Tuned In - podcast cover

Tuned In

High Performance Academywww.hpacademy.com

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.

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Episodes

139: The TRUTH Behind Drivetrain Losses on the Dyno.

Real-world performance is what matters when tuning a vehicle, but let’s not pretend the numbers on a dyno sheet mean nothing. The thing is… How can we trust one result from another? How are different dynos arriving at their calculated power and torque figures? And what’s the deal with drivetrain losses? Todd Lewis from Mainline Dyno is here to answer these questions and many more. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip We’ve been using Mainline d...

Jun 05, 20251 hr 58 min

Field Report: Why YOU Are Doing Car Aero WRONG.

We often chase engine and tuning upgrades first, but could a front splitter and rear wing be a smarter starting point for our race cars? We caught up with Kyle Forster from JKF Aero to break down how aerodynamics work in practice and how to make effective improvements at every level of motorsport. From the priorities of downforce vs drag, to choosing the right aero balance for your car's drivetrain layout, this conversation covers everything from tuft testing a club racer to CFD and F1-style dev...

Jun 03, 202520 min

Field Report: Can 'Over Building' Your Engine Damage It?

Some bearings are tough enough to survive 3000 horsepower, but that doesn’t mean you should use them in your street build. Choosing the right bearing isn’t as simple as just picking the toughest option and sometimes what seems like a part from 'the top shelf' can do more harm than good. In this interview, Christian from Nitto Performance Engineering breaks down some small but key differences between OEM-style bearings, ACL Race Series bearings, and coated bearings like those treated by Calico. W...

May 27, 20257 min

138: The Secret to Effective Aero on a Budget.

Think getting extra speed out of an aero package is just for the pros with all the money? It’s not... But you DO need to know what you’re doing. This week, we’re sitting down with aero specialist Amir Bentatou from RS Future to discuss creating an effective aero package for your vehicle, how to actually test it, and much more. 👉 Use the code ‘AMIR50’ to get $50 off HPA’s Aerodynamics Fundamentals course: https://hpcdmy.co/aerob It’s no secret that over the last decade or so, the use of aero com...

May 22, 20251 hr 44 min

Field Report: Will This Replace Your Tape Measure?

3D scanners are not always cheap, but here's why they might still be worth your money. 3D scanning is changing the game for motorsport and custom fabrication, and tools like the Peel 3 scanner are bringing that capability to a more affordable level. In this interview from SEMA, we speak with Gabrielle Williams from Peel 3D/Creaform about how this tech works, where it's most useful, and what enthusiasts need to know before diving in. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https:/...

May 20, 202516 min

137: Fabricating the BEST Custom Cars on Earth.

Anyone who knows modified cars will have heard of the Ring Brothers, builders of some of the greatest custom machines ever conceived. With huge scope and an equally impressive price tag, these incredible vehicles take every single piece of a build to the next level. This week, we’re sitting down with the fabricator responsible for bringing these works of art to life. 👉 Use code ‘RING100’ to get $100 off HPA’s Fabrication Starter Package:https://hpcdmy.co/fpackageb When it comes to fabrication, ...

May 08, 20251 hr 55 min

Field Report: What’s really KILLING your catalytic converter?

You might love the look and sound of your flame-tune, but is it killing your catalytic converter (CAT)? In this interview, Matt Latino from G-Sport by GESi explains the limitations of factory catalytic converters and why performance builds often require something more capable. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in G-Sport’s aftermarket catalytic converters are EPA-compliant, stainless steel, and designed for high horsepower, but they’re not indest...

May 06, 20256 min

Field Report: How is this tool is making EFI easier than ever?

Will carbs on V8 hotrods etc become a thing of the past when some alternatives are this easy? For those unfamiliar with ECU tuning, switching from a carburettor (carb) to EFI can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be. The ‪@EdelbrockUSA‬ Pro-Flo 4 is designed to make the transition as simple and hassle-free as possible. With pre-calibrated sensors, a self-tuning system, and an easy-to-use app, this sequential port injection system eliminates the need for a laptop, making it one of the most us...

Apr 29, 202512 min

136: Does Fast Have a Future?

Running IndyCars, engineering championship-winning V8 Supercars… and going carbon zero? This episode of the Tuned In podcast with performance engineer Brad Eyes takes us in some very interesting directions. 👉 Use code ‘FUTURE50’ to get $50 off HPA’s EV Fundamentals Course: https://hpcdmy.co/evb Brad shares his unique journey into motorsport, beginning with his determination to break into the high-stakes world of IndyCar — despite living on the other side of the planet. He dives into the challen...

Apr 24, 20251 hr 20 min

Field Report: Hate CAN Bus? You're Using It Wrong.

Say goodbye to messy curly cords and more potential failure points. Steering wheel-mounted controls make it easier to adjust key functions on the fly, but getting those signals from the wheel to the car is not as simple as it sounds. Running multiple wires through a rotating steering column is unreliable, time-consuming, and they can be prone to failure due to the nature of their use. Zestek has developed a CAN-based steering wheel PCB solution (CAN hub) that simplifies installation, reduces wir...

Apr 22, 202510 min

Field Report: Why OEMs Limit Performance (And How to Fix It).

Car brands are secretly limiting your car’s potential, and it has NOTHING to do with reliability. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in Getting more power out of a factory car can be surprisingly straightforward with the right software (and sometimes hardware modifications), but what goes into developing a proper tune that exploits more potential without pushing the OEM components past their limits? At SEMA, HPA had a chat with Arin Anhell from AP...

Apr 15, 202513 min

135: The TRUTH About Life in Formula 1.

When Joel Vermiglio isn’t working his day job at McLaren Formula 1, he’s in his Garage 68 Motorsport workshop building an old VW Caddy… with a McLaren twin-turbo V8 in the rear tray, a Lamborghini gearbox, and Porsche 911 suspension. 👉 Use 'JOEL100’ to get $100 off HPA’s Tuning Starter Package: https://hpcdmy.co/starterb Joel never set out to work in Formula 1 — in fact, he didn’t have any plans to get into motorsport at all. That changed in his late teens when he got into cars, went on to stud...

Apr 10, 20251 hr 44 min

Field Report: Time For a Change?

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 ...

Apr 08, 202515 min

Field Report: GT-Z: The RZ34 Nissan SHOULD have built?

S15 suspension in a 240Z—good idea or nightmare? Joel Dimmack’s 1971 Datsun 240Z is no ordinary drift car. Running a VR38DETT swap with Garrett GTX3071R mirrored turbos and making 600-700hp, this 1100kg wet monster blends old-school styling with modern competition-ready tech. But is an S15 suspension transplant really the best setup for drifting? Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in We dive deep into the Parts Shop MAX kit, chassis stiffening by ...

Apr 01, 202513 min

134: Performance EVs — Do They Have a Future?

The performance EV landscape is changing rapidly, and public opinion on electric vehicles also seems to be on the move. How much faster can they go? What are their limitations? Are they even still relevant? A lot has changed since we first had this week’s guest, Sasha Anis of Mountain Pass Performance, on the podcast back in 2022. This conversation gets us right up to date on where the industry sits now and what it’s going to look like in the very near future. Use ‘ONPOINT50’ to get $50 off HPA’...

Mar 27, 20251 hr 40 min

Field Report: Why all the fuss? | Executive Order Approval.

Why don't OEMs tune for the maximum reliable performance and what's all the fuss about over emissions compliance in the United States 'street legal' modified car scene? Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in Emissions compliance might not be the most exciting topic, but if you're tuning a street car, ignoring it could land you in serious trouble. We're joined by Chris Mountain from ‪@cobbtuning‬ to break down how emissions regulations have changed,...

Mar 25, 20258 min

Field Report: This Build Makes Your 4x4 Look Like a Prius.

2000HP, twin turbos, and a manual transmission – is this the ultimate fun off-roader? A 2000hp twin-turbo Lamborghini V10 in a street-legal off-road monster? That’s exactly what ‪@MorganClarkeDesign1‬ aka MCD1 built with this prototype Range Rover Velar Dakar-inspired hyper off-roader. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in Designed as a luxury play car rather than a full race build, this machine blends extreme off-road capability with high-end com...

Mar 18, 202514 min

133: The Dos and Don’ts of Diesel Tuning.

What’s the deal with diesel tuning? Is it really that different? Yes… But also no. This week Matt Smith of Just Autos joins us to discuss all things diesel tuning — operating principles, combustion temperature, reflash options, and a whole lot more. Use JUST50 to get $50 off HPA’s Diesel Tuning Starter Package: https://hpcdmy.co/dieselstarterb Just Autos, based out of Queensland, Australia, specialises in diesel performance tuning — but perhaps not the platforms you’re more familiar with. Matt h...

Mar 13, 20251 hr 54 min

Field Report: This 900hp Air-Cooled Sleeper is WILD!

With 903hp at the wheels, a 9.71-second quarter-mile at 161mph on an unprepped strip, and a fully air-cooled 3.6L turbocharged engine, this Porsche is the definition of a sleeper. In this video, we chat with Arthur to uncover the secrets behind his beastly build. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in Originally a 230hp Carrera Supersport, Arthur's Porsche now runs 102mm ‪@lnengineeringllc‬ Nikasil barrels, ARGO conrods, a GT3 RS crank, CMW Racing ...

Mar 11, 202510 min

Field Report: You've Been Living A Loctite Lie! (Maybe).

When it comes to performance parts and tools we all want to reach 'straight for the top shelf' and get the best we can. While that isn't always possible for some high price components, when choosing between purple, blue or red Loctite at the same price point, many assume that red must be the strongest and therefore 'best' option. These people are wrong, and they're possibly also applying the compound incorrectly too! Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-t...

Mar 04, 20259 min

132: The Best Stock Turbo System?

He co-invented one of the top (and earliest) standalone ECU companies on earth, helped develop unique V10 F1 engines, created ignition systems for top-tier motorsports, and finished it all off by producing stock-frame turbocharger upgrades that push the limits of what a factory turbo is capable of. Mark Boxsell has had a varied and fascinating career in the performance industry, and he’s ready to unpack it all in this episode of Tuned In. Use GTPUMPS100 to get $100 off HPA’s Tuning Starter Packa...

Feb 27, 20251 hr 34 min

Field Report: Is This Tuning Risky Business?

If you’ve ever considered an EV conversion but weren’t sure where to start, Ryan from ‪@rywire‬ takes us through the technical details of his incredible Honda Civic EK EV swap, showcasing the integration of Tesla drive units, AEM Electronics VCU, and CSF Radiators for cutting-edge performance and thermal management. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in This lightweight (EV comparative) build features a $1,000 Tesla front drive unit and a $2,200 r...

Feb 25, 202516 min

Field Report: What's So Special About 'Trophy Truck' Suspension?

Off-road racing demands suspension that can handle extreme terrain, and Dane from ‪@FOXFACTORY‬ is here to break down the tech behind their world-class dampers. From remote reservoirs to internal and external bypass systems, we explore how Fox designs for the brutal conditions of off-road racing events like the Dakar, Baja 1000 and the Finke Desert Race while keeping the tech scalable for daily drivers. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in Topics...

Feb 18, 202515 min

131: UNTAPPED Potential? BOVs and Wastegates Decoded.

Blow off valves and wastegates are fairly simple in their operation, but correctly sizing and fitting them requires a lot of careful consideration if you want to get the most out of your turbocharged engine. This week, Gregg Jones of TiAL Sport — someone who’s been in the turbocharging game since the mid-eighties — is here to get us up to speed on these simple yet crucial components. Use TIAL50 to get $50 off HPA’s EFI Fundamentals course: https://hpcdmy.co/efifundb Gregg started his career in p...

Feb 13, 20251 hr 32 min

Field Report: Easiest way to engine swap? | HELLTACO.

Engine swaps on modern vehicles are no easy task, but Stewart from ‪@mesocustoms1696‬ has taken it to the next level with this insane Toyota Tacoma build, featuring a 6.2L Hellcat supercharged HEMI under the hood. In this video, dive into the challenges of integrating late-model electronics and why a turnkey Hellcat system from Cleveland Power and Performance made this swap not only possible but seamless. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in With...

Feb 11, 20257 min

Field Report: This Build Rocks.

Rock crawling isn’t just about getting to the top—it’s about doing it with precision, relative speed, and control. In this video, we catch up with Rodney from Lasernut Racing to break down the incredible engineering behind their single-seat unlimited class buggy, built for the toughest rock crawling challenges. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in From low weight and tight packaging to innovative techs like portal hubs and rear-steer functionalit...

Feb 04, 202513 min

130: Using Your Automotive Skills to Start Your OWN Business.

Considering striking out on your own in the performance automotive industry? There’s nothing more satisfying than building your own successful business and being your own boss but… getting it right isn’t easy. On this episode of Tuned In, we catch up with M26 Engineering’s Matthew Bernasconi, who we first interviewed back in 2022 just as he was leaving stable employment at offroad legends Kibbetech to build his own business. Use M26ENG50 to get $50 off HPA’s 3D Modeling & CAD for Motorsport ...

Jan 30, 20251 hr 44 min

Field Report: We're OBSESSED With These Tools!

Building high-performance engines just got easier! In this video, we’re with Tom from Hughes Race Built to explore how they’re solving one of the biggest challenges in performance engine building: finding the right tools for the job. Whether you’re tackling a 2JZ, RB26, SR20, 4G63 or even Honda’s K and B series, Tom’s specialized and generic option toolkits are designed by engine builders, for engine builders, to simplify the process and make it more accessible for enthusiasts and pros alike. Us...

Jan 28, 20259 min

Field Report: Hot Rod or Race Car? 2024's WILDEST BMW E30 Build.

Running a 725hp Texas Speed LS-based build and TREMEC Magnum transmission, Cam Cocalis has followed on from his LS3 V8 Toyota 86 build with a full chromoly tube frame BMW E30 Vert project and pushed himself to dive into some new build aspects, a C6 Corvette suspension swap in particular, as he continues to learn the ins and outs of fabrication and custom car building. Use ‘PODCAST75’ for $75 off your first HPA course here: https://hpcdmy.co/hpa-tuned-in At the ‪@toyotires‬ booth during ‪@semasho...

Jan 21, 202515 min

Revisted: Project Binky — Stuffing a GT-Four Driveline Into a Classic Mini.

*** We’ll be taking a break over the Christmas/New Year period and will be back in action mid-January. That means that although there won’t be any new episodes for a few weeks, we’ll be taking another look at some of our favourite conversations from 2024. *** If you’ve spent any time on YouTube, you’re probably already aware of this episode’s guest and the various projects his channel is involved in — most famously “Project Binky”, a classic Mini running a Toyota Celica GT-Four engine and AWD dr...

Jan 16, 20252 hr 10 min
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