Building the Next Generation | Mr. John Begin & Landen Manley
About this episode
John Begin and Landen Manley discuss the transformative power of automotive education at Tillamook High School. John, an automotive teacher, shares his journey of reviving the school's mechanics program and inspiring students like Landen, who now works at J-Rod Custom. They highlight the importance of hands-on learning, mentorship, and the unique experiences at events like SEMA. The episode emphasizes the impact of passionate educators and the potential for students to thrive in the automotive industry, showcasing their projects and personal growth.
This week on Oil & Whiskey, we’re joined by Landen Manley and Mr. Begin for a conversation about automotive education and what happens when it actually works.Landen is a former student of the automotive program at Tillamook High School and is now working in the industry at JRod & Customs. Mr. Begin is the teacher who helped build the program and guide students toward real opportunities beyond the classroom.The episode dives into how hands-on education can lead to real careers, the importance of mentorship, and what it takes to prepare the next generation for work in the automotive world.
Donations Can Be Made Via Venmo @THSDRAGTEAM or Checks can be sent to:Tillamook High School foundation (501c3) Attn: Johnny Begin (Drag Racing Team) 2510 1st Street, Tillamook OR 97141
Follow https://www.facebook.com/people/THS-Drag-Racing-Team/100069010405778/
SEMA
"My training is SEMA. That's what I tell him. SEMA is my PD."
SEMA is a big event where companies show off new car parts and accessories. It's important for people who work with cars to learn about the latest trends and products.
SEMA stands for the Specialty Equipment Market Association, which is an organization that represents the automotive aftermarket industry. They host an annual trade show in Las Vegas that showcases the latest automotive products and innovations.
Ford Mustang
"...I personally have a 65 Mustang that I put a roadster shop, chassis under and got from you guys. And, and mostly that was in the last couple of years because I wanted to show the kids..."
The Ford Mustang is a famous car that many people love. The 1965 version is known for its cool looks and powerful engine, and it's a popular choice for those who enjoy classic cars.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car that was first introduced in 1964. The 1965 model is particularly notable for its classic design and performance, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts and collectors.
EV training
"...we did an EV training out there and learned batteries and different electric vehicle stuff..."
EV training is learning about electric vehicles, which are cars that run on electricity instead of gasoline. It includes understanding how their batteries work and how to fix them.
EV training refers to education focused on electric vehicles, covering aspects like battery technology, charging systems, and the unique components of electric drivetrains. This training is essential for automotive professionals as the industry shifts towards electrification.
batteries
"...and learned batteries and different electric vehicle stuff..."
Batteries in electric vehicles are what store the electricity needed to make the car run. Learning about them helps understand how far the car can go and how long it takes to charge.
In the context of electric vehicles, batteries are crucial components that store electrical energy to power the vehicle's electric motor. Understanding battery technology is vital for anyone working with EVs, as it impacts performance, range, and charging.
small engines
"...And small engines. We tear stuff apart, you know, just try to get their hands on them, learn tools."
Small engines are engines that power things like lawn mowers or motorcycles. They are smaller and lighter than car engines, making them suitable for various small machines.
Small engines refer to engines that are typically used in smaller vehicles or equipment, such as lawn mowers, motorcycles, and some types of cars. They are designed to be lightweight and efficient for specific applications.
donations
"...I live off donations. So people in the community donate cars and we pull them in."
Donations are when people give things they no longer need, like old cars, to help others. In this case, the cars are used to teach students how to fix and understand vehicles.
In this context, donations refer to the practice of community members giving their old or unwanted cars to a program or school. These vehicles can then be used for educational purposes, such as teaching students about mechanics and repair.
drain all the fluids
"...we got to drain all the fluids."
Draining all the fluids means taking out all the liquids from a car, like oil and coolant. This is usually done before fixing or recycling the car to prevent spills and ensure safety.
Draining all the fluids is a common practice in automotive repair and maintenance. It involves removing all the fluids from a vehicle, such as oil, coolant, and brake fluid, often before disassembling or recycling the car.
brakes
"...Hey, I got to do breaks on this, you know, and so in advanced mechanics,..."
Brakes are what help your car stop when you press the pedal. They can wear out and need to be checked or replaced to keep your car safe.
Brakes are a critical safety component of a vehicle, allowing it to slow down or stop. They work by applying friction to the wheels, which can wear out over time and require maintenance or replacement.
oil change
"...they need to do an oil change, do breaks, whatever it is, they got the shop to do that."
An oil change is when you replace the old oil in your car's engine with new oil. This helps keep the engine running smoothly and prevents damage.
An oil change involves draining old engine oil and replacing it with fresh oil to ensure proper engine lubrication and performance. Regular oil changes are crucial for maintaining engine health.
wheel spacers
"...I'm going to do an oil change and swap out my wheel spacers."
Wheel spacers are pieces that you add to your car's wheels to make them stick out more. This can help with the look of the car and how it handles on the road.
Wheel spacers are components that fit between the wheel and the hub, effectively pushing the wheel further away from the vehicle. They can improve the vehicle's stance, handling, and fitment of wider tires.
Chevrolet Camaro
"...he's got a I rock Camaro sitting on the lift that's been there for two weeks. And, and he was actually there more over Christmas break than he was during the school day."
The Iroc Camaro is a special version of the Chevrolet Camaro that was popular for its sporty design and performance. It was made famous in the late 80s and early 90s.
The Iroc Camaro refers to the Chevrolet Camaro model that was part of the IROC-Z trim line, which was known for its performance and sporty features during the late 1980s and early 1990s.
LS swap
"...Dylan is in there working on his I rock doing an LS swap. You know, and so he cool."
An LS swap is when you take out the old engine of a car and put in a new engine from a GM vehicle called the LS. People do this to make their cars faster and more powerful.
An LS swap refers to the process of replacing a vehicle's original engine with a General Motors LS series engine, which is known for its performance and reliability. This modification is popular among car enthusiasts for enhancing power and performance.
Fast Specialties
"...he's headed out to fast specialties this next week. And the Tillamook racing team that we've started is, is paying for a hotel room for him."
Fast Specialties is a shop where cars are modified and tuned. They focus on a specific type of engine swap that involves using a popular engine from General Motors.
Fast Specialties is a tuning shop that specializes in automotive modifications, particularly LS swaps, which involve replacing a vehicle's engine with a General Motors LS series engine.
drag car
"We're building a drag car for your high school kids that just learned how to drive. He basically said, Well, let's focus on the building of it."
A drag car is a type of car made for racing in a straight line as fast as possible. They are built to go really fast over a short distance, usually a quarter-mile.
A drag car is a specialized vehicle designed for drag racing, which involves racing over a straight quarter-mile track. These cars are built for maximum acceleration and speed over a short distance, often featuring modifications like powerful engines and lightweight materials.
helmets
"...to get new harnesses and helmets and fire jackets and everything we can to make sure the kids are safe."
Helmets are special hats that protect a driver's head during racing. They help keep the driver safe if there is an accident.
Helmets are protective headgear worn by drivers to reduce the risk of head injuries in the event of an accident. In racing, helmets are often designed to withstand high impacts and provide additional safety features.
harnesses
"...to get new harnesses and helmets and fire jackets and everything we can to make sure the kids are safe."
Harnesses are special straps that keep drivers safely in their seats while racing. They help protect the driver from moving around too much if the car goes fast or has an accident.
Harnesses are safety devices used in racing to secure the driver in their seat, preventing movement during high-speed maneuvers or crashes. They are designed to distribute forces across the body and keep the driver safe.
fire jackets
"...to get new harnesses and helmets and fire jackets and everything we can to make sure the kids are safe."
Fire jackets are special clothes that protect drivers from fire if their car catches on fire during a race. They are made to keep the driver safe from getting burned.
Fire jackets are flame-resistant clothing worn by racers to protect against burns in case of a fire during a crash. They are made from materials that can withstand high temperatures and are an essential part of racing safety gear.
LS
"...Junkyard LS. Turbo from eBay..."
LS is a type of V8 engine made by General Motors. It's popular for putting into different cars because it's powerful and can be modified easily.
The LS refers to a family of V8 engines produced by General Motors, known for their performance and versatility in various applications, including swaps into other vehicles.
turbo
"...Turbo from eBay. Sweet. Single turbo..."
A turbo is a part that helps an engine get more air, which makes it stronger and faster. It helps the car go quicker by giving it more power.
A turbo, or turbocharger, is a device that forces more air into the engine's combustion chamber, allowing it to burn more fuel and produce more power.
Honda Civic
"...ot the drag car. This is luckily a donated Honda Civic. But I just got the best email from that kid rig..."
The Honda Civic is a small car that many people like because it's dependable and doesn't use much gas. Some people even like to make it faster and cooler for racing.
The Honda Civic is a compact car known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and versatility. It has a strong following among car enthusiasts, especially in the tuning and racing communities, making it a popular choice for drag racing and modifications.
T-Tops
"Did you ever lose T-Tops in your fourth gen? That's the thing that's happened."
T-Tops are special roof panels that can be taken off to let in fresh air and sunlight while driving. They're popular in sports cars because they give a fun, open feeling.
T-Tops are a type of removable roof panel commonly found on sports cars, allowing for an open-air driving experience while maintaining structural integrity. They typically consist of two panels that can be removed and stored in the vehicle.
plasma table
"...find a plasma table and figure out a plasma out of bracket. Like there's a good lot of opportunity there..."
A plasma table is a machine that cuts metal using super-hot gas, making it easier to create shapes and parts for projects.
A plasma table is a cutting tool that uses a high-velocity jet of ionized gas (plasma) to cut through metal. It's commonly used in fabrication shops for creating precise cuts in various materials.
tool kit
"And I tell the kids, hey, I can't force you to get this, but I really would encourage you to go out and get a tool kit. And a lot of them do."
A tool kit is a set of tools you can use to fix or work on things, like cars. It's important for anyone who wants to learn about cars or do repairs themselves.
A tool kit is a collection of tools designed for specific tasks, often used for automotive repairs and maintenance. Having a basic tool kit is essential for anyone interested in working on cars or performing DIY projects.
Snap-on
"...that this was my first toolbox was a snap on or a craftsman or a harbor freight even just to get you started and get the right stuff."
Snap-on is a brand that makes really good tools for fixing cars. Many professionals trust their tools because they are strong and last a long time.
Snap-on is a well-known manufacturer of high-quality tools and equipment, particularly favored by professional mechanics and automotive technicians. Their products are recognized for durability and precision.
Honda Accord
"...He's going to be replacing the window on my Honda Accord next week, you know, and, uh, but he just, he ju..."
The Honda Accord is a larger car that many families choose because it's comfortable and has a lot of space inside. It's also known for lasting a long time without many problems.
The Honda Accord is a midsize sedan that has been a staple in the automotive market for decades, known for its spacious interior, comfort, and strong resale value. It is often praised for its reliability and is a popular choice for families and commuters alike.
289
"...to swap the six cylinder three speed to 289 four speed. I hadn't even drove it yet."
The 289 is a type of engine made by Ford. It's a V8 engine, which means it has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape, and it was popular in cars from the 1960s for its good performance.
The 289 is a small-block V8 engine produced by Ford, known for its performance and lightweight design. It was commonly used in various Ford models during the 1960s, including the Mustang and the Falcon.
road shop chassis
"...I really want to do a road shop chassis. I've never done anything..."
A road shop chassis is a special frame for cars that helps them handle better on the road. It's often used when people modify or restore older cars to make them perform like new.
A road shop chassis refers to a type of custom-built chassis designed for performance and handling, often used in modified or classic cars. These chassis can improve the vehicle's stability and responsiveness, especially during cornering.
dyno
"...we got a dyno this last year, we fundraised for it and the kids raised $20,000 for the dyno from Tillamette County."
A dyno is a machine that measures how much power a car's engine produces. It's used to help improve the car's performance by testing it in a safe place instead of on the road.
A dyno, short for dynamometer, is a device used to measure the power output of an engine or vehicle. It allows for testing and tuning of performance by simulating driving conditions in a controlled environment.
Ford Galaxy
"...my ultimate dream car is a 61 Galaxy. I think I'd have a 61 Galaxy built by Rad Rides."
The Ford Galaxy is a big car made by Ford that was popular in the early 1960s. It's known for being roomy and stylish, making it a favorite for many car lovers.
The Ford Galaxy is a full-size car that was produced by Ford from 1959 to 1974. The 1961 model is known for its classic design and spacious interior, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
Ford F 100
"... 63 you said 61 61. Sorry. Good car. Be cool. 61 F 100 unibody. Chip foos. Okay."
The Ford F-100 is an old pickup truck that many people love because of its classic look and strong build. Older models, like the one from 1961, are especially popular among collectors.
The Ford F-100 is a classic pickup truck that was produced from the 1950s to the 1980s, known for its iconic design and robust performance. It has become a sought-after collector's item, especially the earlier models like the 1961 version, which are appreciated for their vintage appeal.
Toyota Tacoma
"...knows about it. I was cruising around in a Toyota Tacoma. I was ripping through a school zone back in Til..."
The Toyota Tacoma is a tough little truck that people like to use for work or outdoor activities. It's known for being strong and able to go off-road easily.
The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck renowned for its off-road capabilities and durability. It is often favored by those who need a reliable vehicle for both work and adventure, making it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.
Cadillac Fleetwood
"... listens to... She's an old soul. She listens to Fleetwood Mac, Scannard, CCR, and then back to Fleetwood Ma..."
Koenigsegg CCR
"...ld soul. She listens to Fleetwood Mac, Scannard, CCR, and then back to Fleetwood Mac. It's your daught..."
The Koenigsegg CCR is a super-fast sports car that is really special because it can go incredibly fast and is made with advanced technology. It's not just a car; it's more like a piece of art for car lovers.
The Koenigsegg CCR is a high-performance supercar that gained fame for its incredible speed and engineering excellence. As one of the fastest cars in the world during its production, it represents the pinnacle of automotive technology and design.
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