If you believed Walmart had it all, well, it seems like it’s striving a bit too vigorously to validate that notion. The gigantic retail giant is significantly ramping up its competitive edge against Amazon by introducing an array of online offerings. Among these options are home furnishings, electronics, clothing, and, wait for it, 9.4-liter V8 crate engines from Chevy. Plus, they offer free holiday returns until the end of January, so if your child isn’t a fan, you’re covered.
To clarify, these 572-cubic-inch big-block engines, alongside the various other crate engines available on Walmart’s website, aren’t physically stocked on shelves inside your nearby Walmart store awaiting your purchase. Much like Amazon’s model, numerous smaller retailers leverage these platforms to showcase and sell their products, with the responsibility of order fulfillment typically falling on those sellers. Therefore, while it may appear that Walmart sells big-block 598s, 396s, and Ford’s 5.0-liter Coyote engines, it’s actually various third-party vendors managing these transactions rather than Walmart itself.
Walmart
That being said, Walmart’s website does boast an extensive array of crate engines and performance parts, regardless of their physical availability for in-store pickup. From a diverse selection of Chevy small-block crate engines to superchargers from Edelbrock and even $500 “universal” turbo kits, they seem to have it all. The product range extends to include more common components like wheel bearings, filters, spark plugs, and batteries—covering a wide spectrum of automotive needs.
Among the pricier options discovered was the BluePrint Engines 598CI BBC Stroker Crate Engine, priced at $25,595, complete with a 4L80E automatic transmission and complimentary shipping. Alternatively, an equally enticing offer presents itself in the form of a fully-equipped 5.0-liter Coyote engine, paired with a contemporary 10-speed automatic transmission, for $25,434. However, my personal preference would sway towards BluePrint’s 427CI ProSeries Stroker model, priced at $25,099, with its seven liters of sheer power just beckoning to be unleashed.
Walmart
As suggested by their title “crate motors,” these units won’t be handed off by a fatigued delivery person pulling up in a UPS van. Instead, they arrive securely packed in bulky wooden crates, leaving you to manage the logistics of receiving and unboxing them at your doorstep.
Naturally, this narrative wouldn’t be complete without highlighting the most budget-friendly crate motor available through the retailer. Among the fully-equipped long blocks equipped with accessories, BluePrint’s $6,369 “350 Cruiser” crate engine takes the crown. While it may not be the most exceptional choice, it certainly provides a unique conversation starter—imagine telling your pals you snagged it from Walmart.
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