dutinsss

iTrader: (2)

i've never purchased one either but you can get them in diffent ways. i don't really think that would make a cam considered part of the short block though. the harmonic ballancer is considered part of the short block but you can order a short block without one.

dutinsss

iTrader: (2)

i could be wrong though, i've just never considered the cam as part of the bottom end.

NGC414

I always considered Top and bottom end a term to be used in reference to rebuilding or in need of rebuilding. The rotating assembly would be considered bottom end, and the valve train would be considered top end.
Things like a cam on a push rod engine would just be a cam. Just like a carb or intake/ exhaust manifold.
When I hear fresh top end, I think new or rebuilt heads. or fresh bottom end I thing rebuilt rotating assemby and possible port or hone work.
To me it does not nessesarly mean the cam, or anything else was replaced.
Dang, Im thinking to hard about this.

The Mighty Texan

iTrader: (4)

^That is acutally what i consider to be the top and bottom end as well.

jthunderz28

so when people say "rebuilt engine" do they normally just mean the top end??

I remembered when I blew a head gasket on my Lt1, it was still under warranty and the dealership said they would "rebuild" it.

I'm assuming all they did was head work/valvetrain/gaskets??? No reason to touch the crankshaft/rotating assembly.

NGC414

I usually think bottom end when i hear rebuilt engine since by definition engine or motor is something to impart motion. Since the rotating assemby actually generates or imparts the motion. But it could also mean top and bottom end. If its a shortblock obviously would be bottom end. Long block could be both.
I think its somewhat open for interpetation. My head hurts again.