Warranty & Returns

When returning a core engine after receiving a remanufactured unit, mark the return number clearly on the box before shipping. SBT recommends sending the engine assembled (not disassembled into loose parts) so it ships as a single unit and is less likely to be damaged in transit — it doesn't need to be torqued to spec, just held together enough to move as one piece.

For a warranty return specifically (for example, a catastrophic failure like a piston through the block), write the claim number on three sides of the box. Do not disassemble the motor before sending it back, as disassembly voids the warranty. Remove all external accessories and ancillary parts before shipping, and be aware that those parts will not be returned. Either way, you can ship back via the carrier of your choice using ground service.

If there is any question about whether a damaged core will be accepted — such as a cracked or holed block — contact SBT with a photo before shipping. SBT can assess to the best of their ability whether the core qualifies. See the product page for current pricing and core exchange details.

The 1-year no-fault warranty (40- series) covers the engine regardless of the failure cause, with the exception of racing use, rental operations, or owner disassembly. The installation gasket kit is sold separately with this option.

The 2-year no-fault warranty (P40- series) provides the same no-fault coverage for an additional year and typically bundles the installation gasket kit — and on some models, a quart of break-in oil — with the engine. Neither tier carries an hour limit.

Short blocks and component exchanges (such as head exchanges) are generally covered by a manufacturer's defect warranty rather than no-fault coverage, because SBT does not control final assembly of the complete powerplant. Check the specific product page for the warranty tier that applies to the part you are purchasing.

The core standard SBT applies consistently across engine families is structural integrity: the block and mating surfaces must have no cracks and no holes punched through. Common failure conditions — blown head gaskets, over-bored cylinders, worn or scored pistons, damaged rods — fall within what SBT considers rebuildable and will not disqualify a core. Over-bored cylinders are specifically fine; they are re-sleeved as part of the remanufacturing process.

The one condition that is explicitly not acceptable is a ported cylinder. Porting removes material from the cylinder in a way that cannot be corrected during the reman process, so a core in that condition cannot be accepted.

If there is any question about a specific engine's condition before shipping, contact SBT before sending the core. Some applications require that certain parts be removed prior to return, and confirming details in advance avoids delays. See the product page for core charge amounts and return deadlines, as these vary by application.

For a warranty return, strip the engine of its externals: intake and exhaust manifolds and studs, all electrical components and sensors, PTO coupler, flywheel, oil cooler, oil pan and pump, and any other bolt-on accessories. The engine should go back bare, similar to how it looked when SBT shipped it. Any extra parts left on the engine will not be returned.

Do not disassemble the engine internally (no splitting cases, removing pistons, rods, bearings, etc.). Internal disassembly voids the warranty claim. If the engine suffered a catastrophic failure such as a piston exiting the block, no replacement core is required — the damaged engine itself is what comes back.

Write your warranty claim number clearly on at least three sides of the shipping box before sending. One-way return shipping and any labor costs are not covered under the warranty policy. Ship ground via a carrier of your choice to the address on the warranty claim paperwork.