The engine machine work most shops can't do. Tom Carter has been doing it right — cylinder heads, blocks, cranks, rebuilds — for 21 years in Hayden.
Complete engine rebuild from the ground up. Tom does the work most shops can't — or won't. The kind of machinist work dealers tell you doesn't exist anymore.
Valve seat machining, head resurfacing, and full reconditioning to restore compression and seal integrity to exact tolerances.
Cylinder boring, honing, and block machining. Factory tolerances, not close-enough tolerances.
Precision crankshaft grinding and polishing to restore journal geometry and surface finish for maximum bearing life.
Full rotating assembly balancing — pistons, rods, crank — for smooth power and reduced vibration at all RPMs.
Custom performance builds for trucks, muscle cars, and anything that needs more than stock output. Blueprinted, balanced, built right.
Carter's Automotive is Tom Carter — a machinist who still does the work that most shops outsource or turn away. Engine rebuilding. Cylinder head work. Block machining. The kind of precision craftsmanship customers drive from across North Idaho to find.
Tom has been at it since 2004 and every review says the same thing: he knows what he's doing, he's fair, and he takes pride in his work. When the dealer says "replace the engine," Tom says "let's fix it."
"All I have to say is I wish Tom was younger again so he could provide his quality work for another 20 years, he knows what he is doing and does an excellent work. I learned about Carter's through friends that swore by him and how he knew the lost art of engine machine work. Tom showed me around the shop and the processes he provides to the public. I would definitely recommend Carter's automotive and even if there was a wait it will be worth it for the experience he has. I give 5 stars to Tom of Carter's Automotive because I am a builder and know what to expect from engine machining. Well done Tom and thank you."Corey Canzoneri — Google Review
"Tom is very professional and awesome to deal with. Very fair and knowledgeable. I have used his services for many of my customers needs as well as my own."
James Weaver"Locally owned and operated. Best machine shop in town!! Excellent work from a guy that knows what he's doing!! Thank you Tom!!"
Sarah Rasmussen"He did a great job and was awesome to work with. I will continue to work with him for my engine machining needs. He's very knowledgeable and takes pride in his work."
Ed HunterSend a request and Tom will confirm by phone — usually same day. Or just call direct.