in your opinion am i getting into an area left for professionals? I have the tools, and the general mechanics know how, but are there specialty tools and tolerances i just wont be able to accomplish in my garage?

 

I just described the basic tools to take the cylinder off and check the piston to cylinder clearance,but yes IF the cylinder needs boring to next over size, plus if a new rod kit has to be pressed on and trued up with a dial indicator and stand,then you will need some specialized tools or sub the work out. You can have the cylinder bored and a new rod kit installed at a machine shop or a dealer if this is what's needed and assemble the engine yourself, saving some $ on labor. Manuals are cheap if you need any help,plus will help on any future repairs. OPT