Remanufacturing History

Rottler Manufacturing designed and patented the first boring bar to recondition engine blocks, marking the start of engine remanufacturing. Rottler developed machines dedicated to all levels of remanufacturing performance and production, becoming the largest and most impactful equipment manufacturer in the industry.

WWII Efforts: Rebuilding and repair efforts began at organized levels during World War II as a response to shortages and rations. With new cars unavailable and parts to fix older ones scarce, remanufacturing was born out of necessity.

Post-War Expansion: The post-war boom and the creation of the interstate highway system increased the number of cars and miles traveled. Service stations and repair shops flourished, advertising "re-builds" of engines, transmissions, and other components.

OEM Recognition: Manufacturers realized that rebuilding was a critical industry need for automotive, truck, tractor, and other equipment markets. OEMs began investing in remanufacturing facilities to support dealers and equipment owners.

Michael Cardone Sr. revolutionized the remanufacturing industry by applying mass production techniques to the rebuilding of automotive parts, starting with windshield wiper motors. Before this, remanufacturing was a low-volume, technician-driven process. His innovations laid the foundation for large-scale aftermarket remanufacturing, making rebuilt parts more accessible and affordable. In recognition of his contributions, he received a Distinguished Service Citation in 1984 and was inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame in 1994.

International Harvester's Springfield ReNew Center: This facility was opened to meet the repair demands of International Harvester dealers across the U.S.

Industrialized Engine Rebuilders (PERs): By this time, production engine rebuilders were established nationwide, defined by building 75 or more engines per day. At their peak, there were over 125 PERs; today, only a handful remain.

Public Relations and Advocacy: Companies like Caterpillar championed remanufacturing, highlighting its benefits, such as "lower cost of ownership." Articles on remanufacturing began appearing in major publications like The Wall Street Journal, targeting fleet owners and large buyers.

Sustainable Packaging: Endural introduced its first plastic engine case for Mazda in the mid-1990s. By 2025, the company has designed over 20 universal cases and 150+ inserts, reducing damage and leakage in core returns and advancing sustainable packaging in remanufacturing.

Aftermarket Growth: This period saw rapid growth in aftermarket parts suppliers and distributors, including the rise of box stores like O'Reilly Auto Parts, AutoZone, and Discount Auto, many of which offered remanufactured parts.

Innovative Technologies: Xpurge® Cleaning System revolutionized DPF remanufacturing with a patented air pulse and deionized water method, extending filter life and reducing costs. In 2015, the Veritex® Inspection System was introduced, utilizing thermal imaging technology for precise DPF validation, ensuring restored products met high standards.

• Federal Vehicle Repair Cost Savings Act: U.S. agencies prioritized remanufactured parts, underscoring their reliability.
• Circular Economy & G7 Focus: Global initiatives recognizes remanufacturing as key to sustainability.

Unified Definitions: Organizations such as MERA, CLEPA and APRA agreed on common standards, enhancing trust in remanufactured products.