CarTech S-A Design Books : Performance Tuning & Engine Rebuild Guides
Unique is the offer from the American publisher CarTech. More than 100 books in the SA-Design series describe the engineering and tuning of American car engines (mainly Chevrolet, Chrysler and Ford V8s, but also Japanese brands such as Honda and Mitsubishi), which are installed in passenger cars, pick-ups, vans and 4x4s.
The S-A Design tuning books deal with tuning methods and modifications that are normally only allowed on the track, not on public roads. The information offered is very detailed, because the books are written by experts from the tuning industry. The extensive texts are supplemented by many photos and illustrations.
Publisher: CarTech, North Branch, Minnesota (USA)
Size: 27 x 21 cm (10.6 x 8.25 in), paperback. The newer S-A Design books are partially or completely in color.
Language: The CarTech books are only available in English.
New technical books are published by CarTech almost every month. In the meantime, many older titles are also available again as "print-on-demand" reprints. These reprints are illustrated in black and white.
S-A Design books are divided into the following series:
How to Rebuild Engines
The CarTech Workbench books describe in great detail the overhaul of American engines. They are illustrated with hundreds of photos, showing step by step the work to be performed.
Attention is also paid to the removal and installation of the engine and the prevention of expensive mistakes.
Currently there are revision books for the V8 Small Blocks and Big Blocks from Chevrolet, Chrysler and Ford, as well as for some 4-cylinder Honda engines.
How to Build High Performance Engines
The tuning of many types of Chevrolet, Chrysler, Ford, Mitsubishi and Honda petrol engines is covered in the extensive range "How to Build Max-Performance Engines".
Engine blocks, crankshafts, cylinder heads, camshafts, intake systems, carburetors and exhaust systems are discussed. Provided are also tips for selecting the right parts, part interchangeability, part machining and casting numbers.
There are S-A Design tuning books for following engines:
- the Chevrolet Small Block, Big Block, LS1 and LS6
- Ford Small Block, LF, 4.6, 5.0 and 5.4 Liter
- Honda K-series
- Chrysler Mopar Small Block and New Hemi.
Engine Parts Interchange Manuals
The Parts Interchange Manuals are an indispensable aid in finding engine parts for older American cars from Ford and General Motors. After all, the same components are often used for different models.
This series of books provides information on the interchangeability of engine blocks, crankshafts, camshafts, pistons and connecting rods, cylinder heads, ignition systems, intake and exhaust systems. There are also overviews of part numbers and casting numbers.
Super Tuning and Modifying Carburators
The "Super Tuning and Modifying Carburettors" books make servicing American multiple carburettors a lot easier.
There are volumes for Carter, Edelbrock, Holley and Rochester carburetors. They not only describe step by step the overhaul and adjustment (for more power or economy), but also modifications and troubleshooting.
High-Performance Car Builder's Guides
Each of the High-Performance Car Builder's Guides describes the tuning of a particular car model, including the Dodge Neon, Ford Mustang, Mini, Jeep Cherokee and Wrangler as well as some Honda and Subaru types.
Modifications to the suspension, engine, drivetrain, brakes, wheels and tires are discussed.
The High-Performance Car Builder's Guides are richly illustrated. Each describes the tuning of a particular car model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are CarTech S-A Design books suitable for street-legal vehicle modifications?
While these books provide expert technical knowledge, many of the tuning methods and modifications described are intended for high-performance track use. Users should verify local regulations, as some modifications discussed by industry experts may not be permitted on public roads.
What is the benefit of a "Parts Interchange Manual" for older American cars?
These manuals are indispensable for restorers and engine builders because they identify identical components used across different models and years within Ford and General Motors. They provide essential data on casting numbers and part compatibility for blocks, heads, and crankshafts, making it easier to source correct vintage parts.
What is the difference between a "Workbench" book and a "Max-Performance" book?
The Workbench series (How to Rebuild) focuses on a systematic, step-by-step overhaul to return an engine to factory specifications while avoiding costly errors. The Max-Performance series (How to Build) focuses specifically on modification and "hot rodding," discussing performance parts selection, machining, and airflow to maximize power output.