About

United Engine and Machine Company was started in 1922 in Fresno, California by Deuta Sulprizio, Sr. For eight years, the company continued to grow and build a reputation for the manufacturing of pistons. Then in 1930 the company was moved to San Leandro, California in order to supply OEM manufacturers located on the West Coast. The company continued to grow until the start of the World War II. During the war, the company's emphasis changed. No longer were they solely a piston manufacturer. The company started supplying special marine applications for PT boats and some small munitions, such as incendiary bombs. Following the war and the death of the founder in 1946, the company once again directed its efforts back to pistons. Management was now handled by the sons, Ray, Deuta and Chal Sulprizio. The company continued to grow with its strength built on flexible management and its ability to design and build its own equipment at considerable savings. This philosophy carried the company through the 50's, 60's and 70's. But in the late seventies it became apparent that the cost of doing business in the Bay Area was becoming far too high. If United Engine and Machine Company was to stay competitive in domestic, as well as world markets, it must make a change. The company relocated to Carson City, Nevada in 1978, where it has continued to grow. Since it's move, United Engine has continued to look at it's role in the domestic and world market. Currently, UEM manufactures the Silv-O-Lite OE aftermarket piston line, KB Performance Pistons (including the motorcycle division), and The Claimer Performance Piston Series. United Engine and Machine Company is now enjoying more than 80 years in business.

Videos

Piloting the Iron Dinosaur

In August 2024, I attended Bonneville Speed Week with my parents as a spectator. Growing up around car events, I became accustomed to the predominantly guy culture. I was surprised—and thrilled—when I overheard a woman my age with colorful green hair excitedly talking about “making it to 300 mph.” Intrigued, I introduced myself and she graciously allowed me to start filming her rookie driving passes in the Iron Dinosaur with nothing more than my iPhone [...]

Landspeed Liz Movie Trailer

Rookie driver Landspeed Liz takes on the challenge of a lifetime: piloting the Iron Dinosaur, a 300 mph race car, across Utah’s legendary Bonneville Salt Flats—known as the Great White Cathedral. With her team fueled by “salt fever” and a passion for pushing limits, Liz steps up to prove herself in a world that’s often underestimated her. On this unforgiving landscape, where speed is the ultimate equalizer, anything is possible. ???? Watch the trai [...]

What’s New with Line2Line Coatings

At the PRI Show, UEM President Chris Sulprizio and Line2Line Coatings President Andy Suman sit down for an in-depth conversation about their 10-year partnership. Discover the latest advancements in coating technology, how they’re revolutionizing piston performance, and what the future holds for this innovative collaboration. Don’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at two industry leaders shaping high-performance engine solutions! #UEMPistons #Line2LineCoa [...]

UEM Pistons x Line2Line Coatings: Revolutionizing Piston Performance at PRI

Get an inside look at the innovative partnership between UEM Pistons and Line2Line Coatings! At the PRI Show, Chris Sulprizio, UEM President, sits down with Andy Suman from Line2Line Coatings to discuss their cutting-edge collaboration and the impact of advanced coating technologies on piston performance. This partnership highlights 10 years of shared commitment to innovation and excellence, driving the future of high-performance engine solutions. Don’t mis [...]

Eutectic Alloys Explained! | Part 2

Join United Engine and Machine's President, Scott Sulprizio as he explains how Eutectic, Hypereutectic and Hypoeutectic alloys work when it comes to casting or forging a piston. ___________________________________________________________ Check out our website at uempistons.com! Learn more about Eutectics! Part 1 is here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ovm0G64Ylbo&t=10s

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