Reconditioned diesel engine supplier from a unit

Garages, fleet managers, van hire firms, farms, plant hire firms and private owners who want a replacement engine quickly.

You sell engines at a margin over cost, often with core exchange deals where a customer returns their old engine. Fitting, delivery and warranty add further income.

• Mechanical knowledge of diesel engines
• Trade selling and building account customers
• Stock control and pricing
• Handling heavy parts safely

• Planning permission and business rates for the unit, so check with your council before signing a lease
• Waste oil, coolant and scrap handling can need waste carrier registration or an environmental permit, so check requirements
• Public liability, product liability, stock and buildings or contents insurance, plus employer's liability once you hire
• Warranty claims and returns can hit cash flow, so set clear terms
• Keep records of where every engine came from to avoid handling stolen parts
• Heavy lifting and workshop safety, including lifting equipment inspections

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on the unit you rent, how much engine stock you buy, your equipment and your insurance.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around £6,000 to £25,000, depending on your stock, prices and how many trade customers you win. The estimates assume at least about 30 hours a week.

Check planning permission and business rates with your council before signing a lease. Also check waste carrier registration or environmental permits for oil, coolant and scrap, insurance, records of where each engine came from, and lifting equipment inspections.