01/10/2026
We are pleased to have successfully completed the repairs on this customer's vehicle and returned it to the road. This Escalade was initially presented with a substantial oil leak, and our technician's inspection revealed that the front and rear main seals had been compromised. Further examination, including the removal of the oil pan, exposed a significant amount of debris, indicating a failed bearing. We communicated our findings to the customer, who was understandably surprised, given that the engine had been previously rebuilt. However, our subsequent disassembly and inspection of the engine revealed a crankshaft with 0.040 endplay, which had caused premature wear on the thrust bearing, leading to the counterweight on the crankshaft to grind against the main caps. Moreover, we discovered that the block's starter mounting area had been broken and welded back together, suggesting that this was not the vehicle's original engine. It appears that the 'rebuilt engine' the customer had paid for was, in fact, a salvage yard engine from a severely damaged vehicle, which had suffered significant damage to the block and crankshaft. The newly installed thrust bearing had failed within a year, causing the bearings to become dislodged. Fortunately, we have been able to provide the customer with a new engine, complemented by Brian Tooley upgrades and a Circle D triple disc converter. This experience serves as a cautionary tale for individuals seeking repairs from other shops. It is essential to ensure that the service provider can and will stand behind their work. If they are unwilling or unable to do so, it is advisable to seek alternative options, as they may prioritize profits over quality and customer satisfaction. At Wideopen Performance and Automotive, we differentiate ourselves from other shops by providing high-quality work that we can confidently stand behind. Our commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction sets us apart, and we encourage those seeking superior service to choose us for their automotive needs.