Larry Carley, Author at Engine Builder Magazine - Page 10 of 24
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Parts Making With Your CNC

Computer Numeric Controlled (CNC) machining allows engine builders to achieve almost unbelievable levels of accuracy and consistency. The programmability of a digital computer not only automates the operation of the equipment but also provides a level of repeatability that can’t be matched by manual equipment. That’s why CNC has been the backbone of virtually all

Performance Gaskets & Surface Finishes

The most critical engine gaskets are the head gaskets since they have to withstand the heat and pressure of combustion. And unless the engine is a drag motor with a solid billet or filled block, the head gaskets also have to keep coolant out of the cylinders.   Many performance engines are capable of making

Bearing Clearances

Is it better to build an engine with tighter bearing clearances and run it on low viscosity synthetic motor oil, or is it better to build an engine with more traditional or even looser bearing clearances and use heavier viscosity oil? Tight bearing clearances and relatively thin synthetic multi-viscosity motor oils work well in many

Custom Crankshafts and Connecting Rods

As an engine builder, you get to decide what parts go into the engines you build. If you’re rebuilding a stock engine to stock specifications, you’re probably going to use a reconditioned stock crankshaft and connecting rods to keep costs down. There’s no reason to upgrade these parts because they should be adequate for the

Matching Pistons And Rings

Whether you are rebuilding a high-mileage engine or building a fresh engine from scratch, matching the pistons and rings to each other and the application is essential for a successful outcome. Rings are a wear component that are usually replaced during a rebuild. The pistons may be reused if they are not damaged, cracked or

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.

HPBG: The Power of Racing Fuels

An engine’s power potential depends on how much air it breathes and the fuel it burns. Engine modifications such as larger bores and longer strokes add displacement, which increase airflow and power. Bigger valves, CNC ported heads and a hotter camshaft with increased lift and duration also increase airflow for more power as engine rpms

Racing Rocker Arm Technology

The rocker arms play a more important role than ever these days in high performance valvetrains. The rockers are the teeter-totters that translate the upward motion of the lifters and pushrods to the downward motion that opens the valves. It seems like a relatively simple task, but it demands the utmost from the design of

Dry Sump Oiling Systems

Dry sump oil systems are used on all kinds of racing applications from NASCAR, circle track, road course and Formula One racing to ProStock drag racing. Dry sump oil systems are even found in some current production applications such as the LS9, LS7 and LS3 engines in late model Corvette ZR1, ZO6 and Grand Sport

Performance Piston Rings

When you’re building a performance engine, what kind of piston rings should you use? Rings run the gamut from cast iron to ductile iron to steel, with various dimensions, edge profiles and wear coatings. There are a lot of choices available and a lot of questions to answer. Some piston sets come with rings while

Ten Head Bolt Installation Tips

The following are useful tips for technicians andengine specialists who spend any time sealing up engines. 1. Make sure all the head bolts are in perfect condition with clean,undamaged threads. Dirty or damaged threads can give false torquereadings as well as decrease a bolt’s clamping force by as much as 50%!Wire brush all bolt threads,

CNC Machining Advantages

Running a profitable machine shop these days requires a lot of things: skilled machinists who know what they are doing, accurate equipment that can perform all of the tasks that are required to machine cylinder heads and blocks, an efficient work environment that maximizes both shop labor and equipment usage to boost productivity, a commitment