Show Notes
In this episode of the Clutch Burners podcast, hosts Bill Armstrong and Canadian Chuck Norris engage with Bruce Couture, the founder of Modern Driveline, to discuss the intricacies of stick shift drag racing and the evolution of transmission technology. The conversation covers a range of topics including the importance of drivetrain components, the evolution of Modern Driveline, and the various transmission options available for performance cars. Bruce shares insights on clutch systems, hydraulic conversions, and unique transmission swaps, while also addressing customer experiences and the future of transmission technology. In this conversation, Bill Armstrong and Bruce Couture delve into the intricacies of automotive performance, focusing on transmission innovations, hydraulic systems, and the importance of precise engineering in racing. They discuss the evolution of components like bellhousings and hydraulic systems, emphasizing the need for alignment and reliability in high-performance applications. The dialogue also touches on the challenges of installation and the shift towards hydraulic systems in modern vehicles, highlighting the significance of consistency in stick shift racing. The episode concludes with insights into the future of performance racing and the offerings of Modern Driveline.
More from Clutch Burners Podcast
Jeff Sias, better known as the Champ, pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to dominate Drag Week in a naturally aspirated stick-shift car. If you think a heavy Ford with no boost and a manual transmission can’t be brutallyconsistent, this conversation will change your mind fast. BangShift Billy and Canadian Chuck Norris, Rich Guido, dig into the exact combination behind Jeff’s repeated wins, from the small-block Ford’s Cleveland/Higgins head combo to theclutch, shock, tire, and launch strategy that turned a “trash” street car into a repeatable race-week weapon. The result is a deep look at how Jeff keeps going rounds while defending the Stick Shift Shootout trophy again and again. 00:00 Welcome and introduce Jeff “The Champ”00:52 The Stick Shift Shootout trophy and its winners06:10 Jeff’s 2025 and 2026 shootout wins08:29 Jeff’s naturally aspirated small-block Ford setup12:59 Drag Week classes, rules, and tech inspection14:45 Horsepower, cylinder heads, and high-RPM power17:24 E85, nitro experiments, and fuel-system challenges25:35 Engine internals, camshaft, and valvetrain reliability40:41 Highway cruising RPM and fuel mileage43:28 Dialing in the clutch, shocks, and launch consistency52:42 Switching from slicks to radial tires56:04 Shock sensors and suspension data58:55 Why stick-shift cars can run consistently61:00 Patient tuning and learning the car65:12 Eight-mile performance and heads-up racing goals67:25 Future plans: keep it naturally aspirated or add power?70:19 When not to freshen a reliable engine71:44 Family racing plans and Jeff’s son’s new go-kart74:06 Crankcase vacuum, oil pressure, and oil choice81:03 Other Drag Week-style events and travel limits84:23 Close competition and racing strategy86:11 Stick Shift Shootout lessons and round-by-round pressure90:03 The hosts’ recent racing mishaps90:48 Reaction times and launching a stick-shift car92:52 Trackside fire scare and racing safety96:45 Broken transmissions and Rich’s next car project98:27 Wrapping up and promoting the show100:16 The trophy, future competition, and final goodbyes
In this episode, BangShift Billy, Bill Armstrong and The Canadian Chuck Norris, Rich Guido dive into the details of organizing and participating in the Wisconsin Outlaw Stick Shift Challenge, exploring race strategies, technical challenges, and the passion behind stick shift racing.
This episode follows the Clutch Burners crew as they break down Brett Lasala’s switch from automatic to stick shift and what that means for the car, the crew, and the tuning approach. Blayne Stark joins the conversation with real-time updates from the shop, including clutch setup changes, suspension tweaks, data logging, and the plan for Wisconsin. We discuss the learning curve of a clutch car, how the team is adapting between rounds, and why the Blue Mustang project is turning into a major second build for drag and drive competition.
From chassis design to race strategies, Jason shares expert tips on building high-performance cars and navigating the competitive world of drag and drive events. Jason's background and transition from corporate to performance fabrication
Tinzy Smith, the 'Mother of Clutches,' sharing her extensive knowledge of clutch technology, manufacturing, and tuning in drag racing. From her start in muscle cars to working with elite teams, she reveals insights into clutch design, materials, and the science behind optimal performance. In this in-depth interview, expert Tinzy Smith shares her insights on clutch technology, racing strategies, and the evolution of drag racing. Discover practical tips, innovative ideas, and inspiring stories from her journey in the sport.