Engine blocks

The engine block is the fundamental structural element of any engine. It serves as the main housing for key engine components such as cylinders, pistons, crankshafts, and camshafts. A properly functioning engine block ensures the durability, efficiency, and reliability of the entire system. At Global Parts, you'll find a wide selection of used car parts., including engine blocks fitted to BMW , Audi , Mercedes , Volkswagen , Mini and others. Additionally, we offer V6 and V8 bench-mounted engine blocks, which enable convenient service or diagnostic work. The bench-mounted engine block is a solution used in workshops for assembly and testing prior to installation in the vehicle. These models ensure stability and full compatibility with the original engine components.

What is an engine block and what does it mean?

The engine block is a massive, precisely manufactured element that performs many key functions:

• Base for cylinders – The block houses the cylinders in which the combustion process of the fuel-air mixture takes place.
• Mechanical systems housing – This is the mounting location for the pistons, crankshaft, main and connecting rod bearings.
• Cooling and Lubrication Hoses – Contains channels that allow oil and coolant to flow, ensuring proper lubrication and cooling of the engine.
• Supporting structure – The engine block ensures the stability and durability of the entire drive unit. Without a functioning engine block, other components cannot function properly, making it the foundation of the entire drivetrain. Engine blocks vary in material— steel, cast iron, or aluminum —which affects weight, thermal conductivity, and durability. For example, a V6 engine block made of aluminum weighs an average of 65–75 kg, while a V8 engine block made of steel can weigh up to 120 kg.

Why is it worth taking care of the engine block?

The condition of your engine block directly impacts the performance, durability, and safety of your vehicle. Block damage can lead to:

• Engine overheating – Caused by leaks in the cooling channels.
• Power loss – Resulting from inaccuracies in the cylinder surfaces, which reduces compression.
• Leakage of operating fluids – Oil or coolant, which may lead to more serious failures. At Global Parts, we offer original used car parts that have undergone thorough quality testing, ensuring their full functionality and durability. By matching engine blocks by model and year, you can quickly and easily swap components, including a V6 engine block for a BMW 5 Series (E60/E61) or a V8 engine block for an Audi A6 (C7) table. This type of matching minimizes installation time and increases compatibility with other components, such as the cooling system and intake manifold.

How to choose the right engine block?

When choosing an engine block, there are several key aspects to consider:

• Vehicle-specific fit – Every car make and model has its own specific requirements. At Global Parts, you'll find blocks perfectly suited to BMW , Audi , Mercedes , Volkswagen , Mini, and more.
• Technical condition – Make sure the block is free from cracks, corrosion and mechanical damage.
• Service History – Check that the block has been properly maintained and that it comes from a vehicle with known mileage. Additionally, it's worth considering the block type: V6, V8, or table-top engine block. Each type has different mounting parameters and cylinder dimensions. The table below shows sample compatibility and symptoms of use for each type.

Table: Engine Block Types and Compatibility

Block type	Sample vehicles	Weight (kg)	Cylinders	Advantages
V6	BMW E60, Mercedes W212	65–75	6	Compact, lightweight
V8	Audi A6 C7, BMW F10	110–120	8	More power, more stability
On the table	Workshop, regeneration	Depends on the model	6–8	Convenience of assembly and testing

Why choose used engine blocks?

Used car parts are a solution that allows you to save money without compromising quality. By choosing used engine blocks , you gain:

• Lower costs – Used components are much cheaper than new ones, but offer equally high quality.
• Ecology – You support recycling and reduce the amount of automotive waste.
• Wide selection – At Global Parts you will find engine blocks for the most popular car brands, making it easy to match them to your vehicle. It's worth paying attention to specific block parameters, such as cylinder diameter (from 80 mm to 95 mm for V6 blocks) and mounting bolt spacing (e.g., 90–110 mm). Such data facilitates matching parts to a specific vehicle model and ensures full compatibility with accessories.

How to take care of the engine block?

To keep your engine block running smoothly for years, it is worth following a few rules:

• Change the coolant and oil regularly to avoid corrosion and deposits in the internal passages.
• Check the tightness of cooling and lubrication systems to prevent leaks.
• When reconditioning the block, use the services of specialists who will ensure precise repairs. If you need a replacement, Global Parts has the right used car parts to restore your vehicle to full functionality. The procedure for mounting an engine block on a bench in a workshop involves several steps : removing the old components, mounting the block on the bench, installing the pistons and crankshaft, checking the cooling passages for leaks, and testing the timing system for alignment. For V6 and V8 blocks, installation time averages 2 to 4 hours, depending on the model and the mechanic's experience.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about engine blocks

Question	Answer
What is an engine block?	The engine block is the main structure of the power unit, housing the cylinders, pistons, crankshaft and cooling channels.
What does "v6" or "v8" engine block mean?	It denotes a V-shaped arrangement of cylinders – v6 has 6 cylinders, v8 has 8 cylinders.
What is a table engine block?	It is a block mounted on a special workshop stand, enabling assembly, testing and repairs before installation in the vehicle.
How do I choose the engine block for my car?	Please check the engine type, year, cylinder diameter and mounting spacing – the fit guarantees compatibility with the cooling and timing systems.
Can you use a v6 block in a car originally with a v8?	No, the number of cylinders and mechanical layout must meet the manufacturer's specifications.
What are the benefits of a table engine block?	It facilitates assembly, testing, leak checking and shortens the time required to prepare the engine for installation.
What are typical engine block dimensions?	V6 blocks have 80–95 mm cylinders, weight 65–75 kg; V8 blocks – 85–100 mm cylinders, weight 110–120 kg.

Summary: Engine Blocks at Global Parts Automotive Store

Engine blocks are the foundation of every engine's reliability and performance. By maintaining their technical condition, you ensure your vehicle's long and trouble-free operation. The Global Parts automotive store invites you to browse our extensive selection of genuine used car parts . Whether you're looking for car parts for BMW , Audi , Volkswagen , Mercedes, Mini , or others, you'll find them at competitive prices. We strive to ensure every customer finds the right parts for their car, and if you have any questions or concerns about selecting the right components, we're happy to help! Please contact us – we're here to help! For more information and interesting facts, visit our automotive blog .