Automotive News & VideosWheelCircuit

Inside JMS Racing Engines: Legacy, Expertise, and Custom Craftsmanship

Inside JMS Racing Engines: Legacy, Expertise, and Custom Craftsmanship
Image copyright Youtube
Authors
    Published on
    Published on
  • Name
    By Dushyant
    Twitter
    (@dishs)

In the sun-soaked town of Elman, California, lies JMS Racing Engines, a bastion of automotive craftsmanship spanning over five decades. Founded by the legendary Don Johnson in '73, the torch has been passed to his son Mike and grandson Jeff, who now steer the ship. Their secret recipe for survival? A potent mix of top-notch workmanship, a knack for handling any engine thrown their way, and a relentless dedication to customer satisfaction. It's a tale as old as time, but one that never fails to impress.

The tour kicks off in the tear-down section, a bustling hub where engines meet their fate, stripped down to their bare bones before being meticulously cleaned. From there, it's a journey through the head department, where cylinder heads are expertly surfaced, and valve jobs are performed with surgical precision. But it's in the rotating assembly area where the magic truly happens, as rods and crankshafts are balanced by hand, a testament to the team's unwavering commitment to quality over convenience.

As Jeff guides us through the assembly room, it's clear that this is where the heart of JMS Racing Engines beats strongest. With projects ranging from a beefy 496-inch big block Camaro engine to a vintage 54 Packard straight-eight, the team's expertise knows no bounds. They're not just mechanics; they're custodians of automotive history, preserving the legacy of classic cars with no crate motor options in sight. And as the industry evolves and car values soar, JMS adapts, stockpiling rare parts and staying ahead of the curve to meet the demands of a changing landscape.

But it's not all nostalgia and vintage charm at JMS. The team also dives headfirst into modern challenges, like servicing exhibition vehicles such as dragsters with Chevy, Hemi, and Ford engines. Their willingness to take on any project, no matter how daunting, sets them apart in a world where specialization reigns supreme. From the tear-down section to the dragster pit, JMS Racing Engines stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of automotive craftsmanship, a beacon of excellence in a sea of mediocrity.

inside-jms-racing-engines-legacy-expertise-and-custom-craftsmanship

Image copyright Youtube

inside-jms-racing-engines-legacy-expertise-and-custom-craftsmanship

Image copyright Youtube

inside-jms-racing-engines-legacy-expertise-and-custom-craftsmanship

Image copyright Youtube

inside-jms-racing-engines-legacy-expertise-and-custom-craftsmanship

Image copyright Youtube

Watch Behind the Build Ep. 3 | HOT ROD Shop Tour with JMS Racing Engines | MotorTrend on Youtube

Viewer Reactions for Behind the Build Ep. 3 | HOT ROD Shop Tour with JMS Racing Engines | MotorTrend

Appreciation for the old dinosaurs in the video

Wishing the team a Merry Christmas

Sending love to the Motor Trend family

revolutionizing-automotive-glass-cornings-optical-fiber-future
MotorTrend Channel

Revolutionizing Automotive Glass: Corning's Optical Fiber Future

Explore the future of automotive glass with Corning's Mike Kunigonis on MotorTrend Channel's podcast. Learn how optical fiber is revolutionizing data transmission in vehicles, offering infinite bandwidth, weight savings, and easier installation. Get insights on the game-changing technology shaping the cars of tomorrow.

off-road-showdown-toyota-4runner-vs-2025-jeep-wrangler-4xe
MotorTrend Channel

Off-Road Showdown: Toyota 4Runner vs. 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe

MotorTrend Channel compares Toyota 4Runner and 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe. Discussing off-road heritage, solid axles, hybrid technology, and practicality for everyday use. Which SUV reigns supreme?

c8-corvette-vs-hyundai-ioniq-5-performance-showdown
MotorTrend Channel

C8 Corvette vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Performance Showdown

The MotorTrend Channel compares the C8 Corvette and Hyundai Ioniq 5. The Corvette impresses with its V8 power and dynamic driving, while the Ioniq 5 offers innovative electric performance and customizable features. Both cars deliver fun driving experiences at different ends of the automotive spectrum.

revving-up-classics-everas-electric-resto-mods-unveiled
MotorTrend Channel

Revving Up Classics: evera's Electric Resto Mods Unveiled

Explore the world of electric Resto mods with evera on MotorTrend Channel's The Inevitable podcast. Founder Justin Lny discusses converting classic vehicles like 964 Porsches to electric power, blending iconic designs with modern technology for a unique driving experience.