Clutch Burners Podcast

Tinzy Smith, the 'Mother of Clutches,' sharing her extensive knowledge of clutch technology, manufacturing, and tuning in drag racing. From her start in muscle cars to working with elite teams, she reveals insights into clutch design, materials, and the science behind optimal performance. In this in-depth interview, expert Tinzy Smith shares her insights on clutch technology, racing strategies, and the evolution of drag racing. Discover practical tips, innovative ideas, and inspiring stories from her journey in the sport.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Clutch Technology and Guests01:19 Tinzy Smith: The Journey to Becoming the Mother of Clutches03:01 Understanding Clutch Technology: Past and Present05:00 The Evolution of Adjustable Clutches06:22 The Importance of Clutch Setup and Variables08:49 Manufacturing Clutch Discs: The Process Explained10:55 The Clutch Manufacturing Landscape in the U.S.13:04 OEM vs. Racing Clutches: A Historical Perspective14:23 Comparing Clutch Compounds: 5135 vs. 519015:59 Exploring Multi-Disc Clutch Setups17:11 The Science of Clutch Floaters and Heat Management18:42 Advanced Clutch Technology in Top Fuel Racing20:38 Data Acquisition and Clutch Performance22:36 The Role of Clutch Controllers in Racing24:09 Tire Technology and Its Impact on Performance25:28 The Importance of Chassis Setup in Racing26:47 Impact of COVID on Manufacturing and Supply Chains28:18 Clutch and Gear Adjustments in Pro Stock Racing32:37 The Science of Tires in Drag Racing35:13 Clutch Setup for Drag and Drive Cars40:22 Adjustable Clutch Designs and Their Applications45:57 Clutch Dynamics: Balancing Pressure and Performance52:28 Exploring Clutch Technology Innovations54:46 Efficiency in Maintenance and Adjustments58:06 The Art of Transmission Handling01:00:41 Maximizing Efficiency in Pro Stock Racing01:02:44 Dealing with Heat in Racing01:05:44 Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations01:14:01 Vlog Youtube Outro.mp4

Join us as we delve into the world of high-performance drag racing with experts from Ram Clutches. Discover the intricacies of clutch technology, engine setups, and racing strategies that push the limits of speed and power. This episode features expert insights on clutch tuning, data analysis, and racing strategies from top professionals in the drag racing industry. Learn how data management and mechanical understanding can optimize performance and win races.

In this episode, Joel Grannas shares his journey from racing to manufacturing custom transmission bell housings, his innovative engineering solutions, and insights into high-performance racing technology. Discover how he developed his own gear sets, the challenges of racing with high horsepower, and tips for durability and performance.

In this episode of the Clutch Burners podcast, hosts Bill Armstrong, BangShift Billy and Canadian Chuck Norris welcome Jon Rogers, co-owner of Import Drag Solutions and a notable figure in the stick shift drag racing community. Jon shares his journey from using a Nissan SR20 engine to transitioning to a 2JZ and ultimately to the VK56 engine in his Nissan 240SX. He discusses the challenges he faced with reliability and performance, particularly with head gaskets, and how he found success with the VK56 platform, which he describes as more reliable than the 2JZ at high power levels. The conversation dives deep into the technical aspects of Jon's car, including engine specifications, turbo setups, and the intricacies of drag racing with a stick shift. In this episode, Jon, Canadian Chuck Norris, and Bill Armstrong dive deep into the intricacies of drag racing, focusing on the technical aspects of tuning and maintaining high-performance vehicles. They discuss the differences between fuel types, such as C16 and methanol, and the implications of each on performance and maintenance. Jon shares his experiences with clutch tuning, oil maintenance, and the importance of consistency in racing. The conversation also touches on the evolution of automotive technology, particularly the advancements in ECU systems that have revolutionized performance tuning. Throughout the discussion, the camaraderie and competitive spirit among racers shine through, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of the drag racing community.

In this episode of the Clutch Burners podcast, hosts Bill Armstrong and Canadian Chuck Norris engage with Bruce Couture, the founder of Modern Driveline, to discuss the intricacies of stick shift drag racing and the evolution of transmission technology. The conversation covers a range of topics including the importance of drivetrain components, the evolution of Modern Driveline, and the various transmission options available for performance cars. Bruce shares insights on clutch systems, hydraulic conversions, and unique transmission swaps, while also addressing customer experiences and the future of transmission technology. In this conversation, Bill Armstrong and Bruce Couture delve into the intricacies of automotive performance, focusing on transmission innovations, hydraulic systems, and the importance of precise engineering in racing. They discuss the evolution of components like bellhousings and hydraulic systems, emphasizing the need for alignment and reliability in high-performance applications. The dialogue also touches on the challenges of installation and the shift towards hydraulic systems in modern vehicles, highlighting the significance of consistency in stick shift racing. The episode concludes with insights into the future of performance racing and the offerings of Modern Driveline.

In this episode of the Clutch Burners podcast, hosts BangShift Billy and Canadian Chuck Norris welcome Rob Warrick, a machinist at Richard Childress Racing and a passionate drag racer. The conversation covers Rob's journey in the racing world, his experiences with drag and drive events, and the challenges he faces with his 1995 Camaro, which features a 6-liter LS twin turbo setup. The discussion delves into the intricacies of car modifications, the importance of weight reduction, fuel systems, and the technical aspects of racing. Rob shares valuable insights from his experiences on the track, including the lessons learned from various challenges and the excitement of competing in drag racing events. In this engaging conversation, Rob Warrick shares his experiences and insights from the world of drag racing, particularly focusing on stick shift racing. He discusses the importance of community support, performance tuning, and the challenges faced during races. The conversation also delves into specific techniques for starting line management, boost control, and the significance of adjustable clutches in enhancing performance. Rob reflects on his journey in racing, the camaraderie among racers, and his aspirations for future events.

BangShift Billy and Canadian Chuck Norris with guest John Marks and his nasty low 8 sec Toyota pickup. Your hosts Bill Armstrong and Rich Guido are veteran drag-n-drive stick shift racers. Together they make up a wealth of stick shift street car knowledge. They've competed Drag Week, Rocky Mountain Race Week, Sick Week, Midwest Drags, Miles of Mayhem, Street Car Takeover, and many more.Support Clutch Burners and Stick Shift Nation by grabbing some merch here: ⁠https://www.stickracing.com/

With 20 years of engine-building experience, Stefan's journey started at just 14 when he built his first engine. He later honed his craft at top engine shops in the UK and Canada before moving his entire operation to the U.S. in 2019—where he's seen incredible success. Join us as we chat with Stefan about tea, crumpets, and horsepower!Your hosts Bill Armstrong and Rich Guido are veteran drag-n-drive stick shift racers. Together they make up a wealth of stick shift street car knowledge. They've competed Drag Week, Rocky Mountain Race Week, Sick Week, Midwest Drags, Miles of Mayhem, Street Car Takeover, and many more.Support Clutch Burners and Stick Shift Nation by grabbing some merch here: https://www.stickracing.com/

Three-time Drag Week Champion, seasoned stick-shift driver, and engineer Jeff Sias joins us on the podcast today! Tune in as we dive into his journey to victory with a naturally aspirated stick-shift car in an automatic world. Your hosts Bill Armstrong and Rich Guido are veteran drag-n-drive stick shift racers. Together they make up a wealth of stick shift street car knowledge. They've competed Drag Week, Rocky Mountain Race Week, Sick Week, Midwest Drags, Miles of Mayhem, Street Car Takeover, and many more. Support Clutch Burners and Stick Shift Nation by grabbing some merch here: https://www.stickracing.com/

Meet Adam Dorey, a stick shift fanatic and long-time friend! Adam's been thrilling fans with his dynamic racing commentary for years, and now he's doing it full-time. His passion for manual transmissions and in-depth knowledge of the sport bring every race to life. Buckle up and join us as Adam shifts gears and delivers the excitement of the racetrack straight to your ears! Your hosts Bill Armstrong and Rich Guido are veteran drag-n-drive stick shift racers. Together they make up a wealth of stick shift street car knowledge. They've competed Drag Week, Rocky Mountain Race Week, Sick Week, Midwest Drags, Miles of Mayhem, Street Car Takeover, and many more. Support Clutch Burners and Stick Shift Nation by grabbing some merch here: https://www.stickracing.com/

Bob Gruber is coming off of his third place finish in the Sick Week Stick Shift 2024 class. His ProCharged small block ford belt-munching machine went 8.805 @ 161 in Orlando and finished the week with a 9.0 average. Also joining us is Nick Larson, owner of Streetcar Shenanigans Performance in Illinois. Join us as they discuss which Home Depot parts it takes to get a cog-driven centrifugal street car to live! Your hosts Bill Armstrong and Rich Guido are veteran drag-n-drive stick shift racers. Together they make up a wealth of stick shift street car knowledge. They've competed Drag Week, Rocky Mountain Race Week, Sick Week, Midwest Drags, Miles of Mayhem, Street Car Takeover, and many more. Support Clutch Burners and Stick Shift Nation by grabbing some merch here: https://www.stickracing.com/

Join us as we summarize our PRI 2023 adventures, talk about Bill's new Billy Button, chat about our winter upgrades, and plan our 2024 events! Your hosts Bill Armstrong and Rich Guido are veteran drag-n-drive stick shift racers. Together they make up a wealth of stick shift street car knowledge. They've competed Drag Week, Rocky Mountain Race Week, Sick Week, Midwest Drags, Miles of Mayhem, Street Car Takeover, and many more. Support Clutch Burners and Stick Shift Nation by grabbing some merch here: https://www.stickracing.com/

Chris Moore & Stephen Plemmons of Moore HP are part-time comedians and silver car enthusiasts. They also occasionally go pretty dang fast. Join us as we chat with Chris & Stephen about horsepower and shifting gears while laughing to tears. Your hosts Bill Armstrong and Rich Guido are veteran drag-n-drive stick shift racers. Together they make up a wealth of stick shift street car knowledge. They've competed Drag Week, Rocky Mountain Race Week, Sick Week, Midwest Drags, Miles of Mayhem, Street Car Takeover, and many more. Support Clutch Burners and Stick Shift Nation by grabbing some merch here: https://www.stickracing.com/