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High Performance Academy


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.


Tuned In

Cars weren’t an obvious career path for Angelina Alcantar. Her family had no automotive background, and her parents hoped she’d pursue something more traditional. But a fascination with taking things apart and understanding how they worked won out, setting her on a path from aspiring technician to leading California’s largest automotive apprenticeship program.

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

In this episode of Tuned In, Angelina explains how automotive classes at Riverside City College became her second home, eventually bringing her full circle from student to instructor. Today, she specialises in engine rebuilding and diagnostics, taking the responsibility of training the next generation of technicians seriously.

We dive deep into engine building, machining, cylinder head work, honing, clearances, compression and leak-down testing, and what it takes to achieve quality engine machining. We also cover Angelina’s turbo Honda Civic, EFI tuning, her experience learning Hondata, and her plans to develop her tuning skills further.

Finally, we discuss the technician shortage, changing attitudes towards the trades, and Angelina’s work building what has become California’s largest automotive apprenticeship program. She also has a popular YouTube channel, @ms.a_theshopteacher, which she hopes to continue growing.

From being underestimated early in her career to now helping shape the next generation, this episode is an inspiring look at Angelina’s passion for the automotive industry and the impressive journey that has brought her to where she is today.

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

Follow Angelina here:

Instagram: ms.a_theshopteacher
Youtube: ms.a_theshopteacher

Timestamps:

0:00 Engine Building, Tuning & Training the Next Gen
4:07 How did you develop a passion for cars?
14:04 Do you like problem solving without a workshop manual? 
16:54 What is an ASE master tech?
25:13 Is a modern mechanic mainly driving a scan tool?
32:21 Is engine building a dying art?
38:41 Do you have a good level of engine machining knowledge?
41:03 What’s your process of diagnosing an engine issue?
43:03 Leak down test vs compression test
48:10 What is a TK test?
50:18 Is it a different skill set to build a performance engine?
1:10:37 Theories on running in an engine.
1:15:17 What is the oil additive ZDDP?
1:16:40 What made you want to get into teaching people? 
1:21:17 Give us a run down on your Honda Civic?
1:27:58 Have you tuned the car yourself?
1:32:24 Why does the US have a shortage of ASE techs?
1:38:36 Can AI tune your car?
1:40:44 Finding a career in the automotive industry
1:44:41 What’s it like being a female in the automotive industry?
1:56:09 Quick fire questions
2:01:11 Final 3 Questions

170: Engine Building, Tuning & Training the Next Gen

Making over 1000HP is one thing — building a car that can make that power, survive constant abuse, and still be driven hundreds of miles on the street is something else entirely. Gus Erickson’s E36 BMW has been through blown engines, broken drive trains and countless late nights, but every failure has helped turn it into one seriously capable street car.

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

In this episode of Tuned In, Gus shares how growing up around BMWs in northern Minnesota eventually led him into the performance industry. After years of fixing, modifying and learning on countless different BMW’s, his obsession with the E36 platform became the foundation for a build that would eventually push well beyond his original 1000HP goal.

We dive into the evolution of Gus’s turbo E36, from stock-bottom-end engines and budget turbo setups to forged internals, serious boost and more than 1100HP at the wheels. Gus explains what repeated engine failures taught him about torque management, boost control and where the real limits of factory components start to appear.

The conversation also gets technical, covering Haltech engine management, DCT swaps, transmission control, traction control, head gasket sealing and why keeping the car genuinely streetable has always mattered. Despite the power, the car still retains a full interior, heat, power windows and sees thousands of street miles each year.

This episode is packed with real-world insight into turbo BMWs, engine development, electronics and learning through failure. Gus’s story proves that chasing big power is only part of the equation — making it reliable, usable and fun enough to actually drive is the real challenge.

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

Follow Gus here:

Instagram: dct_e36
Facebook: Gus Erickson
WWW: 22rpd.com

Timestamps:

0:00 Pushing the BMW M50 Beyond 1000HP
3:40 How did you become interested in cars?
6:06 Has it always been BMW’s for you?
10:20 What is it about the E36 that you like?
13:03 What is your education and work background?
25:31 BMW S1000rr sports bike
27:29 What does your current day to day look like?
30:49 At what point did you decide to build a 1000HP street car?
44:04 Buying someones half built project car
45:43 The start of the 1000HP journey
47:38 Is it hard to fit a big turbo to an E36?
49:42 Finding the limits of the M50 engine
1:07:04 How I ended up going to a DCT
1:10:41 What is a cut ring head gasket?
1:17:33 How do you control the DCT?
1:24:43 Are you using torque reductions on the shifts?
1:28:15 Why the DCT over an 8HP?
1:30:15 What is the main use case for the E36?
1:34:49 What strategies are you using to manage power?
1:39:45 What’s next for this car? 
1:45:25 You had a run in with some carbon monoxide?
1:51:04 Final 3 Questions 
1:54:14 Quick B58 discussion

169: Pushing the BMW M50 Beyond 1000HP

It’s hard to believe — some would even say crazy — what modern Drag and Drive cars are capable of. Thousands of horsepower, five- and six-second passes, all while towing a trailer loaded with spares hundreds of miles to the next event. It’s a challenge that perfectly reflects Devin’s approach to performance: serious power, smart engineering, and reliability that matters just as much as outright speed.

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

In this episode of Tuned In, Devin Vanderhoof shares how he moved from imports and early standalone ECUs into the domestic V8 world, taking with him an appreciation for electronics, efficiency, and making the most of the hardware available. That experience eventually shaped HCR Innovations and his approach to building and tuning high-level race cars.

We dive into Devin’s twin-turbo big-block Mustang, built for Drag and Drive competition. He explains why reliability matters more than chasing every last horsepower, how he approaches boost and power management, and why winning the event is more important to him than setting the quickest pass.

The conversation also gets technical, covering methanol tuning, spark plug reading, EGTs, launch strategy, CO2 boost control, and why these cars are often better developed at the track than on a dyno. Devin also shares his extensive experience with Holley EFI and why it remains his preferred platform for many of the cars he works with.

This episode is packed with real-world insight into wiring, EFI, tuning, and high-level drag racing. Devin’s experience shows that building a seriously fast car is one thing, but making it reliable, repeatable, and capable of surviving Drag and Drive competition is an entirely different challenge.

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

Follow Devin Here:

Facebook: devin.vanderhoof
Facebook: hcr innovations
Instagram: hcr innovations
Instagram: @boo00st
Youtube: @theholleyEFIguy
WWW: hcrinnovations.com

Timestamps:

0:00 How Do You Make 3000+HP Survive Drag and Drive?
3:43 How did you get involved in the car scene?
8:29 Why is everyone scared of wiring?
10:57 Getting into the car scene continued, Drag Racing, Mitsubishi DSM’s, Hondas 
12:59 How fast did you go in the Honda and DSM’s?
14:44 The switch from imports to domestic drag cars
18:16 How did you learn how to tune?
30:10 Give us a breakdown of your Mustang, What is it?
32:26 A big block Chev in a Ford Mustang?
37:45 How many passes are you getting on the Alloy Rods?
41:15 How much wear does the road miles put on the engine?
49:21 Drag and Drive engine compromises 
52:54 What turbos are you running?
54:36 What boost pressure are you running?
56:52 How fast has the Mustang been down the 1/4 mile?
59:37 What sort of AFR do you run for methanol?
1:16:02 How do you tune on the dyno for 3000HP?
1:22:01 What sort of launch strategy are you using?
1:27:54 What is CO2 boost control?
1:33:15 Have you had any experience with the Turbosmart Straight Gate?
1:39:44 Why did you pick Holley as your go to ECU?
2:10:37 Final 3 questions

168: How Do You Make 3000+HP Survive Drag and Drive?

Joe Simpson didn’t grow up building cars with his dad or surrounded by race engines. Instead, an early fascination with imports, turbo Hondas, and the underground tuning scene slowly pulled him towards a career he never originally planned—eventually becoming an incredible fabricator and tuner.

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

In this episode of Tuned In, Joe explains how he started with almost no mechanical experience before teaching himself fabrication and tuning out of necessity. Beginning with basic piggyback controllers and early Hondata systems, he steadily built his skills through repetition, experimentation, and plenty of time on the dyno.

We also explore Joe’s transition from Honda tuning into domestic performance, HP Tuners, and eventually the Holley EFI ecosystem. He breaks down the differences between the Sniper, Terminator X, HP, and Dominator systems, where each works best, and why the most expensive ECU is not automatically the right solution.

Joe and Andre also discuss why making huge horsepower numbers can be easier than achieving factory-like street manners. Cold starts, idle control, drivability, and reliable power management can require far more attention than simply producing an impressive dyno result. Finally, Joe shares how his YouTube channel evolved into Tune The Trilogy, turning years of workshop and tuning experience into online education.

This conversation is full of practical insights and real-world experience. Joe’s honest approach to learning, problem-solving, and continuous improvement makes this an episode every performance enthusiast can take something away from.

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

Follow Joe Here:

Instagram: joe_at_tempest
Youtube: JoeSimpsonAtTempest
WWW: tempest-racing.com
WWW: tunethetrilogy.com

Timestamps:

0:00 From Turbo Hondas to Holley EFI Guru
3:15 How did you become interested in cars?
11:16 Discovering Honda’s
19:46 Getting your first job in a performance shop
23:14 Do you need a qualification to be a mechanic in the US?
30:15 How did you learn to tune?
38:38 How did you find moving into the K series?
43:58 How did you switch from JDM to US domestic?
53:32 Tuning big power is easy?
58:28 What Holley products are you working with? 
1:01:25 Holley Sniper self tuning
1:09:04 Holley Terminator X
1:10:02 What’s the advantages of the HP and Dominator ECU’s? 
1:16:43 How good is transmission support for the 4L60, 4L80 on the Terminator X?
1:18:17 Best and worst features of the Holley ECU’s?
1:27:23 8HP integration 
1:31:42 How did you start Tune the Trilogy? 
1:36:42 Is there still time to run a performance workshop?
1:49:39 Final 3 questions

167: From Turbo Hondas to Holley EFI Guru

When Martin designed his first camshaft for the Ford Merkur XR4Ti, he probably never imagined that one day he'd be building some of the fastest GT-Rs and Lamborghinis in the world—but that's exactly what he has done. Martin Musial's journey with AMS Performance has been nothing short of extraordinary.

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

In this episode of Tuned In, Martin shares how growing up around machinery and studying mechanical engineering laid the foundations for his career. After working in his father’s machine shop, he discovered a passion for designing and manufacturing performance parts that solved real problems, eventually helping shape AMS into one of the world's most respected performance companies.

We follow AMS’s evolution from Mitsubishi Evos to the R35 GT-R, where relentless testing pushed the team to develop stronger engines, turbo systems, and drivetrain solutions. Martin explains how repeated failures lead to innovations, proving that successful product development is built on continuous refinement.

The conversation also explores AMS’s move into the Audi R8 and Lamborghini Huracán platforms, the challenges of modern ECUs and dual-clutch transmissions, and why the biggest dyno number doesn't always make the best street car. Martin also shares the realities of growing a specialist workshop into a global engineering and manufacturing business.

This episode is packed with insight into engine development, product design, and building a successful performance business. Whether you're chasing horsepower or creating better parts, Martin's experience shows that the best results come from understanding the engineering and never stopping the development process.

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

Follow Martin here:

Instagram: AMS Performance
Facebook: AMS Performance
Youtube: AMS Performance
WWW: amsperformance.com

Timestamps:

0:00 Building Record-Breaking GT-Rs & Lamborghinis | AMS Performance
3:54 How did you become interested in cars?
9:35 The story of starting AMS?
13:49 Is old school mechanical knowledge being lost?
17:57 The start of AMS continued 
26:41 What was the change like from Talon, Eclipse to Evo 8?
35:15 How did you develop your skills with EFI tuning?
37:15 How do you navigate uncharted territory with customer builds?
44:37 The transition from the 4g63 to the R35 GTR
48:25 Designing a stock placement turbo kit for the R35 GTR
57:26 How did the billet block for the R35 come about?
1:05:42 When things go wrong, who pays for it?
1:06:42 The million dollar mistake
1:15:30 What sort of head gasket are you using?
1:17:06 Do we have full control and understanding of the DCT transmissions?
1:24:58 What ECU’s are you using to control these cars?
1:27:12 Moving from the R35 platform to the Lamborghini Huracan/Audi R8
1:32:04 What’s a street level turbo Huracan’s happy power level? 
1:36:52 What makes and models are you looking to support in the future?
1:42:09 What does AMS look like today?
1:50:57 What’s your current role at AMS look like?
1:59:52 Final 3 questions

166: Building Record-Breaking GT-Rs & Lamborghinis | AMS Performance

We often hear about drivers who built successful racing careers, but Peter Farrell’s story goes far beyond the driver’s seat. While many enthusiasts know him for his work developing the legendary Mazda FD RX-7, his career stretches from rallying on a shoestring budget in New Zealand to developing some of the first performance upgrades for the FD and competing in factory-backed racing programs in the United States.

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

After discovering rallying as a teenager, Peter combined his engineering background with an obsession for making cars faster. Whether it was pioneering turbocharged Ford Escorts, competing against legends like Possum Bourne, or moving to America with little more than ambition and mechanical skill, every chapter of his story was built on finding opportunities and making the most of them.

That determination eventually led Peter into professional endurance racing, where he drove for manufacturers including Mitsubishi, Peugeot, Saturn, and most famously Mazda. Along the way he helped develop the FD RX-7 into a race-winning platform, worked alongside Mazda's engineers in Japan, pioneered performance parts for the iconic rotary sports car, and experienced the golden era of factory-backed motorsport in America.

Beyond the racing, Peter shares invaluable insights into engine development, turbocharging, cooling, reliability, and why understanding the fundamentals matters just as much as having the latest technology. His stories highlight how ingenuity, persistence, and strong relationships opened doors that money alone never could.

This episode is packed with incredible stories from a fascinating motorsport career. From grassroots rallying and endurance racing to rotary development and factory engineering, Peter's journey offers lessons that every racer, tuner, and enthusiast can appreciate.

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

Follow Peter here:

Youtube: pfsupercars1
Facebook: Peter Farrell

Timestamps:

0:00 Pioneering the Mazda FD3S RX-7
3:55 How did you first develop a passion for cars?
7:25 Competing in rally in New Zealand
17:39 Early turbo setups on 2.0 Pinto engines
28:58 Moving to America to go chase the rally dream
38:17 The switch to circuit racing and getting paid to race
1:00:18 Starting the relationship with Mazda
1:03:00 Building the FD RX7 to race in the IMSA Supercars 
1:12:19 How to keep a Rotary reliable and fast?
1:17:40 Were you not allowed an aftermarket ECU?
1:20:05 Did you have problems with the factory gearbox?
1:32:51 Starting a performance parts business (PFS)
1:35:58 Peter Farrell Purple Box piggy back ECU
1:57:40 Final 3 questions

165: Pioneering the Mazda FD3S RX-7

We all dream up incredible vehicle concepts—Nate Wilkerson of Wilkerson Customs brings them to life. Combining engineering expertise, CAD design, and a lifelong passion for off-road racing, Nate has built a huge following by creating some of the most ambitious virtual vehicle concepts on the internet.

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

In this episode of Tuned In, we dive into Nate’s background, from growing up in a machine shop and studying optical engineering to designing advanced laser systems for autonomous vehicles and military applications. Along the way, he developed a passion for mechanical design and engineering, eventually turning the off-road vehicle concepts he’d been imagining since childhood into detailed CAD creations shared with a growing online audience.

We then explore the tools and processes behind Nate’s designs, covering everything from SolidWorks and finite element analysis to CNC machining and additive manufacturing. The discussion highlights the importance of designing for manufacturability and understanding engineering fundamentals before they ever reach the real world.

The conversation also dives deep into off-road vehicle design, from suspension geometry and wheel travel to weight optimisation and structural analysis. Nate explains how he balances performance, durability, and practicality while constantly pushing the limits of what’s possible in his designs. 

This episode is packed with insight for anyone interested in CAD, engineering, fabrication, or vehicle design. Whether you're creating parts for your own project car or simply fascinated by the process of turning ideas into reality, Nate’s unique perspective makes this a fascinating listen.

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

Follow Nate here:

Instagram: Wilkerson_Customs

Youtube: Wilkerson_Customs

Offroad Design Crew SOLIDWORKS

Timestamps:

0:00 CAD: The Gateway to Making Dreams a Reality
3:56 How did you get interested in cars?
09:26 How did you learn Solid Works (CAD)?
13:00 Why do you prefer CNC machined assemblies?
14:52 What’s your thoughts on generative design? 
15:58 Additive manufacturing had developed so fast 
21:50 What is Blender and how is it used with Fusion 360?
25:08 Can you apply your Solid Work skills directly into Fusion 360?
31:02 What sort of computing power do you need to run CAD?
33:34 What is FEA?
39:16 What sort of safety factor are you applying to your designs? 
41:18 What do we need to think about when designing for manufacturing?
48:16 How do you design the suspension kinematics? 
55:22 Why do you prefer an independent rear in your designs?
59:41 How do you get started with a design?
1:02:11 How many hours go into your designs?
1:05:50 Are we going to see one of these designs in real life?
1:10:30 Final 3 Questions

164: CAD: The Gateway to Making Dreams a Reality

Automatic transmissions were once the last thing performance enthusiasts wanted in their builds—but that’s changing fast. Greg from Turbolamik is at the centre of that shift, helping bring ZF’s 8HP gearbox into everything from drift cars to drag builds, and showing just how capable modern automatics have become.

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

In this episode of Tuned In, we dive into Greg’s background, from growing up around grassroots motorsport in Poland to building a life in the US surrounded by rally and performance cars. His early experiences with Subaru’s and rally culture set the foundation for a career spent building cars, working with teams, and staying closely connected to the evolution of performance technology.

The focus then shifts to the ZF 8HP gearbox and why it’s quickly become such a popular swap. We break down its efficiency, strength, and fast shift speeds, along with how it compares to manuals, traditional automatics, and sequential gearboxes. Greg explains why these transmissions can handle serious power and how they’re being used across different motorsport disciplines.

We then dive into the Turbolamik standalone controller and what’s involved in making these swaps work. From CAN integration and torque modelling to adaptive shift strategies and advanced features like transbrake and launch control, the discussion highlights how full standalone control unlocks the true potential of the 8HP platform.

This episode is packed with insight into one of the fastest-growing trends in performance cars. Whether you’re building a drag car, drift car, or street machine, understanding the potential of modern transmissions like the 8HP could completely change how you approach your next project.

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

Follow Greg here:

Instagram: turbolamik.us
Facebook: turbolamik.us
Youtube: TurboLamikUS
WWW: turbolamik.us

Timestamps:

0:00 ZF 8HP: The Automatic Everyone Wants?
04:15 How did you become interested in cars?
10:07 Did you get involved in tuning?
13:51 Finding a gearbox to handle big power
15:52 What is it that makes the 8HP such a special gearbox? 
22:29 What are the pros and cons of removing the torque converter?
27:15 Why is it now that everyone is doing the 8HP swap?
30:16 What are the Drag records with the 8HP?
31:39 Advantages over integrating into the factory TCU?
35:03 Is this a DIY installation for the Turbo Lamik?
37:31 How does the torque modeling work and shifting? 
45:15 What ecu’s can you achieve torque reduction upshifts & throttle blips for downshifts? 
47:55 What’s the difference between trans brake & launch control?
51:10 What’s the best vehicle to get an 8HP from & which model are we looking for? 
56:10 Do we need torque reduction for full power upshifts?
57:20 How fast are the shifts compared to other gearboxes? 
59:26 Is there further room for development with the 8HP?
1:06:10 Are other transmission companies trying to keep up with ZF?
1:09:30 Is the 8HP lighter than a DCT?
1:13:32 Final 3 questions

163: ZF 8HP: The Automatic Everyone Wants?

Some people learn engines by doing—others take it a step further and truly understand the physics behind what’s happening. Jake from Bain Racing sits firmly in that second category, combining hands-on experience with deep engineering knowledge to build some seriously impressive engines.

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

In this episode of Tuned In, we dive into Jake’s background and how a family history steeped in motorsport set the foundation for his career. From building cars in his teens to running his own shop and developing race engines, Jake shares how a mix of curiosity, study, and real-world experience shaped his approach to engine building.

We cover the fundamentals that underpin everything Jake does—covering topics like harmonic dampening, bearing clearances, oil viscosity, and why many common engine-building “rules” aren’t as black and white as they seem. 

Jake then unpacks airflow and cylinder head development, breaking down the often misunderstood relationship between flow and velocity and how factors like surface finish, valve seat design, and port shape all contribute to real-world performance. We also explore intake manifold design and the role of runner length, plenum volume, and harmonic tuning in maximising engine efficiency. 

This episode is packed with practical knowledge and deep technical insight. Whether you’re building engines, tuning them, or just want to better understand how they really work, Jake’s ability to connect theory with real-world results makes this one a must-listen.

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

Follow Jake here:

Facebook: BainRacing
Instagram: BainRacing
Youtube: BainRacing
WWW: bainracing.com.au

Links:

https://www.enginelabs.com/news/amazing-video-jon-kaase-tests-airflow-dynamics-with-his-finger/

Timestamps:

0:00 Intro
4:16 How did you get interested in cars?
10:45 If an engine is balanced why do we have harmonics? 
18:05 How do you learn to build performance engines?
21:48 Compression ratios for different applications
26:53 How did you build up your knowledge?
30:54 At what point did your current business take off?
33:15 Bearing clearance vs oil viscosity
41:13 What’s your opinion of billet blocks for street engines?
44:43 Is it hard to make a profitable engine building business? 
48:50 When it comes to cylinder head porting why is big not always better?
51:52 Why is velocity so important?
57:20 What is the optimum surface finish for a port?
1:04:04 What’s the best approach to use when porting around the guide?
1:08:00 How important is the valve seat?
1:10:45 Are your heads all CNC ported?
1:15:58 How are you testing your heads and porting?
1:18:42 What do most people get wrong with intake design?
1:20:10 Can you explain the 3rd harmonic and why it’s important?
1:23:45 How do you choose the design of the intake manifold for a given engine?
1:26:00 How well does your calculation validate on the dyno?
1:29:22 Is there any rule on intake manifold volume?
1:32:16 What is a shear plate?
1:34:51 ITB’s vs single or double throttle body
1:38:43 How do we size our throttle body?
1:43:49 What’s been the most interesting project?
1:52:17 Final 3 Questions

162: The Real Science Behind Engine Airflow & Performance

From carburettors and distributors to neural networks and AI-driven ECUs, Gerry Bechet’s career spans the full evolution of modern engine control. From his early days at Toyota South Africa to high-level development work at Ricardo, Renault, and Holden Special Vehicles, Gerry has been right at the heart of OEM engine calibration and development.

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

In this episode of Tuned In, we dive into Gerry’s journey through the automotive industry, starting with his early passion for mechanics and progressing into a career as a mechanical engineer specialising in engine development and calibration. We unpack his time at Ricardo working on diesel engine R&D, including common rail injection and combustion chamber design.

The conversation then shifts to OEM calibration at HSV, where Gerry worked on GM’s LS platforms. We explore the realities behind factory tuning—balancing power, emissions, durability, and even marketing demands—and why factory ECUs are far more complex than most people realise.

We also break down the tuning myth of “magic numbers,” why airflow modelling is everything, and how small errors in injector data or fuel pressure can throw an entire calibration off. Gerry shares real-world examples that highlight why understanding the fundamentals still matters—no matter how advanced the software becomes.

Finally, we get into Gerry’s current role with HP Tuners and the development of the new Core ECU. Designed to bridge the gap between OEM-level control and aftermarket flexibility, this standalone system brings advanced strategies like MAF and speed density integration, along with AI-assisted VE tuning. We discuss where it fits in the market, who it’s for, and how tuning technology is continuing to evolve.

This episode is packed with insight—from old-school engine fundamentals to cutting-edge ECU development. Whether you’re a tuner, engineer, or just passionate about performance cars, Gerry’s depth of experience makes this one well worth your time.

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

Follow Gerry here:

Instagram: HPTuners
Youtube: HPTuners
WWW: HPtuners.com
WWW: HPtuners.co.au 

Timestamps:

0:00 Standalone vs OEM ECU: Understanding Modern Engine Control
4:26 How did you get interested in cars?
8:04 Working for Toyota in South Africa 
12:02 Where did you end up after Toyota?
14:02 What are you trying to find when you’re running these engines on the dyno?
20:07 What is the time frame on developing one of these engines?
21:52 How did your role progress at Ricardo Engineering?
25:10 How was the transition to engine calibration?
26:43 How does an emission system work?
31:56 Tell us about your time at Holden HSV?
43:29 What does OE calibration software look like?
45:24 What’s your role at HP Tuners?
47:15 Why do people who tune stand alone ECU’s find it hard to use HP Tuners?58:00 If MAF is so good, why do we have a speed density system? 
1:01:12 What is virtual volumetric efficiency and why did GM go in that direction? 
1:03:52 What is a neural network?
1:08:11 Are there any common HP Tuner mistakes? 
1:14:19 Why have HP Tuners made a stand alone?
1:23:53 How does the Core ECU operate?
1:27:33 Automatic spark calibration, What can you tell us?
1:30:26 Is there any consideration for CAN networks?
1:32:14 How do we decide to reflash or fit the Core ECU?
1:37:32 How does the work flow between the US and Aus work on this ECU?
1:38:53 How do you get tuners to swap to your EC

161: Standalone vs OEM ECU: Understanding Modern Engine Control

Is it time to ditch your factory ECU?

HP Tuners is known for reflashing factory ECUs, but now they’re flipping the script with their Core Standalone ECU, a complete engine management system that offers boost control, traction control, nitrous control and more right out of the box.

Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in

We stand up (not much seating at SEMA!) with Justin Burt from HP Tuners to break down who this ECU is for, when you should ditch a stock ECU, and what makes CORE different from the competition. Whether you’re pushing 1500hp on a factory ECU or building a dedicated motorsport machine, this discussion covers CAN bus customization, pricing, and potential future support for DI engines.

Building on from the VCM Suite reflash tuning interface, VCM LIVE software ensures a familiar interface for HP Tuners users tuned to the needs of a standalone ECU tuner, while 12 base maps, sample data logs, and beginner-to-advanced tuning modes make it accessible for both new and experienced tuners to learn and grow with.

With Gen 3/4 LS support out of the gate and Gen 3 Hemi & Coyote in development, this is more than just an LS swap ECU. In time and with the backing of a large company like HPT, is the CORE ECU potentially going to become the most versatile standalone ECU yet?

Field Report: Time For a Change?

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