5/3/2013
Do you utilize "green" strategies in your shop?
We follow EPA and OSHA regulations closely: 37.5%
We hire a third party to handle regulations for us: %
We recycle our waste but that's about it: 25%
We go above and beyond the regulations: 12.5%
We somewhat follow green strategies: 4.17%
We are just trying to stay busy and don't have time to follow all the regulations: 12.5%
We do the bare minimum required by law: 8.33%
2/8/2013
Are you building any alternative-fueled engines? If so, what kind?
LNG/CNG: 9.16%
Hybrid Electric/Gas: 5.58%
Ethanol/E85: 29.08%
None yet: 11.95%
I won't build these: 15.54%
Looking into it: 10.36%
Diesel is as far as I go: 18.33%
2/1/2013
Who's going to win the Super Bowl this year?
San Francisco 49ers: 19.05%
Baltimore Ravens: 28.57%
I only watch for the ads: 4.76%
I don't care; waiting for Daytona: 47.62%
1/25/2013
Which season opener are you most excited for?
NASCAR - Daytona 500: 46.67%
Grand Am - Rolex 24 at Daytona: 5%
F1 - Australian Grand Prix: 13.33%
IndyCar - St. Petersburg: %
NHRA - O'Reilly Winternationals: 35%
1/4/2013
Which of the following industry trade shows did you attend in 2012?
SEMA: 25.53%
PRI: 34.04%
IMIS: 19.15%
All of them: 12.77%
More than one: 8.51%
7/26/2012
What part of the engine building/rebuilding market are you involved with the most?
Street Performance/Racing: 54.32%
Stock Gasoline Engines: 19.58%
Medium to Heavy-Duty Diesel: 14.11%
Industrial Engines: 5.11%
Powersports/Small Engines: 6.88%
5/31/2012
Of the new V8 engines today, which one has the most potential for modifications by your shop?
Chrysler Hemi: 19.2%
Ford Modular: 18.93%
GM LSX: 54.67%
Other: 7.2%
5/3/2012
What percentage of your business is building engines for drag racing customers?
More than 75 percent: 21.43%
About 50 percent: 20.24%
Less than 25 percent: 41.67%
None: 16.67%
1/20/2012
How has business started off this year compared this time last year?
About the same as last year: 26.39%
Much better: 22.69%
Worse: 31.94%
Too soon to tell: 18.98%
12/21/2011
Which industry trade shows and conferences did you attend this year?
SEMA Show: 28.77%
PRI: 26.03%
AETC: 2.74%
IMIS: 17.81%
Hot Rod Show: 15.07%
RP Expo: 2.74%
Other: 6.85%
10/20/2011
Which four cylinder engine is the most popular in your shop?
Mitsubishi 4G63: 23.86%
GM Ecotec: 39.02%
Honda KA22: 22.35%
Subaru EJ: 14.77%
10/4/2011
Do you work on powersports engines?
Yes - we specialize in them: 15.79%
Yes - we build a few: 53.95%
No - we don't touch them: 19.74%
No - but we would like to: 10.53%
9/15/2011
What do you think about EFI coming to NASCAR in 2012?
Bad idea - stock cars are meant to be carbureted: 22.5%
It's about time - stock car racing will be more relevant: 55%
I want to see them on track and if it changes anything before judging: 22.5%
7/15/2011
Which is the best American iron late-model V8 engine today?
Chevy LS: 54.62%
Ford Mod: 23.03%
Chrysler Hemi: 22.35%
6/3/2011
When you need to hire additional personnel do you look for:
Students from a local vo-tech or college training program.: 55.38%
The best technician/machinist from your biggest competitor.: 30.77%
The first guy who answers the "Help Wanted" sign.: 13.85%
5/26/2011
If you could build an engine for any of the big Memorial Day races, which would you choose?
Indy 500 - IndyCar 3.0L V8: 10%
Coke 600 - NASCAR 358 cid V8: 66.67%
Monaco Grand Prix - Formula One 2.4L V8: 15%
Lime Rock Grand Prix - Daytona Prototype 5.0L V8: 8.33%
5/20/2011
I prefer to use the following to get my marketing message out to customers and potential customers:
Flyers sent via USPS: 11.11%
Occasional e-mails: 55.56%
Fax blasts of specials or sales: %
Facebook status updates: 11.11%
Regular Twitter updates: %
Sign in the window: 22.22%
5/13/2011
What areas would you focus on if you are to expand your business this year?
Buying new equipment: 52.94%
Hiring more qualified employees: 5.88%
Obtaining more training: 5.88%
Marketing our services better: 35.29%
5/6/2011
What markets do you think will be the most profitable in the coming months?
American Muscle V8: 23.26%
Sport Compact (Turbo, 4-cyl): 30.23%
Light- to Medium-Duty Diesel: 20.93%
Industrial Engines: 11.63%
Small Engines: 13.95%
4/29/2011
How long have you received Engine Builder magazine?
I'm an old timer – I still have copies of Automotive Rebuilder from the 1960s and '70s.: 11.54%
I've been receiving the magazine in the mail since the 80s.: 23.08%
It doesn't seem possible that 20 years has gone by, but I've subscribed since 1990.: 15.38%
When Automotive Rebuilder changed to Engine Builder in 2001, I started getting it.: 15.38%
I've been getting this magazine for five years or less.: 15.38%
I read it online only.: 19.23%
4/21/2011
How long have you been in the same business?
Two years or less: 4.26%
2-5 years: 4.26%
5-10 years: %
10-15 years: 17.02%
15-25 years: 25.53%
More than 25 years: 48.94%
4/15/2011
How has the recent spike in fuel prices seemed to affect your business?
Fewer people can afford to drive their cars to the race track, so my services are in less demand. : 43.75%
I haven’t noticed a change. My customers still need to have work done.: 50%
I’ve seen an increase. People are looking for better economy these days.: 6.25%
4/8/2011
As we enter into Spring how do you see your performance business changing over the next few weeks?
I'm planning on a great Spring -- race teams will be gunning for championships and they'll need me more than ever.: 42.86%
It will stay about the same as it's been. I'm not looking to rock the boat, just keep where I've been.: 35.71%
It will decline -- people aren't spending as much on racing, so they'll probably do only the bare minimum.: 21.43%
4/1/2011
My favorite car show on television these days is:
Car Warriors: 11.11%
Top Gear: 55.56%
Pinks All Out: 14.81%
Wrecked: %
My shop could have its own show: 18.52%
3/16/2011
Which device do you typically use to read Engine Builder's website and newsletter?
Desktop PC or Mac: 57.35%
Handheld device (Blackberry, iPhone or smartphone): 13.24%
iPad or tablet device: 2.94%
Laptop PC or Mac: 23.53%
Other: 2.94%
3/11/2011
Learning more about which one of the following stroker combinations would interest you most:
Small Block Ford: 10.75%
Big Block Chevy: 18.28%
Import: 6.45%
Chrysler Hemi: 6.45%
Small Block Chevy: 23.66%
GM LS: 15.05%
Ford Modular: 8.6%
Other: 10.75%
3/4/2011
What is the single biggest competitor to your machine shop services and rebuilt engines?
Used engines being installed: 52.63%
Better quality engines from OEMs: 21.05%
Retail engine sales: 10.53%
Incentives on new/used vehicles: 15.79%
2/25/2011
What is your favorite car movie?
Bullitt: 37.5%
Cannonball Run: 9.72%
Six Pack: 6.94%
Grand Prix: 16.67%
Driven: 4.17%
The Fast and the Furious: 15.28%
Days of Thunder: 9.72%
2/17/2011
What do you think of NASCAR implementing Fuel Injection into the 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series?
It's about time. Carburetors are SO last millenia.: 38.46%
I'm not sure it will do anything for the racing, but it will sure be fun to see how the rules can be pushed.: 35.9%
I don't like it. Leaded gasoline, carburetors and bias-ply tires...THAT's racing.: 25.64%
2/11/2011
How do you handle your company’s tax filings?
We use an off-the-shelf tax software program: 10.53%
We hire accountants to do it all: 78.95%
Taxes? You mean we have to pay those things after all?: 10.53%
2/4/2011
Do you use engine part coatings in any of the engines you build?
Yes, we use some coated parts in most builds: 50%
No, we have never used coatings: 5.56%
If the customer requests coated parts we will use them: 5.56%
We don't think there's any benefit to using coated parts: 38.89%
1/28/2011
What is the most profitable way you use your CNC equipment?
To do cylinder heads and blocks: 12.82%
For cylinder head porting: 23.08%
To manufacture parts: 12.82%
For specialty machining: 10.26%
I don't have a CNC machine: 41.03%
1/21/2011
How do you sell your engine balancing services?
We offer it but only if a customer is willing to pay for it.: 14.29%
It's sold as a valuable performance upgrade.: 21.43%
Every engine we build is balanced.: 60.71%
We don't offer balancing.: 3.57%
1/7/2011
Which racing series are you most looking forward to in 2011?
IndyCar: 2.21%
NASCAR: 28.68%
Formula One: 13.24%
NHRA: 39.71%
Sportscars: 4.41%
World of Outlaws: 8.82%
USAC Midgets: 2.94%
12/30/2010
Which, if any, of the performance industry trade shows and conferences did you attend this year?
International Motorsports Industry Show (IMIS): 35%
Performance Racing Industry Trade Show (PRI): 30%
Advanced Engineering Technology Conference (AETC): 5%
All of them: 15%
More than one: %
None of them: 15%
12/16/2010
If you attended the PRI Show in Orlando last week did you think the show was:
Positive and exceeded your expectations: 61.54%
About what you expected: 38.46%
Below expectations: %
12/6/2010
Which business topic would you like us to cover more in 2011?
Marketing/Sales: 14.29%
Niche Markets: 7.14%
Management Tips: 7.14%
Education/Training: 71.43%
11/23/2010
Which engine configuration have you rebuilt the most in 2010?
1 cylinder: 9.21%
2 cylinder: 4.18%
4 cylinder: 18.41%
6 cylinder: 19.25%
8 cylinder: 44.77%
10+ cylinder: 4.18%
11/19/2010
Which engine have you rebuilt the most in the last 12 months?
Chevy LS: 23.91%
Ford Mod: 26.09%
Dodge Hemi: 13.04%
Mitsubishi 4G63: 2.17%
Briggs & Stratton: 13.04%
Harley V-Twin: 10.87%
Cummins Diesel: 10.87%
11/12/2010
Which of these will be on your Christmas wish list?
Dynamometer: 25%
CNC Machine: 28.13%
Cleaning Equipment: 46.88%
10/28/2010
Do you plan to attend the upcoming SEMA and AAPEX Shows in Vegas?
Yes - I wouldn't miss these shows.: 24%
No - I usually attend but I cannot make it this year.: 36%
I don't have time to go to any trade shows.: 40%
10/22/2010
What does the conclusion of race season mean to you?
Vacation - but I'll probably hit a trade show for some fresh ideas and parts for next season.: 5.56%
I'll be getting busy! My engines will soon be coming back for a refresh, a rebuild or replacement.: 50%
Just another day. I'm already building next season's championship motors.: 44.44%
10/14/2010
My shop's machining equipment can be described as:
Non-Existent. I don't do any machining in house and send it out to local providers.: 21.62%
Outdated. I haven't been able to replace any equipment since the Carter administration.: 16.22%
Adequate. It may be older and banged up a little, but it's still accurate and does what I need.: 51.35%
Cutting Edge. I recognize the need for the latest equipment to provide the highest quality product.: 10.81%
10/1/2010
When a customer asks me to start building a new engine I:
Interview him to find out what he really needs the engine to do.: 95.8%
Give him what I think he needs, despite what he may think.: 2.52%
Figure he's done enough research, it's easier to give him what he asked for.: 1.68%
9/30/2010
In my shop, "Customer Service" means:
Friendly, helpful counter staff and a fresh pot of coffee.: 66.67%
The lights are on and there's an open door into the shop. If they need me they'll find me back there somewhere.: 33.33%
We fed the shop mutt recently so he probably won't bite .: %
9/24/2010
Financial experts say the recession ended in June of 2009. What's YOUR analysis?
Not a chance. Everyone is still hurting financially, and that includes me.: 72.92%
Maybe, but I still have engines waiting for customers to pay for.: 12.5%
Recession? What recession. Business has been better than ever.: 14.58%
9/17/2010
The oil recommendations I make for my customers are based on:
Flashy television advertisements: %
A gut instinct: 2.5%
Years of experience with the same brand: 30%
Careful research coupled with technical information from a leading trade publication: 67.5%
9/10/2010
Do you build engines for claimer racing classes?
Yes — it shows that I’m confident in my abilities to get a lot of performance out of a little money.: 73.68%
No — it’s too much work to build a motor that will win without worrying that someone will be able to claim it. : 26.32%
With the guys driving my engines I don’t have to worry about them ever finishing high enough to be claimed.: %
9/2/2010
When a customer brings his own speed parts for me to use in an engine build I:
Use them to build whatever he wants. Hey, it's his money.: 31.17%
Politely inform him of our shop policy that we do not honor warranties on engine builds with customer supplied parts.: 36.36%
We charge a premium on the engine build for customer supplied parts and still inform customer we do not warranty engine failures with customer supplied parts.: 32.47%
8/27/2010
What is your most profitable performance diesel engine build?
5.9L Cummins: 44.21%
6.6L Duramax: 17.89%
7.3L Powerstroke: 24.21%
Other: 13.68%
8/19/2010
Is diesel engine work a part of your business?
Yes, we're actively involved in heavy duty and other diesel service.: 37.5%
We're building diesel performance motors for drag racing and pulling.: 20.83%
We are doing some light and medium duty diesel service.: 20.83%
Diesel is not a significant part of our business.: 20.83%
8/13/2010
Which high performance show do you plan to attend this year?
SEMA in Las Vegas: 32%
IMIS in Indianapolis: 16%
PRI in Orlando: 40%
More than one show: 12%
8/6/2010
How much do you use a dynamometer in your shop?
We couldn't survive without it: 40.63%
We use it some of the time: 3.13%
We want to get one: 56.25%
7/30/2010
If training on how to better utilize the Internet for my business were made available, I would like to participate:
Online, during working hours.: 60.87%
Online, after working hours.: 39.13%
In a central location away from my business.: %
At a tradeshow in a seminar-type setting.: %
7/22/2010
With summer boating season in full swing, how much involvement do you have with building marine engines?
We are very involved: 32.43%
We are somewhat involved: 21.62%
We are trying to become more involved: 5.41%
We aren't involved at all: 40.54%
7/16/2010
When a customer wants a performance upgrade, what do you recommend?
Valvetrain Components: 14.71%
Cylinder Heads: 61.76%
Increased Displacement: 7.84%
Power Adders: 8.82%
Other: 6.86%
7/9/2010
With recent talk about employee loyalty and switching "teams," we're curious about your situation as an engine builder. I've been with my current employer:
1-2 years: 7.84%
3-5 years: 3.92%
5-10 years: 5.88%
10-20 years: 25.49%
It's my company – I'm not going anywhere.: 56.86%
6/25/2010
How has the amount you spend on engine parts changed?
Increased: I won’t build an engine unless I specify the parts. And yeah, I’m building engines!: 42.22%
Stayed the same: My work has stayed steady.: 26.67%
Gone down: Customers are bringing their own parts, but at least I still get the engine work.: 31.11%
6/17/2010
Which is most important to you when sourcing performance engine parts?
Brand name : 19.05%
Recommendations from racers or celebrities : 11.9%
Price : 7.14%
Local availability : 7.14%
Personal experience with the product: 54.76%
6/11/2010
Does your shop build motorcycle engines?
Yes, we are heavily involved with this market: 28.57%
No, we only build automotive engines: 42.86%
We would like to get more involved with building these engines: 28.57%
6/4/2010
I would like to see more of the following in Engine Builder magazine:
Profiles of my engine builder peers : 7.02%
“Recipes” of performance engine combinations I can build : 61.4%
Shop management and business operation information : 19.3%
Parts and equipment showcases: 12.28%
5/27/2010
Cleaning is always an issue in the engine rebuilding facility. Where do you stand on technology?
I am state-of-the-art when it comes to cleaning in my shop. Cleaning isn’t an expense it’s an investment.: 13.51%
I’m actively shopping for better cleaning equipment but haven’t found what I need.: 24.32%
I’d like to try something more high tech but customers won’t pay for cleaning – and I can’t justify the cost.: 45.95%
The method my granddad used to clean parts is good enough for me.: 16.22%
5/21/2010
Coming up on the biggest race weekend of the year, what, if any, races will you watch this Memorial Day?
Indy 500: 27.78%
Coke 600: 36.11%
Monaco Grand Prix: 13.89%
Lime Rock Grand-Am: 1.39%
Helping customers at the track: 5.56%
None, I need a break: 15.28%
5/14/2010
How's business?
Lousy and getting worse.: 22.92%
I'm doing this because I like building engines, not making money.: 39.58%
It seems like there's a light at the end of the tunnel.: 18.75%
My competition all went away so I'm busy but I'm still not getting rich.: 10.42%
I'm busy, I'm profitable and I'm having a lot of fun!: 8.33%
5/7/2010
What's your involvement with diesel engines?
I machine diesel blocks and heads for a local truck service facility: 4.55%
I rebuild light- and medium-duty diesel engines: 15.91%
I build diesel performance motors for truck and tractor pullers: 11.36%
I drive a diesel pickup truck: 43.18%
Diesel? What is this, Europe?: 25%
4/30/2010
Which is your prefered way to read Engine Builder?
Enginebuildermag.com: 16.67%
E-Newsletter: 19.44%
Text or Mobile: 2.78%
Print: 61.11%
4/22/2010
What online technical resource do you utilize most often?
Alldata: 31.25%
AERA: 21.88%
Mitchell 1: 21.88%
Enginebuildermag.com: 15.63%
Other: 9.38%
4/15/2010
How do you handle your company’s tax filings?
We use an off-the-shelf tax software program: 16%
We hire accountants to do it all: 56%
Taxes? You mean we have to pay those things after all?: 28%
4/6/2010
How busy are you now that racing season is just about under way?
We are busier than ever: 28.57%
We are busy but not like we have been in the past: 50%
Business has not picked up yet: 16.67%
We've already had our rush for engine work: 4.76%
3/25/2010
How do you think health care reform will affect your business?
We will finally be able to offer full health coverage: 14.04%
It will cost us too much: 56.14%
I'm not sure what it will do yet: 16.96%
There was nothing wrong with what we had: 12.87%
3/19/2010
Which import engine do you build the most?
Honda B-series: 28.57%
Mitsubishi 4G63: 45.71%
Nissan VQ35: 8.57%
Subaru EJ255: 17.14%
3/5/2010
Does your shop have a CNC Machine Center?
Yes, we use it constantly: 24.44%
No, but we want one: 60%
We don't need those fancy computerized things: 15.56%
2/25/2010
What internet connection do you have in your shop?
Cable: 32.53%
DSL: 40.96%
Dial-up: 14.46%
Other: 7.23%
The Internet? Is that thing still around?: 4.82%
2/18/2010
Where is the Internet accessible in your shop?
At the front desk: 8.57%
In the manager's office: 28.57%
At locations on the shop floor: 5.71%
Multiple locations throughout the building: 45.71%
We don't have Internet access: 11.43%
2/12/2010
When it comes to shop equipment this year are you more likely to:
Lease new equipment: 4.55%
Buy used equipment from an equipment supplier: 27.27%
Look for deals at auction: 18.18%
Make do with what you have: 50%
2/3/2010
When it comes to engine hard parts do you prefer:
Buying from one supplier locally: 33.33%
Buying from multiple suppliers locally: 25%
Using a national WD network: 22.22%
Buying online from a performance supplier: 16.67%
Having the customer supply his own parts: 2.78%
1/28/2010
Where do you usually get the cylinder blocks to meet your customers' needs?
The customer supplies the block: 22.86%
I rely on a local salvage yard: 51.43%
A national core supplier: 11.43%
I buy a new one: 8.57%
I make my own on a CNC machining center: 5.71%
1/21/2010
What percentage of your engine building work is medium- or heavy-duty diesel related?
None: 43.24%
10% or less: 12.16%
11%-25%: 8.11%
26%-50%: 16.22%
51%-75%: 6.76%
More than 75%: 13.51%
1/14/2010
Which fuel is the most challenging to build performance engines for?
Diesel: 26.39%
pump gas: 45.14%
Ethanol: 21.53%
Race gas: 6.94%
12/23/2009
Which, if any, of the performance industry trade shows and conferences did you attend this year?
International Motorsports Industry Show (IMIS): 21.21%
Performance Racing Industry Trade Show (PRI): 48.48%
Advanced Engineering Technology Conference (AETC): 9.09%
All of them: 15.15%
More than one: 6.06%
12/17/2009
How much time will you take off over the holidays?
We'll shut down entirely between Christmas and New Years Day: 25%
We'll be closed on the specific days but otherwise it's business as usual: 46.43%
If somebody wants to spend their gift money on engine parts, they can call me anytime!: 28.57%
12/2/2009
How old is your business?
0-10 years: 28.41%
10-30 years: 35.23%
30-60 years: 31.82%
60 -100 years: 4.55%
11/24/2009
Where do you get the most reliable information about new engine rebuilding techniques?
OEM Technical Bulletins: 16.33%
Engine Builder magazine: 48.98%
Equipment or parts sales representatives: 10.2%
The Internet: 12.24%
Other engine builders: 12.24%
11/18/2009
As your company plans for 2010, do you plan to add, maintain or reduce staff?
We will maintain the same number of employees: 30%
We will add employees: 30%
We will reduce the number of employees: 40%
11/12/2009
If you attended the recent Industry Week Shows in Las Vegas, did you gain the most from:
Seminars and educational sessions.: %
Walking the trade show floor and seeing the new products.: 37.5%
Networking with peers.: 25%
The chance to be away from the business but still be working.: 37.5%
10/29/2009
Do you balance engines?
For profit: we offer it but only if a customer is willing to pay for it.: 16.16%
For performance: It's sold as a pricey but valuable performance upgrade.: 18.18%
For protection: Every engine we build is balanced so it runs right.: 65.66%
10/21/2009
The type of cleaning equipment I'm most interested in is:
Ultrasonic: 47.06%
Aqueous: 11.76%
Thermal: 11.76%
Abrasive/blast: 14.71%
I'm not sure which one is right for me.: 14.71%
10/15/2009
How are you reinvesting in your business?
Buying new machining or business equipment.: 21.05%
Hiring additional employees or training the ones I have.: 5.26%
Updating my shop's physical structure.: 15.79%
I'm just trying to keep my bills paid.: 57.89%
10/9/2009
With Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week (AAIW) and APRA's Big R Show just around the corner, which trade show are you most excited about?
SEMA: 62.5%
AAPEX: 18.75%
Big R Show: 18.75%
9/30/2009
Have you given any thought to what will happen to your business in the future?
Yes, I’ve already taken steps toward succession planning.: 58.33%
Not really...I’m too concerned with how my business operates today.: 8.33%
Absolutely not. I’m not planning to go anywhere.: 33.33%
9/16/2009
Do you use cryogenics in your engine building business?
I cryo-treat my cutting tools to make them last longer.: 11.11%
I offer cryo-treated parts if I think they’ll be of benefit to my customers.: 38.89%
I do in-house cryo-treating and it works exactly as we all seem to think it does.: 13.89%
Of course not. I don’t use it if I can’t see it.: 36.11%
9/11/2009
How do you view the Internet in your shop?
A fun way to waste a lot of time: 10.71%
A nice method for getting information: 28.57%
An invaluable tool that helps my business function efficiently: 60.71%
9/2/2009
Which new muscle car do you think will have the biggest impact on true high performance business?
The Chevy Camaro: 38.82%
The Ford Mustang: 36.47%
The Dodge Challenger: 19.41%
Some import nameplate: 5.29%
8/26/2009
As summer starts to fade away, how do you see your performance business changing over the next few weeks?
It will decline -- people have less money to spend on racing, so they'll probably do only the bare minimum.: 37.5%
It will stay about the same as it's been. I'm not looking to rock the boat, just keep where I've been.: 37.5%
I'm planning on a great fall -- race teams will be gunning for championships and they'll need me more than ever.: 25%
8/20/2009
Fuel economy is obviously on the minds of Americans these days. Do you believe that claims of gasoline-powered passenger cars that get 80 mpg or more are legitimate?
Sure, if you're talking about something that has a motorcycle engine.: 19.15%
No, despite some manufacturers' claims, current technology isn't up to creating something that would actually work in the real world yet.: 29.79%
Why not? We have some great inventors in this country. I expect to see 100 mpg+ in the near future.: 51.06%
8/13/2009
With 'Cash for Clunkers' now in full stride, do you think it will have an impact on your business?
Yes. We will see a loss of customers with V8 engines as many of the engines we build will be scrapped for this program.: 38.46%
No. Our business is not affected by car sales, we build engines strictly for niche markets i.e., racing, marine, diesel.: 41.03%
It’s too soon to say for sure if engine rebuilding will be affected.: 20.51%
8/7/2009
What is your single biggest competitor to machine shop services and rebuilt engines?
Used engines being installed: 25.93%
Better quality engines in new cars: 48.15%
Retail engine sales: 11.11%
Low financing on new cars: 7.41%
PER engine sales: %
Low financing on used cars: 7.41%
7/28/2009
Where do you get your engine cores?
I primarily rebuild my customer's own engine.: 50%
Core suppliers are able to give me what I'm most interested in.: 12.5%
My engines are built using new castings.: 12.5%
I can still find good blocks in my local salvage yard.: 25%
7/22/2009
Over the past 6 months, have you seen your high performance machining work:
Increase: 32.26%
Decrease: 25.81%
Stay the same: 41.94%
7/15/2009
If you were producing Engine Builder magazine for yourself, what would be of most benefit to your business?
Complete "recipes" of build lists and machining specs for stroker motors.: 48.78%
Business management columns.: 4.88%
More new product listings and descriptions.: 7.32%
Technical "101-type" background information for my in-shop training efforts.: 39.02%
7/10/2009
Would you be interested in participating in a national competition to build the most powerful pump-gas engine if you knew the winner could be claimed for $5,000?
Without a doubt. I could build a winning engine for less than that. : 33.33%
Maybe...but I’d have to be careful with my build to keep it within that range. : 26.67%
Not a chance. I’d build a winner, but I’d end up losing my shirt.: 40%
7/1/2009
Do you feel claimer motors help level out racing competitiveness?
Absolutely. No one will want to spend more just to have their engine claimed.: 28.95%
Not sure — driving skill matters as much as engine design so it’s hard to guess who might be claimed. : 18.42%
No way. Racers will still spend whatever it takes to win bragging rights.: 52.63%
6/24/2009
Do you foresee an impact on your business from the closing of nearly 2,000 automobile dealerships?
No, customers who went back to the dealer for service rarely needed engine work.: 23.08%
There’s a chance that my customers will be busier, meaning more opportunity for my machine shop services: 15.38%
Anytime there’s less competition for service work it’s a good thing for my business.: 61.54%
6/18/2009
How has Internet commerce affected your business?
It isn't. I'm still a local business.: 50%
I've had inquiries from across the country, but so far not much in the way of sales.: 12.5%
I have made sales on the Internet but increased shipping costs have made it cost prohibitive.: 12.5%
I'm selling engines to people in other states and/or other countries.: 25%
6/12/2009
What do you find is your best form of advertising?
Local advertising or Yellow Pages: 3.7%
Web site: 14.81%
Word of Mouth: 81.48%
6/3/2009
Time, they say, is money. In your shop, which of the following time-related issues is the biggest challenge?
Finding the time as a business owner to get everything done.: 34.48%
Charging for the time spent in an engine build.: 34.48%
Employee time management/productivity.: 31.03%
5/27/2009
How have your prices changed over the past 5 years?
They have remained the same - customers won't pay more.: 19.05%
I've kept up with my competitors - don't want to lose any more than I have to.: 9.52%
I've raised some of my prices slightly to what I think the market will bear.: 23.81%
My prices are tied directly to my shop expenses and my business plan, so they have increased as needed.: 47.62%
5/20/2009
How's business compared to this time last year?
Business is Up: 20.93%
Business is Down: 39.53%
Business is Flat: 37.21%
Business if off the charts!: 2.33%
5/13/2009
Which social networking site, if any, do you use to promote your shop's services and connect with customers?
Twitter: %
Facebook: 5.88%
MySpace: %
Streetfire: %
None: 94.12%
5/5/2009
Which is most important to your customers when you are sourcing parts for their engine builds?
Brand name, regardless of where it is manufactured: 34.15%
Made in the U.S.A. is critical: 56.1%
People don't want to spend a lot of money so the cheaper the better: 9.76%
4/21/2009
What do you think about proposed 'Cash for Clunkers' legislation?
I support it: 9.27%
I don't support it: 62.91%
I love my clunker: 27.81%
4/7/2009
What is your favorite type of motorsports?
International Open Wheel : 3.03%
Drag Racing: 58.01%
Professional Stock Car: 9.09%
Sprint Car/Dirt Track : 10.82%
Rally Racing : 5.63%
Demolition Derby: 3.03%
Motorcycles: 10.39%
3/24/2009
When I find a crack in an aluminum cylinder head I:
Weld it myself : 19.05%
Pin the crack: 6.35%
Send it out for repair : 35.45%
Discard the head: 39.15%
3/10/2009
Which Chrysler engine was the best?
The “LA” 318 V8: 18.66%
The “LA” 360 V8: 4.23%
The 488 V10: 1.76%
The 505 V10: 3.52%
The 426 Hemi: 57.04%
No Mopars!: 14.79%
2/24/2009
Which engine is the best GM ever built?
350 cid Small Block: 38.83%
454 Big Block: 15.58%
327 Small Block: 18.96%
LS1: 12.64%
LS9: 4.06%
Anything but GM!: 9.93%
2/10/2009
Which Ford engine was the best ever made?
351 Windsor: 14.07%
428 Cobra Jet: 24.24%
5.0L: 16.88%
4.6L/5.4L Modular: 9.74%
289 HiPo: 15.58%
Anything but Ford!: 19.48%
1/27/2009
If you are to expand your business this year, what areas would you focus on most?
Updating equipment: 20.83%
Hiring more qualified employees: 16.67%
Obtaining more training: 8.33%
Marketing your services better: 54.17%
1/13/2009
In 2009 your business plans to:
Focus on cutting costs: 45.71%
Expand the business: 31.43%
Buy new equipment: 20%
Sell old equipment: 2.86%
12/30/2008
The racing movie that best describes my business in 2008 was:
The Fast and the Furious: 19.23%
Cannonball Run: 42.31%
Six Pack: 38.46%
12/16/2008
If you attended the PRI Show in Orlando last week did you think the show was:
Positive and exceeded your expectations: 27.78%
Below expectations: 16.67%
About what you expected: 55.56%
12/2/2008
Do you think grassroots racing will suffer as a result of the economy?
Yes. Even racers will have trouble justifying the cost.: 50%
Maybe. If gas prices stay low they might think it's a reasonable expense.: 18.75%
Not a chance. Racers will ALWAYS find a way to feed their habits.: 31.25%
11/18/2008
Should the government give the auto industry a bailout?
We need the manufacturers to be healthy: 26.5%
They got themselves into it they should get themselves out: 56.41%
I'll take a bailout: 17.09%
11/4/2008
What do you recommend to your customers as the most beneficial performance upgrade?
Valvtrain components: 13.27%
Cylinder Heads: 61.22%
"Bottom End" components: 4.08%
"Power Adders": 16.33%
Other: 5.1%
10/21/2008
When you need to hire additional personnel do you look for:
Students from a local vo-tech or college training program.: 65.52%
The best technician/machinist from your biggest competitor.: 27.59%
The first guy who answers the "Help Wanted" sign.: 6.9%
10/7/2008
Has the recent banking crisis affected your business' ability to operate "normally?"
Yes: 57.45%
No: 21.28%
Too soon to say: 21.28%
9/23/2008
Which of this year's upcoming industry events do you plan to attend?
SEMA: 45%
AAPEX: 5%
PRI: 35%
AETC: %
At least two events: 15%
9/9/2008
What is the most profitable part of your business?
Heavy Duty Diesel: 25%
Restoration: 11.54%
High Performance: 50%
Small Engine Repair: 13.46%
8/26/2008
Where do you buy your shop tools?
Wagon jobber: 3.03%
Local hardware or department store: 12.12%
Discount retailer: 9.09%
Internet: 15.15%
Local Auto Parts Store: 9.09%
Engine tool and equipment manufacturers or WDs: 51.52%
8/12/2008
When a customer brings parts in do you:
Send him away with a verbal tongue-lashing: 5.63%
Refuse to use the parts but continue to build the engine: 7.04%
Use the parts but have the customer sign a "no complaints" form: 53.52%
Build the engine, thankful to have the business: 33.8%
7/29/2008
What do you feel is the single biggest competitor to your machine shop services or rebuilt engines?
Used engines being installed: 31.37%
Low financing rates on new cars: 5.88%
Better quality new engines from OE: 31.37%
Retail engine sales: 25.49%
Low financing rates on used cars: 5.88%
7/15/2008
What percentage of your business is niche market oriented?
1-10%: %
11-20%: 8.33%
21-30%: 25%
31-40%: 8.33%
More than 41%: 58.33%
7/1/2008
What areas do you plan to expand into most in the coming months?
Sport Compact "Tuners": 20.37%
American Muscle: 29.63%
Heavy-Duty Diesel: 12.96%
Industrial Engines: 5.56%
Small Engines: 22.22%
Other specialized niche: 9.26%
6/17/2008
Which engine have you rebuilt the most in the last 12 months?
Small Block Chevy: 35.03%
Ford 302: 14.65%
Big Block Mopar: 6.37%
Honda B18: 7.64%
Briggs & Stratton: 7.64%
Harley V-Twin: 3.18%
Heavy-Duty Diesel: 8.92%
Other: 16.56%
6/3/2008
Which alternative fuel do you think is the most viable for the U.S.?
E85: 25.86%
Ethanol Blend: 5.17%
Bio-Diesel: 14.94%
Hydrogen: 33.91%
Electricity: 12.64%
"Horse" Power: 4.6%
Other: 2.87%
5/16/2008
Which of these issues are you worried about the most?
High Gas/Energy Prices: 54.22%
Healthcare Costs: 13.25%
Slowing Economy: 28.92%
No Worries: 3.61%
5/2/2008
How often do you change the oil in your personal vehicle?
Every 3,000 miles religiously: 40.56%
You have to change that stuff?: 9.79%
3,000 - 6,000 miles: 39.16%
6,000 - 10,000 miles: 10.49%
4/23/2008
I believe E85 is:
A viable alternative fuel and I'm actively building engines for it.: 17.02%
Driving up the cost of many other items with no real obvious benefits.: 72.34%
Going to replace gasoline when flying cars come on the scene.: 10.64%
4/8/2008
How many business associations do you belong to?
One: 27.78%
Two to three: 33.33%
Four or more: 5.56%
None: 33.33%
3/26/2008
Which business topic would you like us to cover more?
Marketing/Sales: 9.52%
Niche Markets: 14.29%
Management Tips: 9.52%
Education/Training: 66.67%
3/10/2008
What is your favorite feature of our redesigned website?
User Gallery: 15.38%
Issue Archive: 7.69%
Tech Center: 61.54%
What redesign?: 15.38%
2/22/2008
What internet connection do you have in your shop?
Cable: 23.53%
DSL: 58.82%
Dial-up: 14.71%
What Connect?: 2.94%
1/22/2008
How long have you been a subscriber to Engine Builder magazine?
Less than 1 year: 19.05%
1-2 years: %
3-7 years: 23.81%
8 or more: 57.14%
11/1/2007
Which of these would be your next major purchase?
Dynamometer: 50%
CNC Machine: 50%
Cleaning Equipment: %