The first lesson in valvetrain is that it’s all about frequency. The frequency of any system is proportional to the square root of the stiffness divided by the mass. In pushrod engines, frequency is a challenge because the valves and the parts that move them are big and heavy. Drag racers have the option of Read more about Stiffness is King![…]
There are lots of people out there who love to soak their hydraulic lifters. From lubricating the needle bearings to “pumping them up”, everyone who does it seems to have a reason. If you are going to soak your lifters, likely the best reason is “it can’t hurt” (anything other than your wallet, slightly). Shown Read more about Pump up the Jam – Should I Soak my Hydraulic Lifters?[…]
A common issue that can arise when installing a high-performance camshaft is lifter noise. Lifter noise, also known as valvetrain noise or tappet noise, is a common problem that can occur when the hydraulic lifters in the engine’s valvetrain are not properly adjusted or functioning correctly. Lifter noise can manifest as a tapping or clicking Read more about Hydraulic Lifters – What’s that Sound? Methods to Quiet a Noisy Lifter[…]
We know that optimizing valve lift for your cylinder heads is the only way to maximize your engine’s performance. To do that, you had better be sure your valve lift assumptions are correct. One way to measure camshaft lift, which is directly related to duration, is to use a dial indicator and a degree wheel. Read more about How to Measure Camshaft Lift – A Step by Step Guide[…]
When it comes to modding your boat or vehicle for increased performance, one of the most popular upgrades is installing a high-performance camshaft. A camshaft controls the opening and closing of the engine’s valves, which in turn affects the amount of air and fuel that enters the combustion chamber. By installing a cam with increased Read more about How Much Cam Duration is Too Much?[…]
Mercury Marine, a global leader in marine propulsion technology, has a storied history of innovation and excellence. Among its impressive lineup of outboard motors, the R-Series stands out as a testament to Mercury Racing’s commitment to performance. In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the Mercury Racing R-Series outboard motors such as the 450R and Read more about Untapped Potential: The Mercury Racing R Series Outboards: 450R, 500R[…]
In the realm of high-performance marine engines, the Mercury Marine QC4V stands as a testament to engineering excellence and cutting-edge technology. Developed by the renowned Mercury Racing division, the QC4V engine represents the pinnacle of power, reliability, and innovation in the world of boating. In this article, we’ll embark on a comprehensive exploration of the Read more about A Great Start: the Potential Inside the Mercury Marine QC4V Engine[…]
In the realm of high-performance engines, every component plays a pivotal role in maximizing power output and reliability. Among these components, roller lifters stand as crucial elements in the valve train system, offering enhanced durability, reduced friction, and improved performance. From their construction and design to their impact on engine dynamics, roller lifters have become Read more about Unleashing Performance and Controlling Lash: Roller Lifters for High Performance Engines[…]
The Chevy 454, also known as the Gen IV Big Block, stands as one of the most iconic engines in automotive history. Introduced by General Motors (GM) in the 1970s, this powerhouse of an engine has left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape. With its impressive displacement, robust construction, and legendary performance, the Chevy Read more about Rebuilding the Legendary Chevy 454 Engine: A Brief Guide[…]
The valve train is an essential component of any internal combustion engine, responsible for precisely regulating the flow of air and fuel into the combustion chamber and expelling exhaust gases afterward. Comprising an intricate assembly of components, the valve train ensures proper timing, duration, and lift of the intake and exhaust valves, crucial for optimizing Read more about The Makings of Symphonic Harmony: Valve Train Parts Explained[…]
Calculating valve spring requirements for engines is a critical aspect of engine building, particularly in high-performance and racing applications where precise valvetrain control is essential for maximizing power and reliability. Valve springs play a crucial role in ensuring the proper opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves, as well as maintaining valve train Read more about How to Choose the Right Valve Springs – Boing Not Boom[…]
