Tuned In
High Performance Academy presents Tuned In, a podcast that interviews influential people at the top of their fields. Topics include tuning, CAD, performance engine building, automotive wiring, data analysis, driver coaching, motorsport fabrication, and car setup.
Episodes
172: More Than Just HP: The Engineering Behind Drifting
What happens when a passion for drifting, engineering and making things turns into a full-scale manufacturing business? For Josiah Fallaise, it became FDF Race Shop — an operation built around solving problems, designing better parts and putting engineering theory to the test on track.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn this episode of Tun
171: The Ultimate Pikes Peak Build? Chasing the Outright Record
How do you build a car capable of breaking the outright Pikes Peak record? For four-time winner Robin Shute, the answer was to take everything he’d learned developing his heavily modified Wolf GB08 and start again with a clean-sheet design built specifically for the mountain.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn this episode of Tuned In, Rob
170: Engine Building, Tuning & Training the Next Gen
Cars weren’t an obvious career path for Angelina Alcantar. Her family had no automotive background, and her parents hoped she’d pursue something more traditional. But a fascination with taking things apart and understanding how they worked won out, setting her on a path from aspiring technician to leading California’s largest automotive apprenticeship program.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $50
169: Pushing the BMW M50 Beyond 1000HP
Making over 1000HP is one thing — building a car that can make that power, survive constant abuse, and still be driven hundreds of miles on the street is something else entirely. Gus Erickson’s E36 BMW has been through blown engines, broken drive trains and countless late nights, but every failure has helped turn it into one seriously capable street car.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF
168: How Do You Make 3000+HP Survive Drag and Drive?
It’s hard to believe — some would even say crazy — what modern Drag and Drive cars are capable of. Thousands of horsepower, five- and six-second passes, all while towing a trailer loaded with spares hundreds of miles to the next event. It’s a challenge that perfectly reflects Devin’s approach to performance: serious power, smart engineering, and reliability that matters just as much as outright sp
167: From Turbo Hondas to Holley EFI Guru
Joe Simpson didn’t grow up building cars with his dad or surrounded by race engines. Instead, an early fascination with imports, turbo Hondas, and the underground tuning scene slowly pulled him towards a career he never originally planned—eventually becoming an incredible fabricator and tuner.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn this episod
166: Building Record-Breaking GT-Rs & Lamborghinis | AMS Performance
When Martin designed his first camshaft for the Ford Merkur XR4Ti, he probably never imagined that one day he'd be building some of the fastest GT-Rs and Lamborghinis in the world—but that's exactly what he has done. Martin Musial's journey with AMS Performance has been nothing short of extraordinary.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.
165: Pioneering the Mazda FD3S RX-7
We often hear about drivers who built successful racing careers, but Peter Farrell’s story goes far beyond the driver’s seat. While many enthusiasts know him for his work developing the legendary Mazda FD RX-7, his career stretches from rallying on a shoestring budget in New Zealand to developing some of the first performance upgrades for the FD and competing in factory-backed racing programs in t
164: CAD: The Gateway to Making Dreams a Reality
We all dream up incredible vehicle concepts—Nate Wilkerson of Wilkerson Customs brings them to life. Combining engineering expertise, CAD design, and a lifelong passion for off-road racing, Nate has built a huge following by creating some of the most ambitious virtual vehicle concepts on the internet.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn thi
163: ZF 8HP: The Automatic Everyone Wants?
Automatic transmissions were once the last thing performance enthusiasts wanted in their builds—but that’s changing fast. Greg from Turbolamik is at the centre of that shift, helping bring ZF’s 8HP gearbox into everything from drift cars to drag builds, and showing just how capable modern automatics have become.👉Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/po
162: The Real Science Behind Engine Airflow & Performance
Some people learn engines by doing—others take it a step further and truly understand the physics behind what’s happening. Jake from Bain Racing sits firmly in that second category, combining hands-on experience with deep engineering knowledge to build some seriously impressive engines.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn this episode of Tu
161: Standalone vs OEM ECU: Understanding Modern Engine Control
From carburettors and distributors to neural networks and AI-driven ECUs, Gerry Bechet’s career spans the full evolution of modern engine control. From his early days at Toyota South Africa to high-level development work at Ricardo, Renault, and Holden Special Vehicles, Gerry has been right at the heart of OEM engine calibration and development.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA'
160: Next-Level Toyota Builds with Ryan Tuerck – ST205 Celica
We all fantasise about dream car builds, whether they’re elaborate masterpieces never done before or something stock standard we’ve seen a hundred times. Some people just have a knack for making things cool, and Ryan Tuerck from 411 Works is firmly in that category, with what might be the coolest collection of Toyota performance builds out there. We had to get Ryan back for a second episode to unp
159: BMW Direct Injection on MoTeC: Genius or Headache?
Port-injected engines and aftermarket standalone ECUs go hand in hand—but controlling direct-injected engines is far less charted territory. Brett Strom from Strom Motorsport has been deep in the weeds mastering BMW’s B48 on a MoTeC ECU, and he’s here to break it all down—plus much more.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn this episode of T
158: No Compromise? Why the 8HP Might Be the Ultimate Transmission
Having a silky-smooth automatic alongside a quick-shifting manual transmission capable of handling 1000HP in the same transmission seems impossible—but the ZF 8HP might just achieve it. Andrew Astley from 8speed joins us to explain why this transmission has become such a popular choice.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn this episode of Tu
157: Inside IndyCar’s Golden Era of Racing
The 1990s were arguably the ‘Golden Era’ of motorsport, particularly in the world of wings-and-slicks racing. High-revving engines, intense competition, and iconic car designs made it an unforgettable time. Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART) was no exception, and Russell Cameron from Horizon Motorsport was right in the thick of it.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Packa
156: Breaking Down Diesel: Myths, Tuning & Truth
The internet is packed with misleading information—and the automotive world is no exception. Thankfully, creators like Jamin Seat from the YouTube channel Freedom Worx are cutting through the noise. He tackles misunderstood topics head-on with engaging, easy-to-digest, and genuinely informative content—served with just the right dose of humour.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's
155: Building The Worlds Best Sounding 5 Rotor
David Mazzei may well have the best-sounding turbocharged rotary on the planet, but how he chased down that elusive F1 V10 sound with this masterpiece of an engine is somewhat unexpected.Rotary engines are often labelled as temperamental and unreliable, but David Mazzei of Mazzei Formula believes the opposite. In his view, rotaries can be among the most reliable engines when properly understood.👉
154: 1000+ HP Diesels to 2JZ Weapons — Chuckles Garage Does It All
Pikes Peak and land speed record racing couldn’t be more different when it comes to motorsport, and that’s exactly why Scott Birdsall from Chuckles Garage is so interesting. From 1,000+ HP diesel hill climb monsters to a 2JZ-powered, land speed record-holding Toyota Hilux, Scott is into everything cool and fast.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/p
Revisited: Want to Get Your Car Handling Better Than Ever Before? Listen to This.
*** We’ll be taking a break over the Christmas/New Year period and will be back in action mid-January.That means that although there won’t be any new episodes for a few weeks, we’ll be taking another look back at some of our favourite episodes. ***Are you sick of playing the guessing game when it comes to setting up the suspension and tyre systems in your race or road car? If you’ve ever felt lik
Revisited: Is Honda’s K-Series Really the Greatest 4-Cylinder Ever Made?
*** We’ll be taking a break over the Christmas/New Year period and will be back in action mid-January.That means that although there won’t be any new episodes for a few weeks, we’ll be taking another look back at some of our favourite episodes. ***Few people know more about ultra-high-performance engine building than this week’s guest, Terry Radbourne of Bourne HPP. In this episode, we’re going t
153: A High School Project Gone Wild: 1,450HP IndyCar x Firebird
What would happen if you took an IndyCar inspired chassis, dropped a 1973 Pontiac Firebird body over the top of it, and then added a 1,450hp twin-turbo LS? That’s essentially what Cavan Cameron and his father, Russell Cameron, of Horizon Motorsport have built.The project began as Cavan’s high school engineering project but has since evolved into one of the coolest and most ambitious builds we’ve s
152: Building a Lamborghini Gallardo into a WTAC Weapon
There’s no arguing the Lamborghini Gallardo GT3 is no slouch. But the World Time Attack Challenge is a whole different league, and in standard form this factory race car is basically like bringing a knife to a gunfight. To run with the world’s best, it needed serious development—and that’s exactly what Josh and his team at Specialised Racing Solutions delivered, bagging P2 in Pro class on the car’
151: CBR1000 x Miata - A Match Made in Heaven?
Many car enthusiasts have fantasised about a lightweight car with a motorcycle engine swap. After all, what’s not to like about a high-revving, lightweight engine that produces great power and sounds incredible, right?Reed Stormzand from the YouTube channel Reed Make Car tells us that while the combo can be awesome, it definitely hasn’t been all plain sailing.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $50
150: The Self-Taught Way: Building Wild Engines from Scratch
Imagine being a self-taught engineer who mastered the intricacies of engine design and is now building bespoke engines from the ground up. That’s exactly what Josh Valman from Motorsport_Engineering has done.We welcome Josh back for his second appearance on the podcast. This time, we catch up on his wild Alpha V8 Hayabusa project and dive into his latest creation — a turbocharged hot-vee V6 bespok
149: Cracking the CAN Code: Mastering Integration in Performance Builds
CAN communication might seem like a secret, nerdy language spoken only by electronic components —and, in a way, it is. But behind that digital chatter lies the key to unlocking integration between different electrical systems.Mitch Minton from Minton Performance joins us to unpack CAN communication—how it really works, and why it’s become such a crucial part of the aftermarket performance world.👉
148: The “Impossible” Backyard V10 Screamer
Want a high-revving, F1-sounding, naturally aspirated V10 on a budget? Sounds impossible—until Jack and Diego from Build It Yourself made it happen. They took a humble Ford V10 truck engine, crafted custom four-valve heads, and engineered headers that deliver that unmistakable F1 scream.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn this episode of T
147: Inside the Art of Bespoke Engine Building
Whether it’s a bespoke quad-turbo V12 or a modified OE production engine, the fundamentals remain the same—we’re all looking for those extra gains. Italtecnica’s Riccardo Breda is here to break down the core concepts that could help you take your engine build to the next level.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn this episode of Tuned In, R
146: From Home Builds to Hypercars: Composites for Everyone
Composites might seem like the secret language of aerospace engineers and hypercar builders, but Gabriel Mountjoy from Common Fibers is here to break down those barriers. He’s out to prove that composites aren’t just exotic materials—you can use them to elevate your own builds too.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn this episode of Tuned I
145: How to Avoid Wasting Thousands on the Dyno
It’s common for car enthusiasts to rush their car onto the dyno before it’s truly ready, only to have it strapped down and the tuner uncover a list of issues. Nothing kills the excitement of chasing those long-awaited power figures faster than unexpected problems.Booking a session with remote tuning expert Shawn Christenson could save you thousands. Shawn, from Tuned by Shawn, is a Haltech special
144: Is a Retired F1 Car the Ultimate Track Toy?
Formula 1 represents the pinnacle of motorsport and James Densley along with the team at TDF Limited are breathing new life into retired F1 cars, transforming them back into the ultimate track weapons.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipJames shares his journey from a car-obsessed child through karting to mechanic at the top levels of motorsp
143: DIY Motorsport Isn’t Easy But It’s Insanely Rewarding
No matter the stage of a build, most projects reach a point where giving up feels tempting. They demand grit and perseverance—and Karel Silha from Karel S Motorsport’s wild DTM-inspired M4 Time Attack build is no exception.We first spoke to Karel in 2022, and now he’s back to share what it really takes to shake down and test a home-built car of this caliber. Believe it or not, it all started with
Field Report: Why Your CAD Designs Don't Work
Designing an elaborate engine block or cylinder head in CAD is one thing, but actually manufacturing that design is another challenge altogether. In this video, we talk with Gerry from Crest CNC about what it takes to turn complex billet and cast designs into realityUse the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipGerry handles CAD design at Crest CNC, crea
142: “Composites” aren’t just for high-end motorsport
“Composites” aren’t just expensive and elaborate carbon fibre parts for high-end race teams. It may be easier, more accessible, and cheaper than you think to get started in the composite game.This week on the podcast, we sit down with Keith Peden from Rodin Cars to unravel the world of composites.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipKeith shar
Field Report: A Clever Solution | 400HP 3-Cylinder G16E-GTS
The Toyota GR Yaris and GR Corolla are already cult favourites, and now they’re about to get even faster.Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn this interview, Ben from @artec_performance reveals the 18-month R&D journey behind their fully emissions-compliant bolt-on turbo kit for Toyota’s GR platform. This isn't a generic setup, eve
Field Report: Is a 940kg Toyota MRS the ULTIMATE Grassroots Racer?
"The closest we've got to a mechanic is a panel beater." - Has this group of friends on a budget built something quicker and more special than many big chequebook builds ever will be?Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipMost people overlook the third-gen Toyota MR2 (MR-S), but Justin from Close Enough Racing has spent years turnin
141: This Could Make or Break Your New Harness.
Forget the hype around “Mil-Spec” wiring — most builds don’t need it. Smart, fit-for-purpose materials and design can still deliver a reliable harness with great performance and aesthetics. This week on the podcast we sit down with Technica Racewire co-founders Philip Chiu and Kevin Tan to uncover the wiring harness essentials.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: htt
Field Report: A BETTER conversion option?
Ever wondered what it takes to convert an old car into a modern 600hp EV using aftermarket tech instead of a Tesla swap?Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipAt SEMA, Rory Baldrey from Legacy EV walks through the full electric conversion of HP Tuners classic air-cooled 1984 Porsche 911 Carrera, powered by a Cascadia Motion motor and controlled vi
Field Report: 550hp Micra | 'Let TORQUE take the wheel'
Ever seen a 550whp front-wheel-drive Micra out on track?Sean Austin’s FWD K11 Nissan Micra is running a turbocharged Primera P11 SR20VE+T Neo VVL (the best SR20?) & 6-speed gearbox, Haltech Nexus R3 engine/power distribution management, Haltech iC-7 dash, and enough power to torque steer into another dimension.Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/
140: You Don't Need a PhD to Add SERIOUS Performance.
You can go a long way with club-level aero — and this is how to do it.On this week's episode of Tuned In, ex-Mercedes F1 aerodynamicist and brand new HPA tutor Kyle Forster helps you find big gains in performance by adding aero.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipKyle shares his journey of how he became an aerospace engineer with a passi
Field Report: They Can't Afford to Get This Wrong.
Ever wonder how a connecting rod that can handle 3000hp+ is designed, tested, and manufactured? Here's a rare inside look at how true high performance aftermarket components are engineered and delivered.At the World Time Attack Challenge, Christian from Nitto Performance Engineering explains the complete workflow behind designing internal engine components like connecting rods. This includes
Field Report: 1969 Datsun + 16 feet of Titanium = 1 EPIC Build.
What happens when you combine flame-bent titanium, 3D scanning, and a 1969 Datsun Roadster? You get one of our favourite builds, and a happy missus.Connor McElvain @ConnorButter from Butter Welding showcases his custom Nissan/Datsun Roadster project, where old-school cool meets new-school tools. Starting with a complete 3D scan of the body, Connor designed and built a full custom chassis using C
139: The TRUTH Behind Drivetrain Losses on the Dyno.
Real-world performance is what matters when tuning a vehicle, but let’s not pretend the numbers on a dyno sheet mean nothing. The thing is… How can we trust one result from another? How are different dynos arriving at their calculated power and torque figures? And what’s the deal with drivetrain losses? Todd Lewis from Mainline Dyno is here to answer these questions and many more. 👉 Use the code ‘
Field Report: Why YOU Are Doing Car Aero WRONG.
We often chase engine and tuning upgrades first, but could a front splitter and rear wing be a smarter starting point for our race cars?We caught up with Kyle Forster from JKF Aero to break down how aerodynamics work in practice and how to make effective improvements at every level of motorsport. From the priorities of downforce vs drag, to choosing the right aero balance for your car's drive
Field Report: Can 'Over Building' Your Engine Damage It?
Some bearings are tough enough to survive 3000 horsepower, but that doesn’t mean you should use them in your street build.Choosing the right bearing isn’t as simple as just picking the toughest option and sometimes what seems like a part from 'the top shelf' can do more harm than good. In this interview, Christian from Nitto Performance Engineering breaks down some small but key differen
138: The Secret to Effective Aero on a Budget.
Think getting extra speed out of an aero package is just for the pros with all the money? It’s not... But you DO need to know what you’re doing. This week, we’re sitting down with aero specialist Amir Bentatou from RS Future to discuss creating an effective aero package for your vehicle, how to actually test it, and much more.👉 Use the code ‘AMIR50’ to get $50 off HPA’s Aerodynamics Fundamentals c
Field Report: Will This Replace Your Tape Measure?
3D scanners are not always cheap, but here's why they might still be worth your money.3D scanning is changing the game for motorsport and custom fabrication, and tools like the Peel 3 scanner are bringing that capability to a more affordable level. In this interview from SEMA, we speak with Gabrielle Williams from Peel 3D/Creaform about how this tech works, where it's most useful, and wh
137: Fabricating the BEST Custom Cars on Earth.
Anyone who knows modified cars will have heard of the Ring Brothers, builders of some of the greatest custom machines ever conceived. With huge scope and an equally impressive price tag, these incredible vehicles take every single piece of a build to the next level. This week, we’re sitting down with the fabricator responsible for bringing these works of art to life.👉 Use code ‘RING100’ to get $10
Field Report: What’s really KILLING your catalytic converter?
You might love the look and sound of your flame-tune, but is it killing your catalytic converter (CAT)?In this interview, Matt Latino from G-Sport by GESi explains the limitations of factory catalytic converters and why performance builds often require something more capable.Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-inG-Sport’s aftermarket catalytic conver
Field Report: How is this tool is making EFI easier than ever?
Will carbs on V8 hotrods etc become a thing of the past when some alternatives are this easy?For those unfamiliar with ECU tuning, switching from a carburettor (carb) to EFI can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. The @EdelbrockUSA Pro-Flo 4 is designed to make the transition as simple and hassle-free as possible. With pre-calibrated sensors, a self-tuning system, and an easy-to-use a
136: Does Fast Have a Future?
Running IndyCars, engineering championship-winning V8 Supercars… and going carbon zero? This episode of the Tuned In podcast with performance engineer Brad Eyes takes us in some very interesting directions.👉 Use code ‘FUTURE50’ to get $50 off HPA’s EV Fundamentals Course: https://hpcdmy.co/evbBrad shares his unique journey into motorsport, beginning with his determination to break into the high-st
Field Report: Hate CAN Bus? You're Using It Wrong.
Say goodbye to messy curly cords and more potential failure points.Steering wheel-mounted controls make it easier to adjust key functions on the fly, but getting those signals from the wheel to the car is not as simple as it sounds. Running multiple wires through a rotating steering column is unreliable, time-consuming, and they can be prone to failure due to the nature of their use. Zestek has de
Field Report: Why OEMs Limit Performance (And How to Fix It).
Car brands are secretly limiting your car’s potential, and it has NOTHING to do with reliability.Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-inGetting more power out of a factory car can be surprisingly straightforward with the right software (and sometimes hardware modifications), but what goes into developing a proper tune that exploits more potential with
135: The TRUTH About Life in Formula 1.
When Joel Vermiglio isn’t working his day job at McLaren Formula 1, he’s in his Garage 68 Motorsport workshop building an old VW Caddy… with a McLaren twin-turbo V8 in the rear tray, a Lamborghini gearbox, and Porsche 911 suspension.👉 Use 'JOEL100’ to get $100 off HPA’s Tuning Starter Package: https://hpcdmy.co/starterbJoel never set out to work in Formula 1 — in fact, he didn’t have any plan
Field Report: Time For a Change?
Is it time to ditch your factory ECU?HP Tuners is known for reflashing factory ECUs, but now they’re flipping the script with their Core Standalone ECU, a complete engine management system that offers boost control, traction control, nitrous control and more right out of the box.Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-inWe stand up (not much seating at S
Field Report: GT-Z: The RZ34 Nissan SHOULD have built?
S15 suspension in a 240Z—good idea or nightmare?Joel Dimmack’s 1971 Datsun 240Z is no ordinary drift car. Running a VR38DETT swap with Garrett GTX3071R mirrored turbos and making 600-700hp, this 1100kg wet monster blends old-school styling with modern competition-ready tech. But is an S15 suspension transplant really the best setup for drifting?Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course her
134: Performance EVs — Do They Have a Future?
The performance EV landscape is changing rapidly, and public opinion on electric vehicles also seems to be on the move. How much faster can they go? What are their limitations? Are they even still relevant? A lot has changed since we first had this week’s guest, Sasha Anis of Mountain Pass Performance, on the podcast back in 2022. This conversation gets us right up to date on where the industry si
Field Report: Why all the fuss? | Executive Order Approval.
Why don't OEMs tune for the maximum reliable performance and what's all the fuss about over emissions compliance in the United States 'street legal' modified car scene?Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-inEmissions compliance might not be the most exciting topic, but if you're tuning a street car, ignoring it could land you
Field Report: This Build Makes Your 4x4 Look Like a Prius.
2000HP, twin turbos, and a manual transmission – is this the ultimate fun off-roader?A 2000hp twin-turbo Lamborghini V10 in a street-legal off-road monster? That’s exactly what @MorganClarkeDesign1 aka MCD1 built with this prototype Range Rover Velar Dakar-inspired hyper off-roader.Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-inDesigned as a luxury play car
133: The Dos and Don’ts of Diesel Tuning.
What’s the deal with diesel tuning? Is it really that different? Yes… But also no.This week Matt Smith of Just Autos joins us to discuss all things diesel tuning — operating principles, combustion temperature, reflash options, and a whole lot more.Use JUST50 to get $50 off HPA’s Diesel Tuning Starter Package: https://hpcdmy.co/dieselstarterbJust Autos, based out of Queensland, Australia, specialis
Field Report: This 900hp Air-Cooled Sleeper is WILD!
With 903hp at the wheels, a 9.71-second quarter-mile at 161mph on an unprepped strip, and a fully air-cooled 3.6L turbocharged engine, this Porsche is the definition of a sleeper. In this video, we chat with Arthur to uncover the secrets behind his beastly build.Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-inOriginally a 230hp Carrera Supersport, Arthur'
Field Report: You've Been Living A Loctite Lie! (Maybe).
When it comes to performance parts and tools we all want to reach 'straight for the top shelf' and get the best we can. While that isn't always possible for some high price components, when choosing between purple, blue or red Loctite at the same price point, many assume that red must be the strongest and therefore 'best' option.These people are wrong, and they're pos
132: The Best Stock Turbo System?
He co-invented one of the top (and earliest) standalone ECU companies on earth, helped develop unique V10 F1 engines, created ignition systems for top-tier motorsports, and finished it all off by producing stock-frame turbocharger upgrades that push the limits of what a factory turbo is capable of.Mark Boxsell has had a varied and fascinating career in the performance industry, and he’s ready to u
Field Report: Is This Tuning Risky Business?
If you’ve ever considered an EV conversion but weren’t sure where to start, Ryan from @rywire takes us through the technical details of his incredible Honda Civic EK EV swap, showcasing the integration of Tesla drive units, AEM Electronics VCU, and CSF Radiators for cutting-edge performance and thermal management.Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned
Field Report: What's So Special About 'Trophy Truck' Suspension?
Off-road racing demands suspension that can handle extreme terrain, and Dane from @FOXFACTORY is here to break down the tech behind their world-class dampers. From remote reservoirs to internal and external bypass systems, we explore how Fox designs for the brutal conditions of off-road racing events like the Dakar, Baja 1000 and the Finke Desert Race while keeping the tech scalable for daily dr
131: UNTAPPED Potential? BOVs and Wastegates Decoded.
Blow off valves and wastegates are fairly simple in their operation, but correctly sizing and fitting them requires a lot of careful consideration if you want to get the most out of your turbocharged engine.This week, Gregg Jones of TiAL Sport — someone who’s been in the turbocharging game since the mid-eighties — is here to get us up to speed on these simple yet crucial components.Use TIAL50 to g
Field Report: Easiest way to engine swap? | HELLTACO.
Engine swaps on modern vehicles are no easy task, but Stewart from @mesocustoms1696 has taken it to the next level with this insane Toyota Tacoma build, featuring a 6.2L Hellcat supercharged HEMI under the hood. In this video, dive into the challenges of integrating late-model electronics and why a turnkey Hellcat system from Cleveland Power and Performance made this swap not only possible but s
Field Report: This Build Rocks.
Rock crawling isn’t just about getting to the top—it’s about doing it with precision, relative speed, and control. In this video, we catch up with Rodney from Lasernut Racing to break down the incredible engineering behind their single-seat unlimited class buggy, built for the toughest rock crawling challenges.Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-inFr
130: Using Your Automotive Skills to Start Your OWN Business.
Considering striking out on your own in the performance automotive industry? There’s nothing more satisfying than building your own successful business and being your own boss but… getting it right isn’t easy. On this episode of Tuned In, we catch up with M26 Engineering’s Matthew Bernasconi, who we first interviewed back in 2022 just as he was leaving stable employment at offroad legends Kibbetec
Field Report: We're OBSESSED With These Tools!
Building high-performance engines just got easier! In this video, we’re with Tom from Hughes Race Built to explore how they’re solving one of the biggest challenges in performance engine building: finding the right tools for the job. Whether you’re tackling a 2JZ, RB26, SR20, 4G63 or even Honda’s K and B series, Tom’s specialized and generic option toolkits are designed by engine builders, for eng
Field Report: Hot Rod or Race Car? 2024's WILDEST BMW E30 Build.
Running a 725hp Texas Speed LS-based build and TREMEC Magnum transmission, Cam Cocalis has followed on from his LS3 V8 Toyota 86 build with a full chromoly tube frame BMW E30 Vert project and pushed himself to dive into some new build aspects, a C6 Corvette suspension swap in particular, as he continues to learn the ins and outs of fabrication and custom car building.Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off yo
Revisted: Project Binky — Stuffing a GT-Four Driveline Into a Classic Mini.
*** We’ll be taking a break over the Christmas/New Year period and will be back in action mid-January.That means that although there won’t be any new episodes for a few weeks, we’ll be taking another look at some of our favourite conversations from 2024. ***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 i
Field Report: It Just Makes Sense — Turbosmart Turbos.
Turbosmart is well known for many quality performance accessories including wastegates, blow-off valves, fuel pressure regulators, anti-lag valves, boost controllers and more, but until recently they stopped short of selling turbochargers themselves.Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-inAt the World Time Attack Challenge, Matt Wright gives us some in
Field Report: GAME CHANGER! Torque Delivery Decoded.
In this pit lane interview, Sean from Ramsdell Racing will explore the advanced EMtron ECU technology behind the Dream Project S15 at the World Time Attack Challenge. Sean breaks down how the EMtron ECU is one option using traditional OEM tuning strategies to transform power management in high-performance applications, making it possible to deliver more and more horsepower effectively through the
Revisted: Twin-Charging — Good Idea or Unnecessary Complication?
*** We’ll be taking a break over the Christmas/New Year period and will be back in action mid-January.That means that although there won’t be any new episodes for a few weeks, we’ll be taking another look at some of our favourite conversations from 2024. ***Anyone with even a passing interest in Time Attack has likely heard of Norris Designs, a UK-based tuning company probably best known for its i
Field Report: This Little 880hp 3-Cylinder Is WILD!
In this interview, we sit down with Charles from Lamspeed to explore what it takes to turn Toyota’s GR Yaris into a record-breaking machine, using a surprising amount of standard parts! The team currently holds the title for the world’s fastest GR Yaris, with a 9.6-second quarter-mile at 155 mph at the time of filming and a 9.4-second pass since then, resetting their own record. Charles dives into
Field Report: Are you an Expert? Aftermarket Wheels.
Ever wondered if a wheel’s stiffness can affect camber or how rotational inertia plays into vehicle response? Eddie from Titan 7 explains their commitment to minimizing deflection, reducing tyre creep, and designing spokes that strike the perfect harmony between strength and aesthetics.No more cut tyres, bent rims or poor fitment, No excuses. The HPA Wheel and Tyre Fitment online course is here to
Revisited: Billet Isn’t Everything — The Rise of Aftermarket Cast Engines.
*** We’ll be taking a break over the Christmas/New Year period and will be back in action mid-January.That means that although there won’t be any new episodes for a few weeks, we’ll be taking another look at some of our favourite conversations from 2024. ***Over the last few years, we’ve seen a massive increase in the availability of ultra-high-performance billet parts — especially blocks and hea
Field Report: Do you reuse your head gasket?
Can you drastically improve head cylinder sealing without resorting to machining or damaging your high-performance engine block in the process via some of the tried and trusted options on the market today?Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-inChristian from Nitto Performance Engineering answers this question and more from the World Time Attack Challe
Field Report: Is this the fastest 'brick' you've ever seen?
There was a time when fanny packs were a status symbol, a shag cut had nothing to do with the backseat of your car, bricks were considered aerodynamic and Nissan was a brand no Datsun owner had heard of.Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-inThis Open Class 1971 Datsun 1600 (510) time attack weapon is keeping the best part of those things alive, with
