Personal Projects

2014 Scion FR-S - 

This project involved a comprehensive engine swap, replacing a low-mileage 2017 Subaru BRZ engine into the chassis of a 2014 Scion FR-S. While the horsepower gain was modest at +5 HP, the primary advantage was improved engine reliability without significantly increasing costs (the 2014 engine is known for having engine oil flow issues usually caused RTV silicon blocking the pickup tube.) The swap required mechanical adaptation to ensure compatibility between the newer engine and the existing chassis.

The process included component replacements such as the crankshaft sensor plate, crank sensor mount, and crank trigger wheel to align with the 2014 FR-S electronics. For the electrical and control system, it involved adapting the wiring harness, coil packs, ECU, and port injectors to ensure proper communication and functionality because the engine is technically a 2017, but requires 2014 data in order to function properly in the chassis. 

To complement the engine swap, I also installed Stance coilovers (lowered an inch or an inch and a half) installed an Invidia catback exhaust system paired with Tomei unequal-length headers.

The vehicle has been running reliably post-swap. 

John on the John - 

This project combines TIG welding, CAD modeling, and CNC cutting to create a stainless steel statue of a person on a toilet. Careful shaping, TIG welding for precision, and post-weld polishing ensure a clean, durable finish. The result? A structurally sound, corrosion-resistant masterpiece (only 8 in the set) of… bathroom contemplation.

Beyond being an eye-catching sculpture, this project demonstrates metal fabrication, structural design, and materials expertise—all key mechanical engineering skills, and if anyone questions why you built a stainless steel man on a toilet, just say, "Because great ideas don’t always come to you at a desk."

1965 Mustang - 

This ongoing restomod project centers on the full mechanical and structural restoration of a 1965 Ford Mustang. Purchased in 2023, the vehicle is currently undergoing disassembly, with rusted components being removed, patched, and replaced. The restoration began with reviving the original engine—diagnosing ignition and compression issues, restoring fuel delivery, and rebuilding the carburetor.

Once the engine was brought back to life, the focus shifted to addressing extensive body corrosion and correcting wiring. Using powertools and TIG welding, rusted panels were cut out and replaced with new sheet metal, followed by grinding and priming to protect against future oxidation. 

Diesel Forklift Rebuild from Salvaged Components - 

This project involved the full mechanical and structural restoration of a diesel-powered Toyota forklift that had been intentionally destroyed as part of a government-incentivized fleet transition. The unit was acquired in pieces—its frame cut in half and engine punctured and disassembled—rendering it non-functional and structurally compromised.

The restoration began with chassis reconstruction. Using SMAW welding, I realigned and rejoined the frame, reinforcing key load-bearing sections to match original design tolerances and ensure safe operation under heavy loads. With the structure reestablished, I turned to the drivetrain and powertrain systems.

The diesel engine, which had been gutted and damaged, was rebuilt from the block up. I restored critical systems including the fuel injection, air intake, and compression sealing, replacing damaged components and performing full reassembly. The drivetrain was reconstructed in parallel, including installation of the torque converter, transmission, and differential. 

What began as a pile of scrap is now a fully operational diesel forklift. This project reflects deep proficiency in engine mechanics, structural welding, fluid power systems, and hands-on troubleshooting.