The engine I was fortunate to have Jake build for me is my recent addition to my '73 WV Karman Ghia. It started with a tired stock engine which for me was severely under powered. After the demise of this engine due to an inability to retain oil, I had it rebuilt as a mild 2017. This engine was an improvement, but still not enough, and it always seemed to run hot and suffered pre-ignition. Back to the drawing board, I discovered the T4 possibility and Aircooled Technology on the Shoptalk forums (www.shoptalkforums.com) From reading the forums I was able to learn the great potential of the T4 engine for power and long term reliability. I also discovered on the forums that Jake along with being the mad scientist of T4 development, had a reputation for excellent quality, and standing behind his work. This was all over 4 years ago. After a couple years saving up the funds for my dream engine, Jake and I were exchanging the proposal outlining the engine build. I was that close when my business hit a slow period that took another couple years to recover to the point that I again had the funds to proceed once again. Looking back on it though I am very happy with this delay. During this time Jake was  doing alot of R&D, and pushing the envelope with his engine program. The 4 year wait resulted in a much more developed engine than I would have had at the beginning. To briefly outline just some of these developments that we included in my engine: In the past 4 years Jakes basic 2270 has been improved upon with cryogenic treatment, improved cam choices, ceramic lifters, the Mallory distributor, advancements in cylinder head design, and advancements with the DTM fan shroud for better cooling, as well as the long awaited development of some good exhaust systems.

At last I got on the list  for Jake to build the engine. There was about a month delay due to a back order on the cylinder heads, but the build started a month early due to another customer changing his mind so in the end it was right on time. Finally the day came (on my birthday as a matter of fact) that I took delivery of the engine. The install went smoothly for my first time, and the engine fired right up. I was amazed with the power across the full range, from idle to 6500, as well as how smooth it ran. In case you haven't gathered. I am very pleased with this engine and Jakes service has proven to be top notch. To me it is obvious that Jake takes customer satisfaction to heart.

For anyone attempting the T4 conversion, I  recommend the T4 conversion video Although the video does not address the nitty gritty of every detail you might encounter in the process, it serves as an excellent outline to keep you on the right track. I found myself referring to it often. My only suggestion of improvement would be a full page drawing of the sealing tin around the engine, for those of us that work better from pics rather than written directions.

I hope to be back with updates over the years, and encourage all of the Alumni who have bought one of Jakes engines to stay in touch. I know I certainly am happy to be part of the "proving ground"!

Ron Roberts