{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"Charles Wong - Ep.158","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/charles-wong-ep-158","audioUrl":"https://www.buzzsprout.com/2145436/episodes/18108768-charles-wong-ep-158.mp3","description":"Send us a textIn this episode of the Right Hand Drive Guys Podcast, we sit down with Charles Wong, founder of CW Collective — a company known for manufacturing hard-to-find and unique parts for Nissan Skylines, as well as restoring these legendary cars to factory-fresh (and often better-than-new) condition.Charles isn’t just the man behind the brand — he’s a true Skyline enthusiast. With multiple R34 GT-Rs in his personal collection, he uses his own cars for R&D and prototype testing, ensuring every product meets the high standards these cars deserve.We talk about how CW Collective began, the challenges of sourcing and reproducing rare components, the art of full restorations, and how Charles keeps the Skyline spirit alive through modern craftsmanship.🎙️ From innovation to restoration — CW Collective is redefining what it means to preserve Japan’s greatest legend.Find us on Facebook groups - RHDGUYS-JDMBOYSSocials - @RHDGUYS Merch - http://RHDGUYS.COMWant a discount on Nissan parts?Use code \"RHDGUYS\" athttps://nizmopartsplug.comNeed An ECU? Visit Haltech!"},"annotations":[{"startTime":96.7,"endTime":102.7,"type":"part","title":"rear diffuser","url":"/glossary/rear-diffuser","quote":"Yeah, I mean really cool guy and I just so happened to be buying a Rear diffuser for the 34 off him and I was like, hey dude, like let's just chat about what you're up to on the on the podcast","canonicalId":"part:rear-diffuser","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A rear diffuser is a component located at the rear underside of a vehicle that helps to manage airflow and increase downforce, improving stability and handling at high speeds. It works by accelerating the airflow under the car, reducing drag and enhancing aerodynamic efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"A rear diffuser is a part of a car that helps it stay stable when driving fast by improving how air flows underneath it. This helps the car grip the road better."}},{"startTime":166.0,"endTime":172.8,"type":"car","title":"Nissan Silvia","url":"/cars/nissan/silvia","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/51/1997_Nissan_Silvia_200SX.jpg","quote":"I started out with Sylvia, you know, I did a lot of importing...","canonicalId":"car:nissan:silvia","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Nissan Silvia is a sports coupe that has gained a cult following for its performance and tuning potential. It is often associated with drifting and motorsport culture.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Nissan Silvia is a sporty car that many people enjoy modifying and racing. It's known for being fun to drive and easy to customize.","imageAttribution":"Calreyn88 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":175.95999999999998,"endTime":180.0,"type":"car","title":"Nissan Skyline","url":"/cars/nissan/skyline","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d4/1966-1968_Nissan_Prince_Skyline_GT.jpg","quote":"eventually I moved up to, you know, author for Skyline, you know GTR which is one of my dream car.","canonicalId":"car:nissan:skyline","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Nissan Skyline GT-R is a high-performance version of the Nissan Skyline, known for its advanced technology and motorsport pedigree. It became iconic in the tuning and racing communities, particularly for its dominance in Group A racing.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Nissan Skyline GT-R is a powerful sports car that many car enthusiasts dream of owning. It's famous for its speed and performance, especially in racing.","imageAttribution":"TTTNIS (CC0)"}},{"startTime":188.4,"endTime":192.42,"type":"term","title":"parts import","url":"/glossary/parts-import","quote":"I did a lot of parts import.","canonicalId":"term:parts-import","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Parts import refers to the process of bringing automotive parts from one country to another, often to enhance or repair vehicles. This is common in the car enthusiast community, especially for performance upgrades.","simplifiedExplanation":"Parts import means getting car parts from another country, usually to improve or fix cars. It's something many car fans do to make their vehicles better."}},{"startTime":229.8,"endTime":234.9,"type":"part","title":"carbon fiber parts","url":"/glossary/carbon-fiber-parts","quote":"we build a lot of carbon fiber parts, you know, center lock wheels...","canonicalId":"part:carbon-fiber-parts","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Carbon fiber parts are components made from a lightweight and strong material that is often used in high-performance vehicles. They help reduce weight and improve handling and acceleration.","simplifiedExplanation":"Carbon fiber parts are made from a special lightweight material that makes cars faster and easier to handle. They are often used in racing cars."}},{"startTime":234.9,"endTime":239.14,"type":"part","title":"center lock wheels","url":"/glossary/center-lock-wheels","quote":"we build a lot of carbon fiber parts, you know, center lock wheels...","canonicalId":"part:center-lock-wheels","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Center lock wheels are a type of wheel design that uses a single central nut to secure the wheel to the hub, allowing for quicker tire changes and often reducing weight. They are commonly found on racing cars.","simplifiedExplanation":"Center lock wheels are a special type of wheel that has one big nut in the middle to hold it on. This makes it faster to change tires, especially in racing."}},{"startTime":246.5,"endTime":254.0,"type":"concept","title":"restomod","url":"/glossary/restomod","quote":"Yeah, like Resto mod. That's like, yeah, yeah, that's big time stuff, man","canonicalId":"concept:restomod","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Restomod refers to a classic car that has been restored and modified with modern components, such as engines, brakes, and technology, while retaining its original appearance. This approach allows enthusiasts to enjoy the aesthetics of vintage cars with the performance and reliability of contemporary parts.","simplifiedExplanation":"Restomod is when you take an old car and fix it up with new parts to make it work better, while still looking like the original car. It's a way to enjoy classic cars with modern technology."}},{"startTime":325.2,"endTime":338.8,"type":"car","title":"Nissan GT-R","url":"/cars/nissan/gt-r","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d2/Nissan_GT-R_%2830780%29.jpg","quote":"Yeah, so what what year did you get your first GTR? Like what was your first GTR? my first GTR was Whoo 2007","canonicalId":"car:nissan:gt-r","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Nissan GT-R is a high-performance sports car known for its advanced technology and engineering. The R32 GT-R, specifically, is celebrated for its dominance in motorsport and its innovative all-wheel-drive system.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Nissan GT-R is a fast sports car that has a reputation for being very powerful and technologically advanced. The R32 is one of its older models, famous for its racing success.","imageAttribution":"Calreyn88 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":421.7,"endTime":430.5,"type":"company","title":"Garage Source","url":"/glossary/garage-source","quote":"Okay, so I know like, you know from what I've heard through the grapevine. You've had a few cars built by a garage source, right? Yes, yes, I have I have and so what you know, there's","canonicalId":"company:garage-source","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Garage Source is a company known for building and modifying high-performance cars, often focusing on Japanese models like the Nissan Skyline GT-R. They are recognized for their expertise in tuning and customization.","simplifiedExplanation":"Garage Source is a company that specializes in building and modifying fast cars, especially ones from Japan. They help car enthusiasts make their vehicles perform better and look great."}},{"startTime":483.9,"endTime":488.5,"type":"company","title":"Car Source","url":"/glossary/car-source","quote":"...one of the guys from car source. They said they were opening a shop here in Vancouver...","canonicalId":"company:car-source","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Car Source is a company that specializes in automotive services, including sourcing and building custom cars. They are known for their expertise in Japanese performance vehicles, particularly those from the Nissan brand.","simplifiedExplanation":"Car Source is a company that helps people find and build custom cars, especially popular Japanese models. They are known for their knowledge about these types of cars."}},{"startTime":593.4,"endTime":601.0,"type":"part","title":"OS 88 sequential gearbox","url":"/glossary/os-88-sequential-gearbox","quote":"...he flew the engine in with the OS 88 sequential gearbox...","canonicalId":"part:os-88-sequential-gearbox","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The OS 88 sequential gearbox is a type of transmission that allows for faster gear changes compared to traditional manual gearboxes. It's commonly used in racing applications for its quick shifting capabilities.","simplifiedExplanation":"A sequential gearbox is a special type of transmission that lets drivers change gears quickly and easily, which is great for racing. It’s different from regular gearboxes that require more effort to shift."}},{"startTime":655.0,"endTime":660.0,"type":"concept","title":"tuning shops","url":"/glossary/tuning-shops","quote":"Do you think that, you know, North America the tuning shops over here are...","canonicalId":"concept:tuning-shops","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Tuning shops specialize in modifying vehicles to enhance performance, aesthetics, or both. They often focus on upgrades such as engine tuning, suspension modifications, and aesthetic changes to improve the car's overall appeal and performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Tuning shops are places where car enthusiasts go to make their cars faster or look better. They can change things like the engine or the way the car looks to improve performance or style."}},{"startTime":909.4,"endTime":915.4,"type":"term","title":"ECU","url":"/glossary/ecu","quote":"...we never run any crazy ECU. We're running XJS F-con. Wow...","canonicalId":"term:ecu","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An ECU, or Engine Control Unit, is a crucial component in modern vehicles that manages engine functions by processing data from various sensors. It controls fuel injection, ignition timing, and other parameters to optimize performance and efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"An ECU is like the brain of your car's engine. It helps the engine run smoothly by making sure everything is working together properly."}},{"startTime":929.9,"endTime":933.9,"type":"term","title":"horsepower","url":"/glossary/horsepower","quote":"You know, the car is pushing probably 700 800 horsepower. And you know, that that was my daily driver with whenever I visit Japan.","canonicalId":"term:horsepower","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to quantify the power output of engines. In automotive terms, higher horsepower typically indicates better performance and acceleration.","simplifiedExplanation":"Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The more horsepower a car has, the faster it can go and the better it can accelerate."}},{"startTime":1113.5,"endTime":1115.0,"type":"company","title":"AP Racing","url":"/glossary/ap-racing","quote":"...we have our own brake system from AP Racing...","canonicalId":"company:ap-racing","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"AP Racing is a well-known manufacturer of performance brake systems, widely used in motorsports and high-performance vehicles. Their products are designed to provide superior stopping power and heat management.","simplifiedExplanation":"AP Racing makes brake systems that help cars stop better, especially for racing or high-performance driving. They are trusted by many in the motorsports community."}},{"startTime":1216.7,"endTime":1220.6,"type":"part","title":"center lock conversion","url":"/glossary/center-lock-conversion","quote":"I think it's a central lock conversion of the car... a lot of people are selling center lock with their adapter...","canonicalId":"part:center-lock-conversion","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A center lock conversion allows a vehicle to use a single central nut to secure the wheel, rather than multiple lug nuts. This can improve wheel changes during racing and enhance the aesthetic of the car.","simplifiedExplanation":"A center lock conversion changes how wheels are attached to a car. Instead of using several bolts, it uses one big bolt in the center, which can make changing wheels faster and looks cooler."}},{"startTime":1340.6,"endTime":1342.9,"type":"part","title":"axle","url":"/glossary/axle","quote":"You know, it is super hard to justify because yeah, the whole thing like one axle would take up probably 25 to 30 parts per axle...","canonicalId":"part:axle","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An axle is a central shaft for rotating wheels or gears. In vehicles, axles are crucial for transferring power from the engine to the wheels, allowing the car to move.","simplifiedExplanation":"An axle is a part of the car that helps the wheels turn. It's like a rod that connects the wheels to the car and helps them spin when the car moves."}},{"startTime":1463.8,"endTime":1465.8,"type":"part","title":"nitron suspension","url":"/glossary/nitron-suspension","quote":"We run our own nitron suspension. Um, this is our custom...","canonicalId":"part:nitron-suspension","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Nitron suspension refers to high-performance shock absorbers designed for racing and performance vehicles. They provide improved handling and ride quality by allowing for precise adjustments to damping settings.","simplifiedExplanation":"Nitron suspension is a type of shock absorber that helps cars handle better and ride smoother, especially during racing or performance driving."}},{"startTime":1586.7,"endTime":1589.9,"type":"concept","title":"OEM","url":"/glossary/oem","quote":"...Yet still stay oem with more power...","canonicalId":"concept:oem","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer, referring to parts or vehicles made by the original manufacturer. In automotive terms, it often implies that the components are made to the same specifications as the original parts used in the vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"OEM means that the parts are made by the same company that built the car. So, if you replace a part with an OEM part, it's like getting the same part that was originally in the car."}},{"startTime":1597.8,"endTime":1604.7,"type":"part","title":"aftermarket parts","url":"/glossary/aftermarket-parts","quote":"I think they are more into let's say doing like a crs more oem with aftermarket parts. I could so I I think we have a different approach.","canonicalId":"part:aftermarket-parts","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Aftermarket parts are components made by companies other than the original manufacturer. They can offer enhancements or replacements that may not be available through the OEM.","simplifiedExplanation":"Aftermarket parts are parts made by other companies, not the ones that built your car. They can be used to improve or replace parts of your car."}},{"startTime":1630.7,"endTime":1639.4,"type":"part","title":"brakes","url":"/glossary/brakes","quote":"Yeah, but you know, if you know, if I can't get my car to you, can I purchase any of those carbon parts or can I purchase those brakes?","canonicalId":"part:brakes","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Brakes are essential components of a vehicle that allow it to slow down or stop. They can come in various types, including disc and drum brakes, and can be upgraded for better performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Brakes are what help your car slow down or stop. There are different kinds, and some can be better for racing or performance."}},{"startTime":1690.7,"endTime":1695.9,"type":"part","title":"brake kit","url":"/glossary/brake-kits","quote":"What uh was is the brake kit you're talking about is that what you had on your 34 at fuji?","canonicalId":"part:brake-kits","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A brake kit typically includes components like brake pads, rotors, and calipers designed to improve braking performance. Upgrading to a high-performance brake kit can enhance stopping power and reduce brake fade during intense driving.","simplifiedExplanation":"A brake kit is a set of parts that help your car stop better. It usually includes things like pads and discs that wear out over time, especially if you drive fast or race."}},{"startTime":1729.5,"endTime":1730.5,"type":"term","title":"R35","quote":"...many competitive guys selling r35 kits. So we make couple you're like, okay, let's just keep it on couple of cars and...","canonicalId":"term:r35","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The R35 refers to the Nissan GT-R, a high-performance sports car that has been in production since 2007. It's known for its advanced technology and powerful twin-turbocharged engine.","simplifiedExplanation":"The R35 is a model of the Nissan GT-R, a fast sports car that started being made in 2007. It's famous for being very powerful and having lots of cool technology."}},{"startTime":1743.2,"endTime":1744.2,"type":"term","title":"R34","quote":"...the rear hats only for the 35 conversion for a 34, you know what I'm saying finding those rear hats...","canonicalId":"term:r34","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The R34 is the previous generation of the Nissan GT-R, produced from 1999 to 2002. It is highly regarded among car enthusiasts for its performance and iconic design.","simplifiedExplanation":"The R34 is an older version of the Nissan GT-R, made between 1999 and 2002. It's very popular with car fans because it's fast and looks great."}},{"startTime":1826.1,"endTime":1832.88,"type":"car","title":"Tesla Model","url":"/cars/tesla/model-y","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5c/Tesla_Model_Y_%282025%29_MYLE_Festival_2025_DSC_9565.jpg","quote":"...know what believe it or not get ready. It's my uh tesla model 3  The plug-in jobby","canonicalId":"car:tesla:model-y","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"imageAttribution":"Alexander Migl (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1826.1,"endTime":1832.88,"type":"car","title":"Tesla Model 3","url":"/cars/tesla/model-3","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/97/Tesla_Model_3%2C_EMS_2024%2C_Essen_%28P1032260%29.jpg","quote":"On the street, you know what believe it or not get ready. It's my uh tesla model 3\nThe plug-in jobby","canonicalId":"car:tesla:model-3","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Tesla Model 3 is an all-electric sedan that has gained popularity for its performance, range, and advanced technology features. It's known for being more affordable compared to other Tesla models while still offering impressive acceleration and a high-tech interior.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Tesla Model 3 is an electric car that is popular for being more affordable than other Tesla models. It has a lot of technology and can drive fast without using gas.","imageAttribution":"Matti Blume (CC BY-SA)"}},{"startTime":1848.68,"endTime":1851.6,"type":"term","title":"rear-wheel drive","url":"/glossary/rear-wheel-drive","quote":"[1848.7s]  rear-wheel drive standard range\n[1851.6s]  model thing","canonicalId":"term:rear-wheel-drive","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is a vehicle configuration where the engine's power is sent to the rear wheels, providing better handling and acceleration in many performance cars. This layout is often preferred for sports cars and performance vehicles due to its balance and driving dynamics.","simplifiedExplanation":"In rear-wheel drive cars, the back wheels get the power from the engine, which can make the car handle better, especially when driving fast. It's a common setup for sports cars."}},{"startTime":2067.3,"endTime":2073.5,"type":"term","title":"dry carbon","url":"/glossary/dry-carbon","quote":"Stay tuned. We'll be a whole new different like nobody has ever seen it before full dry carbon...","canonicalId":"term:dry-carbon","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Dry carbon refers to a lightweight composite material made from carbon fiber that is used in automotive applications to reduce weight while maintaining strength. It's often used in high-performance vehicles to enhance speed and handling.","simplifiedExplanation":"Dry carbon is a strong and lightweight material made from carbon fibers. It's used in cars to make them lighter and faster."}},{"startTime":2183.42,"endTime":2185.04,"type":"car","title":"Acura NSX","url":"/cars/acura/nsx","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/18/1995_Honda_NSX_Type_T.jpg","quote":"Yeah, so there's one time we took the nsxl. She's like, is anyone gonna take pictures? I'm ...","canonicalId":"car:acura:nsx","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Acura NSX is a high-performance sports car known for its innovative design and engineering, particularly its use of a mid-engine layout and hybrid technology in its latest iteration. Launched in the early 1990s, the NSX has become a symbol of Japanese automotive excellence and is often discussed for its balance of performance and everyday usability.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Acura NSX is a fast and stylish sports car that was first made in the 1990s. It's famous for being fun to drive and has a unique design that makes it stand out, which is why people love to take pictures of it.","imageAttribution":"TTTNIS (CC0)"}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"RHDGUYS","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/charles-wong-ep-158/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}