Southeast Cylinder Head – About Us

cylinder head repair

Rule # 1: Keep All Promises To Our Customers

Rule # 2: Always Remember Rule # 1

Someone once said, “If you’re not the best solution for your ideal customer, you shouldn’t be in that business”.  We can’t be all things to all people. What we can do is a great job repairing cylinder heads for cars, motorcycles, trucks, and more. We also shop various suppliers for the best price on gaskets, valves, springs, engine parts etc. We can do this in a matter of seconds with our computerized technology. All of these parts can be acquired via next day delivery, usually at no additional cost to you.

Our History

1971
Humble Beginnings
I started building and repairing cylinder heads in 1971 under a shed roof in the back of a gas station that my father owned. In 1981, we sold the gas station and I started a cylinder head company in downtown Orlando with a partner (my accountant), myself, my brother-in-law, and a high school drop out.
1986
Things Take Off
By 1986 we were building engines. In 1991 we opened an engine installation center. Our staff grew to 50 employees and we occupied a 32,000 sq. ft. building.
1996
Challenges
My first setback was when my partner died in 1996. In August of 2004, Hurricane Charley shut down half of our business and my brother who worked with me since 1997 decided he had done this long enough and wanted out.
2005
Can’t Stay Away!
I sold the company in 2005 and I have regretted that decision ever since. This is why I decided to open this cylinder head company. It was my beginning, my passion and always my favorite line of work.

Our Philosophy

Probably the thing I am proudest of is when we sold in December, 2005; my employees had been with me an average of 14 years 7 months. Two of these loyal employees worked for me for over 20 years. They understood that you, the customer, mean everything. If we do not do what we promise, you will take your business elsewhere. That’s not to say that we cannot make a mistake, but it’s how we handle mistakes that makes the difference.

Because of this philosophy towards impeccable customer service, I created the Lifetime Warranty on our reconditioned and new cylinder heads:

  • If you decide to use us for the first time, my staff and I will do everything we can to exceed your expectations.
  • If you are a repeat customer, we will continue to look for new and better ways to make the next visit better than the first.

Whether you’re a new or repeat customer, both my staff and I thank you for your business.
-John Lantry

Testimonials

  • Any work that I need in the future will definitely come to you.

    — Bobby Bowers
    John, thank you and your staff for the wonderful job you did on my 6.0 cylinder heads. My mechanic thought they looked absolutely wonderful. We're still working on the tunes. The truck runs wonderfully; it makes lots of power. I'm glad that I chose you guys to do my work. Just a little information: here in Virginia, we have had temperatures this winter of -8 degrees and, within 24 hours, 60 degrees. Wow, those cylinder heads will take that. Hopefully they'll stay there for a long time. Any work that I need in the future will definitely come to you. The shipping charges are a small price to pay for such quality work.

  • You Know Your Stuff

    — Wayde
    John, I have to say I have talked to a lot of people in regards to this and you have been the most helpful so far. I can tell by talking to you that you know your stuff. Thanks so much.

  • Knowledge, honesty and workmanship is what describes John

    — M.A, Winter Park, Florida
    I met John after looking high and low for someone that could honestly handle the rebuild of my vintage 327 Chevy engine. After speaking to several ‘shops’ in the area I was very discouraged because of the lack of professionalism and the wide range of pricing. My experience with John changed all of that though. He is extremely knowledgeable about all engines and their repair. He was especially knowledgeable about my engine and guided me through what was worth spending money on and what was not. In the end, my job was done on time and within our agreed to budget. Knowledge, honesty and workmanship is what describes John. I would have no hesitation referring anyone to him.

  • He gets the job done right

    — D.C., Mount Dora, Florida
    John is very knowledgeable in the field of engine repair. My experience is that he gets the job done right. He has always been fair and honest in my 15 years of knowing him. I would highly recommend his services.

  • Always exceeded my expectations.

    — M.A., Orlando, Florida
    I have known and used John’s services for over 20 years…his work and expertise have always exceeded my expectations.

  • Exceptional Service

    — Aaron Carter, President, Aaron’s Lighting, Orlando, Florida
    I just wanted to thank you for the exceptional service I received at your shop. You guys were very informative, finished my heads right on schedule and even taught me a few “tricks of the trade”. I will use you for all of my cylinder head needs and will also refer your shop to all of my friends.