Episode 3: Insane Engine Moments – Earthquake
Most of us don’t have to worry about natural disasters like earthquakes. But for those of us who do, like Rich Olivier of TEM Performance Machine in Napa, CA, the threat is all too real. Find out what happens during Napa’s 2014 earthquake.
Napa Earthquake Knocks Engine Shop Out of Balance
“Now we are in search of a light industrial commercial spot here in Napa. It’s a major challenge – but we won’t give up.” –Rich Oliver While much of the damage attention from the South Napa Earthquake centered around Napa’s wineries and related business, the racing and performance industry did not escape unscathed. According to
Learning Curve – Understanding the Evolution of Cylinder Head Seat and Guide Machines
Like many of you, I’ve been watching the transition in head machines for the engine machinist industry with great interest. And you and I both are looking at how changes in equipment will impact your business. You see, I teach in an engine machinist program and when I took over the program in 1993 our
Understanding the Evolution of Cylinder Head Seat and Guide Machines
Do you remember the many generations of three-angle seat cutters and what we used to get by with? Grinding seats is still needed, but just 10 years ago we were grinding 80 percent of the seats. Though we still grind when necessary, today we cut 90 percent of the seats in the heads.
Valve Seat & Guide Machines
A valve seat and guide machine is an essential piece of equipment for any shop that does cylinder head work. So whether you are thinking about upgrading your existing equipment, buying a brand new machine or finding a good used machine, there are a number of important factors to consider as you make your decision.
Building Hot Rods & Muscle Car Engines
Sometimes the best opportunities are cleverly hidden in plain view. As one example, when Chris Lafferty of Lafferty Engine Creations was asked why he opted to expand beyond race engines into the hot rod and muscle car arenas, he snorted, “Just look outside.” His North Carolina facility sits squarely in the middle of both NASCAR