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Category: Editorial

  • VMP Stage 1 – 2020 Mustang GT

    VMP Stage 1 – 2020 Mustang GT

    VMP Stage 1 – 2020 Mustang GT

    With more than 200hp added, you will feel the difference when you hit the skinny pedal…what does our Stage 1 VMP include?

    • VMP Performance Loki supercharger system
    • 88mm upper supercharger pulley
    • V​MP Performance billet fuel rails
    • 56lb/hr fuel injectors
    • V​MP Performance fuel pump voltage booster
    • NGK LTR7IX-11 spark plugs
    • M​MR billet oil pump gears & crankshaft sprocket
    • V​MP Performance single-pass heat exchanger
    • Genuine OEM Ford gaskets, seals, fluids, and fasteners required for installation
    • JLT Performance passenger-side air/oil separator
    • HP Tuners credits
    • Baseline dyno runs
    • Professional installation
    • Professional dyno calibration
    Contact Us to Discuss Your Next Project

  • PCM Unlock Service – 2015+ Mopar Vehicles

    PCM Unlock Service – 2015+ Mopar Vehicles

    PCM Unlock – 2015+ Mopar vehicles

    National Speed offers PCM (Powertrain Control Module) unlocking services for 2015+ Mopar (Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram) vehicles. Recalibrating or tuning a Mopar PCM involves physical modifications to the module to unlock the potential. This service is needed when tuning a vehicle to compensate for modifications, resulting in added power, torque, and performance. What does this mean to you? Fast Service! In the past, unlocking services meant sending your PCM directly HPTuners to unlock, getting the PCM sent back, and then tuning your vehicle in the shop. With shipping, waiting, shipping, and waiting…the process could take a week, sometimes more, to get a PCM back in the shop. Now that unlocking services can happen here in the shop, we cut out days of downtime and can get performance installations and tuning done faster. Tuning is necessary for any of our Staged Performance Packages and we have parts in stock to handle all Stage 1 and Stage 2 installs now… with no delays, backorders, or downtime. 

    Contact Us to Discuss Your Next Project

  • VMP Superchargers – Loki and Odin – Differences Explained

    VMP Superchargers – Loki and Odin – Differences Explained

    VMP Superchargers – Loki and Odin – Differences Explained

    VMP is well known for its superchargers and offers tremendous options for Ford Mustang and F-150 models. This video dives into the Loki and Odin systems, how they are alike, and the key differences that drive additional performance through the Odin system.

    Contact Us to Discuss Your Next Project

  • Christopher’s C8 Corvette Stingray

    Christopher’s C8 Corvette Stingray

     As car enthusiasts, we customize nearly everything we can get our hands on. From cars and beyond, the passion to personalize and make something reflect who you are lives through us no matter the passion. 

    We see each car that we work on as a piece of art. Perfectly tailored for the owner’s needs and dreams. It was with this thought that we decided to start a new way to bring that National Speed personalization to our community; Wallpaper Wednesday. 

    Each Wednesday, we’ll be sharing a custom National Speed Wallpaper for both desktop and mobile, and easily downloaded below! Just right-click and “Save As”, or hold to save on mobile, to get these images saved and posted up as wallpapers on your phone or computer.

    This week, we’re featuring Christopher’s AWE Exhaust-equipped 2020 Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray, aptly personalized “prec8 it”. 

     

    Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray

     

    The AWE Tuning Touring Exhaust really brings the LT2 exhaust note to a new level, creating a roar from what was once a grumble. 

    Download the desktop and mobile wallpapers here and stay tuned for next week’s Wallpaper Wednesday.

  • Tough Tacoma: Scott Bryan’s Magnuson Supercharged Toyota Tacoma

    Tough Tacoma: Scott Bryan’s Magnuson Supercharged Toyota Tacoma

    When you think of common mods for Toyota Tacomas nowadays, you think suspension, bumpers, bed racks, etc.

    But Scott had a better idea…boost!

     

    Scott came to us with a simple goal, to pick up the pace in this 2019 Toyota Tacoma and get the V6 boosted with the help of a supercharger. Luckily, we knew how to make it happen. 

     

    With Scott’s Tacoma in the garage and our amazing team under the hood, we got to work on forcing some induction on the 3.5L. Magnuson’s TVS1900 System is a great option for boosting the third generation Tacoma, really due to the unit’s thermal efficiency, resulting in reliable and considerable gains on the rollers. 

     

    The parts of the kit itself were beautiful and of course the great quality that Magnuson always delivers. There are few things more appealing than freshly machined aluminum in our eyes. 

     

     

    After getting the motor buttoned up and filled with Mobil 1, our team at the Wilmington shop and calibrator Vlad got Scott’s Tacoma on the rollers and set for tuning.

     

    Achieving what he had sought out for, Scott’s Tacoma put down 310whp and 290lbft of torque, nearly 100hp and 50lbft in gains!

     

     

    With goals met and the Tacoma ready to go, we can’t wait to see what Scott does with it! Let us know if your Tacoma needs a similar boost.

     

    For a closer look at this build, take a look at the gallery below. 

     

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  • King Cobra: Anthony Veneziano’s Terminator-Swapped 1999 SVT Cobra

    King Cobra: Anthony Veneziano’s Terminator-Swapped 1999 SVT Cobra

     

    Certain icons stand out in history as pillars of automotive history. For Ford and Shelby, the Cobra is one of those very icons. From the original Shelby to the current GT500s, that snake has always represented one thing, unrelenting performance. 

     

     

    The key to unrelenting performance is, of course, making that performance reliable and steadfast. When building beyond the capabilities from the factory, this key becomes all the more important. 

     

    Anthony brought in his new-to-him supercharged 1999 SVT Cobra looking for a built bottom end to keep his Cobra’s performance unrelenting. On such a special build, featuring a full Terminator swap with rare parts, including some super rare euro tail lights, we knew that we would be able to make this Terminator-swapped Cobra a force to be reckoned with. 

    With the stock block not able to handle the current power efficiently and reliably, he worked with our performance consultants and build designers to figure out the best way to keep the power pumping and his motor running like a champ.

    The solution sounded simple, a new short block built to withstand the new power and more. However, the reality was much more interesting. 

     

     

    Instead of just any new short block, we sourced a MMR Romeo Short Block, cast iron but with forged I-Beam rods and Manley Forged Pistons. This new beefed up short block would be more than capable to handle the extra power and boost the twin screw blower would send through the 4.6L DOHC V8. Andrew got to work resealing the engine with Fel-Pro gaskets and ARP hardware to make sure that it was sealed and torqued properly. Process is a huge part of what makes a difference during a build and we’re always focused on doing things the right way. 

     

     

    Forged internals are a great way to make the most of any standard cast iron block. And by pairing forged internals with a short block designed specifically for forced induction, Anthony’s Cobra was stronger than ever and ready to be back in business!

    To give the Cobra some extra grunt, some PaceSetters full length headers, ceramic coated by our friends at Wild Things Powdercoating, and a custom-fabricated X-Pipe were added while the motor was out. With the engine setup ready to go, we got the car buttoned up and ready for the dyno! 

     

     

    After getting strapped in, dialed in, and a custom tune from our calibrator Vlad via SCT X4, Anthony’s Cobra put down an impressive 492whp and 450lbft of torque!

     

    We couldn’t let this one go without a full shoot out back at the shop in Wilmington. For a closer look at this build, take a look at the gallery below.

    Reach out to National Speed today to see what we can do for you!

     

    Parts List: 

    • MMR Romeo Short Block
    • Ford Racing Crankshaft
    • Forged MMR I-Beam Rods with ARP Hardware
    • Manley Forged Pistons & chromoly piston pins
    • PaceSetter Ceramic Coated Full Length Steel Headers
    • Custom Fabricated X-Pipe
    • ARP 2000 Hex Head Stud Kit

  • Bryan’s Foxbody Obsession

    Bryan’s Foxbody Obsession

    There’s always some enthusiasts who connect with a specific car and just develop a passion that brings that model to the absolute pinnacle of their vision. We’ve seen it all the time, from domestics to imports. Every car enthusiast makes this connection to some extent.

    One prime example of this is Bryan. Bryan loves Foxbody Mustangs more than almost anyone does, we’re willing to bet. When Bryan first came to us, he had a plan for not one, but two Foxbody builds, a 1989 and a 1993, with distinctly different visions for both. The best of both worlds if you will. We couldn’t have been more excited to take these on and bring this twin Foxbody vision to life.

     

     

    First up, this absolutely stunning 1989 model year, was to be a simple build with ties to the OEM nostalgic setup, but with the addition of a built transmission and some boost! Putting the pressure down on the 5.0L 302 is a Vortech Superchargers V-3 Si-Trim Supercharger System. 

    Bringing life to the motor setup, we swapped out the injectors and spark plugs, using NGK and Ford Racing parts, including Ford Racing 47lb EV6 fuel injectors with a Brian Tooley Racing EV1 to EV6 adapter for proper fitting without having to modify the factory wiring harness. 

     

     

    To beef up the drivetrain while running through the gears, we reached out to the team at Monster Transmission & Performance to help Bryan with a heavy duty 4 Speed AOD Transmission. To compliment this truly monster gearbox, we upgraded all the components surrounding, from an ATP Automotive flex plate to pedal and shift linkage bushings from Dorman Products.  All the epic parts in the world can’t do their best if the support for them is aged and worn!

     

    To keep this Fox breathing clear, we swapped out the headers and X-Pipe for some quality parts from the team at BBK Performance Parts. To keep everything regulated, the radiator and thermostat were replaced and upgraded with a Motorad 180 thermostat and Mishimoto aluminum radiator with a dual fan system from Ron Francis Wiring to keep the air flowing and the engine cool.

     

     

    With the mechanical work wrapped up in the shop by John, Matt strapped her down to the rollers for Vlad to perform a custom calibration via SCT Performance! With 93 octane in the tank and the Vortech V-3 Si delivering ~8psi, Vlad increased the 5.0L HO 302’s output to a solid 306.43whp & 359.59lbft!

     

    Next up is Bryan’s 1993 Foxbody Mustang SVT, getting set for an Edelbrock supercharged Coyote swap and 9 inch rear! We can’t wait to see these two together when they’re both finished. More progress coming soon, so stay tuned for updates!

     

     

    For a closer look at this build, take a look at the full gallery below.

     

    Reach out to National Speed today to see what we can do for you! 

     

     Full modification list performed by us below:

    [ngg src=”galleries” ids=”489″ display=”basic_thumbnail” thumbnail_crop=”0″]

  • Designed to Dig: Torsten’s 2009 Nissan Alpha Performance GT-R is Designed to Hit Low 8’s

    Designed to Dig: Torsten’s 2009 Nissan Alpha Performance GT-R is Designed to Hit Low 8’s

    Many people dream of being able to cross the quarter mile line in under ten seconds, and now most days with enough determination and work you can make it happen. However, things start to change beyond that.

     

    Torsten came to us with one of the greatest platforms for attempting the feat of a monster quarter mile time, a 2009 Nissan GT-R, and an ambitious goal, to design and create a car that is both daily drivable and able to achieve a quarter mile time in the low 8 second range. We were happy to oblige him and take on this project.

     

    2009 Nissan GT-R

     

    Our Performance Consultation team met with Torsten to create a game plan to make his dream of an 8-second daily a reality. It’s always a pleasure to work out the vision with our clients.  With Torsten wanting the best of both worlds, a daily driver with a blistering quarter mile time, our build team began from the bare bones. The VR38DETT was pulled from the bay and was replaced with an Alpha Performance 3.8L Short Block to create a near bulletproof base with 1000hp+ potential for this monster daily. 

     

     

    Topped with a Boost Logic V2 intake manifold with 12 Injector Dynamics ID1050x injectors, ported heads from HeadGames Motorworks were installed along with Stage-2 camshafts from Kelford Cams and a GSC valvetrain to finish up the top end with strength and durability. 

    To crank up the boost, the stock turbos were replaced with quick spooling Extreme Turbo Systems G-Series GTX3582R Gen-2 Turbochargers. 

    Alpha Performance also supplied the Omega twin-pump brushless fuel pump system along with other fuel system components from T1 Race Development and COBB Tuning, completing the fuel system. 

     

    TiAL Blow Off Valve

     

    In order to let her eat, we have to let her breathe, and with an Extreme Turbo Systems race intercooler system with TiAL Sport Q 50mm blow-off valves, we were able to support the turbo system and achieve our 1000HP+ goal. Our friends at Extreme Turbo Systems also supplied the 3.5” to 4” Pro Series Y-Pipe to 4” Exhaust, getting us that signature VR38 sound. 

    Keeping everything together are ARP Fasteners and Genuine Nissan OEM gaskets, seals, and other miscellaneous components used to assemble the engine. With the end product being a daily driver that is able to hit Torsten’s goal of low 8-second passes, we had to make sure that this engine was solid and efficient for run after run, followed by the drive back home.

    The team at Jack’s Transmissions put together the perfect gearbox for this build, a fully built Drag 1000 GR6 Transmission, taking all the raw power from the Alpha VR38 and sending it to all four wheels. 

     

     

    In order to put all this power to the ground successfully and reliably, we tapped the team at Driveshaft Shop to get a 1000HP+ Pro-Level rear axle, hub, and differential stub kit built and ready for Torsten’s GT-R. Tuning the all-wheel drive system is key to a successful launch, so we used a STM Tuned AWD controller to fine tune the power delivery. 

    To help Torsten control this beast, we finished up the build with an Alcon big brake kit in the front and rear and wrapped his wheels with some sticky Toyo R888R Tires. 

     

     

    With all the pieces finally together and ready for tuning, Torsten’s GT-R hit our in-house dyno to see what it could do. Using the COBB Tuning Accessport V3 with TCM Support, our tuning team calibrated the system for Flex Fuel capability for ultimate control over the car and tunes. For our dyno tests, we would be testing with standard 93 octane and E85. 

    Strapped down and with our ears singing with the glory of it’s fully built VR38, Torsten’s GT-R exceeded our goals and laid down a mighty 1,355whp and 972lbft of torque on E85 and a comfortable 882whp and 664lbft of torque on your everyday 93 octane. 

     

     

    To celebrate, we unstrapped the car and took it out for a quick shoot and loved everything we saw. This GT-R is truly a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

     

     

    With the beast built and our goals achieved, we’re looking forward to seeing what Torsten and his GT-R can do at the drag strip. Knowing the great things our team can do, we expect to see a low 8 slip in the very near future. 

    Torsten’s GT-R build is a reminder that no goals are unachievable with the right team and determination. 

    For a closer look at this build, take a look at the full gallery. 

    Reach out to National Speed today to see what we can do for you! 

    Contact Us

  • Deeper into the 9’s with Sean’s 860WHP 2016 Camaro SS

    Deeper into the 9’s with Sean’s 860WHP 2016 Camaro SS

     

    Deeper into the 9’s we go, with an assiduous quest for 8’s!

    Sean has been a long time National Speed client and GM performance car fanatic, owning and restoring a gorgeous 1964 Nova SS, and for the past couple years, his dedicated performance car, a Mosaic Black Metallic 2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS. 

     

    For the latest evolution of Sean’s never-ending quest for more power, a simple goal was laid out: 850+whp on 93 octane.

    The car has lived through several iterations over the five years of Sean’s ownership, starting from a bone-stock, brand new platform straight from the dealership. While all was fine for a while, Sean had a craving for something more, and after spending multiple weekends at the dragstrip, the need for more power could not be contained. 

     

    With the original engine-out build yielding him some great results. throwing down a tire-slaying 9.98 quarter mile at Coastal Plains Raceway Park Dragway, it was clear the existing setup needed to be updated. Unable to suppress the desire to see how far we could really push the LT1, a plan was set in place to completely tear down and rebuild the 6.2L LT1...for the second time.

     

     

    With the Camaro back in the shop, our Performance Technician, John, made quick work pulling the engine from the car, tearing it down to the bare short block. From there, he meticulously gapped each piston ring to the exact spec needed and in went a Gwatney Performance Innovation complete drop-in piston & rod package. This specific package includes Diamond Pistons 2618 pistons with rings, Callies Performance Products 6.125″ connecting rods, connecting rod bearings, heavy duty wrist pins, locks, and rings. To compliment the new pistons and rods installed, in went a custom designed 5150 billet-core VVT camshaft from Cam Motion.

    While John was working away on the bottom end, we tapped the great team at Gwatney Performance Innovation again for their ported cylinder head service and installation of Brian Tooley Racing valve spring set. Once the heads were finished with their revamp, John finished up the engine internals with a COMP Cams high pressure fuel pump lash cap, OEM LS7 rocker arm pad, and all the various gaskets and seals to complete the installation.

     

    Maguson Supercharged LT1 Engine

     

    With the internals beefed up and the motor dropped back in, it was time to work on some more power! While Sean was able to make a solid 740.05whp & 694.24lbft on E50 at only ~12.5psi on his old setup, a Magnuson Superchargers Heartbeat TVS2300 supercharger, we decided to up the ante and go with an even bigger setup from Magnuson Superchargers, the Magnum DI TVS2650R! To dial in more boost, a smaller upper pulley was needed, so John swapped out the existing upper pulley for a smaller 80mm unit, then added a 103mm SD103LTX throttle body upgrade from Williams Performance, allowing the most amount of air into the TVS2650R. Finishing up the engine build, John installed a set of LTR7IX-11 spark plugs from NGK Spark Plugs attached to a set of premium spark plug wires from Katech. 

     

    2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS Wheel

     

    With the drivetrain set, it was time to figure out how to get the power to the ground. The stock wheels, control arms, and wheel & brake hub setup were all removed and replaced with a 15” conversion from Carlyle Racing. The stock set was quickly replaced with a set of gorgeous WELD Racing 15×10 S71B Non Beadlock wheels wrapped in Mickey Thompson Performance Tires & Wheels 275/60/15 ET Street S/S radials. To help the car stage correctly and to get heat into those new meaty tires, a line lock kit from SJM Manufacturing, Inc. was installed allowing the front brakes to lock up independently from the rear brakes.

     

    With all the parts installed and mechanical work wrapped up in the shop by John, our Calibration Assistant, Matt, strapped her down to the rollers for Vlad to perform a custom calibration via HP Tuners. With 93 octane in the tank and the Magnuson TVS2650R delivering around 16psi, Vlad and the National Speed team were able to increase the LT1’s output to a kick-ass 863.71whp & 742.04lbft!

     

    2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS on Dyno

     

    For Sean, power has come in stages, originally seeing 546.80whp & 545.77lbft with bolt-ons, 740.05whp & 694.24lbft with the first build, and now with the current setup, 863.71whp & 742.04lbft! With the factory direct-injection system being the only limiting factor in this build, the temptation to switch over to LS-based port-injection is already on Sean’s mind. Hopefully we will see him back here for more fueling upgrades and tap into the 900-1000whp range, finally reaching his goal of 8 second quarter mile times!

     

    Reach out to National Speed today to see what we can do for you!

     

  • Street Car Takeover Preperation

    Street Car Takeover Preperation

    For the past several months, Vlad had his Quicksilver 1998 Toyota Supra 6-speed putting down ~1,250whp with a maxxed out Garrett GTX4508R — and with that power level, he’s been able to row gears to consistent 8.4x quarter mile ETs at 170mph (video here). Ready to kick it up for TX2K, Vlad installed a Precision Turbo & Engine PTE8685, and let her eat! The result is a new personal best of 1,382.15whp & 975.90lbft at only 43psi! To quote Vlad, “I want to keep it together for TX2K, then I’ll see what she can really do at full kill.”

    Stay tuned as Vlad puts this car deeper and deeper into the 8s, chasing that 7-second slip!

     

    Reach Out Today To See What We Can Do For You!
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