How to Build Horsepower - Volume 2

This is an excellent book for anyone seeking an understanding on how to improve the performance of their car, especially V8 owners. However, I have a few words of caution. This book does not give you a Chapter 1 introduction on how car engines work. In the style that the book is written, the author assumes that the reader has a basic understanding of automotive systems and design. Be perfectly honest with yourself. If you do not know how fundamental automotive systems work together to allow cars to move, then I suggest reading a book on how car engines work systematically, BEFORE reading this one, such as "Car Smarts", by Mary Jackson. Once you have an essential understanding of engine design and function, it will make reading this book easier, and you will simply love it! It covers every aspect of tuning your engine - system by system - so that not only horsepower, but overall performance and durability of your car, is increased optimally. However, jumping right in on page 1 of this book without an essential understanding of engines may be a shade difficult in my opinion. It is only my suggestion, take it or leave it. Otherwise, an excellent book; I recommend it!

This book is a must read for anyone who wants to do any tuning work on their car whatsoever. This is a rare book because the author is actually in possession of a flow bench and chassis dyno which allow him to test all of the ideas presented. He debunks a number of myths about how to actually get more power out of your engine. He also gives some coverage to just about every kind of modification you can make to your engine and gives you an educated opinion about whether or not it is worth your time. The general focus of the book is on American V8's, but I found that all of the informatoin was general enough to apply nicely to my Italian V6s and German inline 4 cylinder cars. The format of the book leaves a little bit to be desired (As do the photos) but the material is so good that it becomes irrelevent. If you are not interested in actually tuning your car but just want to know how it is done, you should still read this book: it's a good one.

An outstanding effort by David Vizard. This book contains a lot of info about flow bench work, and air flow in ports. The workings of carburetors, carb sizing, manifold types and where and why they differ. I go back to his books every time I consider making an engine modification.

I don't think DV knows how to write a dud book. In his typical style, this book is a great source for all things induction related. This book is great for someone who has little knowledge on the subject, as it clearly explains all the fundamentals. It is also just as valuable for the more experienced engine builder/racer as it contains loads of info on carb mods, manifold design and mods, mixtures, atomization, etc. It also dispells many myths that do nothing except slow you down. Rather than writing books based on popular and expert opinions, DV's books are based on hard scientific fact. He does the work, and he has the results. Knowledge is horsepower! With DV's books, I've never gone wrong. On a horsepower per dollar basis, his books are the best investment you'll ever make.

This book covers every major engine component and is a great primer on combustion theory, while being very easy to read and understand. Diagrams, drawings and photos tell you what to do and why - or why not to do it. Mr. Vizard presents everything within the context of what is practical and worthwhile for "streetability," vs. what else might make sense for all-out racing performance. What a great book for anyone who wants to add HP, even those with no idea where to begin!