Mark D said I could post this here, hope it doesn't piss anyone off :-)

This is a re-post from my forums...

WOW, after 6 weeks of effort, sometimes taking 20 solid hours per day in front of the computer I am all finished with the new program!!

We have revitalized every aspect of the kit program, for every kit and every application. The current program will remain in place and untouched through 2009 (except for inflation cost increases). The combinations, will remain a constant for the next 2 solid years.

The new program couples what we have learned in the engine shop in 2006-2007 into the kits making each of them better than days past in some way. As an example the new 2270 kits assemble without the need for cylinder shims, with very little case clearancing and now we can run more valve lift with a larger base ciircle cam. This makes the kit easier to build, stronger and reduces costs up to 150.00 per kit!

I'll go over some key aspects of the new program below:

How did we make the kits cheaper:?
It's simple.. Volume and common sense. We applied the changes and that coupled to the huge volume of kit sales last year helped us to drop the prices. QUALITY WAS NOT SACRIFICED TO DO THIS!!! The parts are the same and even BETTER than before, especially in the 2056 kits that no longer get stock rods.

What power changes were made?:
We now have kits ranging from 95HP (Camper Special) all the way to 210HP from a 2316.

Are the kits as easy to assemble?:
EASIER!!! Our kit combos swapped around a bit and we made changes for the better, making engine kits easier to build for most any novice.

Our biggest change in the program came with the addition of "Extensive prep service" meaning that with this option we will entirely mock up your complete engine kit. This means NO SPECIAL TOOLS, NO HEAD ACHES AND NO GUESSWORK!! JUST ASSEMBLE!!
We do the following for you:
-Clearance case
-Update galley plugs
-Check for radial clearance inside case
-Mock engine up
-Calculate deck height, compression ratio and measure chambers
-set valvetrain geometry and cut and assemble pushrods
-set flywheel end play
- Dynamic balancing and indexing of all components.
-Unlimited email support for the life of the kit
-unlimited support during kit assembly, via email and telephone.
-Much, much more..
All you need is a 100 piece craftsman tool set and a torque wrench!!! Literally!

The things that occur behind the scenes have also changed as I have streamlined the check processes and created a 137 point inspection that the kit will follow during it's evolution. This helps Blake and Rebecca do the work easily checking each other's work and frees me up for development and video production.

I have also added new forms and notes that will be included with each kit for more concise direction, until my support video is completed this summer.

Now, here is the real kicker... EVERYTHING is now in presentation format, meaning I have taken days and days of my time to create presentations covering the entire kit purchase as well as individual presentations for EACH SPECIFIC KIT! These go over everything from the specs of the kit, to what components are needed with the kit and even nclude the spreadsheets of information that go over the components included in each kit. Hell some of them even have testimonials and picytures as well! I even include comparative power ratings for each displacement!!

Now, with all this effort we REQUIRE our presentations to be viewed completely before we'll answer ANY kit questions! You will find that IF YOU READ AND PAY ATTENTION that most every question is answered..

So, without further delay please see the following link for the first presentation, the introduction to the kit program. You can view it as a slide showor as an outline.

Presentation Site

From this presentation you will click a link that will take you to the specific kit pages for each engine displacement. YOU MUST VIEW THE FIRST PRESENTATION BEFORE YOU WILL BE DIRECTED TO THE SPECIFIC PRESENTATION!!! Links to the main presentation are also available on each engine kit page from the type 4 Store.

Until the end of January we are offering the extensive prep service option for a reduced rate of 650.00, this is a priceless service that makes the kit so simple to assemble that it can literally be completed in one weekend without rushing!!

Wait no longer- order now!!

Hi Jake!

Could you please check that link? It's not opening properly.

-Rusty

P.S. If the service costs 650... how could it be priceless?

http://www.rdtlabs.com/Presentations/raten...files/frame.htm

Try that one... Dunno what happened!

It's a priceless service because it offers about 10X more in return than you pay for... Thats priceless to me!

Cool... and I updated the link in your original post!

Very nice Jake. That stuff makes me want to build a big four. I just can't stop buying more things for the six though. I can't wait for the day I get to put a Raby engine in a 914

Thanks!!
It's been a long hard road, but we are finally at the level that has gained respect...

I am taking a year off from development to concentrate on the video series because knowledge is power!!

I really like "the plan" I am looking forward to a 2270 once I get the tub sorted and painted.

Keep it up!

2270, why not go for the 2316? It's not THAT much more money...if/when I do it it'll be the 2316 or a turbo motor

Awesome work Jake, I guess details like the FI/carbs etc get discussed in the call you you eh?

Yes, but that info is also in the specific kit presentations!! If you haven't viewed at least two presentations you only know 1/2 of the information available!

The second half of the presentation for the 914 lies here
http://www.rdtlabs.com/porschekits.htm

ONLY View this AFTER viewing the first presentation, else it will make no sense at all..

This is where details come in, more details than most can imagine.

Main Slide Show - Slide 19, second paragraph missing the word "years". Tried to PM.

Jake, terrific presentation. I see a RAT "kit" in my future (OK far future), I like the idea of keeping the 914 a 4...daveyboy

A few things were goofed when the files were transferred from power point.. We are working them away as they are found..

This program changes a lot of things, anyone with any mechanical inclination can now complete up to 200HP with only a 100 piece craftsman tool set, in a weekend..

So whats the performance trade on a 2270-175 if one were to use a Euro-Race type header as opposed to the Tangerine?

I expected to see the Tangerine spec'd as mandatory for that combo.

Great stuff.
One thing I noticed was that the "Kit contents" pages are not very legible.
Here is a link to one: 2270-175 Kit Contents
Here is the specific file: Kit Contents Jpeg image
It would be nice to regenerate that page with a clearer table/document.
Maybe do a screen capture and replace the slide jpeg image.

Or perhaps provide a link to the original powerpoint presentation so
folks can run it locally on their own machines.

--- bill

I almost wish my 2056 would have an accident so I can build a 2270. Almost. Better watch what I wish for, huh? Jake, thanks for all the info. Unless I win the lottery, it's going to be a while since I can build an engine. But, man that engine porn you're putting out keeps me going.

About 10%.. The 2270-175 has worked OK with a 4-1 Kerry Hunter system and the Euro Race as well, it really hurts the top end though...

I only specced the Tangerine in applications that have proven that it is mandatory, like the 2316.

Thanks for bringing up the gripes. There are almost 400 slides between all these kit presentations and it was all done by yours truly- a person who has never received any formal training in web design or how to use power point...

I expect their to be some questions and gripes. I am addressing them as they arise.

The kit contents pages are available via email as well, if you can't read them. Viewing the show as a full presentation is the best with the largets and mos clear fonts.

All I was concerned with,, was getting the point across and giving the customer solid information, answering the common questions and mysteries. I was not as concerned with layout as information. The presentations are just like my kits and engines, effective at what they are designed for.. Thats why we don't sell shiny polished crap!

BTW_ we are finiding that different computers and browsers view the pages differently. Anyone wanting to see the full power point version can email parts@aircooledtechnology.com and request them. No problem.

Jake, so how long am I going to have to wait for my roller-cam kit??

For some reason none of the slides in presentation 1 will open, just a series of black screens. Just for the "H" of it I tried to view # 2 and about half of the slides opened. Any suggestions?

I don't have a Mac to try this with, but Firefox will not open the slideshow. IE7 was able to open without a problem.

Zach

What browser are you using???

IE7 is what should be used.

DSL connection with MSN Explorer.

It should be working, giving you 62 slides... Maybe a security setting needs to be changed..

Those pages are being bombarded with views, about 6,000 this morning alone! This is slowing things down and causing some issues..

So, what do you guys think of the contant??? Thats all I give a damn about- answering the questions and giving information!!

I use Mozilla Firefox 2.0.0.11 and had no problems opening the slide pages.
There was a prompt recommending IE but it allowed a continuation
and then it worked just fine.
Only issue I had was with the "contents" jpeg image, which is too small to
be able to read the text.

--- bill

Folow this link to download the excel files containing the 914 engine kit contents for the program..

http://www.aircooledtechnology.com/porschekits2008.xls

Congratulations on the completion Jake! P/Point is not that hard to use. I teach with it almost exclusively.
I have not been among the 6000 hits but I will be upset if my 2270 roller cam turbo kit is not in there! I am only half kidding dude!

LOL..

The roller program is still in development.. It has become very clear that it'll be 2010 before we are far enough along to offer these kits with confidence, even then it'll only be in turn key form..

P/point isn't that hard- but you forget, I am just a dumb Georgia hillbilly that can't even type....

Ha! And you forget that I am a PhD in Education. There is a major difference between smart and educated. Some that are educated aren't that smart, but they may even run countries. Some that are smart aren't that educated. You may be a Georgia Hillbilly but you aren't dumb!

At least give me the turbo....


Please note: There is no political statement buried here. Any resemblance to Heads of State living or dead is purely coincidental. Take a breath!

Cool site! I like the fact that you provide a ton of information, so that the reader ends up being fully educated in the process.

When I figure out what I'm doing with my 2.0 rebuild, I'll be in touch!

That benefits everyone...

wow jake, this looks awesome, ive had my eye on a 2316 for a while now..and once i graduate in may, i will start the RAT 2316 savings account

Jake,

I have a '71 tub and I was originally considering "alternate power sources", ie Subaru, because so much of what I would need to install even a stock type IV is missing from my car. The forums on this website have made me reconsider either a type IV or a six conversion. I've been impressed with what I've read about your program. I have one major point that I need help with though... The 2056P-140, 2270P-145 and 2270P-175 are all priced within $50 of each other. What reasons are there for choosing the 2056P-140 or the 2270P-145 over the 2270P-175? Fuel economy, obviously, but are there more "hidden" costs in ancillary components with the more powerful engines? For racing, I'm sure that classification comes into play depending upon displacement, so that may be another consideration. What else am I missing? Even the 2316P-210 isn't that much more $ for the added performance...

DO NOT LOOK AT ONLY THE COST OF THE ENGINE KITS WHEN CHOOSING A KIT!!!!

Consider the cost to outfit the engine with the sub systems like induction, exhaust and etc.. the bigger kits REQUIRE better and more expensive sub system components to do their job!!

Also, consider the powerband and even the assembly.. The 2056 is the easiest kit to assemble and thats worth more to some people than power..

So, the 2316-210 may only be a few hundred bucks more than the 2056, BUT it REQUIRES a 2,000.00 exhaust system beciore I'll sell it to you, because without that system the engine is worthless and WILL fail.. The 2056 can use a 300 bucj exhaust system.

This is why I outline all the recommended parts for eack kit.... You can create a full budget based on these..

Also, it is part of my job to consult you and help you choose the best kit for the application and budget.. Use my desire to assist you in being totally satisfied by scheduling a phone chat..

Here is an excerpt from the presentation:
As part of your research stage we encourage an initial telephone chat to ensure that you have accurate information and fully understand the entire engine kit process. This phone chat does not obligate any purchaser to an engine kit purchase. l We want to make you aware of “hidden” costs and the things that will be mandatory to complete your engine correctly, but may not be included in a particular kit. lThese telephone consultation sessions are handled personally by Jake Raby and can be set up by emailing enginekits@aircooledtechnology.com lDue to our extensive workload and commitments these consultations are limited to 20 minutes in duration. Please stay on topic and to the point during the conversation and have a list of your questions made in advance, this will ensure we get all the info covered during the chat.

This guy knows what you need :-)
http://www.rdtlabs.com/Presentations/raten...s/slide0040.htm

Part of pleasing you, means sitting my ass in the driver's seat of your car and treating the build like I were going to be driving the car.. These creations are mine and I know most everything they offer. That makes my job much easier.

Jake, nice!!

some of the pictures need to be rotated and moved to the left on my browser....Firefox 2.0...

I guess I should have waited so I could have bought more power once...

All kits can be upgraded... Meaning a kit I configured in 2000 can be updated to today's specs... I have based the program on this..

Most of the time a cam and head change is all thats needed!

Jake,

I did go through all the presentations before I asked... but I didn't price out all the components. My supposition was that the cost of ancillaries was the biggest difference in engine choice after seeing how close the kit prices are. Thanks for the confirmation.

I don't even have tin!

I owned the Tangerine headers before the kit so you can factor that in but I would guess about another 35% over the cost of the kit to make the installation right. You should have at least that budgeted. Gauges, oil system and cooling, induction, wiring... New stuff to mount new stuff. etc...

Jeez Jake! This is the best presentation info I've ever come across!

I know of your excellent reputation and frankness based on reading for couple of years and drooling over your creation but man, this time you has hit the nail on me to seriously create a storm inside my house! My wife ain't gonna be happy about this but hell, I could justify by saying, "Honey, it's a lot frigging cheaper to buy this over a brand new car...and I get to get my damn car back on the road again!"

You will hear from me when the storm clears......hopefully soon....

Jerry

Thanks... BUT it appears as though people do not like the vast information that I took the time to compile as much as we believed they would in general...

In general people just are not taking the time to look further through the presentations based on the web stats I viewed last night.....

It sucked to come in every morning to a dozen emails on 3 different topics, I take the time to answer those and every other question and no one reads it!

After hundreds of hours of effort thats very frustrating.

Jake,

I took the time to go through all of the presentations, and still had my question... I had enough information to guess at the answer, but it wasn't directly addressed. I have a suggestion... you could post a link that says "Have any questions?" and set up an e-mail auto-responder. Have the auto-responder E-mail them back a FAQ that summarizes the questions that you have been getting. At the bottom of the FAQ, put something like "If your question hasn't been answered here, e-mail ___@___.com. If you ask a question that has been answered here, then I won't sell you a kit because you are not paying attention and you are not up to the challenge."

What was your question??? There are a couple of places in the main kit program where we ask for questions via email.

I seriously think that people are blown away by the detail I put into this...

The componants have even more in them!

You and Rob answered my question earlier in the thread... what am I giving up by purchasing more power for the same money?



I think you're right. People, especially Americans, have a short attention span, and many won't take the time to read through everything that you put together. I really think that my suggestion above might reduce the number of e-mails that you have to deal with. Of course, the last line was just a joke... but if you put together a simple, straightforward FAQ, it might be enough to minimize your e-mails.

Jake,

I am unable to access your links on any of my computers. They all run Firefox 2.0.0.11 on either Linux or Windows 2000 platforms.

Would it be possible to download the presentation in its entirety and view it locally or will there be a "low tech" presentation version of your kits so those of us without the latest Microsoft products can view them as well?

I just went through the main presentation and then veered off into the 2270 presentation.

One thing I have to say is this, you guys who are considering this have an amazing opportunity. If you take the cost of the kit and add the extensive level two prep, you are paying only about $50 more than I paid for my kit last year. So what? What that means is that you would pay virtually the same dollar amount and NOT have to do valve train geometry or set your compression ratio. It would be done for you. That means if you had your ducks in a row you could put this together in a weekend, EASILY!!! Plus, I juet randomly chose my CR, you could have a consult with Jake or Blake and get a recommended CR based on your location and intention. (I could have done this too but didn't)

Jake, check the last slide in the 2270 presentation. I comes up with apparent text in a color I cannot see through the slide background.

Anyone desiring the actual presentation files can email us at parts@aircooledtechnology.com . This means firefox and linux users won't suffer.. The general consensus is that **most** people use microsoft products so we would make the format that as a default.

As with anything new, we are having to work out a few bugs, type-os and etc that I did not notice when editing the files and creating them.

Yes, the 2270 kit DROPPED in price by 600.00 over what it was last year, simply through projections of sales based on last year and higher volumes of the parts being processed. If the sales stay high we'll keep the prices lower.

Rob, When we do the extensive prep service we SET the CR the kit is designed for, removing that process and variable totally! The same goes with pushrod length, valve train geometry and even flywheel end play. It is literally an unassembled engine ready to be put together with minimal effort with only minimal mechanical inclination needed.

I seriously want to find a mechanically inclined 8 year old boy and have him assemble a kit on video that makes 200 HP- it can be done and thats not an exaggeration. We have it that developed.

Emails and having to constantly give out info are my biggest enemies. Our way is unconventional and misunderstood by most, meaning I have to educate customers continually.

I simp[ly do not have time for that this year with instructional video production and developing Boxster engine components...

I have a 10 year old. He is always with me when I work on the car at home. You send the kit and I will have him put it together. He will have to learn to do hands on instead of just handing me things while I explain what I am doing... He would get a hoot out of it I am sure!

OK, now we just need to find a buyer for a "Turnkey" built by a 10 year old!

(I am serious)

I know you are! I will chat with him later and break the news to him... I bet he loves the idea!

Dad can't help!!! and I need some video of various stages with the engine builder at work :-)

I have one of the JVC hard drive video cameras so it has digital direct to DVD recording. I think I can record 7 or 8 hours on the hard drive...

Cool...
Hey, you can wash parts though!!!!