EMPI's 2024 Engine Battle came with some highs and some lows, but all in all Sam had quite an experience.

Sam and Nate get back to work mocking up 3x3 trailing arms. The car gets a new urethane pivot and spring plate bushings, but needs some clearancing for the new trailing arms.

With the goal of running taller rear tires, Sam and Nate swap in a Bus transmission, with it's bigger ring and pinion being better suited for that tire.

Nate and Sam's hard work paid off, getting Nate's car driving well enough to get it off a trailer and into the car show.

The one piece front end and the baja bumper have been sitting on the car for weeks now, but now Sam & Nate get them properly mounted.

Sam and Nate get to work on the brakes of this 1972 Baja Bug. They remove the original brake drums and install a bolt on EMPI Wide 5 Disc Brake Kit.

Sam and Nathan get back to work on Nate's 1972 Baja Bug, installing new off road race seats.

Sam and Nate fire up the 1600cc long block and it runs really well, despite a leaking valve cover.

Sam and Nathan assemble another top end but this time it is on Nate's first complete engine build.

Sam and Nate get to work rebuilding the original engine that came with this 1972 Beetle. The end result is a successful short block, made with a mix of new and original parts.

Sam and Nate get the distributor and carburetor adjusted and the engine running properly on this 1972 Baja Bug

Nathan and Sam spend a few evenings turning the long block they just finished reassembling into a turn key engine. Follow along as they get it ready to run.