148: The “Impossible” Backyard V10 Screamer
About this episode
Jack and Diego from Build It Yourself share their ambitious project of creating a high-revving, naturally aspirated Ford V10 engine by welding two 4-valve heads together. They discuss their journey, including the challenges of fabrication, the use of modern technologies like 3D scanning and printing, and the intricacies of exhaust design to achieve a Formula 1-like sound. With insights into their backgrounds in mechanical engineering and the decision to document their process on YouTube, they reflect on the highs and lows of building a unique engine and the importance of community feedback.
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.
👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip
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.
👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip
Follow Jack & Diego here:
Youtube: biy_buildityourself
Instagram: biy_buildityourself
Timestamps:
0:00 The “Impossible” Backyard V10 Screamer
4:22 How did you get into cars? (Jack)
6:34 How did you get into cars? (Diego)
12:43 Opinion on the future of EV’s side quest
14:32 What would you say your key skills are?
18:38 How hard is it to learn 3d scanning?
26:36 How did you learn the CAD skills?
29:53 Why do we all need 3d printers?
39:40 How did the BIY channel start and why the V10?
42:15 What is an even fire engine?
48:25 How did you convert the engine to 4 valve double overhead cam?
56:15 What issues did welding two heads together cause?
59:44 No one wanted to line bore your cam journals?
1:02:15 How did you find someone to make you custom cams?
1:04:30 Did you consider using any other V10’s?
1:08:07 What's the power and rpm to date?
1:09:40 What chassis did you decide to put it in?
1:13:42 How hard is the rear wheel drive and engine swap?
1:16:29 How does header design affect sound?
1:27:51 3D printed 5 to 1 exhaust collector
1:30:15 Why did you decide to make a YouTube channel for the build?
1:39:21 Why didn’t you try to tune the car yourselves?
1:43:44 Final 3 Questions
Ford V10
"...there's tons of Ford V10s that junk cars that you can get for close to nothing..."
The Ford V10 is a big engine with ten cylinders, mostly found in Ford trucks. It's strong and reliable but not usually seen as a fast engine.
The Ford V10 is a 10-cylinder engine typically used in Ford's larger trucks and vans. It's known for its torque and durability, but not often regarded as a performance engine.
naturally aspirated
"...high revving, high power naturally aspirated V10..."
Naturally aspirated means the engine gets air from the atmosphere without any extra help from devices like turbochargers. This gives it a unique sound and feel when driving.
Naturally aspirated refers to an engine that relies on atmospheric pressure for air intake, rather than using a turbocharger or supercharger. This type of engine typically offers a more linear power delivery and a distinct sound.
cylinder head
"...ditch the 2 valve head and go with a 4 valve design..."
The cylinder head is the part of the engine that covers the top of the cylinders. It helps control how air and fuel enter and exit the engine.
The cylinder head is a crucial component of an engine that sits atop the cylinder block. It contains the combustion chambers, intake and exhaust valves, and sometimes the camshaft, playing a vital role in the engine's performance.
Porsche Career Gt
"...budget for perhaps a Lexus LFA engine, or maybe a career GT Porsche engine? Well, you build it yourself, obvi..."
The Porsche Carrera GT is a super-fast sports car made by Porsche, famous for its powerful engine and sleek design. It was built in limited numbers, making it very special and valuable.
The Porsche Carrera GT is a high-performance sports car produced by Porsche from 2004 to 2007. Known for its exceptional engineering and a naturally aspirated V10 engine, it represents the pinnacle of Porsche's racing technology and is highly sought after by collectors.
Ford Lincoln Continental
"...this V10 has been put into a 2017 front wheel drive Ford Lincoln Continental, just a note here. It's definitely no longer front wheel drive..."
The Ford Lincoln Continental is a large, luxury car that focuses on providing a comfortable ride and high-end features. The 2017 version is one of the latest models in this long-standing line of vehicles.
The Ford Lincoln Continental is a full-size luxury sedan known for its comfort and advanced technology features. The 2017 model represents a modern iteration of this classic nameplate, offering a blend of luxury and performance.
3D scanning
"...I'm talking here about technology like 3D scanning, 3D printing, and of course CAD..."
3D scanning is a way to take detailed measurements of an object and turn it into a digital model. This helps in designing and building parts more accurately.
3D scanning is a technology that captures the physical dimensions of an object to create a digital 3D model. This process is essential in automotive design and fabrication, allowing for precise measurements and modifications.
CAD
"...I'm talking here about technology like 3D scanning, 3D printing, and of course CAD..."
CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design, which is software that helps people create detailed drawings and models of things, like car parts, on a computer.
CAD, or Computer-Aided Design, is software used by engineers and designers to create precise drawings and models of physical objects. In automotive design, CAD is crucial for developing parts and systems before they are manufactured.
3D printing
"...I'm talking here about technology like 3D scanning, 3D printing, and of course CAD..."
3D printing is a way to make objects by adding layers of material based on a computer design. It's useful for creating custom parts for cars quickly and easily.
3D printing is a manufacturing process that creates three-dimensional objects by layering materials based on digital models. In automotive applications, it allows for rapid prototyping and the creation of custom parts.
Ford Falcon
"...my first car was a 64 Ford Falcon that I still have. I bought that when I was like 15 years old, so just in high school."
The Ford Falcon is a small car that Ford made in the 1960s. It was popular because it was cheap and easy to drive, making it a good first car for many people.
The Ford Falcon is a compact car that was produced by Ford from 1960 to 1970. It was known for its affordability and practicality, making it a popular choice among first-time car buyers.
fuel injected 302
"And I wanted to do an engine swap. So I swapped in fuel injected 302. I had the shop there. So I was able to use that, you know, and that was my my first automotive project, I would say."
The fuel injected 302 is a type of engine that uses fuel injection technology to deliver fuel directly into the engine for better performance. It's often used in Ford cars, especially Mustangs.
The fuel injected 302 refers to a 5.0-liter V8 engine, commonly used in Ford vehicles, particularly the Mustang. This engine is known for its performance and tuning potential, making it a popular choice for engine swaps.
Saturn SC2
"Yeah, I had a very different growing up. So I didn't really touch my first car until I was 18 when I was able to buy my first. It was a 1999 Saturn SC2 3 door."
The Saturn SC2 is a small car that was made by the Saturn brand. The 1999 version is known for being reliable and good on gas, which makes it a practical choice for many drivers.
The Saturn SC2 is a compact car produced by Saturn from 1991 to 2002. The 1999 model features a sporty design and is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious buyers.
intake
"...I got an intake for that car. I changed the wheels, brakes..."
An intake is a part of the car's engine that brings in air. Changing it can help the engine get more air, which can make it run better and faster.
An intake, or intake system, is a component of an engine that allows air to enter the combustion chamber. Upgrading the intake can improve engine performance by increasing airflow, which can lead to more power and efficiency.
drag car
"...back when I was trying to build my first drag car, it wasn't, it wasn't an existence..."
A drag car is a car built to race in a straight line as fast as possible. People change parts to make them go faster and compete against others.
A drag car is a vehicle specifically modified for drag racing, which is a type of motor racing where cars compete to see who can cover a straight distance in the shortest time. These modifications often include enhancements to the engine, suspension, and weight reduction to maximize performance on the track.
OEM
"...but I always wanted to work at a OEM. That was a goal, I would say, but I didn't think I would be able to achieve it..."
OEM means Original Equipment Manufacturer. It's a term used for companies that make parts for cars that are sold under another brand's name. For example, Ford is an OEM because they make their own cars and parts.
OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, which refers to companies that produce parts and equipment that may be marketed by another manufacturer. In the automotive context, it typically refers to companies that build vehicles and their components.
FSAE
"...They liked the FSAE guys. So I had my initial interview there at the event..."
FSAE is a competition for college students where they build small race cars and compete against each other. It's a great way for students to learn about car design and engineering.
FSAE stands for Formula Society of Automotive Engineers, a collegiate engineering competition where students design, build, and race small formula-style cars. It provides practical experience in automotive engineering and teamwork.
battery pack
"So I work on, right now I'm doing like a battery systems battery pack. So that's my realm of expertise set."
A battery pack is like a large container filled with batteries that store energy for electric cars. It helps the car run on electricity instead of just gasoline.
A battery pack is a collection of individual battery cells that are assembled together to provide energy storage for electric and hybrid vehicles. It plays a crucial role in determining the vehicle's range and performance.
internal combustion engine
"...the full EV hybrid internal combustion debate was sort of seeing a big drive over the last 10 years..."
An internal combustion engine is a type of engine that makes cars go by burning fuel like gasoline. It's what most cars used to have before electric cars became popular.
An internal combustion engine (ICE) is a type of engine that generates power by burning fuel, such as gasoline or diesel, inside the engine's cylinders. This traditional engine type is commonly found in most vehicles before the rise of electric and hybrid alternatives.
plug-in hybrid
"Well, to satisfy the most people, the plug-in hybrid seems to be the way the market is going to trend, right, because you're going to get the ability to have gas and electric."
A plug-in hybrid is a car that can use both electricity and gasoline. You can charge it like an electric car, but it also has a gas engine for longer trips.
A plug-in hybrid is a type of vehicle that combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor and a rechargeable battery. It can be charged from an external power source and can run on either gasoline or electricity, offering flexibility in fuel choice.
performance engine building
"If you're a fan of the podcast and you're interested in topics like engine tuning, automotive wiring, performance engine building, 3D modeling and CAD,"
Performance engine building means making an engine stronger and faster by using better parts and designs. It's about improving how well the engine works.
Performance engine building is the process of constructing or modifying an engine to enhance its power output and efficiency. This often includes selecting high-performance parts and optimizing the engine's design.
automotive wiring
"If you're a fan of the podcast and you're interested in topics like engine tuning, automotive wiring, performance engine building, 3D modeling and CAD,"
Automotive wiring is the system of wires in a car that connects different parts, like lights and the engine. It's important for making sure everything works correctly.
Automotive wiring involves the electrical systems in vehicles, including the wiring harnesses that connect various components like lights, sensors, and the engine control unit. Proper wiring is crucial for vehicle functionality and safety.
engine tuning
"If you're a fan of the podcast and you're interested in topics like engine tuning, automotive wiring, performance engine building, 3D modeling and CAD,"
Engine tuning is when you change how an engine works to make it faster or more efficient. This can include changing how much fuel it uses or when it ignites the fuel.
Engine tuning refers to the process of modifying an engine's performance characteristics to improve power, efficiency, or responsiveness. This can involve adjustments to the engine's fuel mixture, ignition timing, and other parameters.
car setup
"These courses cover everything from tuning in reflashing petrol and diesel engines through to motorsport wiring, engine building, fabrication, design, car setup and plenty more."
Car setup is about adjusting different parts of a car to make it handle better and drive the way you want. This can include changing the suspension and tire alignment.
Car setup refers to the adjustments made to a vehicle's suspension, alignment, and other systems to optimize its handling and performance for specific driving conditions or preferences.
motorsport wiring
"These courses cover everything from tuning in reflashing petrol and diesel engines through to motorsport wiring, engine building, fabrication, design, car setup and plenty more."
Motorsport wiring is the type of wiring used in race cars. It's built to be very strong and reliable, so it can handle the tough conditions of racing.
Motorsport wiring refers to the specialized electrical systems used in racing vehicles, designed to withstand extreme conditions and provide reliable performance. This includes lightweight materials and advanced connectors.
fabrication
"These courses cover everything from tuning in reflashing petrol and diesel engines through to motorsport wiring, engine building, fabrication, design, car setup and plenty more."
Fabrication means making custom parts for cars. This can involve cutting and welding metal to create new pieces that fit the car better or improve its performance.
Fabrication in the automotive context refers to the process of creating custom parts or modifications for vehicles, often involving metalworking techniques such as cutting, welding, and assembling components.
Volkswagen Rabbit
"Exactly. And people go down that rabbit hole a lot. But I think that's one of the biggest..."
The Volkswagen Rabbit is a small car that is easy to drive and great for everyday use. It's known for being reliable and good on gas, making it a popular choice for many drivers.
The Volkswagen Rabbit, known as the Golf in many markets, is a compact car that has been popular since its introduction in the mid-1970s. It is known for its practicality, efficiency, and fun-to-drive nature.
Formula SAE
"But the way I learned it was actually in college through Formula SAE,"
Formula SAE is a competition for college students where they create and race small race cars. It helps students learn about car design and engineering in a practical way.
Formula SAE is a student engineering competition where teams design, build, and race small formula-style cars. It provides hands-on experience in automotive engineering and project management for students, often leading to careers in the automotive industry.
ASA carbon fiber infused
"We printed that out of a ASA carbon fiber infused."
ASA carbon fiber infused is a strong material used in making parts for cars. It helps the parts resist heat and damage, making them last longer in tough conditions.
ASA carbon fiber infused is a type of material used in 3D printing that combines acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA) with carbon fiber for added strength and heat resistance. It's often used in automotive applications where durability is essential.
epoxy
"...coding it with a carbon fiber chop and epoxying it. So, that was really our core of what was the 3D print."
Epoxy is a strong glue that holds things together really well. It's used in cars to bond different materials, making sure they stay stuck together even under stress.
Epoxy is a type of adhesive that is known for its strong bonding properties and durability. It is often used in automotive applications for bonding materials like carbon fiber and other composites.
4-valve V10
"...which of course is the 4-valve V10 modular Ford-based engine. Before we dive deep into that, though,..."
A 4-valve V10 engine has ten cylinders shaped like a 'V', and each cylinder has four openings for air and fuel. This helps the engine run more efficiently and powerfully.
The 4-valve V10 refers to an engine configuration with ten cylinders arranged in a V shape, where each cylinder has four valves. This design allows for better airflow and improved performance compared to engines with fewer valves per cylinder.
Ford Mustang
"...we started working on this cheap Mustang that we wanted to learn how to drift on..."
The Mustang is a well-known sports car made by Ford. It's famous for being fast and stylish, and many people enjoy modifying it for racing or drifting.
The Ford Mustang is a classic American muscle car known for its performance and style. It has a rich history and has been popular among car enthusiasts since its introduction in the 1960s.
Dodge Viper
"... that the V10 on its own is not enough. The Dodge Viper is probably a classic example. I don't have much ..."
The Dodge Viper is a very powerful sports car that has a big V10 engine, which means it can go really fast. It's known for its bold look and thrilling driving experience, but it can be a bit tricky to handle for beginners.
The Dodge Viper is an iconic American sports car known for its aggressive styling and powerful V10 engine. Produced from 1992 to 2017, it has a reputation for raw performance and driving excitement, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
Ford Excursion
"...ts or proponents that I saw was like a twin turbo excursion making like 700 horsepower and 1100 foot pounds o..."
The Ford Excursion is a really big SUV that can carry a lot of people and things. It's great for towing and is perfect for families or anyone who needs a lot of space.
The Ford Excursion is a large SUV that was produced from 2000 to 2005, known for its massive size and towing capacity. It was designed for families and those needing a vehicle for heavy-duty tasks.
Lincoln Aviator
"... so the heads we're using are from an aviator, or Lincoln aviator, they're the same as the Cobra heads, they're the..."
The Lincoln Navigator is a large, fancy SUV that offers a lot of space and comfort. It's designed for people who want a luxurious ride with plenty of features.
The Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV that has been in production since 1998. It is known for its spacious interior, high-end features, and powerful performance, making it a popular choice among luxury vehicle buyers.
Shelby Cobra
"...ator, or Lincoln aviator, they're the same as the Cobra heads, they're the, you know, the four valve head..."
The Shelby Cobra is a famous sports car from the 1960s that is loved for being fast and lightweight. It was built to race and has a strong engine, making it a classic choice for car lovers.
The Shelby Cobra is a classic American sports car that was produced in the 1960s, known for its lightweight design and powerful V8 engine. It was a collaboration between Carroll Shelby and AC Cars, and it has become a symbol of performance and racing heritage.
Lamborghini Gallardos
"Where the other V10s, you know, the Gallardo's, the one I could think of, that isn't even fire, you know, BMW Viper."
The Lamborghini Gallardo is a super fancy sports car known for being very fast and having a cool design. It has a strong engine and is one of the most popular cars made by Lamborghini.
The Lamborghini Gallardo is a luxury sports car that was produced from 2003 to 2013, featuring a powerful V10 engine and striking design. It is one of Lamborghini's best-selling models and is celebrated for its performance and handling.
Ford Edge
"...os of the City Ford platform. So the Fusion's the Edge. Yeah, it's the front wheel drive based sedan."
The Ford Edge is a type of vehicle called a crossover SUV, which means it's bigger than a car but not as big as a truck. It's designed for comfort and has plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
The Ford Edge is a midsize crossover SUV that has been in production since 2006. It offers a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and a variety of engine options, making it a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
Ford Fusions
"So it's basically a different typehead from the Ford Cos of the City Ford platform. So the Fusion's the Edge. Yeah, it's the front wheel drive based sedan."
Ford Gt350
"...know what? I'd love to take one of these and swap GT350 drivetrain into it. So, BA, you know, six-speed r..."
Ford is a well-known car company that makes many types of vehicles, including trucks and sports cars. They have been around for a long time and are famous for models like the Mustang.
Ford is an American automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, from trucks to sports cars. The brand has a rich history and is recognized for iconic models like the Ford Mustang and F-150.
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