The Lima Engine Plant is preparing for the production this spring of the new 3.7-liter V-6 engine that will power the all-new Lincoln MKS sedan. To ensure top quality and assembly readiness, the plant – in conjunction with the University of Northwestern Ohio – is training employees in a unique two-day hands-on engine build class.

The current class, taught by Mike White, technology instructor at the University of Northwestern Ohio, gives employees – hourly and salaried – an opportunity to learn about the engine piece-by-piece before assembling it on the line.

Plant Manager Adrian Price said the end result will be realized in the engine’s high quality.

"If people understand what they are putting together, they can do a better job. As a result, the quality of the engine build is improved," explained Price. "They also understand how their actions during machining and assembly affect the customer and their satisfaction of the powertrain."

The new 3.7-liter engine is exclusive to Lincoln and is derived from the 3.5-liter V-6, which is also produced at Lima Engine. The 3.5-liter engine was voted one of Ward's 10-Best Engines for 2007 and shares the majority of its parts with its larger cousin.

Both engines use the same strong, die-cast aluminum block and lightweight, four-valve heads for smooth operation at high RPMs. Larger cylinders help the 3.7-liter V-6 produce 270 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. of torque.