Vastan Tchokoev
5 Oct 2024
I paid approximately $2000 in labor for Eagle Automotive & Transmission to replace the head on my 2001 Jeep Wrangler 4.0 L6. I provided all the parts for the job including coolant and break-in lube and oil. Within the first few miles of Eagle Automotive & Transmission completing the work, I heard a knocking noise coming from the engine. I immediately returned the vehicle to Eagle Automotive & Transmission for diagnosis, and they showed me that one of the number 6 rocker arms was not moving and they diagnosed it as a collapsed lifter. Since I supplied the parts (SBI – OEM Cylinder Head Components), Eagle Automotive & Transmission would not warranty their work. Over the past month, I was finally able to completely disassemble the engine and verify the problem. The lifter was not collapsed but was improperly installed. In addition, the work performed was very poor based on the following observations:
1) Lifter was not collapsed but instead showed signs of improper break-in (i.e. no break-in lube applied, oil pump not primed before starting engine, etc.) that resulted in premature wear and damage of the bottom of the flat tappet lifter where it contacts the cam lobe. See pic.
2) Failed to install all original exhaust manifold bolts. See pic.
3) Did not install the new exhaust manifold bolts provided.
4) Failed to install all four alternator mounting bracket bolts that secure it to the engine block.
5) Did not apply thread sealant on the number 11 Engine Cylinder Head bolt that passes through the water jacket.
6) Did not fill the radiator with the HOAT Antifreeze Coolant that I provided. Instead, Eagle Automotive & Transmission used regular tap water that caused premature internal rust of a brand-new engine head assembly and radiator.
7) Attached secondary electric cooling fan to a new AC condenser coil resulting in many of the fins becoming damaged due to improper installation.
8) Improper installation of the valve cover which resulted in at least one rubber bushing finding its way into the upper head assembly, leading to major oil leaks around the parameter of the valve cover.
9) Damaged new heat shield covering the exhaust manifold that shields the fuel injectors.
This was certainly not the quality of work that I expected after Eagle Automotive & Transmission seemed to do a good job of rebuilding the three-speed automatic (32RH) for the same vehicle only a few months earlier. In summary, I am very disappointed in the quality of work from Eagle Transmission for the $2000 in labor spent. Ultimately, I had to fix everything myself in addition to new parts and fluids that cost me an additional $1K. I have pictures and receipts to back up all my points listed above.