Designing an elaborate engine block or cylinder head in CAD is one thing, but actually manufacturing that design is another challenge altogether. In this video, we talk with Gerry from Crest CNC about what it takes to turn complex billet and cast designs into realityUse the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipGerry handles CAD design at Crest CNC, creating engine blocks, cylinder heads, and the tooling and fixtures required to manufacture them efficiently. He explains how his early career as a toolmaker led him into CNC machining, CAM programming, and then full-time CAD design. During his time in the UK, he worked at JCB’s engine division, gaining critical experience in engine block and cylinder head design fundamentals.For their cylinder head development, Crest CNC work closely with third-party experts such as Cylinder Head Specialists to optimise port and combustion chamber geometry. They use traditional flow bench testing and 3D scanning to bring these designs into CAD before finalising them for manufacturing.Gerry also discusses design for manufacture considerations, often called DFM. Whether working with billet parts or cast parts, understanding machining limitations, tooling aspect ratios, taper angles, and draft requirements is essential. Design for manufacture ensures that parts are not only functional but also practical and cost-effective to produce.If you want to learn more about how advanced billet and cast engine components go from idea to finished product, or how companies like Crest CNC and Cylinder Head Specialists push high-performance design, this interview is packed with insights you can apply in your own engineering or fabrication projects.
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142: “Composites” aren’t just for high-end motorsport
“Composites” aren’t just expensive and elaborate carbon fibre parts for high-end race teams. It may be easier, more accessible, and cheaper than you think to get started in the composite game.This week on the podcast, we sit down with Keith Peden from Rodin Cars to unravel the world of composites.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipKeith shares his journey from a childhood passion for cars to becoming a composite specialist in the automotive industry, building parts to the highest level. He emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience and how collaboration between engineering and manufacturing teams is key to success.The conversation explores the properties of different composite materials and their applications in motorsport and automotive design. He discusses various aspects of composites, focusing on the differences between chopped strand mats and woven mats.He also explains resin types, why proper mixing is critical to strength, and how many factors can impact the final product. We discuss different manufacturing methods, from wet layups to prepreg and autoclaves.One of Keith’s big takeaways is that composites don’t always have to mean expensive carbon fibre. For many motorsport and automotive needs, affordable alternatives can deliver excellent results — especially for the home enthusiast.Follow Rodin Cars here: Website: rodin-cars.comInstagram: rodincarsofficialFacebook: Rodin CarsYoutube: RodinCarsTimestamps:0:00 “Composites” aren’t just for high-end motorsport4:00 How did you form an interest in cars?5:33 How do you become qualified in composite manufacturing and what’s your background?16:18 Can you give us an overview of Rodin Cars?27:44 What is your role as Composites Team Lead?31:47 What does the word composites actually mean?33:03 Is a carbon fibre part stronger in compression or tension?35:21 What is carbon fibre and why is it so good for motorsport?38:09 Carbon vs Kevlar vs Fibre glass cost variation?40:42 What is a chopped strand mat?43:05 What is a woven mat?44:44 What is resin?48:49 What does the term prepreg mean?52:55 What is an Autoclave?59:09 Other types of layup methods1:11:55 Downsides of composites parts being repaired1:13:21 How do you add threaded bosses for attachments to a composite part?1:16:24 Final 3 questions
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Field Report: A Clever Solution | 400HP 3-Cylinder G16E-GTS
The Toyota GR Yaris and GR Corolla are already cult favourites, and now they’re about to get even faster.Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipIn this interview, Ben from @artec_performance reveals the 18-month R&D journey behind their fully emissions-compliant bolt-on turbo kit for Toyota’s GR platform. This isn't a generic setup, every component is purpose-built to retain OEM fitment, support factory ECU control, and maintain legal emissions systems. That means you keep your sensors, your catalytic converter, and your conscience clean while chasing 400+ hp.You’ll hear how ARTEC engineered their own turbine housings, compressor covers, and manifold solution to suit Garrett G25 rotating assemblies, why packaging and emissions compliance required more than just off-the-shelf parts, and what makes the G16E-GTS engine one of the most exciting new tuning platforms in years.Whether you’re building a street-legal time attack car or want to keep your road car emissions-friendly while unlocking serious power, this bolt-on system is worth a closer look.
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Field Report: Is a 940kg Toyota MRS the ULTIMATE Grassroots Racer?
"The closest we've got to a mechanic is a panel beater." - Has this group of friends on a budget built something quicker and more special than many big chequebook builds ever will be?Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipMost people overlook the third-gen Toyota MR2 (MR-S), but Justin from Close Enough Racing has spent years turning his into a proper grassroots weapon.From a modest 1ZZ track car to a 450kW turbocharged 2ZZ build with APR widebody aero, a Jubu Racing close-ratio gearbox, and Porsche brakes, this is a fully developed MRS that competes on the world stage at World Time Attack Challenge.You’ll learn how Justin and his mates handled the powertrain setup, aero evolution, and suspension development while working around the MR chassis’ limitations and strengths.The car features a Gen 2 Garrett G35-82R turbo, factory-based poly bushed mounts, and a 3582R-based turbo system pushing 35 psi through a built 2ZZ engine. The team worked with brands like CMS Performance for tuning, APR for aero, Shockworks for suspension development, and even adapted Porsche Boxster calipers using custom dogbones.Despite not being professional engineers, this group of friends put together a car that can compete with far more expensive, professionally built competition.If you’re building your own track car and want to see how to combine smart part selection, testing, and a bit of ingenuity to go fast on a budget, this one’s worth your time.#highperformanceacademy #buildtunedrive #closeenoughracing #aprperformance #shockworks #cmsperformance #juburacing #toyotamrs #mr2build #worldtimeattack #2zzge #grassrootsracing #aprperformance #cerbuild #wtac #carmods #motorsport
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141: This Could Make or Break Your New Harness.
Forget the hype around “Mil-Spec” wiring — most builds don’t need it. Smart, fit-for-purpose materials and design can still deliver a reliable harness with great performance and aesthetics. This week on the podcast we sit down with Technica Racewire co-founders Philip Chiu and Kevin Tan to uncover the wiring harness essentials.👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipPhilip and Kevin share their journeys from a childhood passion for cars to becoming the owners of Technica Racewire. They discuss the transition from mechanical engineering to automotive wiring.We cover their focus on classic Porsche builds and the production run harnesses they build, the ECU brands they trust, and how they approach configuration depending on the application.They dive into the intricacies of working with autosport connectors and what are some suitable alternatives at a lower price point but still perform to a race grade level. We also cover the differences between a club level harness and a high end motorsport harness.Most importantly, they shine a light on the steps that can make or break a harness and the common mistakes beginners make when trying to DIY their first one.Follow Technica Racewire here:Instagram: @technicaracewireFacebook: Technica RacewireWWW: technicaracewire.com👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvipLinks:Autosport Manual Timestamps:0:00 This Could Make or Break Your New Harness4:12 How did you get interested in the automotive scene? (Kevin)6:52 How did you get interested in the automotive scene? (Philip)9:51 How did you move towards building motorsport grade harnesses? 14:44 How did you go about sourcing Porsche electronics for your harnesses?17:46 When and how did you decide to start wiring for a living?24:15 What does Technica Racewire look like today? Location? Size?30:21 Are you doing production runs on harnesses?32:43 What brands of ECU are you aligning with?36:15 Do you get into ECU configuration and setup?40:40 What is a high pot tester?41:20 How much of your business is business to business vs business to consumer?45:12 Do you get involved in programming CAN messaging?46:57 What’s the difference between a club level harness vs a motorsport harness?53:31 What do you need to know to start working with Autosport connectors? 56:33 Understanding current through a connector and what size wire do we use? 1:08:48 Are DTM connectors still suitable for a motorsport harness? 1:12:50 The intricacy of working with Autosport connectors continued.1:14:45 What’s your opinion on crimping vs soldering?1:17:57 Using solder to pot an actuator or sensor. 1:20:45 Moisture ingress in connectors1:23:31 What are the most common mistakes in building a harness?1:30:36 What is star point earthing?1:33:24 What do you use for your planning? Software?1:38:50 Final 3 questions
High Performance Academy Presents: Tuned In. A podcast interviewing influential people from around the world at the top of their respected fields. Covering topics such as Tuning, CAD, Performance Engine Building, Automotive/Motorsport Wiring, Data Analysis, Driver Coaching/Training, Motorsport Fabrication and Car Setup.
UK