Mailbag: Choosing a Transmission and Torque Converter for Racing
Q: I have some questions about a torque converter for my engine combination. The car is a 1981 Malibu that weighs 3,500 pounds. It has a 388-cubic-inch small block with 11:1 […]
Infographic: Cylinder Head Torque Sequences for Chrysler I6 & V6 Engines
Following the rules is sometimes not as fun as not following them. But when discussing torque sequences and recommended torque specifications, vehicle owners will have a happier life by following […]
Booster Basics: How Carburetor Booster Design Relates to Your Vehicle’s Performance
To truly understand how carburetors work, you first have to know Daniel Bernoulli. Bernoulli was an 18th century scientist who discovered that pressure is inversely proportional to velocity. This principle, […]
Monday Mailbag: A Basic Introduction to Ignition Timing
Q: I‘ve owned a few vehicles, but I’m new to engine tuning and automotive mechanics in general. What can you tell me about ignition timing? In particular, how does advancing or […]
Ask Away! with Jeff Smith: How and Why Camshaft Manufacturers Grind Advance Into Camshafts
I’ve read something about camshafts that some cam companies grind advance into the camshaft. I thought that you could only advance the cam once it was installed in the engine? […]
Understanding Fan Clutches — and When it’s Time to Replace Yours
When you think of an automotive cooling system, the first thing that likely comes to mind is your radiator…or maybe your cooling fan. The oft-overlooked fan clutch doesn’t get a ton of credit […]
Mailbag: Properly Installing Battery Disconnect Switches
Q: My new battery disconnect switch has two large terminals, and two smaller terminals. How should I hook it up? A: The large terminals should be connected (in series) to positive battery […]
A Little Setback: Engine Mounting Strategies for Drag Racing
Just how important is engine mounting in a drag car? Very. Consider the case of a common rear-wheel drive production line car: Typically, mounts are laid out in a three-point […]
Mailbag: Understanding Internal Balance vs. External Balance Chevy Flexplates
Q: The 350 engine in my 1990 Chevy truck needs a flexplate. Some guys tell me it’s internally balanced, while others say it’s externally balanced. I don’t know which flexplate to […]
Ask Away! with Jeff Smith: Can I Use a Big Block Oil Pump on a Small Block Chevy?
A friend of mine suggested using a big-block oil pump on my small-block Chevy in order to get smoother flow and more volume with a stock volume pump? Will that […]