Engine assembly is almost the best therapy when it comes to hot rodding. To see something like this at the production level is extremely satisfying. BluePrint Engines is an industry leader when it comes to crate engines for your hot rod. Their state-of-the-art facility in Kearney, Nebraska, is a sprawling 260,000 square-foot complex is a horsepower enthusiast's dream destination. Their mission is simple: Affordable, reliable horsepower that you can drive every day. Impeccable horsepower that you can feel the moment you grip the wheel. The kind of horsepower that makes you eager to get outside and get your foot on the pedal.
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WatchEngineering & Design Excellence
Blueprint Engines takes pride in developing the majority of its core components entirely in-house, including engine blocks, cylinder heads, rotating assemblies, coil packs, and valve covers. By designing and refining these parts themselves, often with the help of 3D-printed prototypes, they’re able to test fitment, optimize airflow, strengthen structural areas, and improve coolant efficiency long before components ever go into production. This hands-on engineering approach not only increases performance but ensures tighter quality control and consistency across every engine built.
Research & Development
The facility features a dedicated R&D section equipped with three engineering dyno cells, specifically designed to test new platforms and prototypes. This is where Blueprint pushes engines to their absolute limits, often intentionally to the point of failure, to identify weaknesses and refine designs. New engines, such as the 632 multi-port fuel-injected big block and next-generation Hemi applications, undergo rigorous testing cycles here. The team has even pushed some engines so hard during R&D that they’ve exceeded the dyno’s capabilities, a testament to their commitment to innovation and durability.
Block Machining, Prep & Paint
Every block begins as a raw casting and goes through a detailed machining process to achieve Blueprint’s tight tolerances. CNC machining, final honing, bore inspection, and line prep are meticulously documented, with every technician signing off on the work performed. After machining, blocks are thoroughly washed to remove debris and contaminants, then prepped for the assembly line. Some blocks are also painted in-house, adding customization options such as signature orange finishes.
Assembly Line Workflow
Blueprint’s assembly process follows a true production-style workflow, designed for consistency and efficiency. Blocks move step-by-step through the line, receiving freeze plugs, rotating assemblies, main bearings, timing components, tinware, and oil pans to form a complete short block. All crankshafts and rotating assemblies are balanced in-house, ensuring reliability and smooth performance. The flow is engineered to maintain high output without sacrificing precision.
Cylinder Head Department
Cylinder heads begin as raw foundry castings before undergoing Blueprint’s machining and assembly procedures. Skilled technicians machine the seats, guides, and surfaces, then prepare and install the complete valvetrain, including valves, springs, seals, and retainers. After inspection and cleaning, the finished heads loop back into the main assembly line to be installed on the engine. This in-house process allows for improved quality control and optimized performance characteristics.
Long-Block Completion & Accessories
Once cylinder heads are installed, engines move into the final long-block assembly, where external accessories are added based on customer needs. This includes valve covers, intake manifolds, carbs or EFI systems, front drives, air cleaners, and other add-ons. Engines are meticulously staged with paperwork that identifies each required component, ensuring accuracy at every build level. Even engines sold as long-blocks are fully staged for testing before moving to the dyno section.
Dyno Testing for Every Engine
Every single engine built at Blueprint, regardless of configuration, goes through a full dyno test before being approved for shipment. In the four production dyno cells, technicians perform break-in runs, timing adjustments, tuning, and three full power pulls at 3,000, 5,000, and 6,300 RPM. Customers receive a printed dyno sheet showing horsepower and torque results. Blueprint guarantees each engine will meet or exceed its published power rating, providing confidence and transparency for every buyer.
Reliability & Warranty
Despite being hand-built machines with thousands of moving parts, Blueprint engines maintain an exceptionally low failure rate, typically under 2%. To protect customers, every engine is backed by a 30-month, 50,000-mile warranty. Engines returned for issues undergo a complete teardown to identify the root cause and ensure the customer receives proper support. This commitment to reliability reflects Blueprint’s dedication to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.
State-of-the-Art Automated CNC Machining
One of the most impressive areas in the facility is the fully automated 12-machine CNC line. Each raw block is transported by robotic carts along a track system, stored until needed, and then automatically loaded into machining centers with zero human handling. These machines swap tooling bits, cut passages, bore cylinders, drill bolt holes, and remove 40–50 pounds of raw material from each casting. Automation ensures incredible consistency and speed while maintaining high precision.
Crating & Warehouse
After dyno testing and final inspection, the engines are moved to the crating area, where they are securely packaged for shipping. The massive warehouse stores hundreds of finished engines stacked floor-to-ceiling, ready to ship nationwide. Engines are delivered in fully protected crates with liftgate service, allowing customers to easily unload and install their new power plants. This organized staging ensures fast turnaround times for orders of all sizes.
Drivetrain Packages
Beyond standalone engines, Blueprint also offers complete, drop-in drivetrain packages for kit car manufacturers, such as Factory Five. These packages include the engine, transmission, clutch, bellhousing, throwout bearing, front-drive system, and all accessories already installed and tested. This plug-and-play approach provides builders with a turnkey solution that arrives dyno-tested, assembled, and ready to be installed directly into their project with minimal effort.
Blueprint Engines combines precision, innovation, and quality at every step, from design and machining to dyno testing and final assembly. Every engine is built for performance, reliability, and peace of mind, making them a trusted choice for enthusiasts and builders alike!
