Tuned In

How do you know if it is safe to turn your 1300HP R35 GT-R Skyline engine tune right up to 11 and hit the track?

Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in

What checks do you need to do before you know it is safe to turn up the boost or even just use what you know is safe on a different type of fuel? What sort of process do professional tuners follow when troubleshooting issues during a race weekend? This interview dives into these topics and much more!

Mike McGinnis of Innovate Tuning is also a High Performance Academy tutor and all-round engine and transmission tuning expert. He knows his stuff and, luckily for all of us, is happy to share that knowledge at events like the World Time Attack Challenge.

The LYFE Motorsport R35 GT-R Skyline is no stranger to time attack or even this channel having been featured before here and also Pikes Peak. It has seen numerous changes over the years. At WTAC it ran a stroked 4.1L VR38DETT with twin Garrett GTX3076 turbos, Shepherd Transmission DCT with PPG gearset Dodson Motorsport Promax clutch and a MoTeC electronics package.

This GT-R pushes 1300hp on a Dynojet in the United States and 1120hp on a Mainline in Australia, which helps show that not all dyno numbers are 'equal' to the point they generally don't matter in the way most of us think, beyond being data for the tuner behind the laptop.

Owner Cole Powelson had his best WTAC event in the car, hitting a 1:25.9450, which put him third in the EMtron Pro Class and the fastest US driver to take a stab at the event over the years.

The car did double duty, with Donut Media YouTuber Jeremiah Burton also hitting a solid 1:31.4800, which is more than solid for someone new to the car, track and speeds involved.

Let's be honest, power is easy to make these days. Anyone with a modest budget can build a 1000hp dyno queen, but what about high-output engines that are expected to last for more than just a few full-power dyno pulls?

Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in

Mixing a unique roots style blower (aka supercharger) with 8-into-1 headers for wow factor, Mitch Pullen of Pullen Spec Engines hasn't glossed over the essential parts to ensure this LS-based build will last. Improving rod angle, slowing piston speed, and choosing a stout valvetrain option over pure peak HP figures are all part of this, along with running a dual DBW throttle fuel-injected setup with 16 injectors over the carburettors you'd typically see on a setup like this.

Why roots-type blowers are considered so inefficient compared to other supercharging and turbocharging options is discussed, along with individual cylinder trimming and running rich 0.80 lambda of E85 fuel to help cool combustion charges for 8 PSI of boost, making an easy 800hp during the Garrett International Drifting Cup at World Time Attack Challenge.

TIME STAMPS:
0:00 - Blown S13
0:30 - Why The LS
0:54 - Roots Blower
1:38 - Haltech NEXUS R5
1:55 - PDM & Can
2:26 - 16 Injectors
2:58 - Primary Injectors
3:05 - Fuel Cooling & Lubrication
3:12 - Trimming Injectors
3:20 - Liquid Intercooling
3:55 - Why A Roots Blower Is Considered Inefficient
4:24 - Boost Pressure
4:58 - Pre Supercharger Fuelling
5:28 - Ethanol Fuelled
5:35 - Fuel Mixture & Cylinder Trims
6:12 - EGT-Based Fuel Trims
7:45 - EGT Temperatureres
8:03 - Transient Throttle Tuning
8:32 - Acceleration Enrichment
9:23 - Short-Term Fuel Trims
10:47 - LS Engine Specs
11:14 - Why Short Stroke?
11:49 - LS Rod To Stroke Ratio
12:43 - Dart Block
13:30 - Power Level & 8,800 RPM
13:55 - Cylinder Head
14:30 - Rectangle Vs Cathedral Port

If you like doing things yourself, building weird cars, and making the most of what you’ve got, this episode with Matt Brown — AKA Superfast Matt — is a must-listen.

Use “FAST50” to get $50 OFF our 3D Modelling & CAD for Motorsport Course: https://hpcdmy.co/CADb

After walking out of college with an engineering degree, Matt Brown started his career developing engines for NASCAR teams, engineering various parts for Tesla in its early days, and working on secret projects for Apple.

Then came 2020, and with lockdowns forcing Matt to work from home, he began investing more and more time into building interesting cars and showcasing his work on YouTube. After a while, Matt decided to take the plunge and commit to his Superfast Matt YouTube channel full time, which now has over 420,000 subscribers.

In this conversation, Matt first talks us through his journey to full-time YouTubing, discussing how he earns enough to pay the bills and what kind of videos work best on his channel. We also spend time running through some of the fairly simple tools that Matt uses in his workshop with impressive results, covering basic CNC routers, 3D scanners and printers, and much more.

Matt is best known for his crazy builds, including a CBR1000RR-engined Honda S600 and a Bonneville Landspeed streamliner. These interesting projects get airplay in this interview, but the real focus is on Matt’s current obsession — a Dodge Viper built for the dirt.

We dive deep into this unusual build, first by questioning Matt’s sanity… After all, why would anyone want to do something like this? There’s plenty of interesting fat to chew on here, with discussions on suspension geometry and performance, rear-end transplants, and more. 

Since this podcast was recorded, Matt has taken the Viper out for its first offroad adventure check it out here: https://youtu.be/6d7aRoYvYs0?si=i4drFZyDyxlK0R5v

Follow Superfast Matt here:
IG: @superfastmatt 
FB: Superfast Matt
YT: SuperfastMatt
TT: Superfastmatt

Don’t forget, you can use “FAST50” to get $50 OFF our 3D Modelling & CAD for Motorsport Course: https://hpcdmy.co/CADb

Timestamps:
3:48 How did you become interested in cars?
6:17 What companies have you worked for?
8:29 Rules in motorsport.
11:17 Why did you leave Nascar?
12:50 Sodium-filled exhaust valves.
13:47 Working for Tesla.
26:35 What comes after Tesla?
29:00 Starting a YouTube channel.
36:43 Producing videos that get views.
41:36 Is it easy to become a YouTube sensation?
44:38 Access to CAD, 3D Printing and 3D scanning as a hobbyist.
50:06 3D printing materials.
57:48 Do you use 3D Scanning?
1:03:35 What is a CNC router?
1:12:57 How did you develop your composite skills?
1:20:42 YouTube comments.
1:23:57 Off-road Dodge Viper.
1:32:55 Land speed car, what is it?
1:40:00 Final three questions.

If you know anything about time attack, chances are you have seen or heard the incredible R32 'Xtreme' GTR, but do you know the story behind it? 

Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in

This RB power AWD R32 GTR Skyline reset the record in the GCG Open Class at the World Time Attack Challenge event under Tim Slade's capable jandals with a blistering 1:25.92. Recent upgrades to the car helped make this happen, including some aero changes courtesy of Sydney Composites and a bigger Precision Turbo & Engines 8080 Gen2 to make the most of it.

In a slightly different angle from the tech we generally dive into, this chat with owner Michele Guyer gives a little insight into some of the organisation and trust that goes into a long-term project like this GTR, which is now undoubtedly one of the world's fastest and best-presented time attack competitors.

As always, a lot of people and companies are involved behind the scenes, including FE Motorsports, Platinum Racing Products, Racetech Performance, Plazaman, Nitto Performance Engineering, Bosch Motorsport, Amaando Seals, Nulon, Xtreme Clutches, DAS and more.
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TIME STAMPS:
0:00 - Michele Guyer
0:15 - Building The Team
3:02 - The Origins: BSM GTR
4:10 - Billet Before It Was Cool
4:53 - Pro Vs Owner Driver
6:19 - Engine, Transmission Etc
7:08 - Recent Upgrades
9:36 - Future Plans?
10:10 - Spoiler: They Won Their Class
11:18 - Thanks Michele!
11:35 - Tim Slade Jandal Down!
12:20 - Braaaaaaaap!
13:00 - 1:25.92
13:13 - BUILD.TUNE.DRIVE

14 minutes of race car build tips & experiences.

Money. No matter how much we have, no one likes to or wants to waste it. A motorsport application will cost precisely the amount you budget for it, plus some more. In this interview, some tips are discussed on how to trade a bit of your time to make better decisions for your build and your wallet, even if you don't intend to do all the physical work yourself.

Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in

Running Nitto 2.2L stroker kit, Kelford Cams, and ARP head studs to make around 500kw at 2.2 bar (670hp, 32psi), this RevZone built 4g63 powered EVO 7 Open Class Time Attack build is a constant work in progress for Darren Bishop, but not just in the way most people immediately think when it comes to simply adding more and more power.

At the World Time Attack Challenge (WTAC), Darren shared valuable insights into developing his time attack EVO. The knowledge base build to undertake this project has included using High Performance Academy (HPA) course materials, engaging in practical work, and consulting with specialists on their own level.

Using quality electronics like the EMtron KV8 ECU, MoTeC C127 dash, and Power Distribution Module (PDM), alongside a comprehensive array of engine and chassis sensors, Darren, with the help of Benchmark Solutions trackside dial in the car from multiple angles over the race weekend. This process involves adapting to the specific demands of each race weekend, including track layout (working to perfect every braking zone and corner), weather conditions (temperatures heavily influence tyre pressure, engine settings and traction control), and the unique preferences of both the car and driver discovered only by plenty of seat time, ensuring a solid performance between Darren's driving capabilities and the vehicle's technical setup.

Darren narrowly got squeezed out of the top 5, finishing with a respectable 6th place in the Open Class with a 1:30.3870 only JUSTTT off the pace of the 1:29.9110 set by the 5th place finisher.
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TIME STAMPS:
0:00 - Open Class EVO 7
0:30 - Engine Package
0:50 - Power and Boost
1:10 - Gearbox
1:25 - Electronics
1:44 - Why Use Course Material?
2:30 - How It Helped
2:50 - Spend Wisely
3:15 - Why 2.2L 4G63?
3:48 - Wiring Process
4:59 - Wiring Documentation
5:42 - PDM Configuration & Electronic Setup
6:38 - ECU Setup
7:01 - Not Just For Cost Savings
7:20 - Data Analysis
7:36 - Judd V10 On Song

Is 3D printing going to replace CNC machining in the near future?

Even your Mum has probably heard of 3D printing at this point, but what’s not so well understood — even by enthusiasts — is just how quickly this technology is advancing, and what's now possible when it comes to making your car faster, stronger, and more capable.

One person helping to push that technological envelope is this week’s guest, Joe Dopkowski of 3D Systems.

Use “3D50” to get $50 OFF our 3D Modelling & CAD for Motorsport Course:
https://hpcdmy.co/CADb

Joe has a background in mechanical engineering, and previous to working with 3D Systems, he spent time at OEM manufacturers developing parts for new vehicles. A long-time motorsport enthusiast, Joe has been able to combine his interests and work to push technological boundaries in the pursuit of more speed, working with F1 teams and aftermarket companies like BBi Autosport and English Racing.

In this conversation, Joe starts out by talking us through the history of 3D printing, but what we’re most interested in, is where the tech is at now, and where it’s heading in the near future.

Joe gets us up to speed here, discussing just how far this field has come in a short amount of time, and exactly what’s possible right now with current 3D printing capabilities. This means printing not just prototype plastic parts, but producing ultra-strong, ultra-light finished components from titanium, aluminium, and nearly any other metal you can imagine.

This episode goes deep on all things additive manufacturing, and is going to challenge any assumptions you might have about 3D printing. Prepare to open up a whole new world of possibilities when it comes to creating bespoke performance parts for your vehicle. 

Follow 3D Systems here:
IG: @3dsystems
FB: 3D Systems Corperation
YT: 3D Systems
WWW: 3dsystems.com

Don’t forget, you can use “3D50” to get $50 OFF our 3D Modelling & CAD for Motorsport Course: https://hpcdmy.co/CADb

Timestamps:
4:43 When did you develop an interest in cars?
6:19 What does a mechanical engineering degree entail?
12:20 What OE manufacturer did you work for and how was it?
18:05 What is tolerance stacking?
20:50 How did you end up working for 3D Systems?
24:41 Overview of 3D systems.
27:18 What’s your role at 3D Systems?
32:40 What does additive manufacturing mean?
39:06 How do 3D systems plastic printers work?
45:16 3D printing in F1.
54:12 3D printing materials.
1:00:20 Steps between 3D model and physically printing the part.
1:04:47 How much are these plastic printers?
1:06:54 How does metal printing work?
1:11:29 Speed of printing metal vs plastic.
1:13:11 Strength of metal printing.
1:15:15 What areas of motorsport lend themselves to metal 3D printing?
1:19:15 What is generative design?
1:22:28 Cost of metal printers.
1:26:44 3D printing in F1 part 2.
1:35:42 What is 3D printing going to look like in 5 years?
1:43:22 Final 3 questions.

Brake boosters—why don't you find them on race cars? Are motorsport ABS systems harder to use than your OWM setup?

Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in

Ashley Field of 909 Motorsport answers these questions and more in relation to aftermarket ABS systems like those offered by Bosch Motorsport along with how easy they are to install, if OEM components can be used and most importantly how ABS can only regulate the braking power you give it meaning if you don't have an optimal brake package before you fit ABS it can't work any magic to change that for you!

Why fit aftermarket ABS? The likes of Bosch Motorsport ABS systems (note, we don't sell them!) offer advanced features that enhance braking performance and customization compared to standard OEM ABS systems including not going into 'ice mode' when a driver least wants that to happen! While the Bosch Motorsport ABS may require more expertise to set up and calibrate due to its professional-grade capabilities, it provides benefits like faster response times, better grip utilization, and the ability to fine-tune brake bias for improved efficiency and control according to driver preference as well as data acquisition to aid with car and aero setup.

How? Motorsport-dedicated versions of ABS have a more sophisticated 'brain' and valving system, allowing it to lock and release tyres faster, maximizing available grip more effectively.
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TIME STAMPS:
0:00 - Power Vs Stopping Power
0:20 - Factory ABS & Motorsport
0:45 - OEM Vs Motorsport ABS Focus
1:25 - Not All ABS Is Equal
1:50 - Is Motorsport ABS Harder To Use?
2:35 - What Is Different With Aftermarket ABS?
3:13 - 'Ice Mode'
3:38 - What Is Needed For Bosch ABS Fitment?
4:27 - OEM Parts Usage
5:04 - Brake Boosters & Pedal Boxes
6:01 - Why Remove A Brake Booster?
6:45 - Brake Bias Adjustments
7:35 - Crosslinked Brake System
8:02 - Front Rear Split
8:18 - ABS Won't Work Magic
9:00 - Driving Style Vs ABS Setup
9:58 - KEY POINT!
10:36 - Driver Adjustment Options
11:12 - Driver Preference
11:38 - Data Logging & Vehicle Dynamics
12:10 - Thanks 909 Motorsport!
12:25 - BUILD.TUNE.DRIVE

If replica wheels are just as good as the genuine articles like many claim, why don't we see them used in top-tier motorsport?

Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in

Kosumi Wakana from Rays Japan answers this question and more on rim stiffness/compliance, how to identify a replica wheel and where to find help if you can't, along with some of the manufacturing options available to wheel manufacturers like Rays.

If you’ve spent any time on YouTube, you’re probably already aware of this episode’s guest and the various projects his channel is involved in — most famously “Project Binky”, a classic Mini running a Toyota Celica GT-Four engine and AWD driveline.

Richard Brunning from Bad Obsession Motorsport joins us to down a few cups of tea, talk motorsport, and run through the ins and outs of neverending project cars, the business of operating a popular automotive YouTube channel, and much more.

Use “BAD100” to get $100 OFF our HPA Motorsport Fabrication Package:
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Richard, like many guests of this podcast, has his father to blame for his motorsport obsession. Some of his earliest memories involve hanging out in old sheds while his Dad restored vintage vehicles, tickling up RC cars to get the edge in racing, and days spent on the couch watching Formula 1.

This early focus on all things automotive drove Richard towards a life that revolved around motorsport, first starting out in kart racing, before moving on to Caterhams, formula cars, and even some Formula Mazda racing in the States. In this episode, Richard spends time talking us through these different forms of motorsport, and discusses how each type of vehicle could be set up, tweaked, and modified within the rules in order to gain more speed.

Eventually, Richard’s good friend and eventual partner in crime, Nik Blackhurst, enticed Richard back to the UK to help him go rallying, and it was at this point, way back in 1992, that Bad Obsession Motorsport began.

Fast forward a good few years, and Richard and Nick were fed up with the car modification TV shows like Pimp My Ride, Monster Garage, and their contemporaries that were on offer at the time — none of them actually showed why and how any of the work was done. This got the pair thinking that they might be able to do better, and with that goal in mind, the Bad Obsession Motorsport YouTube channel was founded.

It took a couple of years, but Richard and Nick’s channel began picking up steam, not in small part thanks to “Project Binky”, a Toyota Celica GT-4 powered and driven classic Mini. Richard dives deep into this build, answering our burning questions — chiefly ‘Why’? But also “What’s taking so long”?

This in-depth discussion around the challenges of fitting so much engine and driveline into such a small package is a great look into what it takes to complete a complicated project to a high standard. Lastly, we also spare some time time to touch on the joys of motorsport wiring, ultra-budget racing in the City Car Cup, and making a living out of building cars on YouTube.

Follow Bad Obsession Motorsport here:
IG: @badobsessionmsp
FB: Bad Obsession Motorsport
YT: Bad Obsession Motorsport
WWW: badobsessionmotorsport.co.uk

Don’t forget, you can use “BAD100” to get $100 OFF our HPA Motorsport Fabrication Package: https://hpcdmy.co/fabpackageb

Timestamps:
4:04 How did you develop an interest in cars?
7:00 Did you learn anything from racing RC cars that could transfer to driving a go-kart?
8:10 How was your experience driving karts?
17:46 What is it about karts that makes it such a good learning platform for racing?
22:53 What is a cost-effective way to get into racing?
25:26 What other motorsports have you been involved in?
32:49 Transition from racing to Bad Obsession Motorsport
36:23 Automotive skill set before starting Bad Obsession Motorsport?
40:20 What were you thinking when you decided to start a YouTub

The KOVAL EVO is one of the most successful roll racing cars in Australia and has seen a few iterations, owners, and a couple of catch cans over the years, as well as 80-90PSI of boost and up to 11,000rpm.

Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in

At GTR Fest, where Andre pretty much only looked at EVOs (he knows his type) we caught up with Dom Rigoli of Tony Rigoli Performance (TRP), a world-famous in Australia full service workshop with a proven history of getting incredible power out of many platforms including this venerable EMtron controlled 4g63.

Dom's answer here are short, sharp and accurate covering a range of topics from dry blocks, billet vs cast, head cylinder sealing with bronze aluminium rings aka fire rings along with some insight into what a car like this might do if it was fully setup for drag racing rather than the street too.

Previously, the car had made 1200hp at the hubs but now pushes over 1500hp and uses methanol or ethanol blends depending on the legalities of the event/location with 8.8 passes so far and plenty more to come if the owner wants to upgrade the car to safely compete at 1/4 racing, which are requirements that differ from roll racing events.