Manley Performance

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Overview

Manley Performance manufactures high-performance engine components, primarily valves, pistons, and valve train parts for automotive aftermarket and racing applications.¹²³ It supplies race teams worldwide and serves as an OEM supplier to companies like Ford, with facilities in Lakewood, New Jersey, and Orange, California.¹⁴ The company focuses on engines for sport compact, Ford modular, and Chevy LS markets.¹

History

Manley Performance was founded in March 1966 by Hank Manley after his graduation from Brown University, leaving his family's OEM valve business to produce high-performance parts like stainless valves, forged pistons, and camshafts.¹⁴ In 1988, it relocated to a purpose-built facility in Lakewood, New Jersey, with subsequent expansions including a recent one and a West Coast distribution center in Orange, California.⁴ Day-to-day operations are managed by Hank's son, Trip Manley, while the company has grown into a key player under Race Winning Brands.³⁴

Product Lines

Product Line	Positioning	Price Range
Performance Valves (stainless and multi-material)	High-performance engine valve train	$150 - $1,200
Forged Pistons	Custom engine builds for racing	$500 - $2,500
Camshafts	Valve timing optimization	$300 - $800
Valve Train Components	Complete valvetrain assemblies	$400 - $1,800
Sport Compact Parts	Modern import performance engines	$200 - $1,500
Ford Modular Components	Ford V8 performance upgrades	$400 - $2,000

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured at facilities in Lakewood, New Jersey, described as state-of-the-art and serving as impressive manufacturing headquarters.¹³ A distribution facility operates in Orange, California.¹⁴ Manufacturing appears in-house given the company's role as a primary producer of engine components.³

Notable Products

Stainless Steel Valves - Core product used in performance street and racing engines across materials.
Forged Pistons - High-strength pistons for drag racing, circle track, and NASCAR.
Performance Camshafts - Custom cam profiles for valve timing in high-rev engines.
Valve Springs - Upgraded springs for valvetrain stability in professional racing.
Chevy LS Components - Engine parts tailored for LS-series V8 performance builds.

Reputation

Manley Performance is recognized by enthusiasts and professionals as a leading supplier of valvetrain and engine components for racing series including NASCAR, drag racing, and circle track.⁴ Strengths include quality manufacturing and OEM-level supply to Ford, with broad use from street builds to pro racing.¹⁴ It maintains a strong heritage since 1966, though specific criticisms are not detailed in available sources.¹³

Sources (6)