Ask Away! with Jeff Smith: Piston Ring Thickness and Why Thin is In!
I’ve heard that late model engines now run much thinner rings than the older production engines. Are these thinner rings just there to improve fuel mileage or is there a […]
Mailbag: The Cure for Loose Roller Rocker Arm Nuts
Q: I’ve installed a set of steel roller-tip rocker arms on my Ford 302 engine. The cylinder heads are also equipped with aftermarket rocker arm studs and pushrod guideplates. Unfortunately, the […]
Ask Away! with Jeff Smith: Tips and Techniques for Tuning Up HEI Distributors
I was checking the timing on my small block Camaro yesterday and noticed that the timing doesn’t return to initial like it should. I set my initial timing at 14 […]
Mailbag: Troubleshooting a Sticky Clutch Pedal
Q: My 1969 Roadrunner has a new diaphragm-style clutch. While shifting at high rpm, the clutch pedal sticks to the floor. When the engine speed decreases, the pedal comes back up. Can […]
Ask Away! with Jeff Smith: Examining the Viability of Chevrolet’s Oft-Overlooked “Corporate” 10-Bolt Rear-End
Was it possible for the 1970 big block 396 (402) Nova to come with the 10-bolt rear-end installed from the factory? I know the 12-bolt was optional for around $150 […]
Mailbag: Swapping a TH-350 Transmission for a TH-700-R4
Q: I have a 1941 Ford sedan with a small block Chevy. I would like to replace the TH-350 transmission with a TH-700-R4. How much difference is there in the physical […]
Mailbag: Upgrading a Fuel System to Match Performance Modifications
Q: I just finished rebuilding the 5.0L engine for my Fox Body Mustang. I made the following modifications: I am reusing the stock 19 pound/hour fuel injectors and electric fuel pump. […]
Ask Away! with Jeff Smith: Upgrading Valve Springs for Better High-RPM Performance
I’ve got a 454 H.O. crate engine and we installed a small ProCharger centrifugal on the engine to bump the power. I thought this would work well with the engine’s […]
Mailbag: Budget Tips for Lowering 60-Foot Times (and ETs, Too)!
Q: I need some help getting my Camaro in the 12s at the track. The car has a 350 small block (bored .010-inch over) with 10:1 compression, .488/.510-inch lift hydraulic cam, […]
Mailbag: Quick Guide to Electrical System Grounding
Q: Electrical is not my strong suit, but the time has come for me to complete the wiring on my latest project. Electrical systems can be extremely complex, but are there any […]