My last GM vehicle was a 76 Triumph Stag . My experience with one was both memorable and maddening. Not long after purchasing a used Stag, the timing chain tensioner failed, leading to serious engine damage. The dealership wasn't interested in assisting since the car was well out of warranty. Determined, I took the engine to a specialist for a rebuild. Armed with detailed documentation of the issues, I approached Triumph’s support team. Though they initially resisted, my persistence and records eventually led them to cover part of the rebuild costs, but the hassle was unforgettable.
@CookeZachery Wow, what a story! The Triumph Stag is one of those cars that can leave you both thrilled and frustrated. While not exactly a muscle car, it’s definitely a memorable piece of automotive history. Kudos to you for sticking with it and going the extra mile to fight for some compensation from Triumph’s support team. That kind of persistence is what separates true car enthusiasts from the rest! Your experience highlights why engine reliability is so crucial. This is exactly why many American muscle cars, like the legendary Chevy 350 small-block or Ford’s 302 Windsor, earned their reputation as dependable powerhouses. These engines were built to take a beating and still deliver raw, uncompromising performance. Muscle car fans, share your thoughts! Have you ever fought for a car you love, like @CookeZachery? Drop a comment, hit that like button, and subscribe for more epic muscle car stories! Have a great day
@AdelynDodson Great observation The Iron Duke truly stepped in to save the day after the Vega engine's struggles. While it wasn’t a powerhouse, its simplicity and reliability made it a solid choice for everyday drivers. The Iron Duke’s longevity in vehicles like the Pontiac Fiero and S-10 showcased its practicality. However, for muscle car fans, it wasn’t exactly what we’d call thrilling under the hood! That said, it laid the groundwork for better engineering down the line, proving that even the 'worst' engines have a role in shaping automotive history. What do you think-should we do a deep dive into GM’s engine evolution? Let us know in the comments! And if you're passionate about American muscle and classic car history, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to keep this discussion alive. Your support fuels our passion for muscle cars Wishing you a gear-grinding, tire-smoking great day
@14:50 Every Chevy V8 since 1972 had Nylon timing gears which broke and clogged the Sump! Funny how the replacements were always Steel! So I'm not surprised to hear the rest were too!
Great observation Chevy’s move to nylon timing gears in the 1970s caused a ton of headaches for owners. While they were quieter than steel gears, they didn’t hold up under the pressure of those legendary small-block and big-block V8s. Over time, the nylon teeth would break, clogging the oil sump and causing catastrophic engine damage if not caught early. It’s no surprise that steel replacements became the go-to fix for gearheads. This brings up an interesting point about the evolution of engineering choices. Lessons learned from those early failures helped shape the reliability of later Chevy V8s, like the iconic LS series. What do you think? Was it a case of cutting corners, or just experimenting with new materials? Let us know your thoughts in the comments Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more American Muscle Car history. Wishing you a great day, fellow car enthusiast
The GM Diesel 350 gets a bad rap, but it deserves context. It wasn't a gas block-though based on a gas design, it had reinforced internals for diesel use. Yes, it had issues like cracking due to its rushed development, but when tuned right, it made decent power for its era.
@doncnunez6231 Thanks for sharing your thoughts the GM Diesel 350 was a rough ride in the engine world. Designed during the gas crisis to repurpose gas blocks for diesel applications, it ended up being a noisy, underpowered engine with notorious cracking issues. It wasn’t built to handle the high compression demands of diesel, and that’s where it fell apart-literally. That said, GM bounced back later with much better diesel engines. While the 350 Diesel earns its spot on the "worst engines" list, it reminds us how trial and error shaped the car industry. What do you think? Which engine do you feel deserves the top spot on the list? Let us know in the comments If you're as passionate about American muscle cars as we are, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters. Have a great day, and keep revving that engine spirit
Thanks a ton, @josephpacchetti5997 We appreciate your subscription and support - you're officially part of the Muscle Car Masters family! It’s true, even the greats like GM, Ford, and Chrysler have had their missteps, but hey, that’s what makes the stories of these engines so fascinating. It's all part of the wild history of American cars-some engines burned rubber, and others… well, just burned out! We’d love to hear your take: which engine on the list surprised you the most, or is there one you think we missed? Let us know! Have an awesome day and keep on cruisin
Thanks for your question, @user-ie1hg5ov1m The thumbnail features the S85 because it’s a prime example of how even high-performance engines can stumble when reliability issues come into play. It’s an important part of the discussion about engines that missed the mark, even if they had promising designs or serious power. We’d love to hear your thoughts-what’s your take on the list? Got any suggestions for engines that should’ve been included? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more muscle car madness Have a great day!
Hey @robertotromba, gotta respectfully disagree, buddy. The Cologne 2.8 does have a timing chain-it’s actually a single-row chain setup. These engines might not scream big-block power, but they’re solid little V6s.
the money with that timing chain! The Cologne 2.8’s got that single-row chain, and while it’s not packing big-block muscle, it’s a reliable little engine.
@robertotromba Thanks for pointing that out the Ford Cologne 2.8 uses a timing gear, not a chain. This unique feature set it apart but also contributed to its quirks. While the engine found a home in vehicles like the Ford Capri and Mustang II, it struggled with reliability, especially as enthusiasts pushed it for more performance. Timing gears are durable, but their noise and complexity sometimes left people scratching their heads. That said, it’s part of what makes discussing these engines so fascinating-they all tell a story about engineering decisions of the past What do you think about engines that pushed boundaries but didn’t quite hit the mark? Let us know in the comments! And for more deep dives into muscle car engines and history, make sure to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Master! Thanks for being part of the community-wishing you a great day
@Trevor6264-sp1wr Thanks for your comment The 3.8L Supercharged V6 from the Thunderbird SC is indeed a remarkable engine, especially for its time. With 210-230 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque, it brought serious performance to the table in the late '80s and early '90s. Ford's engineering team really pushed the boundaries, delivering a balance of power and refinement. However, when talking about "best engines ever," muscle car fans often lean towards big V8 legends like the 426 HEMI or the Ford 428 Cobra Jet. What do you think? have a great day.
@AilaniMadden While a wet oil pump belt might raise eyebrows, it’s no design flaw-it’s part of the clever engineering for durability under high-stress conditions. Engines like this, pushing serious horsepower, balance innovation with practicality.
@AilaniMadden Great observation! That wet oil pump belt design is definitely an interesting quirk, and you're right-it can cause problems, especially in high-performance scenarios or wet conditions. For muscle cars, durability and reliability are key, and this kind of design flaw could impact performance during hard pulls or even routine driving in less-than-ideal weather. It's a reminder of how every little detail can affect these beasts of the road. For all you muscle car fans out there, what do you think about these design quirks? Have you encountered any unusual features on your rides that left you scratching your head or had to tweak for better performance? Let us know in the comments below! Remember to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more insights, history, and gearhead discussions. Stay tuned for more, and as always, wishing you an awesome day filled with roaring engines and burning rubber!
@RomanJockMCO Thanks for the comment Lincoln’s Zephyr V12 was essentially a stretched-out version of the legendary Ford Flathead V8, adding four extra cylinders. While it sounded impressive on paper, it struggled with overheating issues and maintenance headaches, making it one of the more infamous engines of its time. That said, it’s still a fascinating piece of automotive history-an attempt to bring V12 luxury to the masses during the pre-war era. But hey, every engine, even the "failures," has its place in the story of American car innovation. These experiments paved the way for legends like the 426 HEMI or Ford’s Boss 429. What do you think, though? Are there any other engines you’d call a “failure” but still admire for their ambition? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! And don’t forget to share this video with fellow gearheads and subscribe to explore more American Muscle history. Have a great day
@dhass1776 The VW 1.8T is cool for what it is, but let’s be real-American muscle is where the heart beats stronger. Take the 426 HEMI or the Ford 428 Cobra Jet, both pumping out over 400 hp stock.
@dhass1776 Thanks for sharing your experience with the VW 1.8T! It’s great to hear that with proper maintenance and timely timing belt replacements, yours has been running strong. Maintenance truly makes all the difference in keeping an engine alive, whether it’s a turbocharged 4-cylinder or a roaring American V8. Speaking of engines, nothing beats the growl of a classic American muscle car powerhouse, like the Chevy 427 or Mopar 440, delivering raw performance and unmatched soundtracks! Do you think the 1.8T could match up to one of those legends on the track? Don’t forget to subscribe, share with fellow gearheads, and explore the legacy of American Muscle Cars on our channel. Have a great day
@MikeekiM-vh5se Thanks for bringing that up The Toyota sludge issue from 1997-2011 is definitely one of the most infamous cases in engine history, affecting engines like the 2.2L 5S-FE and the 3.0L 1MZ-FE V6. Sludge buildup occurred due to poor oil circulation and maintenance challenges, leading to premature engine failure for many owners. It’s a harsh reminder of how critical proper design and maintenance are for longevity. But let’s talk American muscle - where engines are built to roar and perform! From the legendary Chevy 454 Big Block to Ford's Boss 429 and Mopar’s 426 HEMI, these beasts set the bar for durability and power when maintained properly. Got a favorite American engine that stands the test of time? Let us know in the comments Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more thrilling content. Wishing you a revved-up day, MikeekiM....
Hey @kcindc5539, thanks for chiming in The Mercury Marquis (not "Marcus") is a legendary classic from Mercury’s lineup. It's got nothing to do with anything controversial-it’s just pure American engineering! Back in the day, Mercury crafted the Marquis as a luxury cruiser with that unmistakable big-block V8 muscle. It wasn’t a tire-shredder like a Mustang or Charger, but it brought style, power, and comfort to the road. A true symbol of 1970s Americana To all our muscle car fans, drop a comment-what’s your favorite Mercury ride? The Cougar? Maybe the Comet Cyclone GT? Let’s get the conversation rolling! Don’t forget to share this video with your fellow car enthusiasts and hit that subscribe button to stay fueled up on all things muscle cars.
@@giggiddy The Iron Duke may not scream high performance, but it was no lawnmower engine. It packed 2.5L of durability, making 90-110 hp depending on the year, and powered everything from Camaros to Jeeps.
@KeithGreene-k1v Great observation The Iron Duke definitely had its share of unique quirks. While it wasn’t a powerhouse like the roaring V8s we love, it did have its own place in automotive history. The 2.5L four-cylinder was built for durability and efficiency, often used in vehicles like the Pontiac Fiero and even Jeeps. Sure, it didn’t set hearts racing like a Chevy 350 or a Ford 429, but it was reliable and kept many cars on the road through tough times. That said, it’s a far cry from the high-octane muscle we crave! Which engines or iconic rides do you think truly define the muscle car era? Let’s hear your thoughts Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to keep the American Muscle legacy alive. And hey, tag a fellow car enthusiast who loves the classics have a good day.
My last GM vehicle was a 76 Triumph Stag . My experience with one was both memorable and maddening. Not long after purchasing a used Stag, the timing chain tensioner failed, leading to serious engine damage. The dealership wasn't interested in assisting since the car was well out of warranty. Determined, I took the engine to a specialist for a rebuild. Armed with detailed documentation of the issues, I approached Triumph’s support team. Though they initially resisted, my persistence and records eventually led them to cover part of the rebuild costs, but the hassle was unforgettable.
@CookeZachery
Wow, what a story! The Triumph Stag is one of those cars that can leave you both thrilled and frustrated. While not exactly a muscle car, it’s definitely a memorable piece of automotive history. Kudos to you for sticking with it and going the extra mile to fight for some compensation from Triumph’s support team. That kind of persistence is what separates true car enthusiasts from the rest!
Your experience highlights why engine reliability is so crucial. This is exactly why many American muscle cars, like the legendary Chevy 350 small-block or Ford’s 302 Windsor, earned their reputation as dependable powerhouses. These engines were built to take a beating and still deliver raw, uncompromising performance.
Muscle car fans, share your thoughts! Have you ever fought for a car you love, like @CookeZachery? Drop a comment, hit that like button, and subscribe for more epic muscle car stories! Have a great day
The Iron Duke earned its reputation for reliability mainly because it replaced the problematic Vega engine, making it a better option by comparison.
@AdelynDodson Great observation
The Iron Duke truly stepped in to save the day after the Vega engine's struggles. While it wasn’t a powerhouse, its simplicity and reliability made it a solid choice for everyday drivers. The Iron Duke’s longevity in vehicles like the Pontiac Fiero and S-10 showcased its practicality. However, for muscle car fans, it wasn’t exactly what we’d call thrilling under the hood! That said, it laid the groundwork for better engineering down the line, proving that even the 'worst' engines have a role in shaping automotive history. What do you think-should we do a deep dive into GM’s engine evolution? Let us know in the comments! And if you're passionate about American muscle and classic car history, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to keep this discussion alive.
Your support fuels our passion for muscle cars
Wishing you a gear-grinding, tire-smoking great day
@14:50 Every Chevy V8 since 1972 had Nylon timing gears which broke and clogged the Sump! Funny how the replacements were always Steel! So I'm not surprised to hear the rest were too!
Great observation
Chevy’s move to nylon timing gears in the 1970s caused a ton of headaches for owners. While they were quieter than steel gears, they didn’t hold up under the pressure of those legendary small-block and big-block V8s. Over time, the nylon teeth would break, clogging the oil sump and causing catastrophic engine damage if not caught early. It’s no surprise that steel replacements became the go-to fix for gearheads.
This brings up an interesting point about the evolution of engineering choices. Lessons learned from those early failures helped shape the reliability of later Chevy V8s, like the iconic LS series. What do you think? Was it a case of cutting corners, or just experimenting with new materials? Let us know your thoughts in the comments
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more American Muscle Car history.
Wishing you a great day, fellow car enthusiast
GM Diesel 350, Gas block and pistons for diesel application, crack block and pistons, noisy, no power !!
The GM Diesel 350 gets a bad rap, but it deserves context. It wasn't a gas block-though based on a gas design, it had reinforced internals for diesel use. Yes, it had issues like cracking due to its rushed development, but when tuned right, it made decent power for its era.
@doncnunez6231 Thanks for sharing your thoughts
the GM Diesel 350 was a rough ride in the engine world. Designed during the gas crisis to repurpose gas blocks for diesel applications, it ended up being a noisy, underpowered engine with notorious cracking issues. It wasn’t built to handle the high compression demands of diesel, and that’s where it fell apart-literally.
That said, GM bounced back later with much better diesel engines. While the 350 Diesel earns its spot on the "worst engines" list, it reminds us how trial and error shaped the car industry. What do you think? Which engine do you feel deserves the top spot on the list? Let us know in the comments
If you're as passionate about American muscle cars as we are, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters. Have a great day, and keep revving that engine spirit
Thank's for posting, Already Subscribed. 👍🇮🇹 🇺🇸
Thanks a ton, @josephpacchetti5997
We appreciate your subscription and support - you're officially part of the Muscle Car Masters family! It’s true, even the greats like GM, Ford, and Chrysler have had their missteps, but hey, that’s what makes the stories of these engines so fascinating. It's all part of the wild history of American cars-some engines burned rubber, and others… well, just burned out!
We’d love to hear your take: which engine on the list surprised you the most, or is there one you think we missed? Let us know!
Have an awesome day and keep on cruisin
Why is the thumbnail an S85?
Thanks for your question, @user-ie1hg5ov1m
The thumbnail features the S85 because it’s a prime example of how even high-performance engines can stumble when reliability issues come into play. It’s an important part of the discussion about engines that missed the mark, even if they had promising designs or serious power.
We’d love to hear your thoughts-what’s your take on the list? Got any suggestions for engines that should’ve been included? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more muscle car madness
Have a great day!
The colonge 2.8 dont have a timing chain. 🤷
Hey @robertotromba, gotta respectfully disagree, buddy. The Cologne 2.8 does have a timing chain-it’s actually a single-row chain setup. These engines might not scream big-block power, but they’re solid little V6s.
the money with that timing chain! The Cologne 2.8’s got that single-row chain, and while it’s not packing big-block muscle, it’s a reliable little engine.
@robertotromba Thanks for pointing that out
the Ford Cologne 2.8 uses a timing gear, not a chain. This unique feature set it apart but also contributed to its quirks. While the engine found a home in vehicles like the Ford Capri and Mustang II, it struggled with reliability, especially as enthusiasts pushed it for more performance. Timing gears are durable, but their noise and complexity sometimes left people scratching their heads. That said, it’s part of what makes discussing these engines so fascinating-they all tell a story about engineering decisions of the past
What do you think about engines that pushed boundaries but didn’t quite hit the mark? Let us know in the comments! And for more deep dives into muscle car engines and history, make sure to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Master! Thanks for being part of the community-wishing you a great day
I don't know where you're getting the information 3.8 thunder bird sc , is one of the best engine ever made
@Trevor6264-sp1wr Thanks for your comment
The 3.8L Supercharged V6 from the Thunderbird SC is indeed a remarkable engine, especially for its time. With 210-230 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque, it brought serious performance to the table in the late '80s and early '90s. Ford's engineering team really pushed the boundaries, delivering a balance of power and refinement.
However, when talking about "best engines ever," muscle car fans often lean towards big V8 legends like the 426 HEMI or the Ford 428 Cobra Jet. What do you think?
have a great day.
A wet oil pump belt highlights an unusual design flaw that could lead to issues under certain conditions.
@AilaniMadden While a wet oil pump belt might raise eyebrows, it’s no design flaw-it’s part of the clever engineering for durability under high-stress conditions. Engines like this, pushing serious horsepower, balance innovation with practicality.
@AilaniMadden
Great observation! That wet oil pump belt design is definitely an interesting quirk, and you're right-it can cause problems, especially in high-performance scenarios or wet conditions. For muscle cars, durability and reliability are key, and this kind of design flaw could impact performance during hard pulls or even routine driving in less-than-ideal weather. It's a reminder of how every little detail can affect these beasts of the road.
For all you muscle car fans out there, what do you think about these design quirks? Have you encountered any unusual features on your rides that left you scratching your head or had to tweak for better performance? Let us know in the comments below!
Remember to like, share, and subscribe to American Muscle Cars for more insights, history, and gearhead discussions. Stay tuned for more, and as always, wishing you an awesome day filled with roaring engines and burning rubber!
The Zephyr V12 was essentially a Ford flathead V8 with FOUR extra cylinders.
@RomanJockMCO Thanks for the comment
Lincoln’s Zephyr V12 was essentially a stretched-out version of the legendary Ford Flathead V8, adding four extra cylinders. While it sounded impressive on paper, it struggled with overheating issues and maintenance headaches, making it one of the more infamous engines of its time. That said, it’s still a fascinating piece of automotive history-an attempt to bring V12 luxury to the masses during the pre-war era.
But hey, every engine, even the "failures," has its place in the story of American car innovation. These experiments paved the way for legends like the 426 HEMI or Ford’s Boss 429. What do you think, though? Are there any other engines you’d call a “failure” but still admire for their ambition?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments! And don’t forget to share this video with fellow gearheads and subscribe to explore more American Muscle history.
Have a great day
@@MuscleCarMasters68 I know. Your video said two extra cylinders. I was making the correction. Thank you for making it
@@RomanJockMCO thank you so much
have a good day, hope to see you next time.
Seems like the choices of engines and this discussion is more to do exactly that bring discussion.
Vw 1.8t is an awesome engine, on time maintenance keeps mine going, and timing belts every 80k or so.
@dhass1776
The VW 1.8T is cool for what it is, but let’s be real-American muscle is where the heart beats stronger. Take the 426 HEMI or the Ford 428 Cobra Jet, both pumping out over 400 hp stock.
@dhass1776 Thanks for sharing your experience with the VW 1.8T! It’s great to hear that with proper maintenance and timely timing belt replacements, yours has been running strong. Maintenance truly makes all the difference in keeping an engine alive, whether it’s a turbocharged 4-cylinder or a roaring American V8.
Speaking of engines, nothing beats the growl of a classic American muscle car powerhouse, like the Chevy 427 or Mopar 440, delivering raw performance and unmatched soundtracks! Do you think the 1.8T could match up to one of those legends on the track?
Don’t forget to subscribe, share with fellow gearheads, and explore the legacy of American Muscle Cars on our channel.
Have a great day
Where is the Toyota engine thats had a major sludge issue from 1997-2011? Worlds worst case of engine sludge!
@MikeekiM-vh5se Thanks for bringing that up
The Toyota sludge issue from 1997-2011 is definitely one of the most infamous cases in engine history, affecting engines like the 2.2L 5S-FE and the 3.0L 1MZ-FE V6. Sludge buildup occurred due to poor oil circulation and maintenance challenges, leading to premature engine failure for many owners. It’s a harsh reminder of how critical proper design and maintenance are for longevity.
But let’s talk American muscle - where engines are built to roar and perform! From the legendary Chevy 454 Big Block to Ford's Boss 429 and Mopar’s 426 HEMI, these beasts set the bar for durability and power when maintained properly. Got a favorite American engine that stands the test of time? Let us know in the comments
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to Muscle Car Masters for more thrilling content.
Wishing you a revved-up day, MikeekiM....
I don’t know, but the “Mercury Marcus” sounds vaguely racist
Hey @kcindc5539, thanks for chiming in
The Mercury Marquis (not "Marcus") is a legendary classic from Mercury’s lineup. It's got nothing to do with anything controversial-it’s just pure American engineering! Back in the day, Mercury crafted the Marquis as a luxury cruiser with that unmistakable big-block V8 muscle. It wasn’t a tire-shredder like a Mustang or Charger, but it brought style, power, and comfort to the road. A true symbol of 1970s Americana
To all our muscle car fans, drop a comment-what’s your favorite Mercury ride? The Cougar? Maybe the Comet Cyclone GT? Let’s get the conversation rolling! Don’t forget to share this video with your fellow car enthusiasts and hit that subscribe button to stay fueled up on all things muscle cars.
The Iron Duke's design often drew comparisons to small-engine manufacturers like Briggs and Stratton, rather than a major automaker
Lololo😂
@@giggiddy The Iron Duke may not scream high performance, but it was no lawnmower engine. It packed 2.5L of durability, making 90-110 hp depending on the year, and powered everything from Camaros to Jeeps.
@KeithGreene-k1v Great observation
The Iron Duke definitely had its share of unique quirks. While it wasn’t a powerhouse like the roaring V8s we love, it did have its own place in automotive history. The 2.5L four-cylinder was built for durability and efficiency, often used in vehicles like the Pontiac Fiero and even Jeeps. Sure, it didn’t set hearts racing like a Chevy 350 or a Ford 429, but it was reliable and kept many cars on the road through tough times.
That said, it’s a far cry from the high-octane muscle we crave! Which engines or iconic rides do you think truly define the muscle car era? Let’s hear your thoughts
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to keep the American Muscle legacy alive. And hey, tag a fellow car enthusiast who loves the classics
have a good day.
It was 1/2 of a 305. Used the same pistons, rods