Craig Gerfen has been building race engines since 1998. That's not a sales line — it's the distinction that defines every engine that leaves the Race Engine Systems shop.
From Alan Johnson Performance to Race Engine Systems
Craig's career started at Alan Johnson Performance in 1998, where he specialized in top fuel and billet cylinder head work for drag racing. That environment — unforgiving, high-stakes, zero margin for error — shaped how he approaches every build.
After seven years working at one of the most respected names in the industry, Craig recognized he needed to understand the complete picture before putting his own name on an engine. He moved to Lesco and learned the rest: balancing, decking, honing, block work, rod work, complete engine assembly end-to-end. Most shops separate machining and assembly. Craig mastered both. That distinction matters when something needs to be right the first time.
Race Engine Systems — Founded 2007
RES was founded in Santa Maria in 2007 with a straightforward premise: build race engines with the same quality control Craig applied at the highest levels of drag racing. Every clearance is measured and recorded. Every component is magnafluxed. Every cylinder head is flow bench tested before it leaves the shop.
Craig's primary discipline is drag racing, but RES engines have competed and won in circle track, sprint car, road race, marine, and offshore racing. The shop carries premium components from Dart Machinery, Callies Performance, Diamond Racing Products, and other leading manufacturers. Every parts sale comes with Craig's direct counsel — not a catalog recommendation.
RES engines hold records across PSCA, WCHRA, SCSN, and NMCA events.
The Relationship Doesn't End at Delivery
Craig doesn't build an engine, hand it over, and move on. RES customers get Craig at the track. Computerized engine tuning, power management, real-time problem solving at the venue. That level of involvement is rare in this industry — and it's built into how the shop operates.
Learn more about complete race engines, cylinder head porting and R&D, or browse parts and components.