Engine Rebuilding Workshop with Machining

Vehicle owners facing a dead engine, classic car and hot rod enthusiasts, small trucking and delivery fleets, and independent garages that don't machine in-house.

Fixed or quoted price per rebuild (parts plus labour), with separate charges for machining jobs done for garages and other builders. Repeat trade work from garages helps keep the bays full.

• Engine mechanical knowledge and precise measuring
• Machining or the willingness to learn it
• Clear quoting and customer communication

• Zoning and municipal business licence for an automotive workshop, check with your municipality
• Provincial rules on used oil, coolant, solvents and parts-washer waste, check your provincial environment ministry
• Whether your province requires trade certification (such as automotive service technician) for this kind of work, check your provincial apprenticeship body
• Garage liability and garage keepers insurance for customers' vehicles and engines
• Warranty claims if an engine fails, so keep clear records and written quotes
• Quebec businesses have French-language requirements for signage and documents
• High equipment costs and slow months, plan for a cash buffer

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $30,000 to $150,000, depending on the machining equipment you buy, your rented premises and your starting stock of tools and parts. Equipment is a major cost, so plan a cash buffer for slow months.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on the mix of jobs, your pricing and how busy the shop stays. Plan for at least about 35 hours a week, and expect some slow months.

Check zoning and municipal business licence rules for an automotive workshop, provincial rules on used oil, coolant, solvents and parts-washer waste, and whether your province requires trade certification. Also check garage liability insurance and, in Quebec, French-language requirements.