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

- Authors
- Published on
- Published on
- Name
- By Dushyant
- (@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.

Image copyright Youtube

Image copyright Youtube

Image copyright Youtube

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
Related Articles

Exploring Moab: Easter Jeep Safari Adventures with MotorTrend
Experience the thrill of Easter Jeep Safari in Moab with MotorTrend Channel. Join the adventure on the Steel Bender trail and the Trailblazer Run with the Jessi Combs Foundation. Witness off-road prowess, community spirit, and a desert wedding against stunning backdrops.

Exploring Moab: Jeep Event Adventures, Petroglyphs, and Milkshakes
MotorTrend Channel crew explores Moab's offerings at a Jeep event, enjoying off-road rides, shopping for unique merchandise, and hiking to ancient petroglyphs, culminating in shared milkshakes and plans for future adventures.

Exploring Jeep Concept Vehicles at Easter Jeep Safari in Moab
Experience the unveiling of exciting Jeep concept vehicles at Easter Jeep Safari in Moab. From retro vibes to minimalist overlanding, explore innovative designs and vibrant colors. Discover the future of off-road luxury with the Jeep Wagoneer Overland package and delve into the world of Jeep Performance Parts with the Mopar Blueprint concept. Join the adventure at the Jeep Activation Center in downtown Moab for a thrilling day of exploration.

Exploring Moab Rim: Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and New Gladiator Unveiled
Join MotorTrend Channel as they conquer the challenging Moab Rim trail with Warn, showcasing the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon's capabilities. Discover the new Jeep Gladiator model and aftermarket innovations at Easter Jeep Safari. Exciting adventures and custom vehicle insights await!