We take a look at the advantages of running a wet sump oil system and the advancements in wet sump technology with the experts at Peterson Fluid Systems and Moroso Performance Products.
Engine
While cylinder head porting receives most of the attention, valve design is also important. After all, there’s no greater restriction in performance intake systems than the traditional poppet valve. Ferrea gives EngineLabs advice on selecting the right valve and insight into understanding airflow around the valve.
Not all starters are created equal. Knowing how much torque is needed to crank a high compression engine is one of the keys to selecting a high output starter.
Engine Tech: Flat-tappet Lifters Still Viable in Performance Engines
by John Baechtel
on March 25, 2013
Flat-tappet camshafts are still popular in many markets, especially for budget-minded builds and racing classes where rules dictate their use. Here’s a closer look into the use of both solid and hydraulic flat-tappet lifters and tips for improving performance.
Certain tools are needed to build an engine correctly. Other tools can cut the time dramatically, improve precision and accuracy or just make the job easier. Proform has an extensive line of engine-building tools, and here are some of the essentials.
Selecting piston rings based on tension properties can get a little tricky. Low tension improves horsepower but higher tensions keep the engine healthier. Experts at the School for Automotive Machinists (SAM) and Total Seal offers tips and suggestions for selecting the right ring package.
Looking for a new, affordable carburetor to replace your current unit? We’ve compiled a list of what’s available in an easy-to-read format with the vital specs you’re looking for. Bottom line, these carburetors are affordable and a quick way to generate additional horsepower and increased fuel mileage.
If a torsional damper is not installed correctly, poor engine operation or damage can result. The key is to forget the hammer and use a dedicated damper installation tool that presses the damper into place and keeps it square to the crankshaft. Watch as we install a Fluidampr damper on a big-block Chevy.
Forged or Billet, I-Beam or H-Beam, do you know the differences in connecting rod construction, strength and features? We take a look at steel connecting rod manufacturing and the differences.
Oil filters while not normally that expensive, can add up over time. Which has some people turning to re-useable billet oil filters. As we learned from talking with the experts at Canton Racing Products and K&N Filters, billet oil filters might be the best looking and most cost effective option.
EQ Cylinder Heads 23 Degree Answer To The Crate Debate In The IMCA
by John Gibson
on February 8, 2013
Modified drivers in the IMCA, will be faced with the crate debate this year as it was announced a few months ago that the modified divisions were going to allow the crates in 2013. EngineQuest Cylinder Heads offer a 23 degree cylinder head option that has proven it can run with the best crate engines today.
Understanding the basics of oil formulas for both street and race engines can help engine builders make the right selection to achieve optimum performance and parts protection. EngineLabs talks with the experts at Driven Oil, Lucas Oil and Royal Purple to learn their strategies.
Controlling pressure inside your engine’s crankcase can yield a significant increase in horsepower. This goes hand in hand with properly controlling your oil system. How much power and how you set things up are also tied together and will depend on your engine’s particular setup.
Greatness can be measured many ways, but when you look at history and statistics, true greatness stands out. Is Offenhauser the greatest racing engine ever built? Check out the history and stats here, then let us know what you think.
An engine’s oil control begins in the oil pan, but all oil pans are not designed the same. Determining whether a balance of power or oil control is more important for the application is the foundation of creating oil control in the pan.
When you need a custom or trick damper for your race car or street/strip machine, ATI has custom solutions that can reduce weight, clutter, and total number of parts, and perhaps improve overall engine output and increase engine longevity.
Comp Cams’ New 4-Pattern Cam Boasts Advanced NASCAR Technology
by John Baechtel
on November 14, 2012
A new series of hydraulic roller camshafts from Comp Cams delivers four different grinds on the same stick to equalize airflow on 4-barrel manifolds. Called the 4-Pattern, the new cams draw heavily from Comp’s experience with NASCAR teams. They’re available for small- and big-block Chevys and small-block Fords.
We wanted to know if a restored small block Chevy engine block from the junkyard was that much of a budget saver. So we compared DART Machinery’s SHP block to a restored junkyard block build to see what the difference was. Our results are going to change your mind on budget builds.
Every garage, engine builder, or race team has a torque wrench, and we all use it a considerable bit! But when was the last time you gave more than a moments glance at your torque wrench?
There’s no denying that piston engines shake, some more than others. The vibration that is created by an engine has to be controlled somehow, and this is the reason why torsional dampers exist. But what are dampers? Is their power to be found by having the correct one for your application?
