rebuilt top end, what does this mean? (Page 1/1) Shill NOV 12, 09:59 PM looking for a used car currently, seen a few with high mileage and state that it has had the top end rebuilt? usually manual trans with new clutches, is it safe to trust these? RWDPLZ NOV 12, 10:35 PM Usually top end means the head(s), worthless without receipts. Usually done because it blew a headgasket, and more than likely the short block (bottome end) is on it's way out. I wouldn't trust them. Fiero84Freak NOV 13, 06:58 AM Having the top end rebuilt has nothing to do with the trans. The "top end" when you hear the term typically means items above the crank line. This can include heads - as mentioned, intakes, cam shafts, and related components. The "bottom end" is usually the crank and related components, like pistons, bearings, etc. Primarily those components that see oil lubrication. I too have to say if there is no receipts or full documentation of work going off of what somebody said is useless. "Rebuilt top end" can mean MANY things. It is as RWDPLZ eluded to above typically referred to head work done. All one has to do is remove the heads and replace the gaskets and say "the top end was rebuilt." The reason why it may mask other problems is typically the reasons why head work is performed is due to overheating, negligence on coolant changes (coolant REALLY should be changed yearly, to avoid build up and potential internal rust issues), and consistent extreme wear due to things like over-reving the engine or "racing" it. It's likely a sign an individual did not take proper care of their car. It should be noted however that having a top end rebuilt can in circumstances simply be resultant of a proactive individual taking care of their car, but I would say this amounts to a rather miniscule set of individuals, since most all maintenance of this sort on cars tends to be reactive (people don't fix it until it's broke). Monkeyman NOV 13, 07:32 AM It's not always a sign of poor maintenance or something else on it's way out. Every vehicle has its quirks. 3rd gen Toyota Supras have great motors but are known for bad head gaskets, even if you baby the car. Four wheel drive S10s (incl. Blazers/Jimmys/etc) are known for chewing up front suspension bearings. I've had my '04 Blazer for 4 years and baby it but I've gone through 2 sets. jaskispyder NOV 13, 08:17 AM Yeah, it really depends on the model/year of car. My aztek had intake and head gaskets replaced.... it wasn't neglect, it was a poor design from GM.