The efficient flow of air through an engine is instrumental for
producing maximum power. To maximize performance, engine builders seek
to understand how air flows through components and ultimately through
the entire engine. Engine builders use this knowledge and apply specific
practices and principles to unlock horsepower within an engine; this
applies to all engine types, including V-8s, V-6s, and imported
4-cylinder engines.
Former Hot Rod magazine editor and founder of Westech Performance Group
John Baechtel explains airflow dynamics through an engine in layman’s
terms so you can easily absorb it and apply it. The principles of
airflow are explained; specifically, the physics of air and how it flows
through major engine components, including the intake, heads, cylinders,
and exhaust system. The most efficient and least restricted path through
an engine is the key to high performance. To get to this higher level,
the author explains atmospheric pressure, air density, and brake
specific fuel consumption so you understand the properties of fuel for
tuning.
Baechtel covers the primary factors for optimizing the airflow path.
This includes the fundamentals of air motion, air velocity, and boundary
layers; obstructions; and pressure changes. Flowing air through the
heads and the combustion chamber is key and is comprehensively
explained. Also comprehensively explored is the exhaust system’s
airflow, in particular primary tube size and length, collector function,
and scavenging. Chapters also include flowbench testing, evaluating flow
numbers, and using airflow software.
• Airflow principles and dynamics largely determine the efficiency and
performance of an engine
• Fitting, machining, and tuning all engine components is covered in
detail to optimize performance
• Author explains how to flowtest an engine, evaluate the flow numbers,
and make the right decisions
About the Author
John Baechtel is a former editor of Car Craft and Hot Rod magazines and
was a founding partner of the Westech Performance Group engine
dyno-testing facility. With more than 34 years of high-performance
engine and vehicle testing under his belt, he is a veteran author of
many books, including Performance Automotive Engine Math and Competition
Engine Building.
Dimensions: 8.5 x 11”
