Ask Away with Jeff Smith: How Can I Pinpoint and Diagnose Ignition Problems?
I have a 1970 Z/28 Camaro with a strong, small-block Chevy engine that that I’ve owned since it was new. Mostly I autocross race the car and recently I had a problem with an electric fuel pump. After replacing the fuel pump and readjusting the flow levels, I took the car out for a test
Mailbag: Understanding 304 vs. 409 Stainless Steel
You’ve got questions. We’ve got the answers—the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, we cover the differences between T-304 and T-409 stainless steel. K.R. Fort Wayne, IN Q: When shopping online, I notice a lot of stainless steel parts, such as exhaust components, are classified as “304 stainless steel” or “409
Mailbag: Tips for Properly Routing Fuel Lines
You’ve got questions. We’ve got the answers—the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, we offer up tips for routing your fuel lines. J.H. Boston, MA Q: I am getting ready to plumb my fuel system and can use some advice on routing the fuel lines. What’s the best way to route
Mailbag: Tips for a Better Cruising Car
You’ve got questions. We’ve got the answers—the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, we help a reader get ready for summer cruising with a few upgrades to his Ford Torino. T.P. New Brighton, PA Q: Recently, I purchased a 1970 Ford Torino, completely stock and original, with 84,000 miles, a 302
Ask Away: Can I Use a Rectangular Port Intake with Big Oval Port Heads?
I am thinking of using a big block Chevy rectangle port intake manifold on a set of aluminum Edelbrock heads that have big oval ports. Will that be okay or will there be a big horsepower loss? I’ve read that you shouldn’t do this because the engine will suffer a big power loss. I was
Mailbag: Inertia-Based vs. Time-Based Brake Controllers
You’ve got questions. We’ve got the answers—the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, we waited until Tuesday to talk about the differences inertia-based and time-based brake controllers. M.G. Charlotte, NC Q: I am looking for a good, reliable brake controller for my trailer. Can you provide me with some information about
Mailbag: Single Pattern vs. Dual Pattern Cams
You’ve got questions. We’ve got the answers—the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, we’re answering the basic question: What’s the difference between a single pattern and dual pattern camshaft? K.B. Washington, PA Q: What is the difference between a single pattern camshaft and a dual pattern camshaft, and how do I
Mailbag: Tips for Lowering Fox-Body Mustangs
You’ve got questions. We’ve got the answers—the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, we talk about the use of caster/camber plates and offset steering rack bushings with Fox-body lowering springs. G.R. New Brunswick, NJ Q: I am installing a set of lowering springs on my 1989 Mustang. I have been advised
Mailbag: The Cure for Off-Road Transmission Slip
You’ve got questions. We’ve got the answers—the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, troubleshooting and troubled tranny. K.R. Denham Springs, LA Q: When going up steep, muddy hills, the transmission in my 1999 Jeep Wrangler slips. On the road, the transmission operates fine. The Wrangler has a 4.0L 6-cylinder engine with
Mailbag: Nitrous Basics for Big Block Performance
You’ve got questions. We’ve got the answers—the Summit Racing tech department tackles your automotive-related conundrums. This week, we’re talking about nitrous system setups. T.H. Washington, D.C. Q: I’m putting together my first engine for my 1984 Oldsmobile Cutlass. It’s Chevy 454 with an Edelbrock RPM cam, heads, and intake package. So, how much nitrous can




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