Jon Kaase has announced his latest Boss Nine design, energized by an interesting new intake manifold with a hidden plenum below and stack injection above.

Four-time winner of the Engine Masters Challenge, Kaase has succeeded in investing this new stack injected Boss Nine engine with exceptional torque and tractability— qualities not usually associated with stack injection. But the hidden plenum on the underside of the Boss Nine intake manifold equalizes the pressures in all induction tracts and provides the engine with a clean, consistent idle, excellent part-throttle performance, and instantaneous throttle response. The plenum also provides for brake vacuum and empowers the MAP sensor, which has a major influence in the metering of the fuel.

Compared with a carbureted Boss Nine equivalent, the new stack injection system gives a surprisingly good account of itself. On a typical 520cu in engine with 9.8:1 compression ratio, hydraulic tappets, and running on pump fuel, the stack injection engine outpaced its carbureted rival by an extra 30ft lb torque.

Although 520cu in has been the most popular engine displacement, Boss Nines are available from 429 to 600cu in. So far the most desirable engines in Kaase’s Boss Nine series have been those producing between 500 and 1,000 horsepower. Constructed with either a cast iron or a cast aluminum engine block and topped with Kaase’s efficient hemi cylinder heads, Boss Nine engines were developed using four intake manifolds. These accept 4150 and 4500-style carburetors, as well as Keith Wilson’s EFI system, and various BDS blower units.

 For further information contact Jon Kaase Racing Engines, Inc., and tell them that you saw the stack injection at www.precisionenginetech.com

 (770) 307-0241 or e-mail: JonKaaseRacing@gmail.com

HP Books has released its latest technical book on the GM LS engine.  Building the Chevy LS Engine is written specifically for engine builders, and is not a typical “tuner” or “engine swap” book. The new book covers rebuilding and performance modifications to the LS engine platform, including LS1, LS6, LS2 and LS7, LS3 and LS9. In addition, the comprehensive 202-page book features a detailed hands-on buildup and dyno of a sample 625 HP LS2 that utilizes an OE LS2 block and a complete hand-picked assortment of quality performance aftermarket components. The detailed book is written and photographed by Mike Mavrigian and includes all engine specifications, including part numbers and part sources (OE and aftermarket), fastener torque specs, an informative history of the LS platform and more. This book strictly focuses on engine building, not vehicle installations. The book is specifically targeted at both engine rebuilders and performance engine builders, and those who wish to gain an understanding of LS engine parts and technology. The featured 625 HP buildup offers every detail (part numbers, clearances, torque specs and assembly) of the sample build, providing readers with a comprehensive road map to build an identical engine. Both text and photos are extremely detailed. The newly-released book is part-numbered as HP-1559.

Recently, I asked our readers for their opinions regarding our next engine build project. The response was overwhelming, ranging from late-model Ford 4.6 modular to a slew of “vintage” street-rod-popular muscle engines (Ford Y block, AMC bigblock, Mopar 360, 392 Hemi, 347 Ford stroker, Buick nailhead, etc.). It was actually somewhat surprising (and good news as well) that interest in older, classic engine platforms remains strong.

After digesting the very large response from our readers, I’ve decided that our next project engine will involve a “vintage” Pontiac 455, one of the current nostalgia-favorites, popular for both street rod and drag race applications. Naturally, if it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing to a bit of excess, so I plan to overbore and increase stroke, and to take full advantage of current technology to enhance performance, while maintaining enough of a vintage flavor to make the build appealing to both the restoration and rodder crowd.

Stock bore and stroke for the 455 is 4.151”/4.210”. Depending on the block that I locate, I’ll plan to overbore by +0.060” or more (I’ll know better after performing a sonic wall-thickness check). I’ll likely stroke to either 4.250” or 4.500”.

As with all of our project engines, I’ll detail every single aspect of the prep and build in painful detail. I’ll include all specifications, final clearances, OE casting numbers, aftermarket component part numbers, torque specs, etc. I’ll provide a complete road map for the buildup of the ‘ol Indian bigblock, incorporating today’s technology to enhance durability and performance.  I’m in the process of locating a core long or short block as we speak.

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NICE COMMENTS FROM A READER:

Hi Mike, I would like to thank you for the fantastic Ford flathead engine build-up in precisionenginetech.com. The care and detail that you put into the project is amazing.

I apprenticed in a Ford Dealership in Victoria B.C. Canada during the late fifties and worked on many flathead motors during that time. Back in those days, I don’t remember ever seeing the level of workmanship that you put into your build.

I recently decided to build a model ‘T’ roadster and put a flathead motor in it. Using your articles as my guide, I began by purchasing a stroker kit with a Scat crankshaft from H & H Flatheads to begin my build.

Thanks again for the excellent text and photos that are included in the Project Flathead.

Gus McTavish

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2011 IMIS SHOW

The 2010 IMIS show in Indy was a resounding success, with sold-out booth space (579 companies and 1,145 booth spaces) and a great attendee turnout. The 2011 show is scheduled for December 8-10, once again at the Indiana Convention Center in good ‘ol downtown Indianapolis. The 2011 show will be the third annual event for IMIS. Interestingly, IMIS initially scheduled its 2011 show for November 30-Dec 2, which apparently prompted PRI to schedule its Orlando event for the same dates. As a response to exhibitors who planned to attend both shows, IMIS has re-scheduled its 2011 show for Dec 8-10. Now you have choices: attend one or the other, or hit both.

For more info regarding the 2011 IMIS show, visit www.imis-indy.com, or call True Speed Communication at 317-569-9514.

Finally, a torque wrench designed for pros that combines torque-plus-angle capabilities in an easy-to-use package.

Snap-on’s Heavy Duty TechAngle™ Torque and Angle Wrench (ATECH4R600) will change the way you torque.

“The Snap-on Heavy Duty TechAngle™ Torque and Angle Wrench eliminates the need for angle gauges and protractors, providing the most accurate and efficient way to achieve torque plus angle tightening sequences now specified by many manufacturers,” said Mark Knapp, product manager for Snap-on.  “The Heavy Duty TechAngle™ gives you the precision, power and performance to do the job right every time.”

The features and benefits of the Snap-on Heavy Duty TechAngle™ Torque and Angle Wrench (ATECH4R600) include:

• Digital readout displays a torque setting and, with a push of a button, switches to the angle mode
• Angle readout not affected by ratcheting
• Angle calculation based on the same gyroscopic technology that maintains helicopters at level flight
• Torque accuracy: (2% CW & 3% CCW from 20 – 100% F.S.) (4% CW & 6% CCW from 10 – 19% F.S.)
• Angle accuracy: ± 1% of reading ±1° @ angular velocity > 10°/sec <180°/sec
• Angular display resolution: 1°
• Manual preset and automatic track, peak and first peak modes
• Audible (tone) and tactile (vibrating handle) preset alerts
• Comfortable non-slip grip handle
• Sealed ratchet head
• Low battery indicator and auto shutoff after two minutes idle
• Operating temperature: 40 -110º F (5 – 42° C)
• Storage temperature: 0 – 122º F (-20 – 50° C)
• ISO-6789-2003 and ASME B107-28-2005 standards compliance
• Certificate of N.I.S.T. traceability for 20% to 100% of full scale

Customers can find out more about Snap-on Heavy Duty TechAngle™ Torque and Angle Wrench (ATECH4R600) by contacting their participating Snap-on franchisee, visiting www.snapon.com or by calling toll free 877-SNAPON-2 (877-762-7662).

Good things come in green packages. For those of you who like to drool over Goodson’s outstanding variety of shop tools and supplies, Goodson Tools & Supplies for Engine Builders announces the release of its 2011 catalog.  This year’s catalog includes several new, exclusive tools for engine builders.

David P. Monyhan, National Sales Manager says, “This year we’re featuring two super hot items; the expanded Hyper Finish Diamond Valve Guide Sizing System and the Tapered Wrist Pin Bushing Press Kit. Of course, you can also find our full line of dimensionally correct tools and supplies for everything from lawnmowers to land movers.”

The Goodson catalog is available online to view and download at www.goodson.com/Catalog.  It can be requested online at www.goodson.com/contact/request-a-catalog.php or by calling Goodson at 1-800-533-8010.

Edelbrock has released a line of performance engine lubricants to protect critical engine components. This new line of engine lubricants offers a variety of break-in oils, oil additives and synthetics. Edelbrock solicited Torco Advanced Lubricants to develop an offering of break-in oils, additives, and synthetics that meet the strict performance demands and durability requirements of their research and development team.

Edelbrock Chairman, Vic Edelbrock states, “We developed our performance lubricants to provide our customers with proper lubrication in today’s high performance engines. Over the past ten years a lot has changed in the conventional oils available on the shelf at your local parts store. Key ingredients have been stripped from these oils, creating lubrication deficiencies in high performance applications. Edelbrock Performance Engine Lubricants are blended with the right ingredients for traditional hot-rods and modern performance vehicles. There is no single oil that can cover the market, so we’re giving our customers the variety needed to protect their investment.”

Edelbrock Performance Engine Lubricants are available in a variety of blends, including 10w40 petroleum base or full synthetic zinc enhanced formulas; 5w30 with Cat-Safe™ protection for late-model domestic and import vehicles; Premium Break-in for proper protection in new or rebuilt engines at start-up; Engine Oil Supplement with zinc additive puts the performance back into conventional motor oils and treats up to six quarts; Edelbrock Engine Assembly Lube provides professional grade engine assembly lubrication of critical build components in a consumer friendly package.

Features include:

• Available in a variety of blends to meet the demands of traditional and late-model performance engines
• All Edelbrock Performance Engine Lubricants exceed strict API standards
• Available in 10w40 or 5w30 synthetic, 10w40 petroleum with zinc additive, Break-In oil with zinc, Engine Oil Supplement with zinc, and Assembly lube
• Color coded bottles make choosing the right lubrication an easy process
• All Edelbrock Performance Engine Lubricants are 100% Made in The USA

For complete product information, visit: www.Edelbrock.com/PerformanceLubrication

Goodson’s High Performance Beehive Valve Spring Kits are now available for Harley-Davidson Evo, twin-cam and Sportster applications in 5/16”. Features include ultra pure chrome silicon and nickel spring wire and extra processing for fatigue resistance. The new springs resist pressure loss and failure associated with extremely aggressive cams in high compression engines, along with a reduction in vibration and harmonics. Complete kit includes 4 springs, retainers, keepers and lower collars.

 Kits are also available for 7mm valves, for both single and triple groove valves. Use with stock style AV&V or other umbrella style seals. Complete kit includes 4 springs, retainers and keepers. Check www.goodson.com.

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EngineQuest (EQ^®), a leading supplier of stock and performance cylinder heads and engine components, has introduced new replacement camshaft thrust plates for the aftermarket. With its one piece steel construction, the EQ Camshaft Thrust Plate secures the camshaft in the block so it always stays centered. It is perfect for replacing worn or missing camshaft retaining thrust plates.

 ”Our camshaft thrust plate fills a void in the industry for a high quality, low cost replacement part,” said David Wilson, national sales manager, EngineQuest.

 All EQ Camshaft Thrust Plates are sold in packs of five, and are available for Chevy 230, 250 or 292 cid engine (EQ Part #CP250N), Pontiac 301, 400 or 455 cid engine (EQ Part #CP301N), Ford 289, 302 or 351W cid engine (EQ Part #CP302N), Chevy 350 cid engine 3.900″ tip to tip (EQ Part #CP349N), Chevy 350 cid engine 4.230″ tip to tip (EQ Part #CP350N), and Ford 351C/M, 400 or 460 cid engine (EQ Part #CP460N).   

 For more information about EQ Camshaft Thrust Plates, phone (702) 649-7776, or visit www.enginequest.comwww.enginequest.com.

General Motors may have given up on the Pontiac brand, but Edelbrock continues to roll out great new products for all those classic Ponchos still on the street. Their latest innovation is the new series of performance aluminum cylinder heads for 1965-79 389-455 cid engines. Unlike current Edelbrock RPM heads that feature Ram Air IV exhaust ports, these new Performers are designed with the distinctive D-shaped ports. These new heads accept factory exhaust manifolds and readily available aftermarket headers.

Performer D-Port heads are fully assembled with valves and springs and are offered in two fully CNC ported combustion chamber sizes, 87cc and 72cc. Bare castings are also available in the same finished combustion chamber sizes or with an as-cast 65cc chamber for those customers looking to create their own custom chamber design. The CNC shaped combustion chambers utilize all of the latest developments in cylinder head design that Edelbrock has gleaned from over 70 years of manufacturing aftermarket performance parts, including a spark plug location closer to the exhaust valve and dual quench areas to provide hotter and more complete combustion on every stroke. Oil return passages have also been reworked to improve lubrication, cooling and drain back.

Like all Edelbrock components, the Pontiac heads are made in the USA. Edelbrock aluminum cylinder heads are cast at the Edelbrock Aluminum foundry in San Jacinto, CA and are hand assembled in their Torrance, CA headquarters. They carry a one year warranty against any manufacturer defects and are sold bare or complete with valves, springs and guides pre-installed. Installation is the same as factory cylinder heads, making this an easy bolt-on upgrade with results you will feel on every pull.

Features Include:

• Fully CNC ported combustion chamber (72cc & 87cc)
• Optional bare casting with 65cc combustion chambers for custom sizing or 350 cid engines (notching of the bores required for valve clearance).
• D-port exhaust flange compatible with stock exhaust manifolds and off-the-shelf headers
• Compatible with stock components, just bolt-on & go!
• 5/8″ thick deck for extreme durability
• Made in the USA
• Applications are available with 65cc combustion chambers #61539 (bare); with 72cc CNC’d combustion chambers #61589 (bare), #61599 (completely assembled); or with 87cc CNC’d combustion chambers #61569 (bare) and #61579 (completely assembled).

How cool is this? This is the ultimate “transformer” in one roll-around package. Once in a while, a new product crosses my desk that simply blows me away. This is one of those products. Listed under the “why didn’t I think of that?” category, The Top Shop, by D.C. Rod Design, is a multi-tasking all-in-one workstation that includes just about everything you need, all rolled up into one very cool package. Top Shop is an 1,800-pound workstation equipped with a 1,00-pound hydraulic lift, 12-16 volt battery, complete charging system, overhead lighting, 115VAC power outlets, on-board air system and a writing table. But wait…there’s more! Five removable work stations are also available for work-mounting an engine, transmission, third member, front and rear axles, work trays, a machinist’s vice, a tool chest, and even a cylinder head station.

Even though your mouth is probably watering at this point, there’s even more…an optional custom run-in and testing feature is also available, allowing you to fire an engine for break-in and testing. The run-in option includes an onboard coolant supply and pump, exhaust quick-disconnect, a fuel supply system and an instrument panel.

The rig is also equipped with 10-inch locking swivel wheels for easy mobility around the shop. This is one bad-boy toy that any tech would savor.

For more info, contact GL Enterprises at 801-334-7000.