Downloadable PDF Guides

Engine Build Guides —
From a Builder Who's Done It

Step-by-step checklists, parts lists, and specs for your next build. No fluff. No theory. Just the working documents Michael uses on real rebuilds.

MC
Written by Michael Collins
★ Combat Veteran · Mopar Specialist · 20+ Years
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Mopar Small Block · 318 LA

Mopar 318 Rebuild Guide — Complete Build Manual

Three build tiers from a clean stock refresh to a hot street 318. Every torque spec, clearance, and parts decision Michael makes on a real rebuild — in one document you can take to the shop.

  • 3 build tiers: stock refresh → mild → hot street
  • Full torque specs & bearing clearances
  • Machine work checklist (bore, hone, deck)
  • Weak points & what to inspect first
  • Parts list with affiliate links (Amazon / Summit / JEGS)
  • Keep vs. replace decision guide
PDF Download
Mopar Small Block · 360 LA

Mopar 360 Rebuild Guide — Complete Build Manual

The most capable LA small block, rebuilt right. Three tiers from daily driver to serious street performance, with head options, cam selection, and the machine work sequence Michael follows on every 360.

  • 3 build tiers: stock → performance → race street
  • Full torque specs & clearances
  • Head options: stock vs. Edelbrock vs. aftermarket
  • Cam selection guide by intended use
  • Machine work checklist & common failure points
  • Parts list with affiliate links (Amazon / Summit / JEGS)
PDF Download
Mopar Big Block · 440 B-Series

Mopar 440 Rebuild Guide — Complete Build Manual

From a clean stock 440 to a 528ci stroker. Three build tiers, full stroker combo specs, and every failure point that bites 440 builders — main cap walk, siamesed bores, deck warp. Built from Michael's actual shop notes.

  • 3 tiers + stroker combos up to 528ci
  • Full torque specs, timing, & fluid specs
  • Head options: Edelbrock vs. Indy vs. Hughes
  • Weak points: main cap walk, thrust wear, deck warp
  • Machine work checklist for big block specifics
  • Parts list with affiliate links (Amazon / Summit / JEGS)
Most Complete
Cummins Diesel · All 5 Platforms

Cummins Diesel Master Rebuild & Performance Guide

The guide Cummins owners have been asking for. Covers every platform from the original 12V VE pump through the 6.7 Common Rail — teardown, machining tolerances, ring gaps by application, KDP fix, 53 block, VP44, and compound turbo setup.

  • All 5 platforms: 12V VE, 12V P-Pump, 24V VP44, 5.9 CR, 6.7 CR
  • Teardown, inspection & machining specs
  • Ring gap specs by platform & application
  • Critical failures: KDP, 53 block, VP44 death
  • Compound turbo guidance & tuning recommendations
  • Parts list with affiliate links (Amazon / Summit / JEGS)
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Written from the shop floor

These aren't textbook guides. They're the working documents from 20+ years of actual rebuilds.

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Not ready to buy? Start with our free checklist.
20 inspection items to verify before you commit to a rebuild. Michael's pre-build field notes from hundreds of builds.
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Before you buy

How do I get my guide after paying?
You'll be redirected to a download page immediately after checkout. We'll also email the download link to your address — save that email, it lets you re-download anytime.
What format are the guides?
PDF format. Works on any device — phone, tablet, laptop. Print it out and take it to the shop, or keep it open on your phone while you work.
Are these for beginners or experienced builders?
Both. The checklists and spec sheets are useful whether you're doing your first rebuild or your fiftieth — they're a reference, not a tutorial. If you need hand-holding through the process, a consultation with Michael is a better fit.
What if I have questions after reading the guide?
Email Michael directly at DieselNomadNm@gmail.com. Or book a 30-minute consultation if you want to go through the specifics of your build.
Does the Cummins guide cover my year/platform?
Yes — it covers all five: the original 12V VE pump (1989–1993), the 12V P-Pump (1994–1998), the 24V VP44 (1998–2002), the 5.9 Common Rail (2003–2007), and the 6.7 Common Rail (2007–present). Each platform gets its own teardown specs, torque sequences, and failure point section.
My engine isn't listed. Can you still help?
More guides coming. For other engines — LA series, 383, 426 Hemi, or Gen III Hemi — reach out directly or book a consultation. Michael works on a wide range beyond what's in the guides.

Want personalized advice instead?

Talk through your specific build with Michael — 30 or 60 minutes, one-on-one.

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