books by title or description
more search options
Performance Books and Publications  for your Ford, Lincoln & Mercury
Store Home
Sample Pages
Shop Manuals
Engine Books
Fuel & Air
Ford Books
Mercury Books
Lincoln Books
 
Store Categories
  Store Home
New Books
Best Sellers
Sample Pages
Engine Books
....Small Blocks
....Big Blocks
....4.6 & 5.4
....Power Stroke
....Rebuilding
....Engine Swap
....Other
Repair Manuals
Fuel & Air System
Paint & Auto Body
Chassis Books
Electrical Books
Ford Books
Mercury Books
Lincoln Books
Other Makes
Racing
Other Books
 
Message Boards
  Ranger & Bronco II
Ranchero & Torino
Ford, Lincoln & Merc
 
Return Policy
  Buy with confidence!
If for any reason
you're not
completely satisfied
with an item, simply
return it within 7
days and the
purchase price will
be refunded.
 
International
Orders
  We ship world wide.
All international
orders must be paid
online. Checks or
money orders drawn
on non-US banks will
not be accepted.
Engine Blueprinting The Step-By-Step Guide to Engine Blueprinting
by Rick Voegelin
Practical Methods for Racing and Rebuilding
How to buy machine shop work
Selecting and preparing parts
This completely revised and updated version containing an
additional 32 pages is simply the best book you can buy on
engine preparation for street or racing! Rick Voegelin's highly
acclaimed combination of savvy writing and wrenching skills puts
this best-seller in a class by itself. All important preparation
techniques are clearly illustrated and explained in this easy-to-
read text. Engine Blueprinting shows the reader how to use
precision measuring tools, calculate compression ratios, degree a
camshaft, and much more! Loaded with helpful advice, this book
should be in every enthusiast's tool box.
Click below to view sample
pages from each chapter.
"Rick Voegelin's book, The Step-by-Step Guide to Engine
Blueprinting, is an excellent source of performance-oriented
engine building information for the beginner and the seasoned
veteran alike. This digest should be in every enthusiast's greasy
mitts."
-- Steve Magnante, HOT ROD
Chap. 1 - Engine Blueprinting
Chap. 2 - Cylinder Block
Chap. 3 - Crankshaft
Chap. 4 - Connecting Rods
Chap. 5 - Pistons
Chap. 6 - Cylinder Heads
Chap. 7 - Camshaft
Chap. 8 - Compression Ratio
Chap. 9 - Balancing
Chap. 10 - Assembly Tips
Softbound
8-3/8 x 10-7/8
160 pages
400 b/w photos
Item #SA21
Price: $18.95
Click here to buy now!

Engine Blueprinting
Deep in his heart, every car enthusiast secretly lusts for a six-foot-high tool cabinet, its drawers
heavy with one of every item in the Snap-on catalog, its cubbyholes bursting with micrometers,
gauges, and calipers. Anyone who has spent time around automobiles quickly realizes that it is
impossible to have “too many” tools. But for all the appeal of a well-stocked tool chest, the fact is
that a simple assortment of hand tools and a few precision measuring tools is all that’s necessary
for most basic blueprinting operations. Naturally, you can’t expect to perform precision machine
work with hand tools; but the average backyard mechanic, with modest tools and a little common
sense, can accomplish quite a bit of the preliminary preparation work and this will better prepare
you to tell your machinist exactly what you want (which greatly increases the chances of getting
what you need).

If your automotive endeavors have progressed to the point that you are considering an engine
blueprinting project, you have probably already accumulated a fairly complete selection of
wrenches, ratchets, sockets, and screwdrivers. However, if you haven’t already added a torque
wrench to your tool supply, then this item should unquestionably be the first item on your shopping
list.
There are two common types of torque wrenches: (1) beam wrenches, which indicate torque loads
by deflecting a flexible shaft, and (2) click-type wrenches, which produce an audible “click” when the
torque resistance has reached the specified setting. Even though the click-type torque wrenches
are unquestionably easier to use and “sexier” than an old-fashioned beam wrench, they have
several drawbacks. First, they are several times more expensive than a beam wrench. Second, any
sort of rough handling can cause them to read inaccurately—and wrenches have been known to
take a tumble off a workbench. Since there is no simple way to test the accuracy of a click-type
torque wrench, it must be returned to the manufacturer for adjustment. Beam-type torque
wrenches, on the other hand, are dirt cheap and dead reliable. Since the beam is nothing more
than a steel spring, there are no moving parts to break or go out of kilter. Probably the best
solution is to own two torque wrenches—a click-type for tedious chores like tightening head bolts,
and a beam-type for double-checking the torque readings of crucial fasteners, like rod bolts and
flywheel fasteners.
Tools used to blueprint and engine
Learning how to use precision
tools is an essential part of
engine blueprinting. Every
component should be
checked and re-checked
before final assembly.
Torque Wrench
Treat your torque
wrench like a dear
friend – your success
at engine building will
depend on it. Click-
type torque wrenches
are convenient to use,
but must be
recalibrated
occasionally to ensure
continued accuracy. A
beam-type wrench is
less glamorous, but
dead reliable.
Precision Tools
A revolution has taken place in the precision tool market within the past 10 years. Until recently,
micrometers and other measuring tools were English, difficult to find, and expensive. Now that’s all
changed. Like cameras and stereo sets, the vast majority of precision tools are now imported from
Japan. They can be ordered from dozens of mail-order tool suppliers, and the prices are a fraction
of what they used to be. Even large department stores, such as Sears, carry a wide array of
precision tools at reasonable prices. In general, the accuracy and dependability of these
inexpensive measuring tools are completely satisfactory for most engine blueprinting operations.
Outside micrometers
Outside micrometers are
the foundation of any
precision tool collection.
You can add more sizes as
your engine-building skills
and interests grow.
Engine rebuilding is only an occasional pastime for most enthusiasts. In these circumstances, it
makes sense to form a “tool pool” with other hobbyists. For example, you might convince the car
nut next door to buy a set of micrometers, while you invest in dial indicators and magnetic stands.
By swapping these tools when a particular measuring task is at hand, you can both have the
equipment you need without all the expense. If you need a certain tool only a few times a year, it
makes sense to borrow rather than buy.
Engine builder using a torque wrench for assembly
An accomplished engine builder
quickly develops a “feel” for his torque
wrench. Learn to pull the handle
smoothly to prevent erroneous
readings.
Although a complete assortment of measuring tools is nice, it is not essential. Throughout this book
we’ll point out ways to blueprint an engine without using anything more exotic than a feeler gauge,
modeling clay, and Plastigage. In many instances, this very basic equipment can produce results as
accurate as a chest full of micrometers and calipers. Then again, there are times when only the real
thing will do. The important thing, however, is to know when to use which tool or technique.
Basic Measuring Tools
If you ask a professional engine builder which tools he uses most often, he will probably confess
that 95 percent of his measurements are taken with just three tools: a 1-inch outside micrometer, a
6-inch dial caliper, and a dial indicator. With a tool budget of only $100—about the cost of an
aluminum intake manifold—you can start your precision tool collection with these three essential
items.

A micrometer is the tool that nearly everyone associates with engine blueprinting. When assembling
an engine to close tolerances, there is always a need to know how thick various pieces are—and a
micrometer is usually the tool that supplies the answer. For example, measuring the thickness of a
head gasket, valve spring shim, or piston ring is a simple chore with a good quality micrometer.
Even inexpensive micrometers are accurate to within one ten-thousandths of an inch (0.0001-inch).
Usually, though, it’s not the price of the tool but the skill of the operator that determines how
accurate the measurements are. Becoming proficient with a micrometer is more than learning how
to read the spindle. Developing the right touch or “feel” for how tightly to turn the mike is a skill that
comes with practice. Two engine builders can measure the same part with the same instrument and
come up with slightly different sizes—all because of differences in the feel they have for tightening
the micrometer.
When shopping for a micrometer, look for a tool that will read to one ten-thousandth of an inch
(0.0001-inch). You may never need to measure anything that accurately, but the extra divisions will
help you decide which way to round off a close measurement. Digital micrometers that display the
thickness of the part like a calculator are becoming more common. If you are uncomfortable reading
a conventional micrometer or plan to use a micrometer very seldom, then the digital version may be
right for you. (Be warned, though, that a digital micrometer can become a crutch. Someday you will
be in a shop and have to use a standard micrometer; so avoid the embarrassment of admitting you
don’t know how to use one by learning the basics.)
High-quality micrometers have a range of only one inch. Thus, a well stocked toolbox should
include five different micrometers: 0.0000- to 1.0000-inch, 1.0000- to 2.0000-inch, 2.0000- to
3.0000-inch, 3.0000- to 4.0000-inch, and 4.0000- to 5.0000-inch. This assortment will meet any
measurement needs you are likely to encounter during an engine blueprinting project.
Outside micrometer with calibration tools
A good quality micrometer should
include a setting standard to
check its accuracy. Like all
precision tools, micrometers
should be stored and used with
care.
Next


This has been a sample page from

Engine Blueprinting The Step-By-Step Guide to Engine Blueprinting
by Rick Voegelin
Practical Methods for Racing and Rebuilding
How to buy machine shop work
Selecting and preparing parts
This completely revised and updated version containing an
additional 32 pages is simply the best book you can buy on
engine preparation for street or racing! Rick Voegelin's highly
acclaimed combination of savvy writing and wrenching skills puts
this best-seller in a class by itself. All important preparation
techniques are clearly illustrated and explained in this easy-to-
read text. Engine Blueprinting shows the reader how to use
precision measuring tools, calculate compression ratios, degree a
camshaft, and much more! Loaded with helpful advice, this book
should be in every enthusiast's tool box.
Click below to view sample
pages from each chapter.
"Rick Voegelin's book, The Step-by-Step Guide to Engine
Blueprinting, is an excellent source of performance-oriented
engine building information for the beginner and the seasoned
veteran alike. This digest should be in every enthusiast's greasy
mitts."
-- Steve Magnante, HOT ROD
Chap. 1 - Engine Blueprinting
Chap. 2 - Cylinder Block
Chap. 3 - Crankshaft
Chap. 4 - Connecting Rods
Chap. 5 - Pistons
Chap. 6 - Cylinder Heads
Chap. 7 - Camshaft
Chap. 8 - Compression Ratio
Chap. 9 - Balancing
Chap. 10 - Assembly Tips
Softbound
8-3/8 x 10-7/8
160 pages
400 b/w photos
Item #SA21
Price: $18.95
Click here to buy now!

 
Other items you might be interested in


How to Rebuild the Small-Block Ford
In this 144 page book you're walked step by step through a rebuild,
including: Planning your Rebuild; Disassembly and Inspection;
Choosing the Right Parts; Machine Work; Assembling your Engine;
and First Firing and Break-In.  Includes 289, 302, 351W, 351C, 351M
and 400.
How to Rebuild the Small-Block Ford Price:
$18.95
How to Build Supercharged & Turbocharged Small-Block Fords
This is the only book on supercharging & turbocharging that strictly
covers small-block Fords, allowing for extraordinary detail! This book
discusses push rod small blocks and the modular engine family 4.6L
SOHC and DOHC. This book covers everything you need to know
about supercharging and turbocharging your small-block Ford.
How to Build Supercharged and Turbocharged Small Block Fords Price:
$Discontinued
How to Build Big-Inch Ford Small Blocks
Thoroughly explains how to build a stroker, with information that will
help you to better tailor your heads, cam, intake manifold, carburetor &
exhaust system to get the most of the extra cubes. Also included is a
complete guide to head and block castings so you can choose exactly
the right parts for your project.
How to Build Big Inch Ford Small Blocks Price:
$18.95
Official Factory Guide To Building Ford Short-Track Power
How to Build Winning Short-Track Engines for Claimer Class, Spec
Series, and Sportsman Racing. Written by engineers from the Ford
Racing division, this book provides detailed instructions as well as
specific parts lists and assembly techniques for building short-track
versions of Ford's 351. Included are build lists for low dollar claimer
engines, limited late-model motors, and full competition engines.
Official Factory Guide To Building Ford Short-Track Power Price:
$18.95

Shipping is combined and discounted for multiple item purchases!
Buy more and save on shipping!
We ship Worldwide! S
ee International Shipping for more information!
Search Our Store for More Great Ford, Lincoln & Mercury Items!
FAST AND EFFICIENT SERVICE
We believe customer service and online retail can coexist. Our policy is to treat customers the way
we would like to be to treated. We strive to describe all items correctly. You have many options
online, but we believe our service is the best. We work around the clock to fill orders and ship items
within one business day. It is our goal to serve the customer before, during and after the checkout
process.
Why gamble with your money and purchase from other sellers? We look forward to doing
business with you now and in the future.
FAST SHIPPING
Items usually ship within one business day of receipt of payment! We keep large quantities on hand
and have a state of the art inventory management system to ensure your items are in stock and
ready to ship.
YES, WE HAVE A RETURN POLICY
Satisfaction is guaranteed. Our store has a NO HASSLE RETURN POLICY within 7 days of
purchase. Your exchange will be processed upon receipt. If you are not satisfied with your
purchase, our knowledgeable team will do their best to make sure you get what you are looking for.
QUALITY AND AFFORDABILITY
Why pay retail when you can save money and benefit from our purchasing power? We stock large
quantities to get you the best prices and assure the item you order will be in stock and ready to
ship. We have a COMBINED SHIPPING incentive whereby each additional item adds $
1.95 to the
s/h. The more you buy, the more you can save
!
SHIPPING
Standard shipping is a flat rate of $4.95 to anywhere in the United States with USPS Media Mail.
Priority Mail shipping is available for an additional $3.00, or $7.95 shipping. Shipping is combined
and discounted for multiple items purchases as follows: first item regular price shipping, add $
1.95
for each additional item.

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
We ship to Canada and Mexico with Priority Mail International for $10.95, and to most locations in
Europe, Australia, Asia, Japan and South America for $14.95. Shipping is combined and discounted
for multiple items purchases as follows: first item regular price shipping, add $
1.95 for each
additional item.
All international orders must be ordered and paid online, as we can no longer
accept checks or money orders drawn on non-US banks.
PAYMENT & SALES TAX
We accept Paypal, Visa, Mastercard, Checks and Money orders. Paypal is the preferred form of
payment. Our online shopping cart system is powered by PayPal, the most secure way to send
payment online.  Iowa residents must add 7% sales tax.
If you have any questions or comments please feel free to contact us. We look forward to serving
you and fulfilling your needs.
Thanks for your business!
MRE
PO Box 47
Grinnell, IA 50112


THE RANGER AND BRONCO II V8 CONVERSION
THE RANGER &
BRONCO II
V-8 CONVERSION

HIGH PERFORMANCE FORD ENGINE PARTS INTERCHANGE
HIGH
PERFORMANCE
FORD ENGINE
PARTS
INTERCHANGE

1969 FORD SHOP MANUAL SET
1969 FORD SHOP
MANUAL SET
ON CD-ROM

FORD PERFORMANCE
FORD
PERFORMANCE

HOW TO BUILD BIG INCH FORD SMALL BLOCKS
HOW TO BUILD
BIG-INCH FORD

SMALL BLOCKS
HOW TO BUILD MAX PERFORMANCE FORD V-8S ON A BUDGET
HOW TO BUILD MAX
PERFORMANCE
FORD V-8s ON A
BUDGET

HOW TO BUILD MAX PERFORMANCE 4.6-LITER FORD ENGINES
HOW TO BUILD MAX
PERFORMANCE
4.6-LITER
FORD ENGINES

1966 Ford Shop Manual CD
1966 FORD SHOP
MANUAL CD
HOW TO REBUILD THE SMALL BLOCK FORD
HOW TO
REBUILD THE
SMALL BLOCK
FORD

1965 Ford Shop Manual CD
1965 FORD SHOP
MANUAL CD

Store Home | FAQ | About Us | Contact us

Copyright © 1997-2008 MRE-Books. All Rights Reserved. Designated trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. No part of this web site may be copied or reproduced without written permission.