Supercharger Oil Cooling System The report provides a comprehensive overview of the design, implementation, and testing of a supercharger oil cooling system tailored for Paxton SN60 and VS57 superchargers. These superchargers rely on a planetary ball drive mechanism, which is highly effective but prone to significant heat generation. Overheating risks are particularly acute during high-performance … Read more
Diagnosing and resolving a tappet failure in a modified engine can be a complex endeavor, especially when the problem leads to a complete redesign of the valvetrain. This project began with an abnormal exhaust gas temperature (EGT) reading in cylinder No. 2, which consistently displayed temperatures around 300°F, far below the 700–900°F range of the … Read more
We’ve all been there. You step outside and look at your vehicle—whether it’s a sleek sports car, a rugged Jeep, or a vintage muscle car—and feel a sense of pride. It’s polished, it’s clean, and it looks great sitting in your driveway. The paint gleams in the sunlight, the engine bay is spotless, and everything … Read more
Overview The Crankcase Evacuation System (CES) was developed to address engine blow-by gases, which can cause crankcase overpressure, oil leaks, and decreased engine efficiency. Traditional systems, such as the Draft Tube and Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) systems, have limitations for high-performance engines. This project explores mechanical and electrical CES configurations to maintain a crankcase vacuum … Read more
Part 1: The Dynamics of Throttle Plate Position and Flow Area Understanding the relationship between throttle plate position and airflow is critical for optimizing engine performance. This connection directly impacts how efficiently an engine can transition from idle to full throttle. In this post, we’ll break down this relationship and its significance. Figure 1 shows … Read more
Part 2: Linear vs. Nonlinear Throttle Position Sensor Response Throttle control becomes a challenge when the engine demands rapid response, and the linear TPS struggles to keep up. This post examines why linear potentiometers fall short and how adjusting their response curve can provide a solution. Figure 2 highlights the mismatch between a linear TPS … Read more
Part 3: Mechanical and Electronic Solutions for Optimal Throttle Response To solve the enrichment problem, engineers can turn to either mechanical linkages or electronic modifications. This post explores both approaches and their advantages. Figure 3 shows how varying linkage ratios can create the desired convex response. By using levers, bellcranks, or idler shafts, engineers can: … Read more
Cylinder Head Replacement Project – Machining This is a summary of the 13-month project to replace the damaged and unrepairable Edmunds aluminum cylinders on my 1960 Willys Super Hurricane engine. For more details about the project, visit my build thread, 1960 Willys Utility Wagon – Be Careful of Big Ideas on the Old Willys Forum. … Read more
When I am out and about with my 1960 Willys Utility Wagon, it is not unusual for people to ask “What is that?” or make the comment “I have never seen one of those.” The question I then ask myself is “Why don’t people know about Willys Utility Wagons?” If I were driving a 1969 … Read more
My Experience When I’m out and about with my 1960 Willys Utility Wagon, it is not unusual for people to ask “What is that?” or make the comment “I’ve never seen one of those.” I then ask myself “Why don’t people know about Willys Utility Wagons?” If I were driving a 1969 Camaro most people … Read more