Tuned In Podcast

Many car enthusiasts have fantasised about a lightweight car with a motorcycle engine swap. After all, what’s not to like about a high-revving, lightweight engine that produces great power and sounds incredible, right?

Reed Stormzand from the YouTube channel Reed Make Car tells us that while the combo can be awesome, it definitely hasn’t been all plain sailing.


Tuned In episode 151: CBR1000 x Miata - A Match Made in Heaven?

Listen to the full episode here: https://youtu.be/6-OcT6Ng7UQ

In this episode of Tuned In, Reed shares his journey into the automotive world, detailing his self-taught welding and fabrication skills as well as his day job at ZZ Performance.

We discuss his Cadillac ATS-V drag car, ZZ Performance’s involvement in pushing the platform forward, and their pursuit of the ¼-mile world record.

We also cover his CBR1000-swapped Miata, which started out naturally aspirated but is now turbocharged. Reed talks about the challenges of the swap, the intricacies of using a motorcycle engine in a car, and how he learned to tune—first on the stock Miata engine and now on the CBR1000 setup.

Reed never set out to become a YouTube car builder, but he’s built a solid following, and viewers clearly love his projects. His self-taught background, hard work, and willingness to learn by doing stand out as key takeaways. If you want to learn something, just start doing it.

👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: hpcdmy.co/podvip

Follow Reed Here:

Youtube: ‪@ReedMakeCar‬

#miata #mazda #mx5 #CBR1000 #cadillac #ATSV #reedmakecar #zzperformance #turbocharged #highperformanceacademy #buildtunedrive #learndriveoptimise #learntotune #wiring101 #cars #motorsport #dragracing

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5 days ago | [YT] | 333

Tuned In Podcast

Imagine being a self-taught engineer who mastered the intricacies of engine design and is now building bespoke engines from the ground up. That’s exactly what Josh Valman from Motorsport_Engineering has done.

We welcome Josh back for his second appearance on the podcast. This time, we catch up on his wild Alpha V8 Hayabusa project and dive into his latest creation — a turbocharged hot-vee V6 bespoke engine.

Tuned In episode 150: The Self-Taught Way: Building Wild Engines from Scratch

Listen to the full episode here: https://youtu.be/VdwB2CyXFDA

In this episode of Tuned In, Josh shares his journey from self-taught engineer to bespoke engine designer and builder. We check in on his progress with the Alpha project before unpacking the details of his new V6 design.

We explore the technical side of engine performance — including pre-ignition chambers, variable valve timing, and the unique benefits of a V6 engine configuration. Josh also discusses the finer points of engine design and the importance of balancing stroke and bore ratios while selecting the right compression ratios for boosted engines.

With deep expertise in machining and manufacturing, Josh offers valuable insights into precision machining, materials selection, heat treatment, and maintaining tight tolerances in high-performance engine parts.

If you’re fascinated by engine design, engine building, machining, or CAD, this episode is packed with knowledge. Josh’s passion for sharing his experience makes it a must-listen for anyone interested in the art and science of building engines.

👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: hpcdmy.co/podvip


Follow Josh here:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/motorsport_engineering/
Youtube: youtube.com/@Motorsport_Engineering/shorts

#motorsport_engineering #bespokeengines #self-taught #V6 #hotvee #turbocharged #CAD #enginedesign #highperformanceacademy #buildtunedrive #learndriveoptimise #learntotune #wiring101 #datanerd #cars #motorsport #racing #boost

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2 weeks ago | [YT] | 375

Tuned In Podcast

CAN communication might seem like a secret, nerdy language spoken only by electronic components —and, in a way, it is. But behind that digital chatter lies the key to unlocking integration between different electrical systems.

Mitch Minton from ‪@Mintonperformance‬ joins us to unpack CAN communication—how it really works, and why it’s become such a crucial part of the aftermarket performance world.

Tuned In podcast episode 149: Cracking the CAN Code: Mastering Integration in Performance Builds

Listen to the full episode here: https://youtu.be/OkD9j6I-G5I

In this episode of Tuned In, Mitch shares his journey from a casual interest in cars, sparked by ‘The Fast and the Furious’, to becoming a skilled automotive technician and data analyst. He reflects on the evolution of his expertise and his experiences in race engineering and mobile diagnostics.

We then dive into the fascinating world of CAN communication, exploring its vital role in modern automotive systems. Mitch breaks down the complexities of CAN protocol, explaining data transmission, how to decode negative values, and the purpose of his CAN gateway.

We explore the challenges of integrating aftermarket ECUs and how intricate modern vehicle data networks have become. Mitch explains why continuous learning in this field is essential for anyone serious about automotive technology.

With modern vehicles packed full of electronic modules, traditional engine swaps, gearbox conversions, and standalone ECU upgrades aren’t as straightforward as they once were. Without the understanding and use of CAN communication a lot of these modifications are no longer possible.

👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: hpcdmy.co/podvip

Follow Mitch here:

WWW: mintonperformance.com/
Youtube: youtube.com/@Mintonperformance
Facebook: www.facebook.com/MitchDetailed

#mintonperformance #Canbus #Cangateway #wiringharness #ecu #electronics #highperformanceacademy #buildtunedrive #learndriveoptimise #learntotune #wiring101 #datanerd #cars #motorsport #racing #boost

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1 month ago | [YT] | 88

Tuned In Podcast

Want a high-revving, F1-sounding, naturally aspirated V10 on a budget? Sounds impossible—until Jack and Diego from Build It Yourself made it happen. They took a humble Ford V10 truck engine, crafted custom four-valve heads, and engineered headers that deliver that unmistakable F1 scream.

Tuned In podcast episode 148: The “Impossible” Backyard V10 Screamer.

Listen to the full episode here: https://youtu.be/eAz4iTgb5uY

In this episode of Tuned In, Jack and Diego share their backgrounds in automotive engineering and their journey into the performance automotive world. They discuss their current roles at Ford, the skills they bring to their YouTube channel Build It Yourself, and the innovative technologies they leverage, such as CAD, 3D scanning, and 3D printing.

The conversation dives deep into the highs and lows of building a one-off V10 engine. From the headaches of welding cylinder heads and perfecting cooling and oil flow to the science of exhaust sound engineering. They unpack machining, camshaft design, and the creative process behind documenting the entire build on YouTube.

Then there’s the bold decision to drop this beast into a 2017 Lincoln Continental, a choice that might not seem obvious to many enthusiasts. With the added challenge of a rear-wheel-drive conversion, it was definitely no straightforward swap.

What they’ve pulled off in their home workshop is nothing short of extraordinary. Blending solid engineering know-how with hands-on ingenuity, their Build It Yourself attitude is truly inspiring.

Follow Jack & Diego here:

Youtube: youtube.com/@biy_buildityourself
Instagram: www.instagram.com/biy_buildityourself/

👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: hpcdmy.co/podvip

#BIY #buildityourself #fordv10 #v10 #customcamshaft #3dprinting #cad #highperformanceacademy #buildtunedrive #learndriveoptimise #learntotune #enginebuilding101 #wiring101 #datanerd #racecraft #cars #motorsport #racing #boost

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1 month ago | [YT] | 232

Tuned In Podcast

Whether it’s a bespoke quad-turbo V12 or a modified OE production engine, the fundamentals remain the same—we’re all looking for those extra gains. Italtecnica’s Riccardo Breda is here to break down the core concepts that could help you take your engine build to the next level.

Tuned In podcast episode 147: Inside the Art of Bespoke Engine Building

Listen to the full episode here: https://youtu.be/DdVgNltR_HY

In this episode of Tuned In, Riccardo discusses his journey into automotive engineering and his role as an engine designer at Italtecnica, a company specialising in resto-mods, engine development, design, and manufacturing, working with brands like Ferrari and Maserati.

The conversation explores the evolution of Italtecnica, the challenges and innovations in resto-mod projects, and the range of engines currently being produced and developed. That includes a new naturally aspirated V12 for racing, along with a homologated version for road use. He also talks about the challenges of balancing power output with emissions compliance in modern engine design.

We dive into key fundamentals of engine design, including compression ratio, bearing clearance, rod-to-stroke ratio, cylinder head design, and different methods of valve actuation. The conversation also touches on the Atkinson cycle and how it can be replicated with variable valve timing.

It’s not every day you get to tap into the mind of someone designing bespoke high-performance engines from the ground up. This episode is jam-packed with insight and a must-listen for anyone interested in engine building.

Follow Riccardo here:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/italtecnica.engineering/?hl=en
Facebook: www.facebook.com/italtecnica.engineering
WWW: italtecnicaengineering.com/index.php/en/home-eng/

👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: hpcdmy.co/podvip

#italtecnica #italtecnicaengineering #bespokeengine #italianengineering #v12 #turbocharged #restomod #enginedesign #naturallyaspirated #highperformanceacademy #buildtunedrive #learndriveoptimise #learntotune #enginebuilding101 #wiring101 #datanerd #racecraft #cars #motorsport #racing #boost

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2 months ago | [YT] | 113

Tuned In Podcast

Composites might seem like the secret language of aerospace engineers and hypercar builders, but Gabriel Mountjoy from Common Fibers is here to break down those barriers. He’s out to prove that composites aren’t just exotic materials—you can use them to elevate your own builds too.

Tuned In podcast episode 146: From Home Builds to Hypercars: Composites for Everyone.

Listen to the full episode here: https://youtu.be/Nmnmn6V90mk

In this episode of Tuned In, Gabe shares his journey from a mechanical engineering student passionate about automotive efficiency to a successful entrepreneur in the composites industry. Alongside his now-wife Ann, he co-invented the first carbon fiber hinge, and today their company is not only one of America’s leading composite manufacturers but also uniquely committed to educating people on how to work with these materials.

We explore the evolution of composites in automotive applications, the challenges and opportunities they bring, and why designing for manufacturability is key. Gabe also takes us inside high-profile projects like SSC North America’s Tuatara—a hypercar capable of 300 mph—explaining how they construct mission-critical, complex components such as its carbon-fiber monocoque.

Gabe breaks down the essentials of material and resin selection, unpacks layup methods, and clarifies the differences between wet layup, vacuum bagging, and resin infusion. He highlights the advantages of prepreg materials and compares autoclave with out-of-autoclave approaches.

Despite producing some of the most intricate composite parts in the U.S., Gabe and his team remain refreshingly open about their processes and deeply passionate about making composites more accessible.

Follow Gabe here:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/commonfibers/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CommonFibers
YouTube: youtube.com/@commonfibers
WWW: commonfibers.com/

👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: hpcdmy.co/podvip

#commonfibers #ssctuatara #resininfusion #molddesign #prepreg #wetlayup #designformanufacture #composites #carbonfiber #aerodynamics #fiberglass #highperformanceacademy #buildtunedrive #learndriveoptimise #learntotune #enginebuilding101 #wiring101 #datanerd #racecraft #cars #motorsport #racing #boost

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2 months ago | [YT] | 31

Tuned In Podcast

It’s common for car enthusiasts to rush their car onto the dyno before it’s truly ready, only to have it strapped down and the tuner uncover a list of issues. Nothing kills the excitement of chasing those long-awaited power figures faster than unexpected problems.

Booking a session with remote tuning expert Shawn Christenson could save you thousands. Shawn, from Tuned by Shawn, is a Haltech specialist who can remotely tune your car from anywhere in the world.


Tuned In podcast episode 145: How to Avoid Wasting Thousands on the Dyno

Listen here: https://youtu.be/dQbbSsrN_Go

Shawn shares his journey from a childhood fascination with cars to becoming a self-taught tuner and business owner. He talks about the challenges of diving headfirst into tuning, including his first attempts learning on his FD RX-7. “Piston engines were easy after learning to tune on a Rotary”

We explore how Shawn began his tuning career with Adaptronic before transitioning to Haltech, which he now specialises in and also provides technical support. He outlines his remote tuning process and why it works so effectively, stressing the importance of road-tuning a car before it ever sees the dyno.

Shawn breaks down the pros and cons of remote tuning, including how he manages tricky areas like knock control when the car isn’t physically in front of him. He also touches on CAN bus integration in modern vehicles, an area he’s becoming increasingly involved with.

Spending hours—or even days—on the dyno can quickly add up if things don’t go to plan. Shawn’s focus on minimising hiccups and maximising efficiency makes a strong case for his approach. He might just be the one to help get the most out of your car.

Follow Shawn here:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/tunedbyshawn/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/tunedbyshawn
WWW: www.tunedbyshawn.com/

👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: hpcdmy.co/podvip

#tunedbyshawn #remotetuning #tuning #efituning #haltech #adaptronic #canbus #enginediagnostics #knockcontrol #highperformanceacademy #buildtunedrive #learndriveoptimise #learntotune #enginebuilding101 #wiring101 #datanerd #racecraft #cars #motorsport #racing

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2 months ago | [YT] | 30

Tuned In Podcast

Formula 1 represents the pinnacle of motorsport and James Densley along with the team at TDF Limited are breathing new life into retired F1 cars, transforming them back into the ultimate track weapons.

Tuned In podcast episode 144: Is a Retired F1 Car the Ultimate Track Toy?

Listen here: https://youtu.be/FqBdDKNeOW8

James shares his journey from a car-obsessed child through karting to mechanic at the top levels of motorsport. He recounts his experiences in Formula 3 and then with Mercedes F1, before explaining how TDF Limited was founded and started specialising in restoring and supporting retired F1 cars.

The conversation explores the complexities involved in purchasing, restoring, and maintaining historic F1 cars, including the challenges posed by obsolete electronics and sourcing rare components. James emphasises the critical role of modern technologies such as 3D scanning in facilitating these restoration projects.

We also discuss the operational and logistical challenges of running historic F1 cars today, the development of the TDF One program to make these cars more accessible, and the technical hurdles of modernising powertrains while preserving the true essence of Formula 1 racing.

It’s unfortunate that these extraordinary machines often face the scrap heap or sit around as expensive ornaments after their brief racing lives. What TDF Limited are achieving by resurrecting these masterpieces and returning them to the track is truly groundbreaking.

Follow James here:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/tdf_limited/
Youtube: ‪@tdf_limited‬
WWW: tdf.co.uk/

👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: hpcdmy.co/podvip

#tdf #tdflimited #tdfone #tdfworks #tdfprecision #formula1 #f1 #retiredf1cars #f1engineering #powertrain #highperformanceacademy #buildtunedrive #learndriveoptimise #learntotune #enginebuilding101 #wiring101 #datanerd #racecraft #cars #motorsport #racing

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3 months ago | [YT] | 15

Tuned In Podcast

No matter the stage of a build, most projects reach a point where giving up feels tempting. They demand grit and perseverance—and Karel Silha from KS Motorsport’s wild DTM-inspired M4 Time Attack build is no exception.

We first spoke to Karel in 2022, and now he’s back to share what it really takes to shake down and test a home-built car of this caliber. Believe it or not, it all started with a toy car that Karel scanned and scaled up using CAD.

Tuned In podcast episode 143: DIY Motorsport Isn’t Easy But It’s Insanely Rewarding.

Listen here: https://youtu.be/d8kQCNgVo-Q

In this episode, we explore the engineering details behind the build. Karel explains the challenges of mounting a massive aero package capable of generating serious downforce. He highlights the practical difficulties of high-performance engineering in a garage environment.

Karel also shares how he’s utilised modern tools like CAD and FEA to optimise the design. We talk through his experience testing on KW Suspension’s seven-post rig—fine-tuning the suspension for low-speed mechanical grip and managing the immense downforce at high speeds.

We discuss the complexities of engine management with turbocharging and individual throttle bodies (ITBs), the importance of on track testing versus dyno calibration.

Despite the technical challenges and the emotional toll, this episode is far from bleak. Karel’s journey is incredibly inspiring and he’s optimistic that 2025 will finally be the year this insane build shows its true potential.

Follow Karel here:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/karel_s_motorsport/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/karelsilhamotorsport
Youtube: youtube.com/@karelsmotorsport

👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: hpcdmy.co/podvip

#Karelsmotosport #bmw #bmwm4 #dtmm4 #turbocharged #composites #carbonfiber #aerodynamics #highperformanceacademy #buildtunedrive #learndriveoptimise #learntotune #enginebuilding101 #wiring101 #datanerd #racecraft #cars #motorsport #racing #boost

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3 months ago | [YT] | 7

Tuned In Podcast

What's your favourite Tuned In podcast topic?

3 months ago | [YT] | 4