In the last two episodes, we covered the Dart block and rotating assembly, followed by the Kelford camshafts. But even the best parts in the world are only as good as the person putting them together. For this build, that job goes to Tom Hughes from Hughes Racebuilt, who brings experience from both high-performance engine building and his time working at Rocket Lab.
The difference between an engine builder and someone simply bolting parts together comes down to process, experience and knowing exactly what needs to be checked. Clearances, cleanliness, machining, oil flow and component compatibility all change depending on how the engine will be used. A 1,000HP street engine won't necessarily want the same setup as a drift, drag or land speed engine, and Tom explains why simply buying the right parts is only the beginning.
We also get into some of the less obvious lessons that only come from experience, including a VVT-i oiling issue that can affect the number one main bearing, why OEM clearances don't always work as power and RPM increase, and how bearing clearance, oil viscosity and oil volume all work together. On top of that, we look at the purpose-built HRB tools Tom has developed to make jobs like valve spring installation, crank locking and precision measurement easier and more repeatable.
The engine will be built live at the PRI Show in December 2026, bringing the people behind the parts together to assemble the complete package. From the block, crankshaft, rods and pistons through to the cylinder head, valve train, turbo system, electronics and everything required to bring it together, this is a 2JZ built by the companies that know these components better than anyone.
If you haven't already, enter here.
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TIMESTAMPS
00:15 Why the Engine Builder Matters
01:34 From Engine Machining to Rocket Lab
02:12 What Separates an Engine Builder?
03:06 Why Experience Changes the Build
03:45 The Details That Kill Engines
05:07 Why We Chose VVT-i
05:57 The VVT-i Oiling Problem
07:23 Why Good Information Matters
07:44 Why OEM Clearances Aren’t Enough
10:09 The Right Tools for the Job
10:56 Measuring to the Last Fraction
12:00 Process, Tools & Experience
