Custom Builds
Bespoke Power Solutions Tailored to Your Vision
Sometimes, a standard crate engine or off-the-shelf transmission isn’t enough. Whether you’re chasing specific horsepower numbers, building a one-of-a-kind show car, restoring a rare classic, or creating a purpose-built marine vessel, Cartell Motors, Lda has the expertise to bring your vision to life.
We specialize in custom engine builds, transmission configurations, and complete powertrain packages for automotive, marine, and industrial applications.
Why Choose a Custom Build?
Specific performance targets
Achieve exact horsepower, torque, and RPM characteristics
Unique vehicle applications
Fit engines into chassis they weren’t designed for
Rare or vintage vehicles
Source and rebuild engines for discontinued models
Purpose-built performance
Drag racing, road racing, off-road, marine, or towing-specific builds
Aesthetic requirements
Custom finishes, colors, and detailing
Budget optimization
Allocate resources to components that matter most for your goals
🔧 Custom Crate Engines
We build engines from the ground up, selecting every component to match your specific requirements.
Build Process:
1. Consultation
Discuss goals, vehicle, intended use, and budget
2. Component Selection
Choose block, rotating assembly, cylinder heads, camshaft, induction, and accessories
3. Machining & Preparation
Precision machining of block, cylinder heads, and rotating assembly
4. Assembly
Expert assembly with meticulous attention to clearances, tolerances, and fastener torque
5. Dyno Testing
Optional dynamometer testing with detailed performance report
6. Delivery & Support
Complete documentation, break-in instructions, and ongoing technical support
Custom Engine Platforms We Build:
Chevrolet Small Block
350–454 ci / 300–700+ HP
Classic GM, hot rods, muscle cars, marine
Chevrolet LS / LT
4.8L–7.0L / 350–1,000+ HP
Modern swaps, performance builds, track cars
Ford Small Block
289–427 ci / 250–600+ HP
Mustang, Bronco, hot rods
Ford Modular / Coyote
4.6L–5.8L / 300–800+ HP
Late-model Mustang, F-150, swaps
Mopar Small Block
318–360 ci / 250–500+ HP
Dodge Dart, Challenger, truck builds
Mopar Big Block
383–440 ci / 400–700+ HP
Classic Charger, Road Runner, GTX
Mopar Hemi
5.7L–6.4L / 400–600+ HP
Modern Charger, Challenger, Ram, swaps
European Applications
Custom builds
BMW, Mercedes, Volvo, Porsche
Marine Engines
Various
Inboard, sterndrive, jet boat applications
🎛️ Custom Transmission Solutions
Beyond standard rebuilds, we offer custom transmission configurations for specific performance needs.
Automatic
Shift kits, manual valve bodies, custom torque converters, gear ratio changes, electronic controller tuning
Manual
Gear ratio optimization, upgraded synchronizers, billet components, hydraulic vs. mechanical linkage
Transmission Adapters
Custom bellhousing adapters for engine swaps
Transmission Brakes
Installation for drag racing applications
Popular Custom Transmission Builds:
- 4L80E with manual valve body for high-horsepower street/strip cars
- T56 Magnum with custom gear ratios for specific track applications
- Powerglide with transbrake for dedicated drag racing
- 6L80E with upgraded torque converter and tuning for towing applications
- Ford 4R70W with custom valve body for performance builds
🔄 Complete Powertrain Packages
For customers building a complete vehicle or performing a full drivetrain swap, we offer integrated custom powertrain packages.
Package Includes:
- Custom-built engine matched to your chassis and goals
- Transmission selected and configured for optimal performance
- Driveshaft specifications and sourcing
- Rear end gearing recommendations
- Engine management system (ECU, wiring harness, tuning)
- Cooling system specifications
- Fuel system recommendations
- Exhaust header fitment guidance
- Motor mounts and transmission crossmember specifications
🏁 Restoration & Period-Correct Builds
For classic car and vintage boat restorations, we offer period-correct custom builds that maintain authenticity while improving reliability and drivability.
Restoration Services:
- Numbers-matching alternatives – appearance and specifications of original with modern reliability
- Date-code correct components – sourced and restored where possible
- Vintage appearance, modern performance – stealth upgrades for drivability
- Original rebuilds – full restoration of original engine and transmission
🚤 Marine Custom Builds
Marine applications have unique requirements for corrosion resistance, cooling, and reliability. We build custom marine engines for:
Saltwater use
Closed cooling systems, corrosion-resistant coatings, marine-grade components
High-performance
Increased horsepower, specific cam profiles for marine torque curves
Commercial/Work boats
Durability-focused builds, extended service intervals
Jet boats
High-RPM builds, specific engine mounting configurations
Classic boat restoration
Period-correct appearance, modern reliability
Our Custom Build Process In-Depth
Step 1: Initial Consultation
We begin with a detailed discussion of your project, goals, and budget. What we discuss:
- Vehicle or boat details, performance goals (HP, torque, RPM range)
- Intended use (street, strip, track, towing, marine), driving characteristics
- Budget parameters, timeline expectations, supporting systems
Step 2: Component Selection & Proposal
Based on our consultation, we develop a detailed proposal including engine platform recommendations, component lists, estimated power curves, and pricing.
Step 3: Machining & Preparation
Cylinder boring/honing
Proper piston-to-wall clearance; plateau honing for ring seal
Deck surfacing
Straight, true surface for head gasket seal
Line honing
Proper crankshaft alignment
Crankshaft grinding
Restore journal dimensions; micro-polish finish
Connecting rod reconditioning
Proper big-end bore size and alignment
Cylinder head machining
Valve job, surface resurfacing, guide replacement
Balancing
Rotating assembly balance for smooth operation
Step 4: Assembly
Our experienced technicians assemble every engine with precision measurements of all clearances, cleanroom environment, and detailed documentation.
Step 5: Dyno Testing (Optional)
Dynamometer testing with comprehensive data logging including power pulls, air/fuel ratio verification, and break-in logging.
Step 6: Delivery & Support
Your completed custom build is delivered with a build sheet, torque specs, break-in procedure guides, and complete support documentation.
Custom Build Gallery Examples
Chevrolet 383 Stroker
470 HP, forged internals, aluminum heads, hydraulic roller cam
Ford 347 Stroker
450 HP, 5.0L-based, EFI, custom intake
LS3 6.2L
525 HP, forged rotating assembly, custom cam, Holley EFI
4L80E Build
Full manual valve body, billet shafts, 1,000 HP capacity
Ready to Build Something Extraordinary?
Whether you are planning a high-end show car, a track monster, or a custom marine setup, our technicians are ready to make it a reality. Share your goals, vehicle configurations, and budget with us.
Start Your Custom Build Project
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does a custom engine build cost?
A: Custom engine pricing varies widely based on platform, components, and performance targets. A basic performance rebuild may start around €5,000–€7,000, while a high-end custom build with premium components and dyno testing can range from €10,000–€20,000+. We provide detailed quotes after understanding your specific requirements.
Q: How long does a custom build take?
A: Typical lead time is 4–12 weeks depending on component availability, machining requirements, and build complexity. We’ll provide an estimated timeline during consultation.
Q: Do you offer warranties on custom builds?
A: Yes. Custom builds come with comprehensive warranty coverage. Specific warranty terms vary by build configuration and will be outlined in your proposal.
Q: Can you build engines for vehicles not listed?
A: Absolutely. We work with a wide range of platforms including European, Asian, and specialty applications. Contact us to discuss your specific vehicle.
Why Choose Cartell Motors, Lda?
15+ years expertise
Proven track record across automotive, marine, and industrial applications
Quality components
We use reputable brands: Eagle, Scat, JE Pistons, Comp Cams, Holley, Edelbrock, and more
Comprehensive support
Ongoing technical assistance after delivery with global shipping standard configurations
Contact Our Custom Build Team:
Email: admin@cartellmotorslda.com
