Two Guys Garage Podcast

After months of neglect and distractions, Willie and Kevin are finally digging their project cars out of mothballs to begin wrenching on them again. They share some pre- and post-winter storage tips to ensure a smooth transition back to the open road and pull back the curtain on the slow and steady progress – and occasional behind-the-scenes struggles – that come with resurrecting sidelined automotive projects. From unexpected repairs that muck up the works to the satisfying (and sometimes frustrating) world of custom fabrication, they highlight the very real setbacks and victories that many car enthusiasts face.

The Horsepower Wars are back! President of Callies Performance Products Heath Norton takes Kevin and Willie deep behind-the-scenes on the massive collaboration between Callies and Stellantis/Direct Connection to bring the new Aluminum Gen 3 Hemi block to the masses. Heath reveals the "racing dust" he’s baked into the tooling for dry-sump flexibility and why the 52-hour torture test at the Chrysler Tech Center proved that the Hemi is far from dead.

Are we witnessing a "gas resurgence"? Willie and Kevin tap into the expertise of Dan Millen from Livernois Motorsports & Engineering to dissect the surprising sales struggles of modern muscle alongside the intriguing sleeper potential of vehicles like the Durango Hellcat. They delve into the aftermarket's ongoing battle with OEM tuning restrictions and the unexpected realities of EV adoption compared to traditional gas power, ultimately questioning the future landscape of high-performance modification.

You might want to wait on dropping $8,000 on that blower you’ve had your eye on until after you’ve heard this week’s podcast. Willie’s twin brother Billy from Warlock Tuning joins the guys to expose the hidden horsepower buried in factory torque limiters and explain how modern “neural networks” in Dodge and GM platforms are changing the tuning game. From optimizing your engine’s "ecosystem" for maximum output, to the sleeper appeal of an all-wheel-drive, cammed-out police interceptor, Billy explains why these AI-based decision-making systems are leaps and bounds ahead of the old-school way of tuning.

Although the guys normally talk about four wheels, today they’re shifting gears to focus on the evolution of sophisticated electronics that are transforming modern motorcycle technology. Along with Dylan Bolton from Tri-City Cycles, they marvel at how innovations like phone-based tuning and anti-slide systems give riders more control and confidence, whether they're tackling a race, a trail, or just weekend riding, effectively changing the game forever.

The gap between OEM performance and the aftermarket is closing fast. Tremec’s Mike Kidd joins Kevin and Willie to reveal their latest billet-cased prototypes. From rev-matching fixes for '19+ Mustangs to a manual gearbox solution for the C8 Corvette platform, Tremec is rewriting the rules for the aftermarket. This week, we dive into the science of triple-cone synchronizers, 80-millisecond shift times, and why the "Terminator" of transmissions is moving into the transaxle world. Whether you’re a pro-touring veteran or a modern muscle fan, this is the hardware update you’ve been waiting for.

Willie and Kevin welcome the innovative Bryan Fuller of Fuller Moto to discuss his latest audacious project: a five-day build to create a car body from scratch. Fuller recounts the inspiration behind this seemingly impossible feat, stemming from a shattered Hot Wheels model and a desire to push the boundaries of automotive fabrication using the newest technology available. He details the challenges of assembling a dream team, including the legendary Chip Foose, and utilizing cutting-edge technology to shape metal in ways never before attempted. Hear about the intense, almost deafening atmosphere in the shop, where "it was literally like a frickin’ jet plane" with dozens of metal shapers at work alongside a 10-man film crew, and the camaraderie that fueled this unprecedented automotive achievement.

When Willie’s Jeep twists an axle in the middle of a desert ravine, the right gear becomes a literal lifesaver. He and Kevin welcome Kris Scherm from ESAB to recount a "clutch" trailside repair using a battery-powered portable welder. From there, the conversation expands to include "plasma gouging" and the massive technological leap that has occurred in metal fusion since 2020; exploring the science of Pulse Stick welding; the 'one-knob' simplicity of modern Rogue MiG systems; and the productivity gains of moving from stick to high-speed wire. From toaster-sized pocket welders to waveform electronics that make beginners weld like pros, listen in and learn how the perfect welder for your garage or shop is more attainable than you think.

Kevin and Willie dive into the world of car appraisals with former homicide-detective-turned-appraiser Burke Payne of BP Appraisals, revealing the often-harsh realities and surprising windfalls of the collector car market, where "condition is everything”. Burke discusses his process, which can expose the gap between perceived and actual vehicle values. He also explains how a professional appraisal provides concrete documentation, justifying a vehicle's value to potential buyers and insurance companies, proving that appraisals are more than just opinions, they are data-driven evaluations that help protect your investment.

What happens when 15,000 hours of elite craftsmanship meets the high-stakes reality of the auction block? Kevin and Willie trace the journey from the prestigious Grand National Roadster Show to the main stage at Barrett-Jackson as they talk shop with Bryan Fuller about the “psychological threshold” – the exact moment a car becomes too valuable or too detailed to actually use. As the level of craftmanship rises each year, is the goal to create unique automotive art or to win an event? From the “rub-throughs” of fresh show paint to the challenge of valuing one-of-a-kind art, the guys explore the thin line between a driver’s dream and a museum piece.

Willie and Kevin uncover the secrets of "EyesOn Design" with Glen Durmisevich, the Design Director & Chief Judge for this one-of-a-kind automotive design showcase. Held on Edsel Ford's lawn, the unique Detroit car show celebrates the artistry of automotive design, where vehicles are judged on their proportions, line work, and surface development, offering a distinct departure from traditional concours events. "These cars normally are judged by lineage, by pedigree,” Willie explains, “and here it's something really different."

Most people know Dorman for the "Help!" aisle at the local auto parts store, but today they are a design powerhouse launching on average 21 new products every day. Kevin and Willie sit down with Lester Kovacs, Director of Ideation, to pull back the curtain on the "OE Fix" philosophy. From replacing Ford’s leaking plastic oil pans with improved aluminum versions to re-engineering oil drain angles, learn how Dorman uses a nationwide Technician Advisory Council and "scrap bin research" to solve the industry’s most annoying repetitive failures.

Kyle Briese returns to the podcast to discuss the ways in which BMR Suspension is leading the charge in suspension innovation. From beefing up modern Broncos to transforming classic muscle cars into track-ready beasts, BMR's commitment to in-house manufacturing and cutting-edge design is proving that true performance is built right here in America. "They find problems when people are putting down horsepower,” notes Willie, “and they go attack these problems."

Moving from bolting parts to burning steel is the ultimate step in creative freedom, but stainless steel brings its own set of rules. The guys welcome Mark Prosser once again to the podcast to discuss stainless welding tips, including why dedicated wire brushes are a must and how to balance amperage with travel speed. From the metallurgy of 304 vs. 321 alloys to the high-stakes world of back purging, Mark breaks down why stainless is a unique beast compared to mild steel. Whether you’re building a turbo manifold or custom exhaust, discover how to use gas lenses, manage thermal expansion, and nail "the dip" to achieve those perfect, Instagram-ready welds.

"He’s just a great guy, a great teacher, a professor of hot rods and of paints," says Willie in welcoming Kevin Tetz for a deep dive into his "Garbage Camaro" build.Tetz details how he's resurrecting a discarded '74 Camaro and transforming it into "the car that I couldn't afford to buy." He also shares his thoughts on the ever-evolving world of automotive painting and how his “Paintucation” series can help new and seasoned painters alike.

While SEMA is the "bling," AAPEX is the "soul" of the automotive industry - where the daily drivers get fixed. Live from AAPEX 2025, Kevin and Willie sit down with Dustin Pedley from bproauto to discuss how they leverage the massive engineering footprint of Stellantis and Mopar to create "Next Level" parts, using the same engineers who validate OE parts to ensure aftermarket reliability. Discover how they use "inside baseball" knowledge to identify common OE failure points and engineer them out of their aftermarket components—offering high-tier quality for everything from 1970s classics to modern daily drivers.

On this episode Willie and Kevin talk with Mark Reeb of Power Brake Booster Exchange about troubleshooting and fixing classic brake systems. Mark, a true expert in the field, dives into common problems like leaks, vacuum issues, and incorrect parts, offering valuable tips and tricks for enthusiasts. "That’s some great advice you guys, go back to the basics, start with one change and one adjustment, not five or seven or everything else and you will isolate it," says Willie, highlighting the practical advice shared. Whether you're dealing with a hot rod, muscle car, or any classic ride, this episode will equip you with the "stopping knowledge" you need.

Direct from SEMA 2025, Kevin and Willie explore what it means to be "Built Different" with Carlyle Tools’ Joe Sabo and the company’s latest sponsored NHRA Top Fuel driver, Maddi Gordon. The guys get hands-on with gearless ratchets, drill bits that won't walk on diamond plate, and the world’s first creeper with a kickstand. Joe explains the philosophy of designing tools for how they are actually used, while Maddi shares her new journey of representing the brand both as a "wrench" and as a driver of an 11,000-horsepower "Venom Green" dragster for her rookie Top Fuel season. Discover how Carlyle is inspiring a new generation to build professional kits without the burden of "tool truck debt”.

After judging the world's best at SEMA, builder Ziggy Sadler joins the podcast to share his unique perspective on car culture, burnout competitions, and the Australian car scene which is a world of its own. Best known from his iconic 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback build named "Warhorse 427", Ziggy joins Kevin and Willie as they explore the differences in American and Australian car culture. Ziggy explains, "the biggest single thing that stands out between the US and Australia is that our focus is pretty much 100% on horsepower”.

Willie and Kevin are live again from the SEMA Show floor as they sit down with Matthew Palumbo and Don Zaney from Stinger to discuss the evolution of the vehicle “command center." Learn how Stinger uses the world’s largest CAN bus library to bring 12-inch displays, integrated lighting, and multi-camera views to everything from '57 Chevys to modern side-by-sides. The guys explore Stinger’s latest innovations, including rock lights that trigger based on steering angle and glove-friendly touchscreens designed for direct sunlight. From waterproof displays to multi-camera kits that help you navigate the trail, learn why the modern infotainment system is the ultimate tool for both the highway and the backroad.

On this podcast the guys explore the cutting edge of automotive technology with Mike Copeland, CEO of Arrington Performance. They discuss Copeland's pioneering work with hydrogen-powered internal combustion engines, from initial concepts to real-world applications. "It was wild to see you at SEMA when you shocked the world bringing something that was hydrogen-powered," recalls Willie B. Copeland shares insights into his latest projects, including converting diesel engines to hydrogen and achieving emissions levels that surpass future regulations. He also reveals his vision for a cleaner, high-performance future stating, "We have so much technology that we’re doing and so many things we’re working on, that it has the opportunity - and I believe - that we’ll literally change the world."

Kevin and Willie kick off their 2025 SEMA Show interviews with Bartec to discuss one of the industry's headaches: TPMS. With over 150 communication protocols, tire pressure diagnostics can be confusing for technicians and DIYers alike. Scot Holloway reveals how Bartec’s Tech600Pro and universal sensors are turning complex issues into five-minute fixes. Whether you're a shop owner looking to turn TPMS into a profit center or a car enthusiast tired of the "blinky light," this episode covers the TPMS tools and tech you need for 2026 and beyond.

From his early days at the Revs Institute to his latest creation – a 1968 SAAB Rally Tribute car called "Dirt Bomb" – Murray Pfaff's designs consistently amaze. Each time he unveils something new, “People are like, wait a minute - what the - holy moly look at this,” exclaims Willie; “it’s always over the top cool!" Today Murray's on hand with a preview of the upcoming Detroit Autorama, where two of his builds will be featured front and center in the "D-Lot", along with a charity auction he’s organizing that features $40,000 worth of "cool gearhead gifts, prizes and products" to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Kevin Baxter knows that every cold start is a race against time. Today he joins Willie B and Kevin Byrd to explain why modern engines—from the Pentastar 3.6L to Ford’s EcoBoost—are subject to a 3.5-second "dry window" where non-lubricated parts wear and damage the engine. Learn how Baxter Performance’s anti-drain back technology provides instantaneous oil pressure and discover how their new Evacu-Filter’s 3/16-inch adapter uses a Schrader valve and compressed air to blow your oil filter dry before you even unscrew it, turning a messy chore into a clean, professional service.

For twenty-one years Willie has been doing his Cars for Christmas giveaway, and in this podcast the guys discuss some of the highs and lows of this year’s event. Willie shares stories and discusses the nearly year-long process that he and his team go through preparing these vehicles for needy families. Willie tells us, “When you hear story after story and see how much people are moved and motivated by transportation and mobility and how much it dynamically changes their lives, it really is humbling, man.” This year, Willie's own personal truck was stolen during the first event, but that didn't stop him from continuing to spread joy. He says to the 12 to 13 happy families that received a vehicle, "I consider that day a win and you know what? I can rebuild my truck."

Following three years of intensive R&D and enlisting listeners as "temporary volunteer scientists," Kyle Fischer and Kevin Adams of Hot Shot’s Secret return to the podcast to unveil a solution for the dreaded lifter tick. The guys share their three-year journey from lab testing to real-world "guinea pig" fleets, revealing to Kevin and Willie how advanced esters can re-liquefy coked-up carbon. Discover the "synergy" of additive packages and why replacing just one quart of oil with the new Tick Fix + Protect can restore lifter function and provide a "plate of armor" for your high-performance build.

In this episode, the guys discuss some builds that really blew them away at the recent SEMA Show. Chief among these is the amazing ‘57 Chevy with a Gen 3 Hemi powered by hydrogen built by Jeff Lutz and Clay Millican in partnership with CRC’s Build for the Future scholarship program. “We’re 100% here,” Clay tells Willie, “doing these car projects we’ve done the last couple of years because of CRC putting together a program with Tech Force Foundation to provide scholarships for young people that want to work with their hands.” Listen in to hear two masters of the trade share their passion and commitment for innovation in service of nurturing the tradespeople of tomorrow.

Ron Davis of Ron Davis Racing Products joins Kevin and Willie to celebrate 50 years of radiator evolution, from a $5,000 credit union loan to cooling the world’s most elite race teams. Drawing on decades of experience including NASCAR pits and the brutal world of Trophy Trucks, Ron explains application specific builds, the efficiency of straight-blade fans, and how custom-engineered shrouds with "road-race flaps" keep 1200HP monsters cool in the most extreme environments. Learn why thermal management is a "series of mistakes and learning curves" and how to properly spec a radiator system so you can finally stop chasing the steam and start chasing the finish line.