Full-Service engine machine shop

Repair garages, performance and restoration shops, engine rebuilders, racing teams and individual car owners.

Price per operation or per complete engine package, plus margin on parts such as pistons, bearings and gaskets. Larger jobs and steady shop accounts bring in most of the revenue.

• Precision machining on blocks, crankshafts and heads
• Deep knowledge of engine builds and tolerances
• Quoting and scheduling jobs
• Managing staff and customer expectations

• High equipment costs and the need for adequate electrical supply in the building, check with your landlord and a licensed electrician
• Zoning, business license and fire code rules for your location, check with your city or county
• Hazardous waste from coolant, solvents and cleaning tanks, check your state and local environmental rules
• General liability, property and workers' compensation insurance, and OSHA or state workplace safety requirements
• Sales tax and resale certificate rules if you sell parts, check with your state tax agency
• Warranty disputes if an engine fails after your work, so keep detailed records and clear terms

Startup costs are typically around $90,000 to $350,000, depending on the equipment you buy, the industrial unit you rent and the electrical supply it needs. These are estimates. Equipment is the biggest cost, so get quotes first.

Monthly revenue is typically around $15,000 to $65,000, depending on the range of work you take on, your pricing, staff and customer base. These are estimates, and the idea assumes at least 40 hours a week.

Check zoning, business license and fire code rules with your city or county, and state and local rules on hazardous waste from coolant and solvents. Also check electrical supply with a licensed electrician, insurance, OSHA or state safety requirements, and sales tax rules if you sell parts.