text:
EXCLUSIVE: BAILON ’49 “SHAMPOO TRUCK” BROUGHT TO LIFE
ALL FIRED UP
The World’s Rodding Authority
Road Tour 2017 Hits The Highway 110 Days, 20,000 Miles, 30 States 200 Stops ... Infinite Grins
T E C H Pg.
Custom Ordered Extreme ’62 Chevy Twin-Turbo LS2
Firewall, Floorboard, Trans Tunnel + Exhaust
Road Tour ’57 Chevy Gets Prepped For The Paint Booth E V E N T
Top 100 & Best Ford In A Ford Makes Its Annual Stop In Upstate New York
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Road Tour Ragtop
2017 ARP/STREET RODDER Road Tour ’57 Chevy Convertible
18th Annual PPG Syracuse Nationals A wicked horsepower festival
That Ol’ Tin Woodie Terry Henley’s Estate Wagon
Brilliant in Blue Bill Towers’ ’32 Ford
15-Year Journey Tony Jobson’s ’32 Ford
Cliff Findlay’s Bel Air Sport Coupe
First and Lasting Impression
Bob Dron’s ’49 Ford Shampoo Truck
Behind the Build
Making Stainless Windshield Posts
Moving onward, upward, and forward on the Ganahl ’33 Fordor
Making custom windshield posts
Building an Ironside
Road Tour Build
PerTronix enables you to upgrade the classic Delco tach-drive distributor to electronic ignition
Woody’s Hot Rodz gives our ’57 Chevy the “wow” factor
2017 Holiday Gift Guide STREET RODDER (ISSN 0277-5735), December 2017, Vol. 46, No. 12, is published monthly by TEN: The Enthusiast Network, LLC, 261 Madison Avenue, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10016. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY, and additional mailing offices. Copyright ©2017 by TEN: The Enthusiast Network Magazines, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Printed in the USA. SUBSCRIPTIONS U.S. and U.S. possessions $29.95 for 12 issues. Canadian add $12.00 postage and all other countries add $24.00 (for surface mail postage). Payment in advance, U.S. funds only. POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS. (See DMM 707.4.12.5); NON-POSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: send address corrections to STREET RODDER, P.O. Box 420235, Palm Coast, FL 32142-0235.
4 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
TENTS DECEMBER 2017 VOL.46 NO.12
08 On the Road 10 For Starters 14 Street Corner
15 OnDemand 16 Window Shopper 110 Fix ’Ems
112 Street Shaker 114 Early Iron 116 Shop Manual 138 Professor Hammer
•On the Cover: It’s already December, and do you know what that means? No, not that the holidays are upon us—it’s the annual debut of the 2017 ARP/STREET RODDER Road Tour ’57 Chevy convertible Presented by Chevrolet Performance. This year’s endeavor took place at Woody’s Hot Rodz utilizing Golden Star Classic Auto Parts sheetmetal and a Chevrolet Performance V-8, so who better to put behind the wheel for the Road Tour ragtop’s maiden voyage than shop owner Chris Sondles (with his wife, Faith, riding shotgun). Photography by Robert McGaffin •Table of Contents Photo by Robert McGaffin. STREETRODDER.COM I DECEMBER 2017 5
Nobody Can Fit More Cars & Trucks!
‘57 Buick Built For Bryan Frank By Customs By Kilkeary
Sub-Frame Your Stock Chassis For A Great Look And Superior Ride And Handling! 1949-56 Lincoln 1949-56 Mercury ■ 1940-48 Nash ■ 1934-59 Olds* ■ 1935-56 Packard* ■ 1934-56 Plymouth ■ 1937-60 Pontiac ■ 1948-62 Studebaker* ■ Avanti, Lark ■ HenryJ, Kaiser, Jag ■ Mercedes SL*
1935-59 Buick* 1936-68 Cadillac* ■ 1937-70 Chevy Cars ■ 1964-72 Chevelle ■ 1934-55 Chrysler ■ 1934-56 Desoto ■ 1934-56 Dodge Cars ■ 1949-63 Ford Cars ■ 1955-57 Thunderbird ■ 1940-53 Hudson ■ 1935-40 LaSalle ■
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Get The Low Look Without The High Price!
Our research shows that more and more people are building “Late Model”, comfortable cruisers that can be used on a daily basis. Early hot rods and Muscle cars have become so popular that their high cost is a major issue for many. But we know there is a great supply of cool looking, well maintained cars just right for mild customizing. So we have engineered a full line of dropped spindles for these cars that also allow easy fitment of disc brakes. Call us today to discuss your next project!
Direct Fit GM 2” Dropped Spindles
These spindles bolt into your original upper ball joints and lower arms. Cadillac, Pontiac, Olds & Buick apps feature upgraded 4140 Steel pins and lock rings securely installed into laser cut and machined 1” steel plate, just like OEM Cadillac units of the period. Kits include fasteners and nyloc nuts. Uses your stock steering arms. These spindles accept 12” GM truck rotors to retain the original 5”x 5-bolt lug pattern, or Chevy 4.75”x 5lug rotors. All kits work with easy to source ‘70-‘81 Camaro calipers and brake hoses.
■ 1958-64 Chevy Full Size ■ 1957-64 Buick Full Size ■ 1957-60 Cadillac ■ 1957-70 Olds Full Size ■ 1959-64 Pontiac Full Size Dropped Spindle Kits From
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Disc Brake Kits For Dropped Spindles
Complete bolt-in disc brake kits to fit our GM and Ford spindles are available. Disc Brake Kits When Purchased With Spindle Kits - From
Ford Dropped Spindles ■ 1954-79 Ford Full Size ■ 1954-79 Mercury ■ 1954-79 Lincoln ■ 1954-79 Thunderbird Dropped Spindle Kits From
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Fat Man Full Chassis When you’re after maximum in performance and handling, a full Fat man chassis is the way to go. We can design almost package you require. Call us to discuss your project.
Shoebox Ford Power Steering! NEW! For 1949-51 Ford Cars
After years of R&D effort, our product engineers, along with Borgeson, have developed the perfect Power steering system for these popular cars. A special reverse rotation steering box and our mounting bracket make a simple installation. Use with our Steering Linkage kit or your stock steering column.
■ Precision Jig Built, 3/16” Wall Rails ■ Fully Engineered 1”x 2” Steel X-Member ■ Body Mount Brackets Welded In ■ 4-Bar With RideTech Coilovers Standard ■ Power Rack& Pinion Standard ■ Tube Steel Control Arms Standard ■ OE Style Big Front Discs Standard ■ Much More!
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OnThe Road BY JERRY DIXEY
2017 Speedway Motors Road Tour Rolls to the Nationals â™ŚThe NSRA Street Rod Nationals is an August tradition that has taken
place for the last 48 years. It is a reunion and gathering of the street rod world that includes plenty of cars and a renewal of longtime friendships. This year it was decided that Lincoln, Nebraska, would be the perfect place to begin the journey to Louisville and the Nationals. Lincoln, Nebraska, means Speedway Motors to the street rod world. With 25 cars coming from the West Coast to join another 25 that were waiting in Lincoln, it was a great big bunch of rolling thunder that made the trip.
8 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
The Syracuse Nationals Road Tour web links: http://bit.ly/2ioeUm3 http://bit.ly/2vW0luE http://bit.ly/2w0JmWB http://bit.ly/2w0SLO0
1. The Week to Wicked Speedway Motors '52 Chevy pickup made the journey with us on the tour.
2. As the rods rolled out on Sunday after the Nationals, we all knew we would be back again next August.
4. It was a happy group from the Speedway Motors Road Tour who posed for a picture at the tent on Friday.
5. The Road Tour Reunion has become an annual event at the Nationals, bringing together folks from previous Road Tours.
3. The huge Kentucky State Exposition building was packed full of vendors displaying their wares.
INTRODUCING THE CLUB FOR ALL THINGS HOT ROD! Basic Membership includes: › Annual digital subscription to Hot Rod magazine available on any device, any time, anywhere! › Members only discounts on other hot rod fueled magazines. › Access to a nationwide network of discounts that let you save hundreds of dollars a month on partners in catagories like: Automotive • Restaurants • Sporting Goods • Travel Gift Cards • Electronics • Entertainment • And moRE! › VIP beneﬁts exclusively for The Hot Rod Club members. › Members only content and early access to stories and projects from the Hot Rod magazine staffers.
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BY BRIAN BRENNAN
It’s taken a while but I think I have it figured out ♦Here’s what’s going to happen in the future. Well at least it’s what I think is going to happen. Pulled from my latest meanderings as I wandered through the gray matter of my mind has me asking where’s the next generation of hot rodders going to come from, when, and how in the hell are they going to afford our hobby? I’m sure all of us have noticed with the success of our hobby has come the influx of business and with business comes money and with money comes lots of problems. But that’s life and all of us has had a job at some point in our life that has relied on success in the marketplace, and hence all of the trials and tribulations as well as the benefits of money. For starters, this all started from sitting around enjoying this year’s NSRA Nats more so than I have done in years past. There actually seemed to be more life, more excitement, and more of an “eye to the future”
than I have seen in years. All of this I viewed as good and possibly the next wave of excitement in our hobby. But let’s get back to reality and touch upon a few basics … let’s call them irrefutable facts. Currently, many of today’s completed or somewhat-completed cars, cars that could become the next generations’ projects, are owned by an aging group of hot rodders, and these hot rodders have placed a value on them. Over the course of time this value has gone up and supported by the current generation who has been willing to pay these prices. It’s the ol’ fair trade system at its best. It should come as no surprise that today’s hot rods are too expensive for younger hot rodders (those under 45); and that’s a fact. What I see happening is as older rodders checkout their families are going to sell off these cars for prices much less than each of us are trying to get for them now. This also goes for all of those parts we have rat-holed away. You know the drill, “My buddy has 75 Deuce grille shells socked away … it’s part of his retirement.” Well guess what? It’s time to start selling those off because these hoarded Deuce grille shells aren’t going to bring the money you think they will bring 10 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
and if you wait much longer you will be sadly disappointed. I was wandering lost at the Kentucky Exposition Fairgrounds when I happened across Jason Slover (Pete & Jakes and Super Bell fame) and we spoke about this very topic.
He and his dad have lots of collectibles that many a younger hot rodder would like to have. Some of these pieces are priced in a realm that’s out of the younger rodder’s budget. Slover feels that many young rodders will provide the resurgence that our hobby/industry needs, and I must agree. As the prices continue to drop on the current crop of finished hot rods, as well as the parts more and younger rodders will be able to join in. The basic street rod parts from the manufacturers are priced in a “workable” range. Given a new rodder can get a good deal on a functioning
street rod he (or she) over time can make the subtle changes that will make the car his (or her) very own. The personalization will begin with something as simple as wheels and tires, new gauges, engine upgrades (cosmetic or performance), or even engine and trans swaps. New interiors and even color changes while expensive can more easily be had when dealing with a project that begins at a dollar figure that is far less expensive. The future is out there and it’s just a matter of time before more and younger rodders are able to obtain these older restorations and the family hot rods that no longer carry close family ties are sold off at reduced prices. I know my daughter, as much as she likes me (I think), she wouldn’t hesitate to move my hot rods down the road. She doesn’t see herself driving around in a roofless hot rod. I guess it’s all about the continuing cycle. It seems apropos that what goes around comes around in life and in our hobby … it all began with looking for that right set of wheels!
Brian Brennan Network Director/Editor
Network Content Director DOUGLAS GLAD Network Director, Street Rod and Super Chevy Groups/Editor BRIAN BRENNAN firstname.lastname@example.org Managing Editor SARAH GONZALES Feature Editor TIM BERNSAU email@example.com Tech Editor JOHN GILBERT firstname.lastname@example.org Tech Editor ROB FORTIER email@example.com Contributing Tech Writer RON CERIDONO Contributing Writer, East Coast CHUCK VRANAS Contributors RODNEY BAUMAN, TOMMY LEE BYRD, GERRY BURGER, RON COVELL, JERRY DIXEY, ERIC GEISERT, JON GOBETTI, KEN GROSS, ROBERT MCGAFFIN, JOSH MISHLER, DALE MOREAU, GREG SHARP, CHRIS SHELTON, JEFF SMITH, TIM SUTTON, FRANK WALLIC Contributing Artists BOB HOVORKA, JEFF NORWELL Senior Web Content Editor RYAN WHITEHOUSE Web Content Editor DAVID HAGER DESIGN
Design Director MARKAS PLATT STREET ROD GROUP ON THE WEB STREETRODDER.COM CLASSICTRUCKS.COM SUBSCRIBER SERVICES USA: (800) 777-1849; International: (386) 447-6385 firstname.lastname@example.org STREET RODDER P.O. Box 420235, Palm Coast, FL 32142-0235 Please include name, address, and phone number on any inquiries. Canada Post: Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to IMEX Global Solutions, P.O. Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2. Occasionally, our subscriber list is made available to reputable firms offering goods and services we believe would be of interest to our readers. If you prefer to be excluded, please send your current address label and note requesting to be excluded from these promotions to TEN: The Enthusiast Network, LLC, 831 S. Douglas St., El Segundo, CA 90245, Attn: Privacy Coordinator. ADVERTISING INFORMATION Call STREET RODDER Advertising Department at (949) 705-3100. EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS Welcomed but editors recommend that contributors query first. Contribution must be accompanied by return postage and we assume no responsibility for loss or damage thereto. Manuscripts must be typewritten on white paper, and all photographs must be accompanied by captions. Photo model releases required on all persons in photos. STREET RODDER reserves the right to use material at its discretion, and we reserve the right to edit material to meet our requirements. Upon publication, payment will be made at our current rate, and that said payment will cover author’s and contributor’s rights of the contribution. Contributor’s act of mailing contribution shall constitute an express warranty that the material is original and no infringement on the rights of others. Mail contributions to: STREET RODDER Magazine, 1821 E. Dyer Rd., Ste. 150, Santa Ana, CA 92705. Phone (949) 705-3100, Fax (949) 705-3427. RELATED PUBLICATIONS 4-Wheel & Off-Road, 8-Lug HD Truck, Automobile, Car Craft, Chevy High Performance, Circle Track, Classic Trucks, Diesel Power, Dirt Sports & Off-Road, European Car, Four Wheeler, Hot Rod, Hot Rod Deluxe, Jp, Lowrider, Mopar Muscle, Motor Trend, Muscle Car Review, Muscle Mustangs & Fast Fords, Mustang Monthly, Recoil, Super Chevy, Super Street, Truck Trend, Truckin, andVette. Back Issues: To order back issues, visit TENbackissues.com. Reprints: For high-quality custom reprints and eprints, please contact the YGS Group at (800) 290-5460 or TENreprints@ theygsgroup.com. Any submissions or contributions from readers shall be subject to and governed by TEN: The Enthusiast Network’s User Content Submission Terms and Conditions, which are posted at http://www. enthusiastnetwork.com/submissions/l. Copyright ©2017 TEN: The Enthusiast Network Magazines, LLC. All rights reserved. This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that the information presented is from various sources from which there can be no warranty or responsibility by TEN: The Enthusiast Network, LLC, or the publisher as to legality, completeness, and accuracy.
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Street Corner EDITED BY TIM BERNSAU
A Street Rod Helps Kids of Heroes ♦Steve’s Auto Restorations in Portland, Oregon, is a long-time supporter of the IronMen Foundation, which provides scholarships for children of killed or disabled U.S. military members. Several years ago, funds were while allowing for the use of the raised through the building and standard roadster top. Additional auctioning of a ’32 Ford roadster features include a hand-formed rear called “Metal of Honor.” The latest section, 5-inch recessed firewall, project, “Dress Blues,” is based full floor, stock-style door hinges, on a ’34 roadster pickup body and bearclaw latches. A brand-new that was built and donated by Chevy ZZ5 engine will provide the 2017 Ridler Award winner Steve’s power, backed by a custom 4L60E Auto Restorations. The RPU is a transmission. Many aftermarket modified version of SAR’s “Real hot rod parts manufacturers have Steel” ’34 roadster. The extended donated parts. When it’s finished, cab provides increased legroom “Dress Blues” will go on tour and
then be auctioned, with the proceeds going to help more kids. Read more about the IronMen Foundation at ironmenfoundation. org. Visit Steve’s Auto Restorations online at stevesautorestorations.com.
Hollywood Hot Rods Makes A Move ♦The shop on Palm Avenue in Burbank, California, is empty now. When Hollywood Hot Rods opened there in 2002 it was owner Troy Ladd and one employee. When HHR moved 2-1/2 miles to a larger facility on San Fernando Boulevard this summer, it was Ladd, six fabricators, a shop manager, and the shop dog.
Outgrowing the original shop was just one reason for HHR’s relocation. The other was that the ’50s-era light manufacturing buildings on Palm Avenue will soon be razed and replaced with a colossal apartment/ retail/restaurant development. Ladd owns his building now (rare for L.A. area shops), which
gives him freedom to remodel it, modifying the work areas to suit his goals for HHR. At a time when many shops are leaving urban areas, Ladd decided to keep Hollywood Hot Rods in Burbank. “I love being here,” he says. “There is so much hot rod history in Burbank, going back to early shops like Valley
Custom and SO-CAL Speed Shop. I like that Hollywood Hot Rods has been part of that ongoing history and will still be.”
Building Pure Vision’s ’63 Dodge ♦The custom muscle cars and street machines built at Pure Vision in Simi Valley, California, are built big on looks and big on performance. Get ready for an early-’60s build that will add big in size to the combination. Steve Strope and his team at Pure Vision are getting started on a new project with an almost never seen model: a ’63 Dodge 880.
Dodge/Chrysler C-body aficionado Steve Konarik asked Pure Vision to create what Strope describes as “a low-slung, showstopping, interstate cruiser.” Power will be delivered by a supercharged Chrysler Gen III Hemi. Smooth cruising will be provided 14 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
by Detroit Speed suspension components and JRI shocks. Style will be supplied by a long list of Pure Vision touches. The best part of the project is that the full-sized Mopar will be built for practicality—in terms of streetability and by using
parts and technology accessible to home hot rodders. STREET RODDER will be following the progress on this ’63 Dodge project in future issues. For now, artist Chris Dunlop’s concept illustration provides a sneak preview.
Whatâ€™s On Demand This Month? 10/6/17
Auto Mundial Motorsport Mundial
Engine Masters, Episode 27 GP Confidential Mobil 1 The Grid
Head 2 Head, Episode 95
10/12/17 Put Up Or Shut Up, Episode 4 10/13/17 LIVE! Formula D Auto Mundial Motorsport Mundial 10/14/17 LIVE! Formula D 10/16/17 Ignition, Episode 185 10/18/17 GP Confidential Modified, Episode 6 10/19/17 Roadkill Garage, Episode 23 10/20/17 Auto Mundial Motorsport Mundial 10/23/17 Mobil 1 The Grid 10/24/17 Dirt Every Day, Episode 70 10/26/17 HOT ROD Garage, Episode 58 10/27/17 Auto Mundial Motorsport Mundial Roadkill, Episode 71 10/30/17 GP Confidential Ignition, Episode 186 11/3/17
Auto Mundial Motorsport Mundial
SCHEDULE KEY: Racing Original Programs * The program information provided is subject to change.
BY JOHN GILBERT The publishing of products in Window Shopper is not an endorsement of these items by the STREET RODDER staff or by TEN: The Enthusiast Network, LLC. This material is as represented by the manufacturer only; these products have not necessarily been used or tested by us.—Editor. To electronically submit material for your product, email firstname.lastname@example.org.
★Let It Breathe
Looks cool and works great on smooth or finned valve covers, OTB Gear recently introduced an innovative update to the 90-degree valve cover breather. This creative new approach includes internal baffles to control oil splash, and these cleverly engineered parts have a baffle and body cavity design that allows for full drainage at a forward or backward angle of 45 degrees; this means you have the option of mounting the breather on the outside of the valve cover. Cast caps are held in place by inconspicuous setscrews for a clean look. CNC machining that provides precisely located mounting holes and available finned or finless and polished or natural aluminum finishes. •OTB Gear (909) 595-4995 otbgear.com
★Hot Rod Shocks
QA1 has expanded its line of Hot Rod Series shocks for hot rods and street rods. Now available in even more lengths and with or without a dust cover, these custom mount shocks are perfect for any street rodder looking for modern-day adjustability in a performance shock that showcases show-quality, traditional looks. The American-made Hot Rod Series shocks are made of chrome-plated billet aluminum, providing a sleek classic look that street rodders pride themselves on. These smooth body shocks are offered with or without a bell-shaped dust cover, which provides an extra nostalgic style consistent with the appearance of classic street rods. •QA1 (800) 721-7761 qa1.net
Speedhut, manufacturer of custom-built automotive gauges, released a compact device that operates a cable-driven mechanical speedometer with no calibration or complex gearing needed. Keep original your stock speedometer. The device, known as the Speedbox, is a simple plug-and-play solution that uses an electric speed signal from GPS, CANbus, transmission, or ECM to operate a cable-driven speedometer. Considered to be the easiest speedometer conversion around, the small box never requires calibration, is extremely easy to install, and can fit in the palm of your hand. Speedhut wanted to give their customers the ability to upgrade their original speedometers. •Speedhut (801) 221-1460 speedhut.com
Fatman Fabrications just announced dropped spindles for the ’58-’64 fullsize Chevys that provide better brakes and a 2-1/2-inch drop while retaining the stock GM front suspension. Fatman machines the laser cut assembly so that the spindle bolts directly to the stock Chevy tie-rod end and control arms. Late ’90s GM 12-inch-diameter disc brake rotors with a 4-3/4inch bolt pattern make it easy to match the stock GM rear axle bolt pattern. These are part of a new line of dropped disc brake spindles Fatman is developing for the first of the ball joint–type IFS GM full-size cars. •Fatman Fabrications (704) 545-0369 fatmanfab.com
HAVE EVERY ISSUE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS ... ELECTRONICALLY
•Digital subscriptions to STREET RODDER magazine are now available for your computer, tablet, and smartphone. The digital version of the magazine includes everything that appears in the print version, so if you prefer to read on an electronic device, you won’t be missing out on anything. You can buy single issues or a full 12-month subscription. Available through Zinio at zinio.com, the iTunes Store, on your Kindle or Nook, and other eBook platforms. For more information about digital and print subscriptions, go to streetrodder.com and click on “Subscribe.”
16 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
Powerful batteries require powerful chargers. Our microprocessor-controlled OPTIMA® chargers are specifically designed to charge, condition and maintain both AGM and lead-acid batteries while maximizing life and performance. They can even recover deeply discharged batteries, so from topping off to reviving, you’re always ready to rock. To learn more about OPTIMA chargers, visit OptimaBatteries.com
Look for the OPTIMA DIGITAL 1200 AND DIGITAL 400 chargers at a retailer near you. The OPTIMA logo, OPTIMA Batteries, The Ultimate Power Source, Spiralcell Technology, REDTOP, YELLOWTOP, BLUETOP and The Six-Pack Battery Design are trademarks of Johnson Controls, Inc. ©2015
18 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
RAGTOP 60 Years Later Our ’57 Chevy Still Turns Heads
hevrolet introduced their line of ’57 automobiles in October 1956 and in some ways they were facing an uphill battle in terms of sales. The ’55 and ’56 Chevrolets were tough acts to follow; Ford and Plymouth had introduced entirely new designs and the American economy was struggling. Nonetheless, the sales battle was tight; Chevrolet did outsell Second Place Ford during the calendar year by just over 100 cars, although Ford produced more ’57 models by virtue of a longer production run. But while initial sales figures are most often used to judge the success of a particular automobile’s design, the longevity of its popularity may be an even better indicator of its success. Based on that, the ’57 Chevrolet was a success then and a bona fide automotive icon now.
To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the ’57 Chevrolet we turned to Chris Sondles at Woody’s Hot Rodz to build a convertible for the 2017 ARP/ STREET RODDER Road Tour car Presented by Chevrolet Performance. Licensed by GM, Woody’s can provide replacement body panels, complete body shells, or turnkey ’55, ’56, or ’57 Chevrolets built with new body stampings from Golden Star Classic Auto Parts, a leading supplier of reproduction body and trim parts. Our Road Tour ragtop was based on the artwork of the very talented Eric Brockmeyer, it was then up to
Woody’s to turn the image into reality. Construction began with the assembly of the Golden Star stampings utilizing Miller Electric welding equipment. We were able to watch as boxes of individual parts were combined to make a new ’57 Chevrolet—no small task, we can assure you. With the body assembled it was turned over to Woody’s where the shell was covered with PPG’s waterborne Envirobase in PPG Nickle. But as stunning as that color was there was more to come in the form of flames. To set the nose of the Chevy on fire a variety of PPG products were
By RON CERIDONO ❘ Photography by ROBERT MCGAFFIN STREETRODDER.COM I DECEMBER 2017
ROAD TOUR RAGTOP used, including a basecoat of Yella followed by a blended application of Performance Yellow and O-So-Sexy Red. For the ultimate gloss, the ’57 was covered from its flamed front to its finned tail in PPG’s DC4000 urethane clear. The final touch was the addition of XPEL Protection Film on the front fenders and hood to ward off road rash and make bugs easy to remove. Given its classic design, other than the grille and some trim, the ’57 body was left original. However, the same can’t be said for what’s under the sheetmetal. There’s nothing original to be found there, as our Chevy rides on a state-of-the-art SPEC Tri-Five
chassis from Roadster Shop. Based on custom framerails fabricated from rectangular tubing up front is an in-house-designed independent suspension system with Flaming River rack-and-pinion steering. In the rear are triangulated four-bars locating a Roadster Shop 9-inch axle housing. Coilovers are used fore and aft and Wilwood disc brakes are found all the way around. Rolling stock is a combination of American Legend Racer series wheels; 18x7 front and 18x9 rear wrapped with Falken rubber, FK453 225/40-18 and 265/40/18, respectively. Providing the ample power to propel
SOURCES •Aeromotive (913) 647-7300 aeromotiveinc.com
•AMSOIL INC. (855) 924-3100 amsoil.com/cars
•Custom Autosound (800) 888-8637 customautosound.com
•Dynotech Engineering (800) 633-5559 dynotecheng.com
•A.M. Hot Rod Glass (909) 350-3543 amhotrodglass.com
•Automotive Racing Products (805) 339-2200 arp-bolts.com
•Dakota Digital (888) 852-3228 dakotadigital.com
•ET Motorgear (865) 671-3000 etmotorgear.com
•American Autowire (800) 482-9473 americanautowire.com
•California Car Cover (800) 826-3045 calcarcover.com
•Danchuk (800) 648-9554 danchuk.com
•FAST (877) 334-8355 compperformancegroup.com
•American Legend Wheels (714) 524-3100 americanlegendwheels.com
•Chevrolet Performance chevrolet.com/performance
•Dynamat (513) 860-5094 dynamat.com
•Flaming River (866) 815-3669 flamingriver.com
•Flowmaster 707) 544-4761 flowmastermufflers.com
•Miller Electric Manufacturing Company (920) 734-9821 millerwelds.com
•Roadster Shop (847) 949-7637 roadstershop.com
•U.S. Radiator (323) 826-0965 usradiator.com
•Golden Star Classic Auto Parts (972) 315-3758 goldenstarauto.com
•Motor City Solutions (734) 947-9447 motorcitysolutions.com
•Sherm’s Custom Plating (916) 646-0160 shermsplating.com
•Vintage Air (800) 862-6658 vintageair.com
•Hughes Performance (800) 274-RACE hughesperformance.com
•PPG (800) 647-6050 ppgrefinish.com
•Show Car Interiors (419) 604-9292 showcarinteriors.com
•Wilwood (805) 388-1188 wilwood.com
•Lokar (877) 469-7440 lokar.com
•Procar by Scat (310) 370-5501 procarbyscat.com
•Specialty Power Windows (800) 634-9801 spwkits.com
•Woody’s Hot Rodz (812) 637-1933 woodyshotrodz.com
ROAD TOUR RAGTOP our ’57 is a 350ci ZZ6 from presenting sponsor Chevrolet Performance. The 405hp small-block (406 lb-ft of torque) comes with aluminum valve covers and a matching air cleaner. We opted to replace the carburetor with a FAST EZ-EFI 2.0 throttle body with its self-learning computer that also controls ignition timing. Fuel is delivered by an Aeromotive system comprised of a fuel tank with an internal pump, lines, fittings, filter, and regulator, and exhaust is routed away through Doug’s Headers connected to Flowmaster pipes, mufflers, and stainless tips.
The finishing touch was the addition of a 12-point stainless ARP Engine & Accessory Kit to match the ARP fasteners used exclusively throughout the car. Keeping the engine’s temperature under control is a radiator, electric fan, and shroud from U.S. Radiator. AMSOIL INC. received the nod for coolant plus all the other required fluids, such as engine oil, trans, power steering fluid, and rearend gear lube. Connecting the Hughes’ Performance 4L80E to the John’s Industries third member is a driveshaft from Dynotech.
ROAD TOUR RAGTOP With the body and chassis united it was time to focus on the passenger compartment, but before upholstery panels could be put in place Woody’s had plenty to do. To ensure Road Tour director Jerry Dixey is entertained and comfortable there was a Custom Autosound system and a climatecontrol package from Vintage Air to install. To keep an eye on all the mechanical functions instruments from Dakota Digital were chosen and an American Autowire harness delivers electrical power to all the devices requiring a reliable flow of
electrons. Driver controls include Flaming River steering shafts, joints, and column topped by one their waterfall steering wheels. The brake and throttle pedal assemblies are from Lokar, as is the floor-mounted emergency brake lever. Something that no one seems to notice, probably due to the clarity, is that the glass in our ’57 isn’t glass at all, but rather DOT-approved acrylic from A.M. Hot Rod Glass. Keeping the acrylic windshield clean are wipers from Specialty Power Windows (SPW), and raising and lowering the acrylic side windows
1932 Ford Truck Cab The 1932 Ford Truck is a workhorse that helped to build America. United Pacific is once again making these iconic steel truck cabs available with the precision and quality that our customers demand. 1932-34 Ford Trucks can soon be restored with new steel body panels.
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ROAD TOUR RAGTOP are power regulators, also from SPW. When it was time to stitch the interior the Chevy was delivered to Pete Hagan’s Show Car Interiors. Dynamat and Dynaliner had been applied to the sheetmetal surfaces to effectively insulate and silence the passenger compartment, but other than that Hagan was dealing with an empty shell. Seating in the ’57 is a combination of Procar by Scat bucket seats for the driver and passenger and fabricated custom bucket seat–style cushions in the rear. Down the center of the passenger compartment is a custom, full-length console that hosts the
26 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
Lokar shifter and the SPW power window controls and is equipped with a sliding door concealing a pair of cup holders. To finish off the sumptuous accommodations are side panels adorned with polished aluminum trim and Lokar handles. All the upholstered surfaces were covered in red Conneaut Corp Catalina II leather and the dash was painted with PPG’s Pull Me Over Red. Continuing the bright red theme are the same color Daytona weave carpet on the floor and a Hartz Stayfast canvas top overhead. After paint and upholstery, the final step was attaching the stock
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ROAD TOUR RAGTOP trim. Sherm’s Custom Plating chrome plated the original stainless steel trim pieces around the windshield and in the passenger compartment. The remaining chrome and stainless pieces, including bumpers, trim, hood rockets, and trick side mirrors with built-in turn indicators—everything right down to the trick tail fin trim that opens to reveal the gas cap— came from Danchuk’s extensive offerings of ’57 reproduction parts. We think our 2017 ARP/STREET RODDER Road Tour Chevy Presented by Chevrolet Performance is a fitting tribute to the 60th anniversary of the ’57 Chevrolet but we wanted some feedback from someone who had spent time with the car. Jerry Dixey: “After traveling 7,000 miles in less than two months it is obvious that the team at Woody’s Hot Rodz assembled a great package when they built our ’57 Chevrolet convertible. The Roadster Shop chassis is a solid backbone that combines a comfortable ride with race car handling. The Chevrolet ZZ6 turnkey crate motor combines plenty of power with great mileage at the pump. The Wilwood brakes gets things slowed down rapidly when needed. Our Bowtie is a pleasure to drive and turns heads wherever we travel.”
28 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
B E H I N D T H E B U I L D WO O DY ’ S H OT R O DZ ♦ Woody’s Hot Rodz built the 2017 Road Tour ’57 Chevy from the ground up. The Woody’s team (below left, from lower left clockwise): Gabrielle Sauerland, operations manager and editor of The American Tri-Five; Julie Rork, sales; Brian Graber, painter; Tim Mauer, builder/glass man; Jerry Taylor, body/frame builder; Chris Baldwin, assistant manager; Matt Baldwin, general manager; and Chris Sondles, owner/president.
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• Source It • South City Rod & Custom (510) 783-6300 southcityrodandcustom.org • Pete & Jakes (800) 334-7240 peteandjakes.com • Walker Radiator Works (800) 821-1970 walkerradiatorworks.com • Cooling Components (901) 336-6194 coolingcomponentsinc.us.com • Vintage Air (800) 862-6658 vintageair.com • Flowmaster (707) 544-4761 flowmastermufflers.com
Behind The Build Part 2: Moving Onward, Upward & Forward on the Ganahl '33 Fordor
• Flaming River (800) 648-8022 flamingriver.com • Tanks Inc. (877) 596-3842 tanksinc.com
By Rob Fortier ❙ Photography by the Author
If you were with us last month for the introduction, teardown, and subsequent new chassis building of Pat Ganahl’s cross-country cruiser Fordor sedan, go on and skip to the next paragraph if you’re not in the mood for repetition. For those who weren’t, here’s a quick recap: We’re devoting a series of articles overviewing the concept (making personal concessions for a comfortable, reliable hot rod to travel across the States with his wife alongside—and driving) and construction of Pat’s '33 four-door, which he’s graciously employed his son Bill to handle the bulk of at his NorCal shop, South City Rod & Custom. So, let’s pick up where we left off. With the sedan’s chassis complete (to roller stage), Bill had but a few minor details to wrap up: installing the engine and transmission, fabbing up the exhaust system, plumbing the brakes, fitting the body, repairing/modifying various sheetmetal, building a trans tunnel, gapping the body and related sheetmetal, and so forth and so on. OK, so maybe not such a short list, but with Pops waiting down in SoCal to get the car so that he could get it all dialed in to his liking before embarking on his long haul, Bill was definitely keeping his eye on the clock. On a deadline maybe, but the younger Ganahl didn’t rush any of the abovementioned just to get ’er done. Fulfilling the elder Ganahl’s request for “fab detail,” Bill got rather crafty when recessing the firewall to accommodate the small-block Chevy, which in turn he cleverly worked into the
32 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
transmission tunnel and toeboards built to accommodate the adjoining 700-R4 overdrive. Even the exhaust, though based on a Flowmaster U-Fit builder’s kit with their new HS2 laminar-core mufflers, was laid out within the Model 40 chassis’ tight confines and built with blueprint accuracy. And when it came to fabricating the sedan’s new rear floor section, no corners were cut, rather, holes were cut and blisters subsequently made for ladder bar clearance where the seat pan crossbrace integrates into the main floorpan section. Next month we’ll wrap things up at South City before taking a drive up to Glendale, California, for a visit with Pat to see the nearly finished project—and get his personal perspective on the sedan, and quite possibly a few other things as well! Stay tuned.
The small-block Chevy and its 700-R4 1room transmission don’t afford a whole lot of to stretch when stuffed between a pair of '33 Ford ’rails, so to help ease the situation, Bill Ganahl opted for a Walker OE-style radiator with a Cooling Components Slim Line combo fan/shroud unit, which tucks nice and tight beneath the top tank …
… giving the [mechanical] fan-less SBC 2in place. plenty of breathing room once it’s dropped A front cradle mount (as opposed to side mounts) allows clearance for the Vega cross steer components as well as the centerdump exhaust manifolds.
get the shifter back where he (and Pat) 3setupTowanted, Bill modified the mounting bracket to locate off the tailshaft rather than over the top of the transmission case—which ultimately afforded a better fit/more clearance beneath the floor.
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U-Fit kit definitely saved 4butABillheFlowmaster some time with the exhaust system, still had to squeeze it all in between the framerails—without it looking like it was squeezed in!
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Speaking of easy, terminating the 7-8 exhaust in front of the rear wheels is a direction many take—but not in this case. Up and over the 9-inch Bill went, bringing the tail pipes clear out past the rear framehorns, just like it ought to be.
With the first “fab detail” requirement of 9fabrication Pat’s complete, it’s onto the next detailed tasks: modifying sheetmetal.
Rather than install a whole new 10-11 recessed firewall (another easy way out), Bill and Pat clearly agreed on keeping the
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The tranny tunnel and toeboards 15-16 followed, with a bit more time taken dealing with component clearance, such as the pedal assembly, shifter, steering column, and so on.
The firewall and forward floor section 17-18 are fixed, so of course they were welded in place. The tunnel is removable, so after being fitted, it was taken out and finished properly, including a nice little endcap.
Forward-most “fab detail” work commenced once the firewall 19 recess was fully welded up and metal-finished. But there’s still more … plenty more.
Moving backward, the sheetmetal work continued with the rear 20 floor section. Here, Bill has already made new inner subfloor channels to mount the rear of the body to the frame.
the main floors in the sedan were in such good shape, in order to provide travel clearance for the rear ladder bars, Bill simply added 21-22 Since two pockets made out of sliced tubing.
he whipped up a new rear floor, bead-rolled for rigidity, and welded it in place, wrapping up the major sheetmetal fabwork on the 23-24 Next, project. But he still had some further sheetmetal-related chores to tackle.
With the body mounted atop its new chassis, now all the ancillary And as you’ll see next month when we wrap this series up, the 25 parts had to be properly fitted and gapped—from the rear fuel 26 ever-so-important aspect of incorporating the right wheel and tire tank apron to the fenders and running boards and, of course, the size combo to accommodate the stance Bill built the sedan’s chassis to hood and grille.
38 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
ride at. We’ll see you next month!
18TH ANNUAL PPG SYRACUSE NATIONALS A Wicked Horsepower Festival By Chuck Vranas | Photography by the Author
♦Nothing says summertime fun better than plotting out an adventure in your hot rod. It’s a time where you can pack a bag, top off the tank, and enjoy the driving experience while you cross the country on both highways and back roads. There’s just something so cool about the excitement that attending a big national event generates as you roll into town to check it all out. Celebrating its 18th year, the PPG Syracuse Nationals is one of the largest rodding events on the East Coast. The weekend horsepower festival welcomed well over 8,000 cars again this year, with everything from hot rods and customs to classic trucks, restos, and race cars, leaving you awestruck. Thanks to thundering V-8s accented by an endless stream of candies, pearls, and metallic colors, the stage was set for a wicked weekend.
40 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
Taking place at the immaculate New York State Fairgrounds, the event unfolds over 365 acres once you arrive. It features plenty of cool tree-lined streets to cruise on, accented by a myriad of classic old-time buildings, vintage horse and livestock barns, and state fair–styled eateries, offering plenty of meals you’ll remember since you were knee-high to a Deuce bumper. It’s an
18TH ANNUAL PPG SYRACUSE NATIONALS event with plenty of neat things to check out, including a huge grouping of vendors spotlighting all the latest updates for your ride, scheduled tech seminars from industry leaders, including PPG, TREMEC, and Inland Empire, to name but a few. You could have participated in the Tucci Hot Rods Pro Pick while also checking out the live bands performing on multiple stages throughout the weekend and dazzling nighttime fireworks displays.
42 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
Looking for more, the Old-Skool Roundup in a separate open-air pavilion had its own unique vibe for traditional hot rods and customs, fueled by plenty of kulture and its own swap meet and energized live Rockabilly performances, while Gasoline Alley showcased an extensive array of classic vintage race cars. The competition of the Select Six for the Winfield Award, presented by custom car legend Gene Winfield, generated plenty of
e l ﬁ o r p w o Al . t u b g n i h t y is an
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©2017 PPG Industries, Inc. All rights reserved. www.ppgrefinish.com The PPG Logo and Vibrance Collection are registered trademarks of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc.
18TH ANNUAL PPG SYRACUSE NATIONALS excitement, and this year’s award winner was Bruce Leven with his '51 Ford coupe. The legendary Arties Party pinstriping and panel jam to benefit The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central New York had custom-designed artwork auctioned throughout the weekend. When Sunday arrived it was time for the exclusive Syracuse Nationals giveaway program, featuring the Garage Gear Giveaway to one lucky winner. By the end of the weekend over 8,000 cars had rolled through the gates, along with over 80,000 visitors. Thanks to the support
44 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
of the Central New York Car Club Association (the host of the show) and area service clubs, donations were made from proceeds of the event in the amount of $20,000 plus $66,000 from the Panel Jam auctions to a number of local charities. This brought the 18-year donation total close to $1.1 million. This event continues to grow with each passing year, and we can’t wait to check it out again in 2018! We’re only touching the surface here regarding all the fun this event includes. You can check out more at rightcoastcars.com.
Best Ford in a Ford
E FACTS JUSTYTEAHR: 1963
ord MAKE: F alcon F : L E D MO ve Ramsey Ste OWNER: E: Maryland T A ST
Steve Ramsey's '63 Ford Falcon ♦While honoring the 18th Syracuse Nationals it was a perfect time for STREET RODDER and Ford Performance to recognize street rodders who install a late-model Ford engine in a Ford hot rod or custom. While canvassing the massive confines of the New York State Fairgrounds we found Steve Ramsey’s immaculate '63 Ford Falcon Futura Gasser making its debut, featuring a Ford Performance 427ci aluminum crate V-8, which caught our immediate attention. Nothing says hot rod better experienced while watching drivers his search for a suitable roller and than a Gasser, with its mile-high pilot their wild Gassers down the it didn’t take long till he located a frontend accented by an adrenalintrack. stalled hot rod project close to home. charged V-8. If you grew up in the The thought of building a periodThe car was a '63 Ford Falcon Futura ’60s they were a main attraction at perfect Gasser had always lurked that was on its way to becoming a any drag racing event. For Steve at the back of his mind. He started race car at some point, a roughedRamsey of Fallston, Maryland, getting indoctrinated into the world of hopped-up cars was as easy as walking into his dad’s auto repair shop. It was the place to be in the ’60s if you wanted to have the latest speed equipment installed on your ride. Before long Steve began spinning wrenches himself and by age 12 he purchased his first car, a '55 Chevy coupe. He started frequenting local dragstrips to see the blistering times drivers were laying down on the strip. One thing he never forgot was the adrenalin rush he
46 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
out roller at best stripped of all its driveline. A deal was made and the project was hauled back to his shop for evaluation. As owner of both Ramsey Ford and Elkton Ford, both located in Maryland, the availability of Ford Performance parts gave him the opportunity to inject some serious venom into the project. Having worked with Dave Vrankin of Forest Hill on prior builds, it was a perfect opportunity to have him spearhead the project.
A decision was made to retain the factory unibody while adding plenty of extra strength. For starters the rotted floors were replaced along with adding custom frame connectors, gussets, and crossmember to make the platform rock solid. Out back a Strange Engineering 9-inch rear was packed with 3.70:1 gears linked to matching 31-spline axles. It’s suspended in place by a combination of custom era-correct ladder bars linked to a wishbone, Panhard bar, and QA1 coilover shocks. Up front it’s all business with a Speedway Motors Gasser front axle kit, including a straight front axle linked to '49-'54 Chevy spindles deftly matched to semi-elliptical springs and tube shocks. Slowing the beast you’ll find a Wilwood Engineering master pushing fluid though stainless lines to matching 11-inch front discs wearing four-piston calipers, combined with 10-inch Ford drums out back. Anchoring it all to the
street are a pair of Rocket Racing 15x6 front Launcher-series wheels with 15x8 rear Injector-series wheels all wrapped in rubber from M&H. If you’re going to make a statement you’d better have plenty of horsepower underhood to back it up. Steve went to Ford Performance for their fire-breathing 427ci smallblock all-aluminum crate V-8 packing 600 hp right from the factory. Hand assembled by the Ford Performance team, it’s packed with a speed shop full of go-fast goods. Starting with an
aluminum four-bolt main block filled with a Scat forged steel crank linked to matching H-beam connecting rods topped with forged Mahle pistons getting bumped by a solid steel billet
roller cam. Up top a set of CNC ported Ford Performance aluminum “Z” cylinder heads make plenty of power when fed by a Hilborn eight-stack injection system. It sparks to life through an MSD ignition and dumps gases through custom fenderwell headers by Vrankin to 3-inch exhaust with SpinTech mufflers. The goods move through a Ford C4 trans warmed over by Performance Automatic of Frederick, Maryland, to a custom aluminum driveshaft. Vrankin then started on bringing the battered old body back to life. He replaced the rear quarters while also removing the stock shock towers to accommodate the new V-8 and adding a six-point rollbar. The doors, front fenders, and fiberglass hood were then fitted to the car and the shell was completely metal finished. Vrankin then coated the body in Axalta Astro Blue metallic, bringing it all to life. Brightwork from Paul’s Chrome Plating added the final icing. To add the perfect era-correct Gasser style to the interior the stock dash was filled with Auto Meter gauges to monitor the vitals while a Mooneyes steering wheel carves the course and a Hurst Quarter Stick pulls gears. Bux Customs of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, created a period-perfect business office covering a set of '67 Mustang buckets in a combination of blue and white vinyl while also crafting custom door and side panels accented by blue loop-style carpeting. An American Autowire kit installed by Vrankin completes the job. Congratulations to Steve who will receive a limitededition jacket as the award winner.
For more photos and videos of these 10 winners visit: http://bit.ly/2wGbX5P
ROB PURCELL | 1932 FORD | HARRISTON, ONTARIO, CANADA Nothing says hot rod better than a hopped-up Deuce pickup with a wicked mill. Attitude comes from a 3-inch chop accented by shortening the bed 14 inches. It sits on Deuce ’rails with a heavy dose of PPG black gloss and power added from a 341ci Desoto Hemi wearing a Gear Drive log intake topped with a squadron of Holley 94-series carbs.
DAVID & DEANA THOMAS | 1935 CHEVY | WEST CHESTER, PA Traditional MetalCraft modified every inch of the sheetmetal except for the cowl vent and grille shell. It features a wedge-chop of 5-1/2 inches rear and 6 inches front with the body covered in PPG Elysian Green. A chassis from Ionia Hot Rod Shop sets the stance while riding on Halibrand wheels with power from a dual-quad-fed Chevy 327 V-8.
MARK SANSONE | 1952 CHEVY | HILTON, NY With plenty of contemporary elegance and numerous subtle details, the body wears a mile-deep coating of black gloss. A Chevrolet Performance supercharged LS9 crate V-8 adds a healthy 638 hp to the mix for moving the big-inch Budnik wheels wearing Nitto rubber. Inside Rich Perez designed a breathtaking red leather interior and console.
RON ELLIS | 1941 WILLYS | WILSON, NY There’s just something about a low-slung '41 Willys that raises adrenalin levels. Built at The East Coast Hot Rod Garage it features plenty of meticulous fabrication while sitting on a custom Art Morrison chassis and rolling on classic Halibrand wheels. A Ray Barton 525ci Hemi with dual quads gives it go, accented by Axalta Applegate Blue vibe and a Dean Alexander leather interior.
VERN & DAVE GRAY | 1932 FORD | HEMLOCK, MI This sedan was being built into a show car in the late ’50s but was never completed, being put into storage in 1959. Recently discovered, the father and son team brought it back to life with a two-deuce-fed 390ci Cadillac V-8 linked to a '39 Ford trans. The body glows in dark red cherry pearl and is filled with a vibrant white interior with red piping.
48 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
TERRY COOK | 1955 CHEVY BEL AIR | MT. VERNON, MO Terry’s Pro-Tour Bel Air left us admiring its many body mods and stance thanks to an Art Morrison chassis with 18-inch Foose wheels wearing Michelin rubber. Finished in a dramatic PPG green and charcoal pearl, the blacked-out trim gives it a sinister look. An aluminum 434ci small-block has plenty of go, accented by an interior from OZ Customs.
ED SEARS | 1941 FORD | ANNAPOLIS, MD Pure elegance describes this pickup with its subtle body updates and classic custom-blended PPG Light and Dark Brown Sugar coating from One-Off Rod & Custom. A 276ci Flathead V-8 is dressed to impress while Vintage Air and Classic Instruments add to the Lucky 7 Rod Shop leather interior.
JON CENTRACCHIO | 1932 FORD | WEST SPRINGFIELD, MA Looking like it stepped straight out of a little book, this Deuce personifies cool with its perfect chop ’n’ channel, Edmunds two-pot-fed 303ci Olds V-8 and PPG Purple–coated body. Traditional details make it a standout with bits like an original Dago dropped axle, split '32 Ford bones, Frankland quick-change rear, and '40 Ford steelies with Firestone/Coker wide whites.
FRED PROVENZANO | 1950 LINCOLN | MASSAPEQUA PARK, NY It’s rare to see a '50 Lincoln, let alone one that has undergone the full custom treatment. Starting with a well-balanced chop, the body was shaved and treated to a lustrous coating of PPG Black Cherry Pearl. Inside the team at GilliN Auto Interiors filled the business office with fully handcrafted appointments using Ferrari-grade leather in a double-stitch diamond pattern. AMERICAN MADE • AMERICAN PROUD
If you are transplanting an LS GM engine into an older vehicle, most will require adapter plates that move the engine 1 inch forward to allow clearance for the coil JEFF BENSON | 1932 FORD | CANANDAIGUA, NY For a unique Deuce Jeff had Jay Panganelli hand form the body, grille shell, headlights, taillights, and gas tank all from 0.080 aluminum along with the windshield from stainless steel. Power comes from a hopped-up Flathead V-8 nailed in a custom chassis by Barry Brown’s Riter Automotive with Rocket Racing Solid-series wheels completing the look.
on the passenger-side valve cover.
★★★★★ STREETRODDER.COM I DECEMBER 2017
Building Old Ironside
PerTronix enables you to upgrade the classic Delco tach-drive distributor to electronic (Ignitor!) ignition in an afternoon By Jim Smart ❙ Photography by the Author
Back in the day when we knew where most components came from Delco was manufacturing new distributors in the heart of Indiana for Corvettes and other Chevy carlines. In fact, most components encompassing new muscle cars had parts produced in different parts of the country by American workers. GM’s Rochester Carburetor Division made atomizers installed on new Corvettes in Flint and St. Louis before assembly was relocated to Bowling Green, Kentucky, in the early ’80s. Delco ignition systems were conceived and made in the heart of the rust belt. In the world of building nostalgic or traditional hot rods there’s a move (albeit slight) toward using mechanical gauges, with the most prominent being the distributor with mechanical tach drive. Should you find yourself building an old-time hot rod and want to use an early mechanical tach speedometer there’s still hope. The old Chevy mechanical tach-driven distributors are still around, although the Corvette guys really scoop them up, but there’s a way to give them modern life. Rebuilding them is easy and PerTronix has
• Source It • PerTronix Performance Products (909) 547-9058 pertronix.com • Summit Racing Equipment (800) 230-3030 summitracing.com
50 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
Delco produced both cast-iron and aluminum distributors for Corvette and other popular 1distributors Chevys. This cast-iron distributor was produced in Anderson, IN, which is where all Delco for Corvette were produced from the ’50s-’80s. This is a very simple component, delivering a perfectly timed spark routine and high-performance driving. The tach drive is driven off the main shaft, which is what makes this distributor different than mainstream Delco units.
TECH Distributor housing is fitted with bronze 2-3 bushings at each end for shaft support. These are Oilite bushings impregnated with lubrication for smooth operation. During assembly, these bushings get a dose of molybdenum grease for extra-added protection and long service.
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modernized the insides with an Igniter setup and a Flame-Thrower coil. Classic Delco distributors seem to cover the gamut of types, ranging from single- to dual-point in aluminum and cast iron. We’re about to tackle a cast-iron, tach-drive distributor. This heavyweight distributor was used in a broad spectrum of small- and big-block Chevys throughout the ’50s-’70s. It is an incredibly simple ignition system, and we’re about to show you how to make it simpler. Because the Delco tach-drive distributor is hardy, to say the least, rebuilding this guy and returning it to service is easy, especially when you consider how easy it is to ditch those classic ignition points and opt for the PerTronix Ignitor retrofit. You can simply upgrade to PerTronix in the vehicle or pull the distributor and freshen it up on your workbench. PerTronix offers three types of Ignitor upgrades for your tach-drive distributor. There’s the original black Ignitor module, which does the work of ignition points. The Ignitor II in red has many of the same great features that the original Ignitor has, however, the Ignitor II is smarter, PerTronix tells us. The Ignitor II senses the coil’s current level and uses a powerful microcontroller to adjust dwell. Variable dwell helps maintain peak coil energy. Ignitor III is the most advanced Ignitor system to date with all of the great features of Ignitor and Ignitor II, along with an adjustable built-in rev limiter. When you complement the Ignitor system with a Flame-Thrower ignition coil, cap, and plug wires, you
Bushings and 4-5 thrust surfaces get molybdenum grease for a steady diet of lubrication for the life of the unit. This nylon thrust washer is installed next.
get an unbeatable ignition system that offers you the same fierce reliability of GM’s HEI ignition without the hassle of a swap. You can install the Ignitor family of ignition retrofits in the car and be ready to spin cam lobes in a couple of hours. Distributor Identification All vintage Delco distributors have a means to identification. This comes in handy when you’re shopping for a replacement for your restoration. Expect to see a model number and date code. From 1955-1956 Delco used a tag riveted to the distributor housing. From 1957-1974 Delco went to an aluminum strip or band that wrapped around the distributor neck. Dual-point distributors continued to have the riveted Delco-Remy tag. After 1974, Delco distributors had the model and date stamped into the housing. Date Codes were an alphanumeric code looking something like this: 8B23, which meant 1968, February 23 day. Delco distributors were also color-coded for easy identification at the factory and quick installation in the engine. Assembly workers wouldn’t have to read numbers. Instead, they’d observe the color and install it into the corresponding engine without confusion. Early on, Corvette distributors were always iron, never aluminum. If you’ve found an aluminum case distributor, it is not a Corvette distributor. Of course the best means to identification is the model number (part number) and date code. Look to factory Chevrolet parts manuals, which are in wide circulation, to correctly identify the Delco distributor you have found.
fully adjustable vacuum advance 6 Aunitnewis installed next.
is the mechanical advance cam and 9optedThis breaker point cam combo. Because weâ€™ve for the PerTronix Ignitor, the breaker cam will never serve a purpose again. The mechanical advance cam advances ignition timing as flyweights swing out with rpm.
plate is installed next and checked 7 Breaker for freedom of movement.
PerTronix Ignitor is installed next and 8breaker secured as shown. This guy rides on the plate just like the original ignition points. The breaker plate is actuated by the vacuum advance unit as throttle and load dictate.
Mechanical advance cam is attached to The distributor shaft is generously 11 the main shaft. 10 lubricated with molybdenum grease prior to assembly. You can never use too much lubricant.
The PerTronix Ignitor reluctor ring is Mechanical advance flyweights are installed next, along with return springs and rotor. 12 installed next. This ring is part of the Hall 13-14 There are different spring tensions and limiter sizes, which determines at what rate Effect system that replaces ignition points. flyweights swing out as rpm increases. Look to Summit Racing Equipment for spring and limiter It circles the Ignitor module in time with the rotor, which causes buildup and collapse of electrical energy in the coil.
kits, which will enable you to tune your Delco distributor for your engine and the type of driving you intend to do.
This is the main shaft shim or shims, 17 which take up endplay. Endplay must be checked with a thickness gauge. Allowable rotor and main shaft are installed next ring and Ignitor module get their 15 The and checked for freedom of movement. 16Reluctor clearance checked next.
endplay is 0.006-0.009 inch. You can run it a pinch more in the 0.010- to 0.012-inch range and still be safe. Install the tension pin and make sure installation is tight.
drive port is loaded with molybdenum are the tach-drive parts laid out in proper order. Parts are loaded into the 18Tach prior to tach-drive installation. 19-20Here distributor and secured, as shown.
Completed Delco tach-drive distributor is ready for installation. Remember, if you’re running a roller cam you will need a hardened distributor gear. If you’re running a flat-tappet cam, an iron gear gets the job done.
Ted Granger of Ted’s Carburetor Service in Lancaster, CA, curves our Delco distributor for the kind of driving and engine profile it will experience.
This is the original revolutionary PerTronix 23 Ignitor I, which was introduced decades ago and remains the easiest modification you can make on your classic Vette. It installs in less than one hour. Set the gap between reluctor and module and you’re good to go.
The Ignitor II is undoubtedly a terrific upgrade When you order your PerTronix Ignitor, Ignitor III goes I and II one better with an 24 from the original Ignitor because it allows for 26 don’t forget important details like a new 25 adjustable built-in rev limiter. better coil saturation and a hotter spark. distributor cap and rotor. The Flame-Thrower coil from 27 PerTronix is the perfect companion for your Ignitor upgrade because it takes full advantage of the Ignitor’s assets, especially with the Ignitor II and III, because not only do you get full coil saturation, you get the hottest spark.
We like the original factory look of 28 PerTronix ignition wires for classic Chevys. Don’t forget to order these with the rest of your PerTronix ignition system.
THAT OL’ TIN
Terry Henley’s Estate Wagon
hough there might be hundreds of reasons why anyone would want to customize an old car, nearly everyone can agree the styling associated with those old cars is head and shoulders above anything being produced nowadays. That’s the way Terry Henley feels, and the 67-year-old who lives outside of Birmingham, Alabama, was able to find what he was ultimately looking for—a ’51 Chevrolet wagon—in a Hemmings Motor News advertisement. The ad said it was a two-owner vehicle, and was listed as part of an estate sale in California. The eight-passenger wagon was in decent enough shape, and certainly better than what Terry was able to locate anywhere near where he lived.
The use of real wood in the construction of vehicles by the Big Three was diminishing by the late ’40s, with most of it being more decorative rather than structural like it was in the early days of auto manufacturing. In 1949 Chevrolet still offered two types of wagons— one with real wood on the outside while the other had raised bodylines By ERIC GEISERT ❘ Photography by THE AUTHOR
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THAT OL’ TIN WOODIE that looked like sections of wood were part of the exterior. By 1950 the real wood option had disappeared and the all-steel woodie (aka “tin woodie”) was the only type of wagon you could get, styling that would continue until 1953 when a whole new line of Chevy wagons (the 150) made its debut. Terry, an alum of Auburn’s football team, had a friend who played football back in high school with Jimmy Posey, who now owns Big Oak Garage, one of the better rod shops in the country. The shop is located in Hokes Bluff (about an hour north of where Terry lives) and not long ago Terry and Posey met up at a World of Wheels show where Terry was showing a ’55 Chevy convertible, and the two discussed the wagon and agreed on what needed to be done. Big Oak went after the project from the ground up, starting off by building a whole new chassis setup with the factory 116-inch wheelbase measurement. Up front a Heidts’ 60 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
independent suspension system went in while out back a Ford 9-inch rear (3.73:1) was used and a custom triangulated four-link was fab’d in the shop, with the chassis’ rear ’rails stepped inward 2-1/2 inches to accommodate the new, wider wheels. A custom 15-gallon aluminum gas tank was also made for the project. RideTech coilover shocks are
found on each corner, as are Wilwood drilled 12-inch rotors equipped with four-piston calipers. Wilwood also supplied the 1-inch bore master brake cylinder that works with an ABS electric power brake system. Steering is aided by a Flaming River rack-and-pinion unit and tilt steering column (topped with a CON2R wheel), and Big Oak
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THAT OL’ TIN WOODIE fab’d the pedal assembly that uses Clayton Machine Works pedals. The Schott Velocity wheels (18x8 and 20x10) are wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero 225/45-18 and 295/40ZR20 tires. For power, a ’99 LS1 (346 cubes) with a 10:1 compression ratio (and outfitted with a Vintage Air Front Runner that aligns the water pump and alternator with one belt) went in and Brice Thomas Radiators custom-made the radiator. Big Oak Garage built the engine cover and air intake and they used polished Speedway Tru-Ram LS1 headers and Borla mufflers that work with their own 2-1/2-inch stainless steel exhaust system. The engine backs to a 4L60E transmission (operated by a Lokar shifter), which connects to a PST driveshaft. The wagon’s body was not overdone while at Big Oak—they simply removed some of the trim and changed the B-pillar to copy the angle found on the rear doors. They customized the taillight housings and completed the required bodywork before spraying the PPG Toreador Red paint, which appears as varying shades of red depending on how the light hits it. Terry calls Tommy Brock from Birmingham “an outstanding artist” who does airbrush artwork and brought him into the picture when it was time to hand-paint the woodgrain on the wagon, and it looks flawless.
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The wagon’s original dash design was left intact, though Big Oak did add a small lip at the bottom to house the vents for the car’s A/C system, and New Vintage USA gauges (including a small clock mounted to the pod on top of the dash) are in the car’s stock gauge locations. Not obvious is the hidden stereo system from Secretaudio and Alpine speakers installed by Big Oak, who used a Centech panel to organize the car’s wiring needs. M&M Hot Rod Interiors covered the Chrysler 300M bucket seats and a custom rear seat with a pleated tan leather, and used the same material along with some tweed material for the door panels while adding squareweave carpet below.
One thing Terry didn’t want is a roof chop, but he did think there was a lot of extra space above once you sat in the car. So, at a flea market in Florida, he found a small surfboard that was mounted to the headliner to take up the extra space as well as provide an artistic focal point (besides: every woodie needs to have a surfboard, right?). A lot of builders think doing more is better, but Big Oak Garage is known for their clean and uncluttered builds—a look they achieve by modifying only what’s necessary and not going overboard with the customizing. Not going too far is a trick to master, but one Big Oak Garage has obviously figured out with another stunning build.
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Holiday Gift Guide
The Painless Pro Series gives you everything you need to wire up your Pro Touring or custom ride right the first time! Providing you with over 25 GM connectors and terminals, insulated and non-insulated butt splices, heat shrink, grommets, cable ties, and cable tie clips. Available in 21 or 28 circuits with grommet firewall pass-through, with bulkhead and truck harnesses releasing soon!
New Port Engineering has been the leader in windshield wiper upgrades for over 27 years. They offer over 180 all-new, bolt-in motor replacement kits and complete wiper assemblies for many popular GM, Ford, and other classic cars and trucks. Standard features include a modern heavy-duty, two-speed, self-parking motor that is smaller and more powerful than the originals. Options include intermittent delay switches and washer pump kits. See the complete application list online. Drive through the rain safely with a New Port wiper upgrade.
Interactive jewelry for men and women. Tug on your heartstrings with the Gear Necklace by sliding the pendant along its chain and setting the gears in motion. Spin in style with the Gear Ring by turning the outer rims so that all the gears rotate in unison. Patented. Lifetime warranty. Free shipping.
• Painless Performance Products (817) 244-6212 painlessperformance.com
• New Port Engineering (800) 829-1929 | (636) 239-1698 newportwipers.com
• Kinekt Design (888) 600-8494 kinektdesign.com
64 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
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Art Morrison Enterprises is offering its line of GT Sport high-performance replacement chassis for ’47-’53 Chevrolet trucks, ’55-’59 Chevy trucks, and ’53-’56 Ford F-100s. They feature all of the necessary cab/bed mounts as well as the core support and engine/transmission mounts. Available complete with performance-tuned independent front suspension and rear suspension and 9-inch housing. Designed with the homebuilder in mind, these chassis are a true bolt-in replacement that will dramatically improve the ride and handling of your classic car.
Energy Suspension’s early GM motor and transmission mount set completes any hot rod engine swap. Offered for GM three-bolt and clam shell– style motor mounts, many of Energy’s sets include a pair of safety interlock designed motor mounts and transmission mount made with race-proven Hyper-Flex performance polyurethane in zinc or chrome-plated metal finish. Energy’s mounts are virtually indestructible, designed to handle high horsepower and torque yet are compliant for acceptable NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) levels. Made in America, the mount sets are available in red or black polyurethane.
The Billet-Power Front Steer Rack & Pinion (Mustang style) is designed to fit Mustang II applications (15.5 or 16 inch available). • All new components, including valve, piston, seals, bearings and bushings, and pinion and rack gears • More than 6 inches of travel for full turning radius • Longer cylinder and overlapping tube design for rack stability • Lifetime serviceability
•Art Morrison Enterprises Inc. (800) 929-7188 artmorrison.com
•Energy Suspension (888) 292-1250 energysuspension.com
•Flaming River (866) 815-3669 flamingriver.com
The ’35-’40 Ford Custom IFS and 4-Link chassis frame features main rails that are constructed using stamped U.S.-supplied steel and fully boxed for increased rigidity while retaining the original profile. Made in the USA for over 40 years, TCI Engineering offers a wide variety of options that allow you to custom tailor a chassis to meet your specific needs. Call now for special pricing.
Looking for a unique update for your Buick Grand National? The Budnik GNB combines original design cues with the contemporary curves of Budnik’s X-Series wheels to create a beautiful new lightweight wheel. This CAD designed, forged, CNCmachined aluminum wheel also features a billet aluminum center cap with the familiar GN badge. Available in 15-, 17-, and 18-inch diameters, the GNB is most popular in 17x8/17x9.5 and 18x8/18x9.5 staggered fitments. Shown in polished finish with black-coated pockets. Design. Dimension. Finish. Custom built to fit.
Lokar’s Lakester series of throttle assemblies, door handles, and window cranks are sure to add a touch of nostalgia to your hot rod or custom. The throttle assembly is fully adjustable and utilizes Delrin bushings for super smooth operation. Matching door handles and window cranks feature 360-degree adjustment and are available for most Ford and GM applications. All are available in black, chrome, and raw finishes.
•Total Cost Involved Engineering Inc. (866) 925-5760 totalcostinvolved.com
•Budnik Wheels Inc. (714) 892-1932 budnik.com
•Lokar Inc. (877) 469-7440 lokar.com STREETRODDER.COM I DECEMBER 2017
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Enjoy the comfort and benefits of an independent suspension system in your early car or truck. CPP’s Mustang II IFS Suspension kit comes with a crossmember, coil springs, big 11-3/4-inch rotors for ultimate braking, performance gas shocks, tubular control arms, power or manual rack-and-pinion, 3/4-inch-diameter sway bar, forged hubs, and Big Bore calipers (20 percent more piston area). Available with stock height or 2-inch lowered spindles in all popular bolt patterns, including: 5x4.5, 5x4.75, 5x5, 5x5.5, or 6x5.5. Available coilover or air-ride upgrades. Kits start at $1,489, all CPP parts come with a lifetime warranty.
With the HTP Quick Spot II, anyone can make factory-looking spot welds quickly, easily, and affordably. This 220V powerhouse produces 6,000 amps, making rust and panel repairs a snap. Welds with virtually no warpage and finishing work is minimized because no metal is added in the process. Just select the thickness of the panels you’re welding, squeeze the handles together, and the Quick Spot II does the rest. Starting at $636.
• Classic Performance Products (800) 760-8536 classicperform.com
• HTP America/USA Weld (800) USA-WELD usaweld.com
QA1’s Hot Rod Series Shocks are traditional-looking hot rod shocks with modern-day performance adjustability. Made of chrome-plated billet aluminum, they provide a sleek classic look that street rodders pride themselves on. These smooth body shocks are offered with or without a bell-shaped dust cover, which provides an extra nostalgic style consistent with the appearance of classic street rods.
Delta PAG’s high-performance Brushless Cooling Fans use cutting-edge technology for ultimate cooling performance. •Moves over 2,800 cfm at only 2.70 inches thin •Reduce amp draw (only 13 amps for 2,800 cfm) •Increase reliability (lasts 10x longer) •Infinitely adjustable •Soft-Start tech eliminates power spikes •Thinnest, most efficient 2,800 cfm on the market With their digital controller you can adjust speed and on/off temperatures for two fans independently. Control fans with your OEM/aftermarket computer. Fan kits include waterproof wiring harness, digital controller, brushless fan, and sensor. No relays or temp switches needed for a brushless system, increasing reliability. Ask about fabricating a custom aluminum shroud for only $89. Complete cooling packages also available; radiator, shroud, and fan(s) for any vehicle for as low as $600.
March Performance manufactures the largest selection of serpentine kits, pulleys, and brackets anywhere. With 27 years of experience and thousands of parts, they have the correct solution for you. March Performance has quality serpentine systems, brackets, and pulleys for Chevy, Ford, Chrysler, Olds, Buick, and AMC. Rugged clear powdercoating ensures years of lasting beauty, no polishing required. They also have chrome and other custom finishes. Let their tech crew assist you in customizing the correct kit in your price range for you.
• QA1 (800) 721-7761 qa1.net
• Delta PAG (212) 203-2912 deltapag.com
• March Performance (888) 729-9070 marchperformance.com
66 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
JJ’s Rods now offers a new steering column firewall rubber boot seal kit in two sizes: 1-1/2(non-tilt) and 2-inch (tilt). An optional polished or FINNED (old-school, valve cover look) stainless steel insert located above the steering column is also available (not pictured). The stainless steel 304 is high-mirrored polished #8 paired with chrome plated stainless steel mounting hardware—no rusting! The steering column firewall rubber boot seal kit retails at $69.95, plus shipping. Pricing for the optional polished and FINNED stainless steel inserts retail at $14.95 and $19.95, respectively, plus no extra charge for shipping. • JJ’S Rods and E-Z Firewall Rubber Boots jjsrods.com
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Scott’s Hotrods ’N Customs is the premier custom suspension manufacturer. IFS kits, four-bar kits, and the MOST complete chassis for practically ANY vehicle from 1925-1987. Scott’s Independent Front Suspension kits are 100 percent better than an adapted Mustang II. If you are looking for a top-quality suspension built specifically for your vehicle at a reasonable price, Scott’s is your answer.
CVR Inc. now offers a vane-style vacuum pump for vehicles using engine combinations that provide little or no manifold vacuum. When vacuum drops below 15 inches of vacuum the CVR Electric Vacuum Pump activates and increases the vacuum level to 20 inches of vacuum. The unit is a completely self-contained, self-regulating unit. New advanced design offers 50 percent more vacuum than CVR’s diaphragm-style vacuum pump. It has 20 percent less noise and vibration and 35 percent less weight and is available in Cast Aluminum or Black Anodized Billet Aluminum.
Phoenix Machine’s five-gauge aluminum hot rod panel with stainless steel engine turned insert looks great in any hot rod with a flat-style dash. The panel starts with 3/4-inch-thick 6061 aluminum then CNC machined. The outer rim is polished to a mirror shine with recessed appearance for the engine-turned insert. Machined for most all popular 3-3/8 and 2-1/16-inch gauges.
• Scott’s Hotrods ’N Customs (800) 273-5195 scottshotrods.com
• CVR Inc. (613) 623-8064 cvrproducts.com
• Phoenix Machine (920) 841-0500 phoenixmachinellc.com
Here’s the perfect stocking stuffer for every car owner on your list. America’s top car builders and owners depend on The Absorber to keep their umpteen-thousand-dollar cars dry. It’s available in six colors. You’ll find The Absorber wherever better appearance care products are sold … among them, Advance Auto Parts, Autozone, K-mart, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Pep Boys, and Wal-Mart. So, take an Absorber and stuff it in the stocking of every car owner you know!
Keep tools at your fingertips with drawers that glide on smooth ball-bearing slides, folding magnetic trays, and a tool rack on the back. The MYCHANIC Sidekick Stool’s deep-cushioned seat keeps you comfortable for hours. With a heavy-duty steel frame and oversized 3-inch rubber casters, it supports 450 pounds and rolls over cracks easily. It arrives ready to ride, just screw on the wheels.
Keep projects rolling along with “Rugged Rollers.” These multi-purpose steel wheels are made in the USA and feature 1/4-inch-thick steel plate rims and 3/4x14 square tubing “tires” to last a lifetime. Users include media blasters, paint shops, storage facilities, chassis builders, and so on. Additional information, styles, and options can be found online.
• Clean Tools (800) 654-3933 cleantools.net
• MYCHANIC (800) 587-0882 mychanic.com
• Rugged Rollers (833) 668-3739 ruggedrollers.com STREETRODDER.COM I DECEMBER 2017
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UTV five- or three-speaker audio systems; everything in one box. This system features the best of a collaboration between SSV Works and KICKER to bring your side-by-side the cleanest and loudest powersports audio system available. No soldering, no cutting, no crimping! Simply bolt in the pre-installed KICKER subwoofer and speakers and pre-tuned KICKER amplifiers with the included plug-and-play wiring harness.
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68 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
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it’s what drives hot rodders to create something from scratch, often starting with a blank canvas. The imaginative part of the equation often rises from a pile of parts, many times assembled by canvassing an endless string of swap meets to locate just the right combination of bits to bring something to life. Regardless of whether you have designs on building a traditional-styled car, one with contemporary flair, of something in between, one thing for sure is that something or someone inspired you to do so. Many times once a project gets started it gains momentum and continues onto completion, however on occasion there are times when they sometimes get stalled, needing someone else to bring them to completion. For Bill Towers of Milford, Delaware, hot rodding runs deep in his blood—ever since being introduced to hop-ups over 50 years ago by his dad. As early as 1958 his memories revolve around regular family trips to Georgetown Speedway to By CHUCK VRANAS ❘ Photography by THE AUTHOR
BRILLIAN Bill Towers’ ’32 Ford Packs a Hemified Punch
70 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
watch stock car racing at its finest while also building scale kit models of his heroes’ rides at the kitchen table. By the age of 16 he began a racing career spanning 20 years where he raced everything from stock cars to Sprint Cars at numerous tracks. The other side of the coin was a deep fascination of traditional hot rods that ruled the local streets as he was growing up. It was this attraction that eventually led him down a path to start the search for a ’32 Ford roadster project. The car would have to have plenty of traditional vibe and classic style already infused into the build. Many times all you have to do is let friends know what you are looking for if you are in the right circle. For Bill, it didn’t take long till he
received a phone call telling him about an extraordinary car that had just been offered up for sale. A trip to West Springfield, Massachusetts, brought him face to face with a postwar-styled Deuce roadster project that was being built by the late Gary Philbrick. The car embodied many of the values Bill was looking for and it was a full roller loaded with a vintage driveline and fresh body from Brookville Roadster. He immediately felt a connection with the car, so a deal was made with the family and the project was shipped home to be completed. In creating the car, Gary had invested quite a lot of time dialing in many of the fine details that would all be retained as it moved onto completion. Starting with
NT IN BLUE STREETRODDER.COM I DECEMBER 2017
BRILLIANT IN BLUE the chassis, Gary had Fred Rosner of Gill, Massachusetts, build the spine, starting with a fresh set of ASC ’rails to which he added an original Deuce center crossmember as well as Model A front and rear members. It was boxed for additional strength and treated to a vintage Halibrand Engineering Culver City V-8 quick-change rear packed with 3.78:1 gears and suspended in place by ’40 Ford ’bones combined with a Model A spring and Monroe tube shocks. To add tradition up front a Super Bell 4-inch dropped axle was
deftly matched to ’40 Ford spindles linked to a stock Deuce wishbone that soaks up the bumps through a Posies leaf spring and Monroe tube shocks. For plenty of stopping power a dual master pushes juice through steel lines to ’46 Ford binders at each corner capped with ’58 Buick finned aluminum drums. To link it all to the street nothing looks better than a set of gennie 16-inch Ford steelies wrapped in Coker/Firestone wide whites sporting Mercury caps ’n’ rings. A main focal point of any classic
hot rod is in its mill so it was an easy decision for Gary to want to set a Hemi between the ’rails. To handle this he went right to Barry Kuhnel of West Springfield to build a fire-breathing V-8 packed with a speed shop full of go-fast goods. Starting with a ’56 Chrysler 331ci V-8, it was machined to perfection and packed with a stock crank and rods linked to Keith Black pistons while an Isky stick sets the beat. The stock heads were warmed-over yielding plenty of seamless power while up top an Offenhauser log
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BRILLIANT IN BLUE intake gets fed through a squadron of Rochester 2GC carbs wearing crowns from Stelling & Hellings. It all sparks to life through a Vertex magneto with spent gases dumping through custom headers and exhaust by Bad Donkee Hot Rods, of Hanover, Pennsylvania. Power moves through a classic ’39 Ford trans refreshed by Kuhnel to a torque tube and onto the rearend. There’s nothing like starting with fresh steel so Gary added a newly struck Deuce roadster body from Brookville Roadster, accented by a 2-inch chopped windshield, vintage BLC headlights, and cool ’36 Chrysler Airflow taillights to the mix. To bring the primed shell to completion Bill had the team at Bad Donkee Hot
Rods work the body to perfection, setting all the gaps and getting it ready for plenty of glamour. Staying true to the car’s original vision, Bill had Richard and Brandon Glymph of Maryland lay down a decadent coating of Axalta Peacock Blue gloss to complete the vibe. Paul Quinn added just the right amount of brush strokes for the final bit of custom details to the body. To give the interior just the right bit of allure, Gary visited the L.A. Roadsters Show swap meet years ago and located a pristine ’32 Ford dash packed with an original Auburn gauge cluster and tachometer to monitor the car’s vitals. A Ford Crestliner steering wheel plots
the course while an original Ford shifter pulls gears. To complete the interior in grand style the car was sent off to Sholley’s Trim Shop in Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, to stitch up a winning combination of traditional-pleated white vinyl with accenting door and kick panels and medium blue loop-style carpeting. The Bad Donkee team then finalized everything with a custom wiring harness and detailing. Bill tells us that his finest moment with the car was being able to show it to Gary’s mom so she could see his design elements and vision reach completion. The roadster is accumulating plenty of miles now, and to us that’s just plain cool.
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Making Stainless Windshield Posts
There’s a process for making custom windshield posts By Ron Covell ❙ Photography by the Author
The windshield posts on a roadster are one of those details that help establish the look of the car and the style of the build. While most people work with original or aftermarket parts, there are a few who want to create a “clean sheet of paper” design, and have the determination to build their windshield posts from scratch. One such individual is Donald Houseman, from Watsonville, California. Houseman has been working for several years on a completely handbuilt roadster, and when it came time to mount the windshield, he wanted to do it his own way. Houseman is a master fabricator and has several car builds under his belt, but he wanted to delve into new territory for his current project. His roadster looks a lot like a '27 Ford Model T, but every bit of the body and chassis is handcrafted. While Houseman liked the general style of the original Model T windshield post, he wanted to chop the posts about 8 inches and reduce the scale by about 12 percent, which gives the car a more refined appearance. And just to make things more interesting, he decided to make his posts from stainless steel—a material that can be polished to look like chrome and that lasts nearly forever but is notoriously difficult to work with.
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76 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
an original windshield post as a guide, paper patterns are made to help visualize the 1 Using proportions of the new post.
TECH So, where do you start on a project like this? Houseman used scissors to cut out a number of paper templates, adjusting the size, shape, angle, and position to fine-tune his design. Once he had a promising paper pattern he transferred it to a piece of aluminum sheet, which holds its shape much better than paper. This metal template was temporarily held into position against the cowl and scrutinized from all directions to make sure there were no “bad” angles. It’s important that all the design details are finalized before you start cutting and shaping the stainless sheet, since any revisions will take a lot of extra time. Houseman broke the post into four distinct elements. The largest, the vertical stanchion, was fashioned as a front and rear element; the mounting flange was made as a separate element (although it was later divided into three pieces); and final element is the channel that holds the glass. The front and back of the windshield post are very nearly flat and the post has a graceful taper when viewed from the side. There is a full radius curve that joins the front and back elements.
Once the size and shape of the post is When the pattern is finalized, it is used to 2aluminum dialed-in, the paper pattern is transferred to 3 cut a piece of 14-gauge stainless sheet. In sheet, which is scrutinized from all this shot, an Erco flanging machine is being angles and adjusted as necessary.
used to curve the outside edge of the part.
the part with the edge curled to 90 The mounting flange starts as a flat piece 4shapeHere’s degrees. A hammerform could be used to 5 of stainless sheet, and a lip is formed on this edge, too. one edge.
Houseman chose 14-gauge 304 stainless sheet for this project, and he used a bandsaw to cut out the blanks for the front and back of the post stanchion. Next, he curled the outside edges of these pieces to 90 degrees, so they formed a full radius on the edge when joined by welding. Houseman has a rare Erco flanging machine that he used for making this curl, but it could have been done with the hammerforming process, as well. One of the most challenging details on this part is the transition between the vertical stanchion and the mounting flange, which attaches the post to the cowl. There is a tightly radiused “valley” between these two features, and trying to smooth a weld in this valley would have been quite problematic. Houseman took the approach of putting a full 90-degree lip on the flange while it was still flat and then bending this part slowly and carefully to match the contours of the cowl. Once the contour was established, the lip was trimmed to neatly fit the stanchion and they were tack-welded together. This is painstaking work, and it requires a lot of tweaking and adjusting to get the fit just-so, but as
bending dies 6pressSimple are used on an arbor to curve the part as needed to fit the cowl.
The part is trial-fitted against the cowl. 7windshield The blue tape shows the angle of the post stanchion.
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TECH you will see in the photos, the results are definitely worth it. The last major part was the inner face of the post, which has a channel for the glass. The original Model T has a hinged inner frame to hold the glass, but Houseman eliminated this separate frame, giving the windshield a very slender and graceful look.
He formed flat stainless stock with custom tooling on a Pullmax machine to establish the channel on an oversized piece of flat metal. This part could have been made on a press brake as well. Then he used heat and hand pressure to gently bend the channel into a curve to match the windshield post. Once the oversize plate fit perfectly,
it was clamped against the post, and the overhanging portions of the channel were marked and trimmed in preparation for welding. Anyone who was worked with stainless quickly learns that welding causes an alarming amount of distortion, regardless of how accurate the fit-up, how small the part fits perfectly, the standing 8of theOnce flange is trimmed to match the bottom stanchion and the parts are tack-welded together.
the first two sections of the post are 9canAfter tacked together, the front of the stanchion be tack-welded into place.
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you keep the weld bead, and how frequently you pause your welding to let the part cool. This meant that Houseman was faced with many, many steps of adjusting to restore the contour and fit of the posts after each welding stage. Once the welding and adjusting was completed, the posts were sanded to perfection before they were sent out for polishing. The processes used to make these windshield posts could be used to make any number of fancy automotive components, large and small; stanchions for headlights and taillights are one example. One of the keys to making a complicated part like this is deciding how many pieces to make it from and where to position the seams. In general, it’s best to avoid welded joints in the middle of large flat areas since that gives you more distortion. The more contour the parts have, the less distortion you get, but remember that when working with stainless, there will always be considerable distortion, so plan to straighten the parts after welding.
Next, a second piece of stainless sheet Once the parts are tack-welded together, 10 is flanged and curved to match the cowl. 11 the edges of the mounting surface can be The fit of the part is being tested here. trimmed to the proper shape.
A sliver of the 12 fillet is cut free, heated with an oxy-acetylene torch, and bent, forming the tight radius curve needed at the bottom of the stanchion.
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After rough trimming, the part is test-fitted the fillet is curved and tack-welded to the base of the stanchion, a flat piece of stainless 14 against the cowl. Note the dashed line 13 After is fitted to complete the bottom of the mounting flange. showing where further trimming is needed.
machine was 15sizedAusedtoPullmax to make this channel, fit the rubber gasket for the glass. This could also be done with gooseneck dies on a press brake.
and hand pressure are used to the channel is properly formed, it is 16Heat arch the channel into the proper profile. 17Once clamped to the post and marked for trimming.
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After trimming and tack-welding the 18 channel and test-fitting the post on the cowl again, the welding is completed, using
Now the welded areas are carefully Great care is needed to keep from 19 sanded smooth with a 50-grit disc on a 20 gouging the small fillet where the 7-inch disc sander. stanchion meets the mounting pad.
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the part after polishing. Stainless are the posts positioning the windshield on the cowl. Now you see the payoff 21 Hereâ€™s can be made to look just like chrome. 22 Here from all the meticulous work that went into fabricating these custom parts.
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15-YEAR JOURNEY feature
Tony Jobson’s ’32 Ford is Straight Outta Koolsville rowing up as a youngster in the ’60s you were surrounded by an endless stream of eye candy everywhere you looked, including the hippest cartoons, the dawn of Hot Wheels cars, and some of the coolest designs to ever roll out of Detroit. Of course there was also the ever-present AM radio cranking out tunes on the front porch while paving the way for the iconic Sunday when the wildest nitro-fueled dragsters and Funny Cars were headed to town to do battle on the quarter-mile. By CHUCK VRANAS ❘ Photography by THE AUTHOR
84 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
As a right of passage, one of the most important stops of the week was to the local hobby shop to check out everything from the latest model kits to slot cars and muscle bikes to fuel the fire. For Tony Jobson of Brewerton, New York, model building got him hooked on hot rodding by being able to first experience it right at the family kitchen table as he assembled the hop-ups heâ€™d see on the dragstrip and street right before his very eyes. With AMT kits being his favorite, each one presented unique challenges and allowed him to personalize them with options and color choices. Being supported by his dad and uncles who were also heavily into the local hot rod and custom scene brought everything full circle with each event theyâ€™d attend together. STREETRODDER.COM I DECEMBER 2017
15-YEAR JOURNEY Tony channeled his creativity into a number of builds, including a clean ’57 Chevy then following with a full-custom ’50 Chevy fastback and eventually a chopped ’49 Chevy for his daughter, Molly. As the years passed he met his lovely wife, Donna, and being a family who shares a mutual enjoyment for rods and customs, it was easy to keep busy in the garage on a regular basis. While doing all this Tony still spent plenty of time building kit models, each one more elaborate, melding ideas, colors, and drivelines. One, in fact, came so close to his idea for the ultimate ’60s-styled hot rod he actually decided to set out a plan to build it in real life. Of course nothing happens overnight, and this was the start of a 15-year journey, thanks to the purchase of a ’32 Ford pickup cab from his good friend Dino.
To create a low-slung frame as a base for the project, Tony brought his design to Damon Towner of Heritage Metal Works in Syracuse, New York. In crafting the spine Towner started with 44 inches of original Model A front framerails melded to rectangular steel stock, gracefully stepped 5 inches at the firewall and kicked 5 inches after the cab while also pinching the rear ’rails. It’s woven together with a SO-CAL Speed Shop Model A front crossmember and custom center and rear members. Out back, a vintage ’66 Ford 8-inch rear built by Gevo’s spins 3.72:1 gears and is suspended in place by ladder bars from Pete & Jakes combined with a transverse leaf spring, Speedway Motors Panhard bar, and Monroe air shocks. To give the truck a slammed stance 86 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
up front a Speedway Motors chrome 4-inch dropped tube axle wears ’48 Ford spindles with matching tube shocks deftly matched to a Speedway transverse leaf spring and hairpin radius rods. To slow the speed a Ford Mustang dual master pushes juice through stainless lines to ’48 Ford juice brakes anchored at each corner. Bringing it to the street are a set of 15-inch steelies shod with Coker Classics in a true big ’n’ littles combination topped with spun aluminum discs from Mooneyes. Nothing makes a statement more than a wicked mill nailed in place between the framerails. Tony wanted to up the ante with something truly different so he contacted Bob Mead of Syracuse to assemble a killer ’59 Chevy 235ci straight-six. Mead massaged the block to perfection
and filled it with a freshened stock crank and rods linked to pistons from Patrick’s Antique Cars & Trucks of Arizona while a stick from Howards Cams sets the beat. Up top the stock cylinder head was refreshed and treated to a Clifford Performance intake capped with a Weber two-barrel carb crowned by an air cleaner from O’Brien Truckers. Added icing comes from a highly polished Wayne side and valve cover. A Langdon’s Stovebolt ignition lights the fire while a set of homespun headers dump the spent gases. Power moves rearward through a Saginaw four-speed trans by Syracuse Auto Gear to a custom driveshaft from Fleet Pride of Syracuse. In order to achieve the final bit of styling on the build Tony channeled the fiberglass cab 6-3/4 inches over
15-YEAR JOURNEY the frame, while also enlisting the talents of Damon Towner once again to fabricate the custom pickup bed. To complete the vision with perfect proportions a Deuce grille added as just the right element to complete the look along with a custom rear tube bumper and ’50 Pontiac taillights. Tony then worked alongside Monte Vigliotti of Syracuse to massage the body to perfection, set the gaps, and prepare it all for paint. For just the right flash, Tony custom blended a dramatic purple R-M Diamont vibe in homage to his Beatnik club members and had Vigliotti lay down the color, bringing it all to life. Joe Alexander of Stafford, Connecticut, and Brian O’Hara of Brewerton added the final icing with custom pinstriping to complete the look. Bringing the business office to life, Tony filled the stock dash with a finned aluminum Champion gauge panel packed with Stewart-Warner dials to monitor the vitals. A classic white Speedway Motors steering wheel mounted to a matching column plots the course while a custom mile-high shifter cuts the
gears. Tony wired the truck using a kit from Painless Performance while also crafting the bench seat. El Sol Auto Upholstery of Liverpool then stitched up a winning combination of rolls and pleats in white marine vinyl accented by black loop carpet
to complete the look. Tony also wants to thank his good friend Tom Frank for help on the project throughout the build. This is one cool build, bringing a lifetime of kit modeling to life, and to us that’s just plain bitchin! For the digital experience visit: http://bit.ly/2vZL4JD
88 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
The ARP/STREET RODDER Road Tour '57 Chevy convertible is covered exclusively in PPG products from nose to tail. Woody’s Hot Rodz is licensed by GM and was responsible for the car’s construction, including the paint and flames.
2017 ARP/STREET RODDER Road Tour Build Woody’s Hot Rodz Gives Our ’57 Chevy the “Wow” Factor By Ron Ceridono ❙ Photography by Robert McGaffin
There are hundreds of details that set one street rod apart from another, but perhaps the most obvious is the paint. There’s nothing that creates the “wow” factor like a mile-deep finish. At one time the way to get that look was to apply layers of lacquer followed by hours of sanding and then more coats of lacquer. Finally, clear lacquer was piled on top of the color followed by more sanding and more clear. While these paintjobs looked great, they were extremely labor intensive, and worse yet they were susceptible to rock chips, cracking, and the clear often yellowed with prolonged exposure to sunlight. Fortunately today there are better alternatives to produce a pristine paintjob with modern products, including PPG’s line of waterborne products: Aquabase Plus and Envirobase. When the subject of waterborne paint comes up some may recall the early, ill-fated factory attempts at alternative products. The goal was to reduce the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the solvents used to thin and transport the paint to the surface
• Source It •Woody’s Hot Rodz (812) 637-1933 woodyshotrodz.com •PPG (440) 572-2800 ppgrefinish.com •Golden Star Classic Auto Parts (972) 315-3758 goldenstarauto.com •Motor City Solutions (734) 947-9447 motorcitysolutions.com
90 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
assembled the body from individual panels from Golden Star Classic Auto Parts. The 1theWoody’s chassis is from The Roadster Shop and Presenting Sponsor Chevrolet Performance supplied ZZ6 small-block.
like the originals, the new body seams 2awayJust have to be filled. The first step is to grind the factory protective coating and get down to bare metal.
FIRST IN FIT, FINISH AND PERFORMANCE!
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Full length for ’65-up Chevelles & El Caminos & ’67-’72 Chevy Pickups Great choice for LS engines in these popular models. Big 1-7/8” tubes and 3” collectors for high horsepower applications. Some installations will require the use of stock motor mounts with Speedtech mount relocation plates.
LS Engines in Street Rods & Classic Trucks Our compact design ﬁts tight to the block. Only 7-3/4” from center of ﬂange to the bottom ring. 1-1/2” tubes and 2-1/2” collector. Plain Steel $345 • HiTemp Silver or Black Ceramic Coated $525
Plain Steel $555 • HiTemp Silver or Black Ceramic Coated $745
LIME FIRE'S that looks good on any fenderless rod. Hook up to an underchassis exhaust system or run ‘em wide open! One of three lakes style headers we make. Includes hardware and blockoff plates. Plain Steel from $575 • HiTemp Silver or Black Ceramic Coated from $795
SB Chevy in ’55-’57 Chevy Cars
ZOOMIE'S We build Zoomies for all popular and nostalgic motors, Big Block Chevy is shown. Please see our catalog or website for dimension diagrams and ordering info. Bafﬂes are included for street use. Plain Steel from $675 • HiTemp Silver or Black Ceramic Coated $875
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’55-up Chevy Pickups Big tube under chassis for 396-502 blocks. Works with stock and rack & pinion steering, and has great plug and accessory clearance including aftermarket AC. 1-7/8” tubes and 3’
’32-’48 Cars & Trucks, ’55-’63 Chevy Cars.’49-’54 Chevy & ’48-up Ford Pickups Tight ﬁt and top performance with big 1-7/8” tubes and 3” collectors. Great choice for limited
engine type when ordering. Plain Steel $435 • HiTemp Silver or Black Ceramic Coated $655
BB engine you have when ordering! Plain Steel $345 • HiTemp Silver or Black Ceramic Coated $535
Ford Square Port SB in Street Rods Fits SB 427 and Roush heads using the outer
Ford Windsor Roadster Headers One of seven Ford styles we offer!
Catalog has over 170 header designs plus tech info and car features. Just $6 Postpaid!
Fits Model A’s thru ‘34’s with any front end setup. When ordering specify your engine set back and type of cylinder heads. Includes 26” turnouts, mufﬂers, clamps and bolts. Plain Steel is available, please call for pricing • Plain Steel $435 • HiTemp Silver or Black Ceramic Coated $625
HiTemp Silver or Black Ceramic Coated $889
Sanderson products are handcrafted in our California factory. Please allow 2-3 Weeks for delivery.
Your Hot Rod Deserves The Finest Ride
that negatively impacted air quality. The substitute for these solvents was water, but while the intent was noble the end result left something to be desired; the paint peeled, often coming off in sheets, leaving primer behind. But that was then, this is now. PPG’s Aquabase Plus and Envirobase waterborne finishes are modern, low-VOC finishes that use high-tech latex resin pigments in a special acrylic waterborne latex resin for outstanding gloss and long-lasting color retention. One of the unique features of PPG’s waterborne products is what they describe as micro-gel, anti-settle technology. Basically that means the pigments are held in suspension and don’t settle or separate. No conventional mixing machines are required—by simply tilting the toner bottle back and forth three or four times it’s ready to pour. Interestingly, PPG waterborne pigments are half the thickness of solvent-based pigments, which results in greater opacity—another way of saying
“I purchased a rolling 1931 Ford complete chassis from TCI, and couldn't believe how well this car handles; the ride is better than I ever expected. When I need a chassis, TCI's my choice.” - Ron Swaggart
’28-31 FORD CUSTOM IFS & 4-LINK CHASSIS Shown with optional polished stainless package. Painting & powder coating for display only.
Heavy Duty Complete chassis Ball Joints come standard with: Heavy Duty Control Arms • Complete front & rear suspension • Complete frame with crossmembers • Custom steel brake lines SAVE $2,445* • Body & hood latch brackets Special Price! • Core support mount • 31 Spline axles and 11” drum brakes • Wilwood proportioning & check valves • Pedal assembly with master cylinder and booster • Small block engine and automatic transmission mounts • 9” Hot Rod Currie housing with your choice of gear set (3.00-4.56)
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than lead, modern polyester filler is 3andRather used to smooth the seams. It won’t crack isn’t the health hazard that comes with applying lead.
ON TCI MANUFACTURED ITEMS
© 2017 Total Cost Involved Engineering, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Frame features boxed main rails that are constructed using 2 x 4 x .125w rectangle U.S. supplied steel for increased rigidity while retaining the original profile.
the filler cures it’s sanded smooth and 4 After the rest of the body is lightly scuffed.
it covers better with fewer coats. In some cases, as much as 25 percent less sprayable base and 70-90 percent less reducer is required. While PPG’s waterborne paints provide outstanding results, there are some procedures that those using it should be aware of. Cleaning the surface is a critical component in the painting process. When using a pre-cleaner, such as DX330 Wax and Grease Remover or OneChoice SWX350 H20-SoClean Waterborne Pre-Cleaner, do not allow the cleaner to dry on the panel. Cleaners are designed to float contaminants to the surface and then be wiped with a clean, dry cloth. Although mixing machines are no longer required with waterborne paint, a DIN4 Viscosity Cup is required for quick and accurate determination of the paint’s thickness during the mixing process. The cup is filled with paint and then the flow is timed until there is a “clean break” in the stream of
had to be a little nerve wracking; Chris 5bodyThis Baldwin had to drill holes in our brand-new to attach the trim.
Driving Your Hot Rod Should Be A Pleasure. Randy Harris’s Flathead Powered ‘40 Ford Truck
Proven Technology From The Most Trusted Name In Performance Air Conditioning For over forty years our goal has been to bring all -season comfor t a n d reliab i l i t y t o ro d & c u s t o m e n t h u s i a s t s . A n d w e know t h a t installing air conditioning may seem complicated to the average car owner. But our factory trained distributors have years of experience guiding rodders through the simple steps of selecting just the right combination of system components and controls to complete your custom installation. If you have a good collection of hand tools and some experience with modifications, like a cam or carburetion, your installation will be a straight ahead project.
Vintage Air Systems Are Built To ISO 9001:2008 Quality Standards body shop crew (left to right) Kyle 6wentWoody’s Kaiser, Brian Graber, and Chris Baldwin over every inch of our '57 to ensure it was perfect—and it was.
No matter what type vehicle you are wanting to air condition, Vintage Air has the experience and components to get the job done right. Plus, if you should need additional advice, we have a full time technical staff ready to help. Call today to discuss your project.
Complete Catalog Online At: The first step to a long-lasting paintjob was 7grabs the application of PPG epoxy primer; it onto properly prepared surfaces and
PRODUCT INFORMATION LINE:
the products that follow grab onto the primer. Gen-II and Gen IV are trade names of Vintage Air Inc.
PUMP UP THE
HORSEPOWER An electric water pump will reduce the load on your engine, freeing up horsepower and more. Designed to fit almost every engine, the compact, lightweight, inline EWP pump mounts anywhere. Combined with a Davies Craig Electric Fan and digital controller, your engine’s cooling system will be performing ming at its best. Take control of cooling your engine with a Davies Craig Electric Water Pump:
TECH paint coming from the bottom of the cup, which according to PPG should be 23-28 seconds—more or less will require some adjustment to the mix. As the drying characteristic of waterborne paint is entirely different from that of solvent basecoats, heated booths or heatlamps are no longer used to reduce drying time. Waterborne paints require air movement to evaporate the water content in the paint film. Large air dryers are good for high-volume work or handheld air dryers can be used. To accommodate waterborne materials, manufacturers have developed spray guns with stainless steel or composite internal components along with needle, nozzle, and air cap designs that help with the uniform application of the highly viscous paint. Like any paint, PPG’s waterborne products require clean and dry air so the
More power, more cooling Increased fuel economy Extended engine life World-leading technology Inline fit
After the epoxy primer comes primer8to allow surfacer. It provides enough film thickness for block sanding. To help detect high Australian Made
and low areas, a guidecoat of a contrasting color is used.
For more information – 3pConnect LLC (909) 476-6068, email firstname.lastname@example.org or visit
daviescraig.com The secret to making the surface smooth 9additional and flat is block sanding; if necessary, primer-surfacer can be applied, followed by more block sanding. It’s labor intensive but the results are worth it.
Once the sheetmetal is determined to 10 be straight as a string, a coat of sealer designed to be used under waterborne topcoats is applied.
WWW.SOUTHERNRODS.COM best filters and driers are necessary. One thing that shouldn’t be used is an old-style paper filter to strain the paint. Waterbase products will dissolve the adhesive that holds the filter in place, and that goo is not something you want in the mix. Once the crew at Woody’s assembled the Golden Star Classic Auto Parts body panels. We had a complete ’57 Chevy body; the body shop crew took over—there were seams to fill, minor alignment issues to address, and there were test-fits of the top assembly and windshield. Once all the inspections were conducted and passed our ’57 was ready to be treated to a variety of PPG products. The first step was to cover the body with DP50LF epoxy primer that acts as a foundation for the products that follow. Next DPS3055 primer-surfacer was applied. This heavy-bodied material provides enough film build to
Hook it Up Special 2 Universal Joints and SRP Impala 24"of DD shaft. Wheel NO WELDING REQUIRED We are proud to announce Kit for $99.95 our new SRP brand Impala steering wheel. This Universal Joints 15" paintable steering wheel is the perfect fit Each.......$49.95 for your ride. Fits all GM columns up to 1994.
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contamination-free surface is critical, so 11wasAbefore color was applied the sheetmetal wiped down with PPG’s cleaner, developed for waterborne paint.
1955-56 Chevy Direct Fit
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To verify the paint is thinned properly a viscosity cup is used. The cup is first filled by dipping it into the thinned mixture.
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stopwatch is then used to determine 13stopsAwhen the stream of paint from the cup flowing continuously.
Rebel Wiring Kits 8 Circuit Harness $184.95 14 Circuit Harness $210.95 21 Circuit Harness $254.95 Includes GM column and headlight plugs. Color coded and labeled, wires attached to fuse block. MADE IN USA
1-800-STRT-ROD or www.southernrods.com
Southern Rods & Parts 2125 Airport Rd., Greer, SC 29615 Orders Only: 800-787-8763 Tech Line: 864-848-0601 Fax: 864-801-3417 We can save you $$$$ Follow us on facebook
All Prices Plus Freight -We Ship UPS Daily. Prices are subject to change without notice. © 2017 Southern Rods & Parts.
TECH fill minor imperfections. Next came block sanding until the body was laser straight, followed by ECS65 sealer for use under waterborne topcoats. With the body straight and smooth it was time for color. We chose PPG’s Nickle (brand code 918028/manufacturer code WA348N), then came DC4000 urethane clear for that mile-deep look we were after. As a contrast the dash was sprayed with Pull Me Over Red (brand code 935115/manufacturer code WA130X) and under the hood a mixture of Jet Black (brand code T407) plus 10 percent T404 (Trace Blue Black) was used. After the body was shining like a new nickel, it was treated to one of Woody’s Hot Rodz fabulous flamejobs that began with a basecoat of PPG’s Yella (brand code 908413), which faded into Performance Yellow (brand code 908420), and finished with O-So-Sexy Red (brand code 908328) on the tips. When the 2017 ARP/STREET RODDER Road Tour Chevy Presented by Chevrolet Performance rolled out of the paint booth there was only one word to describe it: “Wow!” That’s what we were looking for and that’s what Woody’s Hot Rodz gave us.
Prior to applying the Envirobase 14 colorcoats the body is cleaned once more with a tack cloth. It picks up any stray
with all basecoat-clearcoat paintjobs the 15 Ascolorcoat lacks gloss, but that will come.
contaminants that can cause obvious flaws in the final finish.
An air gun is often used with waterborne paint to help with evaporation and speed up the drying process.
1932 Ford Roadster by Johnson’s Hot Rod Shop Front Tires: Firestone Deluxe Champion 5.60-15 Rear Tires: Firestone Deluxe Champion 7.50-16 Wheels: Specialty Wheel Hot Rod Steel
Thanks to its sophisticated pigmentation, 17 Envirobase metallics, even those like our Nickle Metallic, come out even and blotch-free.
PPG’s aptly 19 named Pull Me Over Red was used on the dashboard and the interior trim. On the subject of gloss—after the 18 prescribed drying time, the colorcoat was covered with DC4000 urethane clear and we
On surfaces where a high-gloss surface 20 wasn’t wanted (inside the body, under the hood, in the trunk), PPG’s Black and Blue Black
got that mile-deep paintjob we were looking for.
with One Choice matting agent was used.
the final finish perfectly smooth After the paintwork was finished and the Coming or going, the PPG products gave 21ThereToandmake dust-free it was carefully polished. 22 flames applied, Motor City Solutions applied 23 our '57 the “wow” factor. is an art to this process as buffing XPEL protection film to the nose. through edges is easy to do.
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BURSTER Cliff Findlay’s Extreme Bel Air Sport Coupe
n 1962, Chevrolet was transitioning from shapely space age designs to what they refer to as a more rectilinear (less curvy) look; but not without giving its most notable achievement next to tail fins—the bubbletop—one last supporting role on showroom floors. What was once the maker’s top-of-the-line model just a decade prior, the car used to introduce Chevy’s all-new V-8 in 1955 had slowly been resigned to taking a back seat to their new king of the road, the mighty Impala. But prior to its down-ranking to a less-optioned economy model, the Bel Air was afforded its swan song in the form of the ’62 Sport Coupe hardtop. The last of the bubbletops, the car that got the previous year’s Impala SS hand-me-down roof, also got the all-new, dual-quad 409, the very beast that inspired a legendary song to be written about it, not to mention many a legendary drag racer to capitalize on it and that lesser-equipped body package wrapped around it.
It should go without saying that over the years the value of all versions of the ’62 Bel Air Sport Coupe have steadily risen in value (believe there was one last year that rolled through BarrettJackson fetching a quarter-million!). However, when it comes to hot rodding, oftentimes purity and preservation are thrown straight out the window. Case in point: Cliff Findlay’s bubbletop, taken to the
extreme by Ironworks Speed & Kustom, with its namesake hardtop and exterior sheetmetal the few remaining stock (or close to) identifiers. If the Ferrari Grigio Scuro Gray on the outside is any indication of what lies beneath, while Cliff’s Bel Air isn’t powered by a Berlinetta V-12, the aluminum LS2 that now resides where an old iron W-motor would have sure looks like it belongs in an
Italian supercar. Built by EVOD Industries (yep, they do more than just one-off wheels and accessories), the Gen IV Chevy 6.0L looks nothing of its original Corvette breeding, thanks to the design work of Kurt Urban and Eric Turner who gave EVOD the blueprints to create the elaborate cross-ram intake system sitting prominently atop. Tucked underneath are the intercoolers feeding the pair of 62mm TiAL
By ROB FORTIER ❘ Photography by ROBERT MCGAFFIN
98 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
STREETRODDER.COM I DECEMBER 2017
BUBBLE BURSTER Sport Garrett turbos visible behind the AutoRad core support unit mounted on intricate headers fabricated by Chad Wait, as well as a Holley Dominator EFI. By all means, this is definitely not your average LS engine— hell, we’d be surprised if the casual observer even knew what the real “heartbeat” was beneath all that exoticness. Ironworks didn’t stop with the powerplant (nor start for that matter) when it came to non-stock derivatives that now comprise Cliff’s Bel Air. The foundation for which it sits upon is completely custom built, featuring Corvette C6-based suspension up front and a four-linked 9-inch
out back, each set up with RideTech adjustable coilovers and 14-inch Wilwood brakes. The new chassis, with a set of 20- and 21-inch brushed, titanium-coated HRE wheels mounting Michelin Pilot Sports, gives the Chevy a real low, real nice static stance—one of the things Cliff, despite his 6-foot-8-inch stature, insisted on! Void of factory trim, emblems, and so on, the exterior modifications have been described as “just tightened up gaps with custom head and taillights,” according to Ironworks. Be that as it may, below Hugo Cruz’s paintwork are hours of gap tightening on top of panel-
BUBBLE BURSTER perfecting, bumper-squeezing, meticulous prepwork. The aforementioned bumpers, along with the minimal, accenting trim, wear the same brushed-titanium coating (all done by Pacific Coast Powdercoating) as the wheels, while the roof, grille, and rear tail panel offset the body’s Ferrari Gray with a satin black finish. The lighting is yet another unique touch, not that it’s modern LED based, rather, the method in which the front LEDs are utilized: integrated into 5.25-inch component speaker housings (the rears are custom-fit Lotus Elise). A far cry from the original cloth and vinyl trimmings, the Bel Air’s interior by Sid Chavers emits a much more
appropriate setting than any OE-optioned ensemble could, at least in this particular situation. The bright red and black leather strategically complements everything from the custom-built center console, the one-off machined aluminum dash, and even the pair of Mercedes SL500 bucket seats scored off eBay. Housed within that custom dash, just behind the leather-wrapped Budnik wheel, is the gauge cluster built specifically for the cause (featuring analog and digital instrumentation) by Dakota Digital. Cliff Findlay’s Bel Air is not your average bubbletop by a longshot—and that’s absolutely OK … it’s just what the owner ordered! For the digital experience visit: http://bit.ly/2xKfyNL
260 Welter Drive at Hot Rod Lane Monticello, IA 52310 877-373-1973 Fax - 888-329-9644
www.yogisinc.com www yogisinc com Steel, Stainless & Polished Steering shafts. 3/4”-36 spline or 3/4”-DD design Starting at...$25
Steel U-joints starting at...$80
In-Tank fuel pumps are available for poly and steel tanks. Pumps starting at...$205
Many styles and shapes of vents available!
Full wrapped leather wheels available in 11 colors. Starting at...$160 0
Door latches for Ford & Chevy available from Yogi’s.
Atomic EFI kits available in a Basic & Master Kit. Starting at...$2130
53-56 Ford F-100 Shown
Chevy gear reduction starters. Plain...$125 ~ Chrome...$150
Firewalls & Floorboards available for 28-59’s. Please call for pricing.
Residual Line Valves for Disc or Drum Brakes...$20 Proportional Valve...$42
Many styles and sizes available. Starting at...$481
Express GM, Ford and Mopar complete harness. Starting at...$460
Dakota ota Digital offers a wide range of remote entry systems to ﬁt your needs.
2500 CFM fans. 5 sizes available & only 2 5/8” thick...$298
Tight Tuck headers ﬁt tight to your engine block. Uncoated starting at...$157 Coated starting at...$285
For the best ride in Coilovers choose RideTech.
We have the parts to make your dreams come true. © YOGI’S, INC. 2017
Prices subject to change without notice!
FIRST AND LASTING
IMPRESSIONS The Joe Bailon ’49 Ford Shampoo Truck Ironically, it was a shampoo company—Head & Shoulders—that coined the phrase “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” back in the ’80s. While technically true, there is a slight exception to the real-world application of the jingle: of all things, the Joe Bailon–built Shampoo Truck. For those of you wondering how that can even be possible (or what it even means to begin with!), let me explain. Those of our readers with higher personal odometers (the older folk!) may very well remember when Bailon first introduced his version of an Australian Ute: the ’49 Ford “custom conversion truck” built for Horace Davi back in 1954. Being as Davi commissioned the build to also serve as a work vehicle, its doors were adorned to promote accordingly, and thus the Shoebox became known as the Shampoo Truck in reference to the Betty Elizabeth Shampoo hand-lettered logos. Bailon’s original customizing of Horace’s once-convertible Ford definitely left a lasting first impression on many. So how then can the same car, six decades after the fact, make first impressions all over again? Well …
Over the years, the Shampoo Truck, and all its original custom glory, succumbed to the toils of time, eventually being relinquished to a life of storage. But in that lonely state it would not meet its maker (or however you refer to a vehicle’s demise!), and come 2009 what remained of Bailon’s handiwork—from the 5-inch sectioning to sedan roof-skinned 3-inch chop, with bits and pieces in-between in varying degrees of decay—resurfaced (for sale, no less) at the Sacramento Autorama in 2009 … not too far from where it originally debuted at the Oakland Roadster Show 63 years earlier. That By ROB FORTIER ❘ Photography by ERIC GEISERT
104 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
PREMIUM ROD OF THE MONTH
event may well have provided first impressions on showgoers who’d never before seen the Ford, but that’s not the exception to the rule in question. Let’s continue … As it turned out, “has-been Harley dealer” Bob Dron stumbled across a classifieds ad for the Shampoo Truck in Hemmings Motor News— and unbeknownst to him, prior to
contacting the seller, was merely 10 miles from his house in Isleton, California, just south of Sacramento and west of Lodi (the latter of which will factor in shortly). Deal was made, the rolling relic hauled home, and then the realization began to set in—not of what Bob had just acquired but what little was left beneath the surface. Suffice it to
say, the Shampoo Truck needed a total restoration, but one a bit more extensive than originally anticipated, as much of the underlying remnants needed substantial work, if not completely replaced. East from Bob’s Delta Diamond Farms over in the city of Lodi is where much of this extensive resto would take place—at Jeff Nickell’s STREETRODDER.COM I DECEMBER 2017
FIRST AND LASTING IMPRESSIONS shop, Nickell’s Customs. First and foremost, the chassis needed to be addressed, as it was insufficient no matter how you looked at it. Bob opted to forgo its use altogether and had Nickell fab up a custom box-tube chassis (with MII and four-link) to better support the shoebox, not to mention afford a better ride as well. However, the ’57 Cad motor was retained, though it now mounts a newer 700-R4 overdrive trans. Further inner structure rehab entailed strengthening up and in some cases creating new supports for the rear bed section, along with the sheetmetal repair expected on a vehicle of this age. Then came the exterior—the preservation of Joe Bailon’s decades-old original customizing: 3-inch chopped top (based on a convertible header with removable sedan-skinned top), 5-inch section, 6-inch channel, frenched ’53 Merc headlights and ’54 Pontiac taillights, re-radiused wheel openings,
FIRST AND LASTING IMPRESSIONS custom grille surround, and so on. Once the bodywork phase had completed (all the while Bob was busy chasing down correct-year/ period-correct incidentals), Stockton’s Kandyman Ramirez (Ramirez Auto Body) aptly handled the truck’s PPG red and black paintjob that gets complemented by the ’46 Olds bumpers, ’53 Cad hubcaps, and Appleton spots brightened up by Sherm’s Custom Plating. Prior to Bob debuting the Shampoo Truck, where it would provide a whole new venue in which to offer first impressions for those never before having seen the custom, he sent the Ford down to SoCal for an individual whom Bob simply refers to as “the best”—that being Ron Mangus—to recreate the two-seater’s two-tone vinyl interior. A Crestliner steering from Quality Restorations and revamped vintage gauges courtesy of Classic Instruments were added before it was off to what many
108 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
consider the biggest custom show of them all, West Coast Kustoms’ Cruisin’ Nationals in Santa Maria, for its 2016 reveal and subsequent impression sessions. For me, regardless of how many times I’ve seen old customs in print,
there’s nothing quite like seeing them up close and personal—not to base opinions off, rather, to simply be in its presence, an experience that really can’t be expressed in words … or pictures. Truly a first and lasting impression.
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110 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
EVERY GAUGE A MASTERPIECE.
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For the digital experience visit: http://bit.ly/2uRJ72z
Mark Pappas’ Radical ’57 Corvette Shakes the Streets
BY CHUCK VRANAS
♦It’s not every day that you have the opportunity to display your car with some of the hottest rides on the ISCA show car circuit, then get it home, fill it with race fuel, and go drag racing. For Mark Pappas of Park Ridge, Illinois, his ’57 Chevy Corvette not only looks great under the lights, it shakes the local streets and then it runs blistering quarter-mile times at countless racetracks across the country.
Everyone gets indoctrinated into hot rodding on a personal level and for Mark it was no different. His journey began in 1973 when he first saw American Graffiti and immediately got consumed with its on-screen portrayal of hot rodding and its culture in the early ’60s. It wasn’t long till he was in high school and ready for his first car. He started with a ’57 Chevy Bel Air packed with a small-block V-8 and immediately became part of the local cruise scene, hanging out at the Jack in the Box while also checking out plenty of late night runs on the streets of Addison. As the years passed he moved onto a slew of hopped-up Chevys, 112 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
including Camaros, a ’66 Chevelle, and eventually a ’64 Corvette. Somehow though, something was missing. Over the decades he became more attracted to drag racing and had always envisioned owning a car that could do double-duty on the street and ’strip. There was only one stipulation; it had to be a vintage
Corvette. Well over a decade ago he began the search for a suitable car to start with till he located a ’57 Corvette. The car was a strippedout roller that barely survived a failed attempt by its prior owners to transform it into a race car. What was there was salvageable so a deal was made and the car was hauled home. This is a car that evolved over the last 10 years from an 11-second Pro-Street car to an ISCA-level show car and finally into an 8-second dual-purpose street/drag car. For a rock-solid base Mark went to Chris Duncan Race Cars (CDRC) in Chandlerville to design the chassis. The team fabricated a 4130 chromoly frame with custom crossmembers all built to racing specifications. Out back a FAB9 rearend housing was assembled with 41-spline Strange Engineering axles turning 4.56:1 gears hung in place by a custom four-link with antiroll bar and double-adjustable Strange Engineering coilover shocks. Up front a custom strut suspension designed by Adam Drzayich of Hickory Hills
features Strange Engineering struts and spindles as well as a Flaming River rack-and-pinion. If you’re going to go fast you’d better be able to stop on a dime so a Strange Engineering dual bowl master pushes fluid through stainless lines to matching 12-inch slotted and drilled discs all around with two-piston calipers rear and single pistons in front. Linking it all to the street, a set of custom Billet Specialties 15-inch wheels in 3.5-inch front and 15-inch rear widths wear Hoosier Quick Times rubber. When it came time to assembling a purpose-built engine capable of scorching times at the track Mark went to Reher-Morrison Racing Engines of Arlington, Texas, to assemble a 565ci big-block Chevy. Starting with a fresh Dart Big M aluminum block, the team massaged it to perfection and filled it with a Crower forged steel crank linked to custom Reher-Morrison H-beam connecting rods wearing Ross forged aluminum 14.5:1 pistons while a custom ground cam makes plenty of bump. Up top a set of Reher-Morrison Pro Mod Billet cylinder heads make massive power when capped with a Pro-Filer Performance Sniper Ram
tunnel ram topped with a pair of custom Holley 1050 Dominator carbs from Pro Systems. It all sparks to life through an MSD Pro Billet ignition with spent gases roaring through custom CDRC headers to a 4-1/2-inch exhaust. Power moves though a Coan Racing Ultimate Powerglide with a 5,000-rpm converter to a custom driveshaft. The combination dyno’d at 1,100 hp at 6,200 rpm. Bringing the tortured body back to life was no small task so Mark enlisted Precision Auto Body of Oaklawn to handle the job. The team stripped the body and followed by making all necessary repairs to bring it back to perfection while also setting all the gaps and prepping it for paint. A custom-blended Axalta vibrant red was selected and Paul Iquinta loaded his spray gun and
laid down the vibe, bringing it all to life. Mike Montoya of Montoya Customs in Kendallville, Indiana, then wrapped it up in custom ghost flames and gold leaf. Inside it’s all business, starting with a custom chromoly rollcage from John Byron Race Cars of Chicago and Auto Meter gauges monitoring all the vitals while a Grant steering wheel carves the course through a Flaming River column and shifts fly though a Hurst stick. The interior wears custom black and silver leather by Addison Auto Interiors of Addison who also covered the Kirkey Racing seats and laid down the black carpet. Mark campaigns the car regularly with 8.49 e.t.’s in the quarter-mile at 158 mph while also doing double-duty on the street, and to us that’s the ultimate Street Shaker.
STREETRODDER.COM I DECEMBER 2017
Dick Kenny | ’52 Chevy
For the digital experience visit: http://bit.ly/2woecLw BY TIM BERNSAU
♦When Dick Kenny retired and moved to The Villages, Florida, he didn’t retire from the hot rod hobby he’s enjoyed his whole life. He found this ’52 Chevy two-door sedan in Fort Myers. The franchise shop paintjob was dull, with flames camouflaging the sheetmetal blemishes, but Dick wasn’t discouraged and eventually brought his Chevy to the condition you see here.
The look is classic custom. Looking head-on, you’ll notice the louvered hood, frenched headlights, dual spotlights, Oldsmobile windshield, and 11 grille teeth where there are ordinarily five. From the rear, the shaved decklid and ’51 Chevy taillights stand out. The profile reveals shaved doors, custom fender skirts, and ’56 Buick side trim. That trim was actually fabricated by McMillan Rod & Custom, using templates created by Dick. The wheels wear ’57 Cadillac hubcaps and roll on Coker whitewall radials. Posies rear lowering springs and Fatman drop spindles keep the car’s low posture. Dick stripped the flames, fixed the sheetmetal, and
restored the sheen to the Crocus Yellow paint. A local pinstriper provided the traditional ’striping. The Chevy 235 straight-six engine is enhanced with a 3/4 cam, dual Strombergs, Edmunds intake, and Fenton headers. Dick used a Langdon’s Stovebolt
WANT TO SEE YOUR VEHICLE IN EARLY IRON? Email your photos (at least 1 MB in size) and a paragraph telling us about you and the car to: email@example.com. We’ll consider all entries.
transmission adapter to add a column-shifted TH350. The seats are covered in two-tone Naugahyde. The original gauges are supplemented with underdash instruments and a column-mounted Auto Meter tach. The steering wheel is a reproduction ’52 Chevy butterfly wheel. Whether he’s showing it at local events or just driving it around, Dick’s custom Chevy is the realization of the potential he saw in the car when he started. Plus, it provides some cool transportation during his retirement.
A BAD TEMPERATURE GAUGE GROUND CAN CAUSE HIGH READINGS
A common reason for abnormally high-temperature readings is a bad temperature gauge ground. If the ground for the temperature gauge has resistance on it (i.e bad ground), the gauge will make up for that by passing more electricity through the sending unit. This makes the pointer move higher than it should. If the gauge ground were to be disconnected completely, the gauge would immediately peg when power is applied.
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Fresh Engine Faux Pas Q. Four of us in our club have recently had our 350s rebuilt, boring, honing, and so on. All four engines are using oil. One of the engines has been rebuilt twice and still uses a quart every 300 miles and is fouling plugs. Mine (a 383) uses a quart every 500 miles and has about 3,500 miles on it. The other engines also use about a quart every 500-1,000 miles. The only answer seems to be another rebuild and more trouble and expense, and we’re not sure that would cure the problem! We are wondering if you have any ideas on what could be the problem? Is there a compatibility problem with the metal in older 350 blocks and today’s ring material? Ron Peil Via the Internet A. My first question would be, were all these engines done by the same shop? If so, you might want to look around for another. There are a number of possibilities for the problems you describe, but it’s not with the older blocks and modern rings, they’re completely compatible. However, there may be a problem with the way the block is being honed. We’re not trying to duck the question but the only way to determine what the cylinder finish should be is to consult with the ring manufacturer. The primary goal during engine break-in is to get various parts, like flat tappets and cams, to seat or wear into one another and the rings to seal properly. To get the rings to seat cylinders are honed, which serves a twofold purpose. The “peaks” of the hone marks that flatten and the “valleys” that hold oil work together to allow what is basically controlled wear as the rings and cylinders conform to one another. For years the standard procedure has been to rough bore the cylinders to near the proper size, then rough hone, and finally finish hone to the proper diameter and finish for the rings used. While this is still done with conventional rings, today many performance engine builders favor 116 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
thin, low-tension rings and a third step in the honing process called plateau honing. Basically this is a very fine finish that knocks of the peaks of the crosshatch pattern as too rough a bore can scuff the rings, which causes poor seating and rapid wear. While the subject of break-in oil is heavily debated, with the exception of the latest crate engines with specific oil recommendations, we believe the best bet is dedicated break-in oil. These oils have the ZZDP additive necessary to protect flat-tappet cams without some of the friction modifiers that can negatively ring sealing (see the Oct. ’17 Shop Manual column or find it at STREET RODDER archives on hotrod.com for more on this). Just like the break-in oils, the
procedure for breaking in a new engine also varies depending on who you talk to. However, with today’s modern rings and properly honed cylinders it’s generally recommended to run the engine at varying speeds and loads for the first 200 miles and limit idle time to a minimum. In addition to rings not seating there are other reasons for engines to burn oil, loose intake valveguides or faulty intake valve seals. These problems usually result in a puff of blue smoke from the exhaust when the engine is started after being off for a while, or after decelerating down an incline and then stepping on the gas. An improper PCV system can also be the culprit, which is normally evident by excessive oil in the hose from the engine to the intake system. A simple method to check the PCV system is to simply disconnect it. With the PCV system disconnected it’s also a good time to check the engine for blow-by by removing the oil fill cap. There is no doubt the amount of oil these engines are using is excessive, and as we’ve outlined there are several reasons for it to happen. The challenge will be to figure out which one is the cause—we’re looking forward to hearing what you find.
1 2 1. Using the proper grit hone for the rings being installed is critical to proper break-in and long engine life. Note the crosshatch pattern; this is how a properly honed cylinder should look. 2 Positive valve seals provide the proper amount of oil to get by—too little oil causes stem and guide wear, too much oil causes carbon buildup and excessive oil consumption.
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AD INDEX THE WORLD’S RODDING AUTHORITY
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AEROMOTIVE INC.....................................................77 ALAN GROVE COMPONENTS.............................. 131 ALL AMERICAN BILLET ......................................... 119 ALUMICRAFT STREET ROD GRILLES............... 132 A.M. HOT ROD GLASS ........................................... 128 AMERICAN SPEED COMPANY............................ 134 ART MORRISON ENTERPRISES.............. 65, 82-83 AUTO METER PRODUCTS INC...............................61 BLAIR EQUIPMENT................................................. 128 BOB DRAKE REPRODUCTIONS .................... 56-57 BORGESON UNIVERSAL COMPANY ..................29 BUDNIK WHEELS......................................................65 BUTCHS COOL STUFF........................................... 132 CALIFORNIA CAR COVERS ...................................52 CAROLINA CUSTOM HOT ROD PARTS..............89 CHASSIS ENGINEERING .........................................63 CLASSIC INSTRUMENTS...........................................11 CLASSIC PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS..30-31, 66 CLAYTON MACHINE WORKS.................................13 CLEAN TOOLS ...........................................................67 COKER TIRE......................................................... 96-97 CON2R ........................................................................ 136 CONTROL CABLES INC...........................................33 CONWOOD GRIZZLY...............................................23 CUSTOM AUTOSOUND ......................................... 124 CVR INC........................................................................67 DAGELS ROD TRUCK SUPERSTORE................. 133 DAKOTA DIGITAL ..................................................... C3 DAVIES CRAIG........................................................... 94 DEARBORN DEUCE LLC....................................... 136 DEEDS ENGINERING..............................................130 DELTA PAG ..................................................................66 DENNIS CARPENTER FORD RESTORATION PARTS......................................................................107 DIRECT LIFT.............................................................. 122 DROP ’EM AND STOP ’EM .................................... 135 DSR FASTENERS ...................................................... 94 DYNAMIC CONTROL/LINE CREEK..................... 121 DYNOTECH DRIVESHAFTS.................................. 133 EDELBROCK CORP...................................................63 ELECTRIC LIFE...........................................................87 ENERGY SUSPENSION ............................................65 EVAPO RUST............................................................. 127 FASTIMES.....................................................................67 FAT MAN FABRICATIONS..................................... 6-7 FITECH........................................................................ 129 FLAMING RIVER INDUSTRIES.......................65, C4 FLOW KOOLER/THE BRASSWORKS ............... 134 FPM INC...................................................................... 137 GEM STREET ROD PRODUCTS........................... 133 GOLDEN HIPPO ........................................................ 131 GOLDEN STAR CLASSIC AUTO PARTS............. 115 GOTTA SHOW .......................................................... 125 GREAT NECK SAW.................................................. 132 H&H FLATHEADS .................................................... 135 HAGAN ST ROD NECESSITIES............................. 117 HARBOR FREIGHT TOOLS.....................................75 HEADWINDS INC ....................................................130 HEIDTS HOT ROD SHOP .........................................73 HEINZMAN STREET RODS................................... 124 HOLLEY PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS .........78-79 HONEST CHARLEY................................................. 133 HOT HEADS............................................................... 126 HTP AMERICA ............................................................66 IN LINE TUBE............................................................ 129 ISKENDERIAN ED RACING CAMS...................... 128 JJS RODS.....................................................................66 JOHNS INDUSTRIES INC........................................ 131 JULIANOS INTERIOR PRODUCTS .......................36 KICKER .........................................................................68
KINEKT DESIGN................................................64, 133 KT’S KIDS ...................................................................130 KUGELS KOMPONENTS ........................................ 128 LIMEWORKS ............................................................. 133 LIVE CELL RESEARCH...................................123, 134 LOKAR INC......................................................C2, 3, 65 MARCH PERFORMANCE ...............................66, 126 MCMILLAN ROD AND CUSTOM ......................... 137 MYCHANIC ..................................................................67 NEW PORT ENGINEERING ................................... 64 OLD DOG STREET RODS........................................35 OPTIMA BATTERIES..................................................17 OTB GEAR ................................................................. 127 PAINLESS PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS ........... 64 PERF COATING ......................................................... 131 PERFORMANCE ONLINE........................................37 PERTRONIX INC ...................................................... 125 PHOENIX MACHINE..................................................67 PHOENIX TRANSMISSION PRODUCTS..............92 POSIES......................................................................... 131 POWERMASTER PERFORMANCE .....................120 PPG INDUSTRIES.......................................................43 PROS PICK................................................................. 124 QA1.................................................................................66 RACE PART SOLUTIONS....................................... 132 RADIR CUSTOM WHEELS INC ............................ 135 RATECH...................................................................... 135 RHOADS LIFTERS ................................................... 132 ROADSTER SHOP........................................45, 54-55 ROCK VALLEY ANTIQUE AUTO PARTS........... 126 ROCKY HINGE CO................................................... 137 ROD GARAGE............................................................ 118 RODSHOWS.COM.......................................................51 RUTTERS ROD SHOP............................................. 134 SANDERSON HEADERS...........................................91 SCOTTS HOTRODS N CUSTOMS INC......... 67, 109 SEMA.............................................................................69 SHADOW RODS....................................................... 125 SHOW CAR................................................................ 134 SKOAL............................................................................. 9 SOUTHERN RODS AND PARTS ............................95 SPAL USA......................................................................15 SPECIALTY POWER WINDOWS......................... 122 SPEED HUT.................................................................. 111 SPEEDWAY MOTORS ..............................................101 STEELE RUBBER PRODUCTS.............................. 135 STREET ROD HEADQUARTERS .....................80-81 SUMMIT RACING .......................................................27 TANKS INC.................................................................. 118 TCI ENGINEERING..............................................65, 92 TREMEC.........................................................................12 UNITED PACIFIC INDUSTRIES INC ......................25 U.S. RADIATOR...........................................................53 VALSPAR/HOUSE OF KOLOR.............................120 VIAMEDIC ..................................................................130 VINTAGE AIR ..............................................................93 VINTAGE GLASS...................................................... 136 WATSONS STREETWORKS.................................. 129 WHEEL SMITH.......................................................... 127 WHEEL VINTIQUES ..................................................34 WILSON WELDING................................................. 132 WILWOOD ENGINEERING ......................................41 WISE GUYS................................................................ 133 WOODYS HOT RODZ...............................................39 YOGIS STREET ROD ACCESSORIES .................103
The Advertiser Index is provided as a service to STREET RODDER magazine readers. STREET RODDER magazine is not responsible for omissions or for typographical errors in names or page numbers.
ENGINE TURNED METALS Custom-Made Dash Or Firewalls ›› Sheet Stock Available
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Professor Hammer BY RON COVELL
Using an engine hoist to help install a hood Getting more use from a tool you may already have
I have a small street rod shop and I’m very proud of the work I do. I usually work alone and I always have problems when I have to fit a hood on a car by myself. Once all the body panels are painted, one little slip can cause scratches and gouges that are a major pain to repair. Do you have any suggestions for handling awkward panels like hoods? Paul Wright Via the internet A I completely understand the challenges of single-handedly trying to install and fit a hood. Most hoods are large, heavy, and awkward, and the fact that hoods on early cars are often hinged makes that style particularly difficult to handle. I have always waited until I had some help before trying to fit a large hood to a car, and it’s a tricky job even for two people. Recently, a reader named Robert Blafka sent me a photo of the very clever attachment he made for his engine hoist, which greatly eases this task. As you can see, he built a wooden cradle that fits the hood snugly, and he attaches the cradle to the hood at the balance point. Then he can control the height of the hood with the hydraulic ram, while rolling the hoist on its casters to get it perfectly positioned. I wish I had seen this setup years ago–it could have saved me a lot of time and aggravation. Q I like to do as much of my own painting as possible, and I normally get good results. I recently did some touchup work on my doorjambs, and I’m getting little “pinholes” in the paint. I tried scuffing up the paint, carefully cleaning the area, and re-spraying, but I still have the pinholes. I know that your column normally addresses metal issues, but
✦Here is a clever device that utilizes an engine hoist to support a hood while fitting it to a car.
I wonder if you might know of a way to resolve this problem? Sammy Via the Internet A From your report, it sounds like you are getting “fisheyes” in your paint. One frequent cause of this is having a trace of silicone on the metal that’s being painted. Most of the popular lubricants used on door hinges and latches have silicone in them, and I know from experience that it’s maddeningly difficult to remove the silicone once it gets on either paint or metal. You would think that a careful wipe-down with a degreaser would remove all of the silicone, but sometimes it takes aggressive sanding, getting down to bare metal, before using the degreaser. Unfortunately, painting over a
fisheye will usually cause a new fisheye to form. There is a special “fisheye eliminator” that can be mixed with paint, which allows you to cover up the problem with another coat of paint. Most automotive paint stores sell this product. The only downside to using fisheye eliminator is that if you ever need to repaint the area, you’ll have to mix in more of the product—otherwise you’ll have continued problems. Hope this helps.
Note to readers: Several people have written to me over the years asking how to remove autobody solder (lead) from body panels. I have usually recommended melting as much of the lead from the panel as possible, and using a 3M Clean & Strip disk for the residue. Of course, you need to be careful not to inhale the lead dust, be sure to dispose of all residue responsibly. I recently got a note from reader Les Morgan, who has a method for removing the last traces of lead, which I have not heard before.
Mr. Covell, As an old man who has worked lead since the days before Bondo existed, here’s a suggestion for removing lead. Try scrubbing the area with a brass brush, using the lead removal solvent designed for cleaning firearms. Les Morgan Via the Internet
➤ You can email your questions to Professor Hammer at firstname.lastname@example.org, or mail a letter to Covell Creative Metalworking, 106 Airport Blvd., Suite 105, Freedom, CA 95019. You will receive a personal reply. Ron Covell has made many videos on metalworking, and they can now be STREAMED or DOWNLOADED from his website! Check these out at covell.biz, along with his ongoing series of workshops held across the nation, or call for a current schedule of workshops and a free catalog of DVDs. Phone (831) 768-0705. Also, check out Ron’s YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/user/covellron.
138 DECEMBER 2017 I STREET RODDER
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Published on Oct 8, 2017