Crankshaft Blank vs Machined Crankshaft: Which Option Is Right for You?

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Understand the differences between crankshaft blanks and fully machined crankshafts. Compare cost, lead time, and suitability for your engine build. Request a quote today.

Introduction: Choosing Between a Crankshaft Blank and a Finished Crankshaft

When sourcing a crankshaft, one of the first decisions is whether to select a crankshaft blank (raw and unprocessed) or a machined crankshaft (fully finished and ready to install). This choice affects cost, delivery times, customization, and engine performance.

For OEMs, engine rebuilders, or aftermarket distributors, knowing these differences is crucial for making informed procurement decisions.

What Is a Crankshaft Blank?

A crankshaft blank is the unmachined form of a crankshaft, typically produced through forging or billet cutting. It has the basic shape of the crankshaft but lacks precision machining, polished journals, drilled oil passages, and surface hardening.

Manufacturing Overview

• Forged blanks: Have aligned grain structure for added strength

• Billet blanks: Solid steel, offering flexibility for custom builds

• Both types require full machining and finishing before installation

Features of Crankshaft Blanks

• Bearing journals are unmachined

• No oil holes or chamfers

• No heat-treated surfaces

• Must undergo complete machining prior to use

Who Should Consider a Crankshaft Blank?

• Builders of custom or performance engines

• Shops with access to precision machining capabilities

• Those wanting special alloy or billet options

• Projects that can allow extra time for machining and finishing

Internal Links:

• Learn more about how blanks are machined and finished

• Explore our crankshaft products for blanks

What Is a Machined Crankshaft?

A machined crankshaft has been fully processed, including grinding, polishing, balancing, and heat treatment. It is ready to install and meets precise tolerances required for smooth engine operation.

Features of Machined Crankshafts

• Accurate and polished bearing journals

• Drilled and chamfered oil holes

• Hardened surfaces for durability

• Dynamically balanced to reduce vibration

Who Should Choose a Machined Crankshaft?

• Those seeking a ready-to-use solution for standard engines

• Buyers who prioritize fast delivery without additional machining

• Users who require proven durability and precision

• Projects that demand reliability with minimal setup

Comparing Cost and Lead Time

Understanding price and delivery differences allows buyers to make smarter procurement decisions. Material choice can significantly affect cost and durability; read more in our material selection guide and see how design impacts lead times in our custom crankshaft design guide.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Crankshaft Blank

Pros:

• Highly customizable

• Lower initial cost

• Flexible alloy selection

Cons:

• Requires professional machining

• Longer production timeline

• Additional heat treatment costs

Machined Crankshaft

Pros:

• Immediate installation

• Precisely machined and balanced

• Hardened surfaces for longevity

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost

• Limited customization

How to Decide Between a Blank and a Machined Crankshaft

Choose a Crankshaft Blank if:

• Your project requires custom journal sizes, strokes, or counterweight configurations

• You have access to skilled machining (see our machining capabilities)

• You can handle additional time and cost for finishing

Choose a Machined Crankshaft if:

• You want a ready-to-use crankshaft

• Your engine is standard or OEM-compatible

• You prefer proven durability and balance (see our quality control process)

Tip for B2B buyers: blanks offer flexibility and potential cost savings, while machined crankshafts reduce risk and save lead time. For advice on selecting a reliable supplier, check how to choose the right crankshaft supplier.

Take Action: Request a Quote

Ready to source crankshafts for your engine project?

• Get a quote for custom crankshaft blanks suited to your machining setup (learn more)

• Explore machined crankshafts ready for immediate installation (learn more)

Our team can recommend the best option for your engine build and provide delivery schedules tailored to your project needs.