Tuned In

High Performance Academy

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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.

15 Jul

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

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
1 Jul

165: Pioneering the Mazda FD3S RX-7

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
17 Jun

164: CAD: The Gateway to Making Dreams a Reality

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
3 Jun

163: ZF 8HP: The Automatic Everyone Wants?

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
22 Apr

160: Next-Level Toyota Builds with Ryan Tuerck – ST205 Celica

We all fantasise about dream car builds, whether they’re elaborate masterpieces never done before or something stock standard we’ve seen a hundred times. Some people just have a knack for making things cool, and Ryan Tuerck from 411 Works is firmly in that category, with what might be the coolest collection of Toyota performance builds out there. We had to get Ryan back for a second episode to unpack his latest creation—an insane ST205 Toyota Celica—and to find out more about his new business, 411 Works. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this episode of Tuned In, we catch up with Ryan and see how things have been going in the Formula Drift world. We discuss the decision to move to a different engine combination in the search for more power, and how it hasn’t come without its challenges. We dive into Ryan’s most recent build, his insanely cool Toyota Celica. We discuss the modernised running gear and the decision to go down in capacity from the original 2.0L 3S-GTE to Toyota’s new and popular G16E three-cylinder direct-injected engine. We also cover his anti-lag setup, ECU and electronics, plans for racing and driving the car, and how he comes up with these epic build ideas in the first place. We then get into Ryan’s other big project at the moment, 411 Works. Through this new business, he’s begun supplying performance parts all around the world. We chat about the products they’re making and how they’re continuing to grow and develop exciting new parts. This is another standout episode with Ryan. From a long and successful Formula Drift career to next-level builds and a growing business—if Ryan Tuerck is involved, it’s always worth a look. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip Follow Ryan Here: Instagram: RyanTuerck & 411Works Facebook: RyanTuerck Youtube: RyanTuerck WWW: 411-works.com John Reed episode: Judd V10 Supra | Tuning Ryan Tuerck's A90 Timestamps: 0:00 Next-Level Toyota Builds with Ryan Tuerck – ST205 Celica 3:59 Give us the quick version of who Ryan Tuerck is. 5:37 Why do you think Toyota is still making cool cars? 8:09 How did you first get aligned with Toyota? 10:59 Why did you change from a 4 to a 6 cylinder? 12:43 Can you tell us why the trailing arm setup is so good? 13:23 How much HP do you need in formula drift? 17:48 Are you still passionate about formula drift? 20:29 How do you come up with these epic build ideas? 22:10 Was the ST205 Celica sold in the USA? 26:44 What’s the cross over between drifting and rally? 28:58 Why didn’t you stick with the 3SGTE? 34:18 What is the drive train you’re running? 36:51 Tell us about the front and rear torque split 38:05 How much seat time have you had in this car? 39:32 How was the ice racing? 42:51 What cars are you racing at the ice race? 43:39 What electronics are you using to run the Celica? 44:24 Any challenges with this project? 46:52 Are you running fresh air anti-lag? 50:18 What sort of budget was this car built on? 52:50 What’s the Celica going to be used for? 56:09 411 Works, what is it? 1:02:52 How do you come up with products to develop? 1:12:11 What other products are you looking to make? 1:14:23 How are you marketing 411 Works? 1:17:10 What's the next project car build? 1:22:30 Final 3 questions
8 Apr

159: BMW Direct Injection on MoTeC: Genius or Headache?

Port-injected engines and aftermarket standalone ECUs go hand in hand—but controlling direct-injected engines is far less charted territory. Brett Strom from Strom Motorsport has been deep in the weeds mastering BMW’s B48 on a MoTeC ECU, and he’s here to break it all down—plus much more. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this episode of Tuned In, Brett shares his journey from young racing enthusiast to professional racer and engineer. He dives into the realities of building a career in motorsport and the rapid evolution of technology. We also get into ABS, traction control, and the strategy behind endurance racing. We unpack Brett’s hands-on experience with racing and tuning, focusing on the complexities of direct injection. From injection timing to fuel pressure behaviour, he explains the intricacies and what really matters when tuning DI engines on a standalone ECU. The conversation also covers choosing the right ECU for a particular application, dyno tuning versus real-world performance, the challenges of building reliable race engines, and why MoTeC remains his go-to platform. Brett’s done a lot in the world of motorsport—and we’ve only scratched the surface. From racer to engineer to tuner and builder, his depth of experience makes this one a seriously compelling listen. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip Follow Brett Here: Instagram: strommotorsport Youtube: strommotorsport WWW: strommotorsport.com Timestamps: 0:00 BMW Direct Injection on MoTeC: Genius or Headache? 4:40 How did you form an interest in cars? 7:32 First car BMW E30 10:29 Advantages of spec racing series 13:59 What were you going to do for a job after university? 18:30 What was wrong with the BMW factory ECU? 21:59 Why did you pick MoTec? 27:25 You've done an EFI course, what happened when you started tuning? 32:21 How did your career as a racer develop? 41:23 Running a motorsport based performance shop. How hard is it? 45:59 Challenges of turning late model cars into race cars? 56:04 Is it not until GT3 level cars that they’re actually factory built race cars? 58:23 Motorsport grade traction control and ABS 1:06:41 What’s the challenges of controlling a DI engine with a standalone ECU 1:27:58 Are you adding port injection to these engines as well? 1:30:01 What is the benefit of Direct Injected engines and how do we tune them? 1:47:36 Do you need a complex standalone ECU and which one? 1:59:00 B48 engine swap into BMW E36 & E46 2:02:18 Final 3 Questions
25 Mar

158: No Compromise? Why the 8HP Might Be the Ultimate Transmission

Having a silky-smooth automatic alongside a quick-shifting manual transmission capable of handling 1000HP in the same transmission seems impossible—but the ZF 8HP might just achieve it. Andrew Astley from 8speed joins us to explain why this transmission has become such a popular choice. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this episode of Tuned In, Andrew shares his journey from growing up near Silverstone in the UK to becoming a leader in Australia’s aftermarket scene, specialising in 8HP conversions. He covers his early car projects, his transition from car detailing to running a wrecking yard, and the growth of his YouTube channel, Zero to 60. We dive into modern transmission technology, comparing DCTs and the 8HP, and breaking down what makes them work—and where they fall short—in high-performance applications. Andrew unpacks what it really takes to run an 8HP in a custom build, covering compatibility, installation challenges, control strategies, torque modelling, and even the use of clutch pedals or clutch emulators for applications such as drifting. We also explore how the 8HP performs across drag, drift, circuit, and street use, along with the importance of proper tuning and getting the most out of the TurboLamik TCU. At its core, Andrew’s mission is simple: to make high-performance modified cars drive like OEM. And with the 8HP, that goal is closer than ever—whether you’re building for the street or the track. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip Follow Andrew here: Youtube: ZeroTo60Tube WWW: 8speed.au Timestamps: 0:00 No Compromise? Why the 8HP Might Be the Ultimate Transmission 4:07 How did you become passionate about cars? 10:03 Do you have any car related formal qualifications? 12:02 What’s your skills set today? 14:48 Youtube Journey 18:59 What makes the M54 so good? 21:16 Pro’s and con’s of the different types of transmission 38:03 Why has the 8HP become so popular in the aftermarket world? 45:19 The 8HP is a family of gearboxes? 47:33 What vehicles do these transmissions come in? 50:00 How do we go about finding the right 8HP for your swap? 52:15 Does the 8HP fit in most cars? 54:56 What are our options for gearshifting? 55:41 How do we control these transmissions? 1:08:19 What do you mean by the term adaptation? 1:10:34 How do we set up a clutch pedal and how do the clutches work? 1:17:43 Can the 8HP be upgraded to handle more torque? 1:19:18 Can the 8HP be the best of both worlds? 1:21:24 How hard are the standalone controllers to set up? 1:27:17 Why would you look at a DCT if the 8HP is so good? 1:30:30 Final 3 questions
11 Mar

157: Inside IndyCar’s Golden Era of Racing

The 1990s were arguably the ‘Golden Era’ of motorsport, particularly in the world of wings-and-slicks racing. High-revving engines, intense competition, and iconic car designs made it an unforgettable time. Championship Auto Racing Teams (CART) was no exception, and Russell Cameron from Horizon Motorsport was right in the thick of it. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip In this episode of Tuned In, Russell shares his journey from a small-town upbringing in South Dakota to building a successful career in the professional racing world. He discusses the evolution of his mechanical skills and his rapid transition into professional racing within the CART series. Russell also dives into the legendary Cosworth engines of the ’90s, the role of qualifying engines, and the relentless push to squeeze out every last bit of performance. From reliability to driver preferences and the subtle setup details that can make or break a lap time, he shares insights from inside the garage. We also explore his career across multiple teams, the infamous CART–IRL split, the influence of the Indy 500, and the factors that led to CART’s decline. Russell reflects on moving from team manager to team owner and the realities of running a racing team. He also talks about the incredible ‘Hammerhead’ project he built with his son, Cavan — a stunning machine incorporating a lot of ex-CART/IndyCar components. Russell has lived an extraordinary life in professional motorsport, and now he’s on a new adventure building the Hammerhead with his son. Combined with his storytelling ability, it makes this episode a seriously compelling listen. 👉 Use the code ‘PODCAST500’ to get $500 OFF HPA's VIP Package: https://hpcdmy.co/podvip Follow Russel here: Instagram: horizon_motorsports_llc Youtube: horizon_motorsports_llc For more on Hammerhead & Cavan Cameron listen to episode 153: A High School Project Gone Wild: 1,450HP IndyCar x Firebird. Also check out theHammerhead World time Attack Challenge 2025 Youtube interview on our channel @Hpa101 Timestamps: 0:00 Inside CART’s Golden Era of Racing 4:10 How did you find an interest in cars? 8:24 Were you involved in any motorsport growing up? 12:17 Could you get into IndyCar the same way today? 13:36 What’s the difference between IndyCar and F1? 17:35 Were you using qualifying engines? How were they different? 21:54 Where do you look for advantages in CART/IndyCar? 23:14 What is an Inerter? 25:54 Can you make much adjustment to the aero package in IndyCar? 28:20 Does tight rules reduce budgets? 31:35 How did your career in CART/IndyCar develop? 35:53 What is a CART/IndyCar team doing between weekends? 39:25 What changes are you making to the car between practice and qualifying? 44:06 Is the car setups always driver specific? 47:20 How did you decide on a part's lifespan? 50:06 How did you end up running your own team? 51:99 What is the difference between CART & IndyCar? 1:02:15 How did you go from head mechanic to owning a team? 1:06:50 Can an IndyCar team be cashflow positive? 1:12:25 At what point did you decide to step away? 1:16:20 How did your son Cavan get involved? 1:26:15 What's the plan for Hammerhead in the future? 1:31:52 Final 3 questions

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.

Creator

High Performance Academy
Years Active

2021 - 2026
Episodes

367
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2026 Tuned In
Show Website

Tuned In