Hello-
        Does anyone know where I can find a decent book that details
the factors which affect torque production, and more importantly,
why those factors have the affect they do?

        I have recently been thinking about replacing the rocker arms on
my 2.1 engine. Since I am now putting my van's engine back together in my
spare time after a rebuild, it would be easiest to do it now instead of in
two weeks. More than anything, I would like to get more torque out of the
engine as I have 27x8.5 tires on my syncro and am thinking of putting a
set of 215/75R15 on it. In doing my "research" on how increased ratio
rockers will affect engine performance, I have come across all kinds of
conflicting views... Some say it will destory torque, some say it will
improve it, some say it won't really do anything to torque...

        I personally don't know anything about what creates torque in an
engine. Well, I know a little - expanding gasses in closed chamber applies
a force on the piston which is transmitted to the connecting rod which applies
a part of that force to the crank journal at a 90 degree angle which...
But I cannot figure out how back pressure in the exhaust system can be
required for torque.... I would like to make an informed decision here...

dave