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.
Our Project Wild E. Coyote receives a new, high-horse-capable short block, thanks to Rich Groh Racing Engines, Ford Racing, and a host of other companies who lent their expertise to help us build a street stormer.
Stepping up to a larger F-1X ProCharger prompted the Blown Z team to rethink the compression ratio strategy during the 388 LSX engine’s winter rebuild. A new set of JE piston dropped the compression down to a more tunable level as the team prepares for its second season in 275 Drag Radial competition.
The harshest environment in all of racing requires an engine oil that can withstand the stress of such conditions. EngineLabs takes a look at the key features of Prolong’s Nitro Racing Engine Oil.
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.
In this tech feature, we take a look at the art of custom racing intake manifolds and do our best to pry intake design and building secrets from two of the top intake builders in the nation.
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.
The Ford Modular engine provides a great base for a performance engine when built with parts that can withstand the abuse. We’ve brought nine of the top Modular engine builders together in one article to discuss the Modular platform and what’s important when shopping for a short block.
Holley’s new Ultra HP carburetors have over 30 changes from the original 4150 HP line, and are sold as ready to race out of the box. Join us as we test out the Ultra HP 850 and Ultra HP 950 on our Project Blueprint Chevelle.
The first two parts covered on our BlownZ ProCharger-blown 388ci LS motor was block prep and the short block assembly. This time around, we’ll go into detail on the Trick Flow Specialties/Total Engine Airflow cylinder heads, what they’re all about and why they were chosen for this application.
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.
We know the best way to keep our ProCharged 388ci LSX race engine healthy and running strong pass after pass is a stout oiling system. But we figured why not unleash even more power with a dry sump system – and that’s exactly what we did with our oil system from Peterson Fluid Systems. Check it out inside…
Tech Talk: The Ring’s The Thing – Inside Elastomer Engine Dampers
by Jason Reiss
on December 25, 2012
We talk elastomer engine dampers with JC Beattie, Jr. of ATI Racing. He explains the science behind the science of engine vibration damping.
