Searching for Air National Races engine tuners and info

[FlyingSaucer]

Hey folks

I know this is my first post here, but I'm already asking for a favor (how rude of me!).

Well, I'm a freelance journalist for certain aviation magazines, and I'm writing a series of stories regarding certain aspects of the National Races; one of those being abt the Merlin engines used in those events. I realize that the art of tuning these engines is gradually being lost - with fewer and fewer people possessing the expertise to modify them for racing - which raises questions about the future of these machines in such events.

While I've managed to gather some technical info (from both here the forum and other sources), I'm struggling to identify the people who currently master this craft; and, for me, the most important part of this project is to give a voice to those who are keeping this "tuning tradition" alive.

So, here is my request: if anyone in the group knows someone who currently tunes these engines (and preferably has their contact details) please drop me a DM. I'm really looking forward for any possibility of a chat connected to this!

I would be extremely grateful, as I believe this is a chance to shine a spotlight on the true wizards behind the National Races.

 

[SaparotRob]

I'm guessing someone here might know a guy.

 

[mjfur]

51-Factory, San Martin, CA

https://roushaviation.com/parts-inventory/

Vintage V12's - Rebuilding the Power of History

Welcome to the world’s leading shop for building the engines that won World War II. Vintage V12’s specializes in rebuilding Merlin, Griffon, and Allison engines for restoration and racing.

vintagev12s.com

National Championship Air Races | Welcome to The World's Fastest Motorsport!

The National Championship Air Racing Association has been organizing the National Championship Air Races for over 60 years, promoting its storied traditions and pageantry.

airrace.org

 

[MIflyer]

Air and Space Magazine had an article quite a few years ago about the outfits that rebuild the Merlins and Allisons so you might check there. The engine shown in the attached photo is from a guy in Florida that rebuilds them, mainly for display, now.

 

[FlyingSaucer]

Thxs for the help till now guys!

I'm also trying my luck in some Facebook groups, so I hope my call reaches the people I want to connect with.

 

[Tom Fey]

Steven Hinton Jr. at POF. Mike Wilton. Jose Flores at Vintage V-12's Tehachapi. The gents at Strix Aviation fin Richmond, WI for Allison engines. And the folks at the Hydroplane & Race Boat Museum in Kent, WA, are pretty good tuners and likely know of other experts.

 

[chuckc]

Try Roush Aviation: https://roushaviation.com/