British Mini expert offers course in Mini tuning
By Dean Cook
(August 11, 2022) This originated as a result of AC Dodd posting videos on his YouTube channel offering training to those interested in areas outside of the UK. Jake Anderson posted on the SAMOA Facebook Page inquiring about any interest and a few members posted their “likes.“
AC Dodd You Tube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/ACDodd11
AC Dodd Mobile Training Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RIRNr7IvOHY&list=PLvaufxdfv_nt14HX0s3vhTNA61LfHULHI&index=11
Liked by: Ron Anderson, Jerry Miller, Peter Larsen, Tim Moser, Brian Slominski, Dean Cook
Based on initial interest, both Jerry Miller and I contacted AC Dodd about training he might offer and the cost. The following is what we discussed and I put together some numbers for an estimated cost. I presented this to the club at the July meeting and it was motioned that it be published on the SAMOA Blog to see who might be interested. At the July meeting three people indicated they are interested in committing to the training. That being said, additional participants are needed and if enough commit then additional details will need to be worked out in order to schedule any training. At this time, it needs to be determined how many additional people are willing to commit to proceed with completing the list of work items in order to schedule any training. Please take a look at the following.
In the UK AC Dodd offers non-training tuning consisting of: 1). partial throttle static tuning for single carbureted cars to individuals and clubs and 2). rolling road, full throttle tuning at rolling road shops/businesses for local individuals and clubs.
For long-distance training outside the UK, Mr. Dodd suggests that he train local tuners over a 5-day training period rather than provide general, club tuning sessions. That way there are tuners remaining in the locale versus him having to return from time to time to do the tuning for them. As part of the training trip, he will meet with the local club/organization and conduct a tuning presentation for them and a general question and answer session.
Suggested Training Options for Long-Distance Training (5 Days) as per video:
Static Tuning Training – Rolling Road Training – Dizzy Modification & Recurve Training
Suggested Training Schedule Options:
Option 1. – 3 days Static Training (Establishes partial throttle fueling).
– Day 1: Carburation Adjustment & Ignition Timing
– Day 2: Making needles
– Day 3 Making needles
*Per AC Dodd, the biggest training and learning is MAKING NEEDLES.*
– 2 days Distributor Modification & Recurve Training
Option 2. – 5 days Rolling Road Training (Establishes full throttle fueling).
Questions:
What type of training is it?
– All of the training is hands-on training, no videos, books or long lectures. UK Training is 1 on 1, some modification for long-distance training (USA). AC Dodd trains for what to listen to, what to look for and how to listen & feel as well as look-at and read.
How many days of training are involved in a 7-day training course?
-5 days of training with two travel days.
How many trainees will AC Dodd train in each course, static tuning, dizzy mods?
– Static Tuning (3 days) – 4 Students
– Distributor Modification (2 days) – 4-6 Students
If a training group does not opt for the Rolling Road Training what would be the breakdown of the training for 7 days?
– Static Tuning (3 days) – 4 Students
– Distributor Modification (2 days) – 6 Students
What equipment and tools will AC Dodd provide for the long-distance training?
– None
Student-provided static-tuning training equipment:
-Students to provide AEM wide-band exhaust gas analyzers.
– 4 gas analyzers are preferred but can get by with two.
– AC Dodd to provide a list what needs to be fabricated.
– Power-corded drill (not battery powered) to use as a needle turner.
– 12 minis with different sized carbs and different number of carbs.
– Assortment of SU needles.
Distributor-modification training equipment:
– Adjustable speed, digital read-out pillar drill
– Soldering station
– Protractor to measure dwell angle.
– Assortment of distributor springs.
What level of training are the students expected to have?
– Basic maintenance skills.
– Be able to set and adjust valves.
– Set timing by timing light.
– Adjust ignition points.
What equipment and tools are the trainees expected to provide besides that listed in the video? (The video listed, wide band gas analyzers, selection of SU needles etc., as well as Minis on which to perform the training work.
-Everything. AC Dodd can provide list.
What are AC Dodd’s expectations/requirements as to travel, travel arrangements, accommodations and meals?
– Accommodations in a no-frills motel or
– He is willing to stay with a training student if they have space available.
– Meals to be provided for him.
– Travel arrangements to be made/paid for by Students group/organization.
What is the daily fee for the training to be financially viable for AC Dodd?
– 250GBP/day ($303.20 at current exchange of $1.21 USD/GBP) (UK per diem is 350GBP/day ($424.48 USD/day)
Estimated Costs for 2 days of travel and 5 training days:
Airfare – $1,500.00
Per Diem @ 250GBP/day – $2,100.00 ($300.00/day @ 1.2 exchange)
Board – $ 525.00
Room – $ 525.00
$4,650.00 ($5,000.00 (r))
4 Students – $1,250.00 ea. ($250.00/day)
5 Students – $1,000.00 ea. ($200.00/day)
6 Students – $ 850.00 ea. ($170.00/day)
Airfare + per diem = $3,600.00
4 Students – $900.00 ea. ($225.00/day)
5 Students – $720.00 ea. ($144.00/day)
6 Students – $600.00 ea. ($120.00/day)
Please let me know if you are interested or if you have any questions. My contact information is listed on the SAMOA Member Roster or available from the membership chairman. –Dean Cook
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