Holden 186 restoration

Holden 186 Engine Restoration – A Tribute Project

This project began with a seized and rusted Holden 186 engine, left forgotten and immobile. Armed with only basic tools, determination, and plenty of WD-40, a team of young men—many of whom had never worked on an engine before—took on the challenge to bring it back to life. Over 100 hours were poured into this restoration, learning as we went and rebuilding every component by hand.

This engine isn't just a mechanical rebuild—it’s a symbol of connection, growth, and resilience. The project was built around a tight-knit group of school-age boys and myself, driven by the memory of a close friend we sadly lost to mental health during the build. His loss became a turning point that gave our efforts deeper purpose.

The finished engine represents more than horsepower—it’s a tribute to mateship, learning through hard work, and speaking up when times are tough. That’s why the rocker cover proudly reads "It Ain't Weak to Speak."

What started as a seized motor turned into a meaningful journey, uniting a team through mechanical challenges and emotional healing.

We hope you enjoy us sharing our story and project!