Automotive Tech
Articles and analysis in this category.
New AEV Kit Has Everything to Turn a Ford Super Duty Into a Super Off-Roader for $20K
If you want to turn your stock pickup truck into a true off-roader, there’s no shortage of aftermarket companies willing to help. And by “help,” I mean sell you parts that you then have to figure out how to make…
900 HP With a Factory Warranty: Direct Connection Supercharger Packages Are Back on the Ram Rumble Bee
Last summer, when Ram announced that the Hemi’s comeback was just the beginning, we asked company executives whether we’d see the return of factory-backed power upgrades for the now-iconic V8. The answer, delivered with a smile and maybe the hint…
Do Helmet Spoilers Actually Work?
If you’ve ever competed in open-wheel racing, you’ve likely been exposed to the confusing (but kind of cool) world of helmet aerodynamics. As a former racer in the shifter kart pro circuit and with some experience in small formula cars,…
Ask Away! with Jeff Smith: The Best Method for Setting Hydraulic Lifter Preload
I just read a post on a Facebook forum where a guy was asking about setting the preload on his hydraulic roller lifters. There were about 35 different answers to his question along with even more opinions on whether to…
Video: A Brake Bleeding Walkthrough Tutorial
A while back we introduced you to the Summit Racing Spec Miata project car. Well, after some track days and autocross events, the brake fluid in this trusty MX-5 was starting to get worn out. That’s because, thanks to the…
Connecting Rod Basics
As horsepower is increased in any internal combustion engine, the need for more durable parts is required. The rotating assembly, which is comprised of the crankshaft, connecting rods, and pistons is typically upgraded to withstand higher operating speeds and greater…
The Family Truckster: Reviving My Dad’s 1994 Chevrolet K1500 Pickup
Some trucks are just transportation. Others become part of the family. This 1994 Chevrolet K1500 has been part of ours for more than three decades—and after years apart, it finally found its way home. My dad, Urb Schenk, ordered the…
Understanding Piston Slipper Skirts: The Engineered HP Advantage
Editor’s Note: Choosing the right pistons is absolutely essential to ensuring that your engine (whatever it’s going into) lives a long, happy life. So we asked the piston pros at Mahle to answer some commonly asked questions on piston tech—and one of the…
Ask Away! with Jeff Smith: Choosing a Thumping Cam for a Chevy 283
Short and sweet question: I want a nice ‘thumper’ cam for the stock 283 in my ’30 Ford. Can you help me choose the right one? T.W. Your question is definitely to the point, but for better or worse my…
Stopping the British: Upgrading the Brakes on an MGB GT
When it comes to British roadsters, the MGB is king. MG made a zillion of them so there are lots to choose from, parts are readily available, and the cars are affordable for just about anyone. A good example is…