Born Again

A V-12 Rolls-Royce diesel engine, nearly the size of a Smart car, sits on a support stand. Probably built about 15 years ago to power a British military fighting vehicle, it has run out of life. Within two days, it will be completely dismantled by a two-person crew, and each piece — every bolt, nut, spring and valve — will be vetted to see which ones are salvageable. Most will pass the test: 95% will be cleaned or otherwise refurbished. Then, with a handful of new parts added to the mix, the engine will be reassembled. After it's passed...

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