Tag Archives: Edelbrock

GRAND NATIONAL ROADSTER SHOW 2019

Posted on by Steve Carpenter
27 Jan

 

The Grand National Roadster Show is now in its 70th year. Once known as the Oakland Roadster Show, it is the longest running indoor car show in the world! Produced at the Fairplex in Pomona for the 16th consecutive year.
Over 500 show vehicles will compete for awards inside the Fairplex buildings. Another 400-800 vehicles will join the event Saturday & Sunday for the 14th Annual Grand Daddy Drive-In.
Below, I managed to take a lot of photos but even though I was there at 11:30am, I was knackered by 5:30pm and as I carried my Louvered steel Deck lid for our Model A roadster to my Van, I was so tired but worth the 11,000 steps I took, I didnt get to see it all as well, a first for me, but this show was way bigger this year than any I could remember – I have been to everyone since 2000. So check below at my photo album, there may be a ride that you like? So many to choose from. Check out my page on FB.

 

 

The Grand National Roadster Show in Pomona is billed as the biggest roadster show in the U.S. It’s where classic roadsters will compete for the award America’s Most Beautiful Roadster. But what is a “roadster,” exactly?

“It’s a pre-1937 car with a removable roof and no side glass,” said John Buck, the owner and producer of the Grand National Roadster Show.

But that’s just the beginning. The 14 cars competing for the 9-foot tall perpetual AMBR trophy are hand-crafted, custom-designed rolling works of art which take thousands of hours to build. Some legendary names are on the trophy, which will be presented to the next winner on Sunday. Previous honorees have included George Barris, who started building custom cars back in the 1950s, before turning his attention to creating movie and TV cars like the famous Batmobile.

A panel of experienced judges will decide this year’s winner. The huge trophy – and the entries – are on display in Building 4 at the Pomona Fairplex through Sunday.

What if you like cars but roadsters aren’t your thing? That’s OK, they’ve got every kind of custom car spread throughout the Fairplex. If it’s got wheels and is customized, it’s probably here. With the cars in the buildings, and the ones that’ll be parked on the surrounding grounds, over 1,500 cars in total are expected.

“We’ve got muscle cars, we’ve got custom cars, we’ve got low-riders, we’ve got trucks, and we’ve got great amount of Volkswagens over in our club room,” noted Buck.

Many of the highlighted cars are stars of the custom-car world, having appeared on magazine covers, in articles, in advertising, and in movies and television shows. And sometimes, the people who design and build the cars become stars themselves.

For example, Chip Foose has become a household name thanks to appearing in the reality TV series, “Overhaulin,” among other programs. And since he’s won the AMBR trophy in the past and has created so many legendary cars, show organizers this year decided to name Foose the event’s “Builder of the Decade” for 2019.

Gathered in Building 7 at the Fairplex are 12 of Foose’s creations from over the years, together for the first time in one place.

“I said ‘Fantastic, I’d love to do. Let me make some phone calls.’ I called the customers and they all said ‘Yeah, we’d love to be part of this’,” said a busy Chip Foose, interviewed between posing for pictures and signing autographs.

This show has always featured cool cars, and some legendary car people. And year after year, the GNRS has had a charitable aspect to it as well. In the main hall, professional pinstripers will be doing their art for various charitable causes. Hand them a phone, a handbag, or anything else you can carry into the show, and they’ll add custom pinstripes to it, just like the ones seen on custom cars for decades.

Also this year, the show is helping “Drive Toward a Cure,” to benefit Parkinson’s Disease research, in conjunction with the Michael J. Fox Foundation. Right near the pinstripers, you can buy a raffle ticket for a one-of-a-kind B.R.M timepiece that salutes the original Ford Mustang from “Bullitt.” Each ticket is $25, and the watch will contain a fleck of paint taken from the Mustang that Steve McQueen once drove. While you’re there, you can snap a selfie with the tattered green Ford which is on display to highlight the charity.

 

Shop Tour of the East Coast company 1945 Speed and Custom

Posted on by Steve Carpenter
13 Dec

Well, we see many shops in Southern California, but its good to see what being built in other states and of course, all over the globe, today we look at a company way over there on the other side of the East coast, known as 1945 Speed and Custom. They are also in the Oilers Club, an original Hot Rod club that is still strong in their Vintage lifestyle as it is down here in California, I saw some of them Racing at TROG in NJ and it sure did draw a lot of spectators. So below is just a little blog on this great company on the East side of the country, if you over that way, drop in and see them.

Formula Drift Champion Chris Forsberg takes us on a tour of garages around the country, from professional outfits to grassroots backyard garages. In this episode we visit 1945 Speed And Custom in Troy, New York. Owner Jeremy Baye shares his love for building some of the coolest custom hot rods in the world. Baye is a master designer and fabricator creating classics reminiscent of a bygone era with a focus on high-quality metalwork, his 10,000 square-foot shop is in a renovated car dealership along the river. Baye tours us through finished works including a custom Rail Dragster, a late 40s Big Car, a 1927 Ford Model T, and Baye’s own ’51 Ford Flathead V8 Truck. After a tour through the garage checking out some works in progress, Forsberg heads out for a drive in the 1927 Ford Model T.

Located on River St in NY, this shop has been around a few years now and know their way round Vintage, Custom and race cars, they are a hands on fabrication shop and can go from a small modification to a turn key head spinning Hot Rod.

Custom Work

Taking a piece of history and transforming it into something entirely new is the ultimate form of innovative self-expression. 1945 has the ability to take that idea in your head and make it a reality. Our expertise in hot rodding and resto-modding automobiles from all eras is unmatched across the Northeast. Anywhere from period correct American hot rods, to Modern Day Imports, we have all the resources to make your custom work possible. “Customization” may range from simply adding power brakes to a car for better drivability, to completely innovating how a car looks, drives, and sounds.

Restoration Work

There are times when an automobile or bike is so neat or rare that a restoration is the best route to take. This is no simple process; it takes expertise and skill to complete a restoration to top quality. 

1945 has the abilities to authentically restore your automobile or motorcycle from any era. We are dedicated to doing work that stands out from the rest, work that makes our clients confident in their project’s development, and highly satisfies them with the outcome. The most important advice we can give is don’t bring your project to an auto-body shop who does restorations on the side. Choose an experienced and full service shop like 1945 for unparalleled craftsmanship in fine automobile restoration.

Refinishing

1945 Speed and Custom holds itself to the highest standards when it comes to refinishing automotive classics and masterpieces. With some of the best talent in the world on our team, our abilities in the refinishing sector of automotive work is unmatched in terms of quality and aesthetics. Anything from authentic looking paint jobs, to custom metal flaking, to flawless pinstriping, 1945 can turn your project into a true masterpiece. Visit our portfolio to see some of the wild paint jobs we have completed in the past.

MECHANICAL

Whether you are looking for a “juice” brake upgrade on your ’31 Model A or a full LS swap in your ’68 Camaro, 1945 has the abilities and skill to execute and complete any mechanically oriented task with ease and perfection. Anything from engines, transmissions, front and rear axles, suspension, and steering, to simple dashboard components and wiring,  1945 has the expertise to restore or customize your automobile or bike of any era to a flawless finished product.

​

We are sure there is no part of a vehicle’s mechanics that we can’t repair, restore, or customize – from any era or make.

©2017 by 1945 Speed And Custom.

1945 SPEED & CUSTOM

Ford Flathead V-8 History for this weekend

Posted on by Steve Carpenter
01 Dec

 

Ford Flathead V8 Engine History

Many people mistakenly believe that the Ford flathead V-8 was the first V-8 engine. It proved to be extremely popular until the overhead valve engines arrived and was the first V-8 readily available to the masses, but it was not the first. Léon Levavasseur took out the first patent for a V-8 gasoline engine in 1902. Although not a production engine, it was utilized in several aircraft and competition speedboats of the day. Meanwhile, American motorcycle builder and aviation pioneer Glenn Curtiss installed one of his 269-ci aircraft V-8s in a motorcycle and set an unofficial land speed record of 136.36 mph in 1906.

Britain’s Rolls-Royce created the first automotive V-8, but only three were produced, in 1905 and 1906, before Rolls-Royce reverted to its trusted straight-6. In 1910 French automobile and railcar manufacturer De Dion-Bouton unveiled a 474-ci automotive V-8, which it displayed in New York in 1912. Although few were actually produced, they served as inspiration for several U.S. manufacturers.

W. R. Campbell, president of Ford Motor Company Canada, stamps the first V-8 produced in Windsor, Ontario. Note the early long-neck water pumps. Canadian blocks were produced until 1954, as were Australian blocks. (Photo Courtesy Fordimages.com)

Cadillac, for example, sold 13,000 flathead V-8 vehicles in 1914. The Cadillac was a sophisticated unit with cast-iron, paired, closed-head cylinders bolted to an aluminum crankcase, and it used a flat-plane crankshaft. Many historians consider this to be the first true production V-8 automotive engine.

General Motors was quick to follow Cadillac’s success with a flathead V-8 for Oldsmobile in 1916. The next year saw Chevrolet follow suit with a 288-ci engine for its Series D autos. When Chevrolet became part of General Motors in 1918, however, its V-8 was discontinued in favor of more economical engines.

Across town at Highland Park, Henry Ford had been experimenting with V-8 engines as early as 1922 (he didn’t like to follow the competition), but by 1928 he had decided, “to go from a four to an eight, because Chevrolet is going to a six.”

Ford engineers gathered up the competitors’ V-8s, including one of their own Lincolns (Lincoln had introduced a V-8 in 1921, the year before Henry Ford purchased the company), but they were complicated assemblies with separate cast barrels bolted to a crankcase. Ford wanted something much simpler for the new car he was developing to replace the Model A. Ford had been able to cast the Model T cylinders and crankcase en bloc (that is, in one piece), and he wanted the same mono construction for his V-8.

To begin, Ford engineers came up with two designs, one of 299 ci and another of 232 ci designated Model 24, which Henry eventually chose. The first engine ran at the beginning of 1931, and soon more were assembled and installed into Model As for testing.

The first mass-produced monobloc V-8, with a cam-driven distributor and integral coil, went into production on March 9, 1932. (Photo Courtesy Fordimages.com)

Eventually known as the Model 18 (1 for first and 8 for, well, eight cylinders), the new Ford V-8 was unique. In addition to the revolutionary, one-piece casting, Ford wanted the exhaust passage running through the block for quick warm- ups because it gets cold in Detroit. A quick warm-up notwithstanding, Ford demanded that his engineers use existing Model A water pumps to save development and tooling costs. He wanted a thermosyphon system, whereby the pumps acted only to accelerate the flow of water.

A thermosyphon system acts on the principle that hot water seeks a higher level than cold water. Consequently, when the water reaches approximately 180 degrees F, circulation commences. The

water flows from the lower radiator outlet pipe, up through the water jackets, into the upper radiator water tank, and down through the tubes to the lower tank to repeat the process.

Unfortunately, because of Ford’s demands, the V-8 suffered overheating problems until the 1937 redesign. Ford also wanted to eliminate the gears used to drive the distributor. Rather, he wanted the distributor bolted to the front of the block and driven directly by the camshaft, which itself was gear-driven and located above the crank. Ford did not want to give up the Model A’s gravity-fed fuel system. However, he had to relent and have a fuel pump that would suck fuel from a rear-mounted tank.

Growing Pains

Although the Ford flathead V-8 was produced virtually unchanged in concept from 1932 to 1953, it wasn’t an instant success. It was put into production perhaps too quickly, and there were numerous problems. Nearly all of the first 2,000 engines needed their cams, valves, valve-guides, and front covers changed. The next 2,000 also needed repair, and most of the first 4,250 cars assembled were used as demonstrators and not sold to the public. Many cars were fitted with the more reliable 4-cylinder engine. Teething troubles aside, Ford produced 212,238 V-8s between production start-up in March 1932 and December 1932.

This cutaway engine was photographed on May 12, 1932, for display in France. Thank goodness for the French and their long association with the flathead. (Photo Courtesy Fordimages.com)

Oh for a day in the engine testing room in 1934 when this photograph was taken. Most of the engines have aluminum heads, but a few iron-head versions are down the middle. (Photo Courtesy Fordimages.com)

Although not immediately adopted by racers, a few flathead Ford V-8s appeared at Indianapolis. Chet Miller drove this nice roadster, entered in the 1934 race by the Bohn Aluminum & Brass Company. It had what was undoubtedly the first flathead V-8 speed equipment: Bonalite aluminum heads and a brace of Stromberg 97s sideways atop a Don Sullivan intake. Apparently it produced 140 hp and achieved 109.252 mph, but it sailed over the wall on the 11th lap. (Photo Courtesy IMS Photo)

 

All domestic V-8 engines were produced at Ford’s River Rouge Plant, southeast of Detroit, and shipped to other assembly plants. Eventually, engines were built in other countries, including Canada and Great Britain. Until 1941, all Rouge-produced V-8s were painted Ford engine green before machining. Stamped parts were painted black, and cast-aluminum parts were unpainted. Colors changed over the years, so do not use engine color as a guide to the date of manufacture.

There were problems with the fully floating main bearings and lubrication system, and throughout 1932 a flow of factory service letters detailed fixes. (“Fully floating” means that not only did the rods rotate on the bearing, but the bearings also rotated on the crank; consequently, all three components were freely, or fully, floating.) Excessive oil consumption was a problem. Some cars used a quart of oil every 50 miles. The dipstick was made 1 inch short to prevent the public from operating cars with insufficient oil. In fact, between 1932 and 1935, five different oil indicators were used with various pan designs.

Piston wear was another issue. Early pistons, from 1932 to 1935, were aluminum alloy, but in 1935 steel dome pistons were put in limited use. They were standard on all engines from April 1936 until 1938.

Because the water pumps were located in the cylinder heads, they supposedly pulled heated water from the block (but were really sucking hot air). Because there were no thermostats, the engine overheated. Consequently, a new four-blade fan, larger pulley, and larger radiators were introduced, and more louvers were punched in the hood, increasing the number from 20 to 25 (the last louver was closed off). However, Henry Ford ignored the real reason for overheating: the water pump’s location.

Despite its 65-hp rating, the 221-ci V-8 was not initially popular with the racing fraternity, which preferred the tried-and-tested T and A 4-bangers. Meanwhile, Ford continued refinement: New for the 1933 Model 40 were lightweight aluminum heads that allowed for an increase in compression ratio from 5.5 to 6.3:1. In addition, a limited production of engines included Holley carbs.

By 1934 most of the teething problems had been remedied, and a good V-8 could produce 90 hp, return about 20 mpg, and hit 90 mph. In the hands of speed merchants, it could go much faster. By the end of 1934, Ford had produced 1,352,202 V-8 engines.

In 1935 the V-8 block was significantly changed to accommodate flow-through, or positive crankcase ventilation. The new block was given the prefix 48 for its part number. Domed pistons were installed, and new casting technology allowed for a cast-alloy steel crank to replace the earlier forged cranks. The year 1935 was also significant because the 2 millionth V-8 car rolled off the production lines. The following year, the 3 millionth was produced. Also new for 1936 were shell-type main bearings, replacing the previous poured white-metal Babbitt bearings. A more economical dual-throat Stromberg 97 carb replaced the Detroit Lubricator, and a new fuel pump was introduced. That same year, Ford applied for a license to build a two-seater light air- plane powered by an aluminum V-8; 10 of these were reportedly built.

 

Surviving the Great Depression

The big change came in 1937, when the water pumps were finally moved to the upper front of the block (the inlet side of the system), thus drawing cool water from the radiator rather than trying to suck hot water out of the block. The water outlets were also moved rearward, to the center of the head. Some early versions had blanking plates on the block. The engine, which now produced 85 hp, was designated V-8-85. Some later catalogs, however, erroneously listed it as producing 90 hp.

Vic Edelbrock was one of the first to see the potential of the speed equipment business. He experimented with his own parts even before World War II. Here’s a Bay Area hot rodder with Edelbrock heads and intake with three deuces. (Photo Courtesy GhostracksUSA.com)

Also new in 1937 was the compact version of the V-8, the V-8-60. Known as the “thrifty sixty,” this 60-hp V-8 was a mini version of the V-8-85 and returned 25 mpg; it was Henry’s answer to requests for a six. It caught on with midget racers and in some overseas markets, such as France and Great Britain, where there was a horsepower tax. However, it never really found favor in the United States, where it was underpowered for the weight and size of the average car. It was discontinued in the United States in 1940.

As the world struggled out of the Great Depression the initial problems with the V-8 were gradually eliminated. Ford was able to increase production as he had with the Model T and, to a lesser extent, the Model A. He unwittingly gave auto racers access to a cheap, high-performance engine that at last was attracting the attention of the speed merchants.

One of the first to see the potential was Vic Edelbrock, who purchased a V-8 Deuce Roadster in 1938. It became his daily driver, his test bed, and his lakes racer. Fitted with 21-stud cast-iron Arco milled and filled Denver heads, it sported a Winfield cam, a Thickstun manifold, Sandy’s headers, and dual ignition. It was the portent of a burgeoning post–World War II industry. By the end of 1937, Ford had produced 4,438,368 V-8 engines.

Ford announced another block modification for 1938. This was, of course, big news. It changed from 21- to 24-stud cylinder heads with 14-mm spark plugs. The main bearing sizes were also increased. Due to the slow introduction of the 24-stud block, the 1937 block assembly was continued until June 1938. (Until the introduction of the 24-stud block, Vic heads had been interchangeable left to right, right to left. With the 24-stud pattern, heads were no longer interchangeable.)

In 1939, the Mercury brand was introduced to fit between the low-priced Ford and the high-end Lincoln. Although Ford stayed with the 3.0625-inch bore, the Mercs had a 3.1875-inch bore for 239 ci. The Merc version of the flathead also had larger-diameter crank bearings, heavier rods and crank, and other strengthened components.

In 1939, the Mercury brand was introduced to fit between the low-priced Ford and the high-end Lincoln. Although Ford stayed with the 3.0625-inch bore, the Mercs had a 3.1875-inch bore for 239 ci. The Merc version of the flathead also had larger-diameter crank bearings, heavier rods and crank, and other strengthened components.

 

Building Up to the End

Because of World War II, very little changed from 1941 onward. However, as a result of Ford’s engineering developments during the war, the V-8 saw some minor but significant refinements. In addition, the new Model 59A engine was used in identical forms in both 1946 Ford and Mercury models. New tri-alloy bearings (derived from aircraft) combined with higher-octane fuels resulted in a rise in compression ratio to 6.8:1 and an increase from 90 to 100 hp. Also new were four-ring pistons, aluminum cam gear, and a higher-capacity oil pump; it all contributed to a much-improved powerplant. (The 1932–1948 cam gears were cut in the opposite direction as 1949–1953 gears. Be careful not to buy the wrong set for your rebuild.)

 

Barney Navarro, who started in the performance business machining Weiand speed equipment, began his own business in 1947. He improved on everything his hands touched and was a pioneer in the evolution of the performance flathead. (Photo Courtesy H&H Flatheads)

Barney works on the 1927 Ford Roadster that he raced at the dry lakes. It sports his cast-aluminum dual intake manifold and finned heads. He also experimented (successfully) with mixing alcohol and oxygen. (Photo Courtesy H&H Flatheads)

A rare shot of the French military Simca V-8. It’s similar to an 8BA in that it has thermostats in the heads and an angled distributor with an external coil, but it retains the integral bellhousing and a cast-aluminum pan. (Photo Courtesy Stephan Szantai)

Barney, seen here at Los Angeles’ Carrell Speedway with Tom Beatty and George Pounden (right), was one of the first, if not the first, to bolt a GMC blower atop a flathead. Four Stromberg 97s fed the quad-belt-driven 3-71. (Photo Courtesy H&H Flatheads)

Of course, the end of World War II saw thousands of returning U.S. servicemen looking for work and excitement. Many, including Barney Navarro and Al – Sharp, found what they were looking for, building speed equipment and racing the flathead Ford V-8. A $40 billion industry carried on by men such as Mike Herman at H&H Flatheads was being born.

In 1948, the V-8 fitted to Mercury automobiles was given a 4-inch-stroke crank that resulted in 255 ci. Ford engines retained the 3.75-inch stroke for 239 ci. Many other changes were made, some obvious and some not. The heads were now held down with bolts rather than studs and nuts. The water outlet fittings were moved from the middle to the front corner of the head. A major change was a new distributor, still driven from the cam but now through a shaft mounted at right angles to the engine’s axis. Also, the bell-housing was no longer an integral casting with the block. Instead it was a bolt-on piece.

Internal changes included straight-stem valves with one-piece guides. In general, these later Ford engines were commonly referred to as 8 BAs and their Mercury counterparts as 8CMs. Later, 1952–1953 Fords were referred to as EABs while the Mercs were EACs. These engines did not have the hardened valve-seats like the earlier engines. The markings were usually cast in the head.

Ford also introduced a large displacement 337-ci version in 1948, primarily for the truck market. However, when Lincoln was unable to produce the V-12 it wanted for its 1949 model, the 337 V-8 was adapted. In 1952, the Lincoln Y-block replaced the 337. Unfortunately, the 337 is not a great-looking engine and never found much favor outside the restoration market.

For the 1952 Ford passenger car model year, the company introduced a new overhead valve (OHV) Mileage-Maker 6-cylinder. Developing 101 hp, the OHV 6 outshone the V-8. Consequently, Ford increased the V-8’s compression ratio to produce 110 hp. Nevertheless, the writing was on the wall, and 1953 was the last year of the flathead Ford V-8 in the United States.

After 21 years of continuous improvement and production, the venerable Ford flathead V-8 ceased production. Well, in the United States at least. The flathead design was produced in Canada until 1954. It was licensed to a French manufacturer for use in the Simca brand until 1961, in Brazil until 1964, and until 1990 in the Simca Unic Marmon Bocquet military truck.

I had one of these engines and put it in my Model A Roadster back in about 2006.

Many Moons ago but I have my 1928 AV8 here and wanted the 1940’s look and feel to it, my reasoning is that, I grew up by the ww2 runways of the USAF and wanted to use original parts to the Roadster, that way it will not only look the same but- I will experience exactly what they did after the war.

 

Love this ride and even though it has its hiccups, I wouldn’t want it any other way to be honest.

Mine has a 39 Ford Mill and Gearbox, but plans for some more Hop Up parts later, the Edelbrocks are fine and run Two 97’s.

 

ROMO MOTOR FESTIVAL in Denmark

Posted on by Steve Carpenter
07 Sep

Welcome to the home of Danish Beach Racing, some great times it looks like here in that Viking part of the world and fun times on the beach Racing all sorts of cool machinery.

For a long time it has been a dream to revive the history of Danish vintage motor racing and, in particular, beach racing.
In the years 1919-1924 the island of Fanø gave home to some of the most legendary riders and drivers Europe had to offer. Makers such as Mercedes, Citröen, Fiat, Opel and many more were represented, although almost all were in the hands of private daredevils.

Sadly the races on the beach of Fanø came to an end, with the tragic death of a 15 year old boy, by a tire loss from the wheel of Sir Malcolm Campbell’s Bluebird racer.
Campbell did, however, set records at over 130mph on the 1km stretch.

In the same years, races were being arranged on the west coast of Jutland, but was eventually shut down due to local regulations.

Fast forward to modern times, a group of enthusiasts in the Hot Rod & Custom community has finally succeeded in landing the necessary approvals for a vintage style race on the Island of Rømø.


Like Fanø it benefits from extremely wide and long beaches, with a hard and flat surface.
Naturally no speed records will be set, but it is our ambition to create a true time pocket with pre-ww2 cars and motorcycles in an up-to 1947 styling and engineering.
The modern version of our track will be a 1/8 mile drag strip.

Obviously we have TROG here but its no way as good as any of the European events, the spectators cant see hardly anything over here on the beach races but back home they seem to have it all figured out. Hopefully it will change here, as the more that come to watch, the more that may get into our Hobby?

So if you can get to Denmark, check out the Romo Motor festival, its a real trip of Nostalgia.

Plenty of long Sandy beach and people taking the 1/8th mile to relive what was done many years ago.

Model A above seems to be having such a great time on the beach and if this was in Black and white, you would think it was the late 1940’s.

Envious of this Flathead set up but what a great look, so 1940’s Post war, I love this Roadster.

Adrian Smith bought his Aluminum Speedster along from back home in England, for some good old fashion Sand spraying and he had a ball.

Nice to see Motorcycles against Hot Rods, just as it was way back, what a great experience this must be?

No Christmas tree Lights here, the good old traditional Flag start, thats the way to go and an awesome photo here of the Flag girl and the 5 window Model A just taking off.

This 196 Ci KK Special is so European Pre-war it is bang on the money and he raced it pretty hard by all accounts too.

You would swear this was Southern California by the Licence plate and Roadster, McCulloch Blown Flatty, what a sweet set up.

Love this 1929 Roadster, Hope to get a Top like that for mine eventually, really digging this Hot Rod as it takes off down the Beach in Denmark.

Photo credits from now on are from Stefan Sell of Vintage Photografie

But what a shot,  Really dig this snap, it captures what Community and commeraderie is all about in the Lifestyle that we are all a big part of, wether having a completed Hot Rod or Just a fan, this pic tells the story right there.

What a Killer shot, thats Love right there, a passion for sharing and enjoying this fantastic era of our own and this is one more superb capture of happiness for sure.

There goes the Red Oxide Roadster, a period built Hot Rod and throwing the sand up at the Racer behind, love these photos as at least it makes that you feel that your there.

Love this Model T Roadster and having a VHRA plaque is kinda cool to see as well as I too am an early member of this club.

 

More T Vicar? Love this Purple Roadster with nice back rolled valance and 1950 Pontiac Tail lights as he sets off on his 16 inch Firestone’s on a Channeled body.

Above, this geezer is checking out his competition as he lets go of the clutch in a race up the Danish beach, I cant see the tail pipe so maybe some short headers are the go?

I am totally into this Roadster, Supercharged Flatty is something I can only dream of but there is one right there on the beach, fella has old A2 Jacket and Chino pants, very cool ww2 look.

Come in number 12, your time is up, this AV8 is another period looking vehicle, a lot of time and effort goes into these machines and they sure look great, twin 97’s and raked windshield.

That’s a big dollar Roadster anywhere these days and so glad they took the Hot Rod out and raced it on the beach, Henry ford would love this sort of stuff 86 years later.

How cool is this Tank Shift Indian? I would love such a machine and Boy he sure mist of had fun with this on the sandy beach of Denmark at Romo.

It is always nice to see other rides too, I mean back in the day there would be everything competing and this Speedster really does look the part of the GOW crowd.

This Model T is pretty cool with Gina Huber and Marvin C Jensen at the Helm and, being so high, it gets out of the sand better than most.

Another rare early Harley, look at the rear sprocket, as big as a Ferris wheel, I bet that hooked up as the flag dropped? Nice job mate.

A reall sweet Indian and two buddies hanging out on the Beach, what a great day and look, even blue skies too.

Now thats cool to see these days, a Vintage Husqvarna, love this and would of liked to have wathed this race with the other machines up the 1/8th mile track.

Talk about Dapper Dan, what a get up this Geezer has and an awesome Indian there is nothing not to like at all, some great period machines made it to Romo.

The good old J.A.P. engines were super strong in endurance racing and of course, more famous for their Speedway motorcycles.

This Five Window Model A Coupe sits really well and the sneaky header turn outs just in front of the cowl is a very neat look.

Something for everyone and these 2 very different Roadster were cool to see, hope they raced each other, looks so So Cal eh?

Here we have Timo Mattmuller and his Girl by their 29 Sport Coupe with a neat ole 4 Banger.

Friends for life I should think thats a nice Harley, I am sure that they all had a blast here at Romo?

So much Vintage Tin at Romo, its a must for avid Nostalgia and one of these days Jenn and I hope to take the trip to Denmark, and see for ourselves.

Here is Sussanne Ruppel with her 30 Special and what a great rig this is as well, love seeing Women with their rides too, great job.

Looks like a stock 29 Roadster and having fun on the Danish beach with friends

No real info on this fun photo but the guy center and to the right are Fred and Greg, the Notorious Custom Surfers..

So, this is Greg with his Channeled Roadster, Scalloped too and like the color scheme to this Hot Rod.

An eerie look early in the morn as the dew and mist just start to clear and so reminiscent of the days when in So cal they lined up on the Dry Lakes to race everyone in the late 1940’s.

Adrian Smith had his Buckland Special he built with his own hands here, sitting next to Krister Lindblm with his Oxide painted Roadster, nice pic at the start line.

I have no information at all on this bloke on his Indian but he will not be left that clean for too long as soon as he clunks into gear and lets that clutch out on the beach, fun shot though.

All ages all sorts of machines, a great event for sure, a little far away from us but one day maybe ventue out to Denmark and check this Romo Event out.

Getting set to take on the sand and the other competitor of course but it looks to be a Happy event and am sure this will get bigger and bigger as the public I am sure become aware to it.

A Vintage extravaganza to be enjoyed by all.

Chrome Dome atop of his Noggin, Flight Goggles in place, this barnstormer is ready to take them all on in his 29 Model A.

Having fun is what it is all about, heck, bring your Beer Goggles along and enjoy the ride.

Thanks for reading my little Blog, I didn’t take the photos, you can thank Stefan Sell as he is a great photographer for these shots that I have shared. Have a Great weekend everybody.

Right, time to play with my very own 1928 Model A Roadster.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My 1928 FORD AV8 Roadster

Posted on by Steve Carpenter
13 Jul

Well, Hot Rods really are never finished, you just continue to wrench, change looks and idea’s etc and thats what I love about Hot Rodding, My 1928 Ford Roadster is no Show ride, it is no super high Dollar Performance machine, nor is it a trailer Queen either.

What it is, well- To me anyways, is a Nostalgic styled AV8 Hot Rod that you would of seen on the streets on Southern California back in the late 1940’s.

 

It is something I really have a passion for since I was a Teenager. lucky for me I had a Three Window Coupe in the UK but my Dream was a Roadster and to have one in California, so dreams do come true and wanted to share my little Model A machine with you.

This is a real Henry Ford Body and Chassis, and the stance I have as you see it here is right on the money, have a look at many Vintage pics and you may see a late 1940’s Roadster similar to mine, I wanted to keep the Side Aprons on, these are the step covers that your fenders bolt to. Below is Jack Mickleson’s Roadster in about 1942. I think it was the last dry lake run before World War 2 was underway, I believe Don Francisco owns it but have yet to see if this Roadster survived.

Back in the day, the Hot Rodders would drive to the Dry lakes such as Harpers, Muroc or the famous El Mirage and then strip the fenders and head lights off as well as the windshield and then see how fast they could run on them dried out lake beds.

This is how she is right now, still may change a few little things and then fine tune all the time, I am hoping to eventually Louvre the front hood and the rear Rumble Seat lid.

I used a Genuine 1932 Grill and Shell and fitted the Model A Hood to it with Old style belts, then used one of Limeworks Stainless Steel dropped headlight bars with stock Model A Lights.

Shorty shocks up the front soak up as much as possible, dropped I-Beam front axle sits this front end just how I want it , I then made a Spreader bar to complete the Nostalgia going.

Not as powerful as the locomotives behind me but eventually I shall build a Hopped up Flathead for this Jalopy, right now it has a 1939 24 stud mill with Edelbrock Heads.

I shall be shortening the exhaust pipes, I did have the original Bumpers on there when the exhaust set up was made, but shall cut them back and may make a Nerf Bar for the rear.

She is sat on a set of Kelsey Hayes wire Rims with Vintage style Firestone 16 inch tall tires and it is fun to drive, she tracks a little on the freeway but thats the feel I wanted.

I have a chopped Stainless Steel windshield, another common touch that was done in the day and of course sit lower now else my head would sit up too high. LOL

it is always fun to take out, this place isnt that far from me and wanted to try and take some decent pic’s, im no pro at this but I am really happy at how these came out.

She runs stock pistons but New and right now a stock cam, later I hop to build a little growler motor that has an Isky Cam, just to get me out of trouble if I need it.

Plenty of old freight train and shunting lines around where we live and whats great is to think about 70 Years ago, this was full of Dairies, fruit trees and Flathead Motors.

Sadly, more common than not, all you will see these days is Graffiti, personally not a fan of it at all, but as it was close to the color of the Roadster, I thought a photo Opportunity awaits.

One hauls freight and the other hauls Arse!!! LOL!

Sat patiently awaiting me to jump in and stamp the right pedal and head back home, so much Hot Rod History in and around where we live in La Mirada.

A great ride and more to do, I have a Columbia 2 speed rear end for it, but have to send it away to get Bullet Proofed, not cheap but that will give me a good overdrive.

Long way to go as I would like to have Oxblood Leather interior, but for now this old Naugahyde will suffice as leather is not cheap.

Hot Rods and Trains have always gone together like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, Hot Rods use to try and race the train if there was a good straight away.

VHRA Vintage Hot Rod Association of which I joined in the 90’s back in the UK, huge part of my life to be honest and going so strong there today.

I shall always keep this Roadster, I drempt about one as a kid and here I am 5400 miles away and living that dream , totally amazes me sometimes and have to pinch myself.

I have always liked vintage stuff, be it Hot Rods, Motorcycles, Juke Boxes, Chris Craft Boats, Spitfires, Hurricanes, Thunderbolts to Dakota’s, Vintage is in my blood I guess.

Hope you like my little 1928 AV8 Roadster?  I really have fun with this and enjoy the experience of feeling what a traditional Hot Rod feels like to drive and work on.

Maybe some of you can relate? As I have spoken to a few people that have Motorcycles and Hot Rods, it is a fun and to me, a therapeutic Hobby.

I will still be working on this for many years but enjoying what i do, some things work and then sometimes they dont but, mechanical parts are great to work on.

I shall be selling Hot Rod parts and Apparel so will be revamping the website a little, stay tuned to the site if you want to see what I do to this Model A Roadster of mine.

Thanks for reading my Blog today, I enjoy doing it and people often email me to say that they like looking at what I am up to out here in La Mirada.

Let me know if you have a cool ride, love to see what you are creating and of course having fun in these days, I always have a smile on my face driving the Roadster, sometimes bugs too.

Have a great weekend and enjoy life to its fullest.

 

 

 

 

 

The Race of Gentlemen Wildwood New Jersey 2018 A fun weekend

Posted on by Steve Carpenter
16 Jun

Well, this may take a few days to add photos and describe some of the cool rides that we saw over there on the East Coast of the USA, I had never been to Wildwood and I was not disappointed at all, its so different from Southern California, the weather changed every 5 minutes, the houses were huge, the food was great and the Boardwalk was 2 Miles long.

The Race of Gentlemen is held on the Beach front in Wildwood and with the weather being so Humid, it took a while for my camera to stop fogging up, and when it did, the fog came in anyway. LOL!

 

Here is a video someone else did and I have shared it for you to see of what goes on here once a year in this Coastal town.

Jennifer and I walked up the 2 mile Boardwalk in Wilwood, it had a feeling of Coney Island to me, with the fair ground and Roller coaster full of screaming kids on vacation, halfway up the Boardwalk you could see that there were checkered Posts and markers on the beach, to show the Race lanes for the Race Of Gentlemen.

As we approached the TROG entrance, you could smell the Marvel Mystery oil and sometimes a hint of Race Fuel, as it wafted towards us with the warm humid air that filled the air around the vicinity of the Race Course.

The was a fun atmosphere that you could feel as you walked into the where there were some bleachers located, the unfortunate thing was that now that everybody knows about the Race of gentlemen, Everybody turned out for it, and it was almost impossible to see anything from the side lines of the beach and no chance of getting up into the sand dunes as that was already packed.

But-after standing on Tippy Toes, we decided to acquire some Pit passes and hang out in the area that I always dig anyway.

It may be titled, the Race Of Gentlemen, but quite a few Ladies were in the Mix of racing, something I am super stoked about, My Girl loves Motorcycles and Hot Rods and would be more than eager to race me and probably beat me every time, which will be fine by me, I love watching Women Race.

What a Great little Roadster, this shorty Altered ran fast and hard all weekend and skinny tires was a plus in soft sand tracks and was great fun watching her beat the guys.

Two Orange County friends of mine made the trip, over 2500 Miles to attend this event, and are riding Early Harley’s at the Track, now there’s a couple of people that have a True passion for our industry and lifestyle, it was Hot, and very Humid, so 10 out of 10 being able to sport vintage style race Sweaters.

We chatted for a little while and as the heat started to take an impact, we left for a walk of the rest of the pit area of which was a hive of activity as racers rush to dial their machines in.

Really loved this 28 Roadster, it is my kind of style, has so much cool patina too and ran really well on the sand.

How cool is this, I have splash Aprons left on my Model A and hope to have something cool painted to the side, but the added coolness was the exhaust’s exited out of them.

I liked pretty much everything on this Roadster except the fan, but each to their own and loved the oil filter case and the Aircraft braided Plug wires too.

Lining up on the beach, Hot Rods and Motorcycles all gather to get ready for racing at the Tower and a Flag start gets them off to a flying start, just like back in the day.

Commercialism always catches up, that boat out in the distance had an LED display advertising board and kept cruising by, modern technology meets old I guess.

Little Flatheads and inline four Motorcycles squared off with each other, these were fun to watch and even though some of these machines are 70 years old, they sure started to get fast .

Everybody was really into the racing, be it Motorcycles or Hot Rods and, what an experience as this is how it was invented here in the States and boy was it exciting.

Sushi heads back from another race, unfortunately he took quite a tumble and was sent to the hospital but is on the road to recovery now and God Speed to you Sir!

Motorcycle clubs race each other and great commeraderie was seen.

Lisa English heads back from taking the 29 Roadster for a Hot Race on the beach, so great to see Girls getting into this and beating the guys too.

East Coast style, unchopped but channeled, I never see too many East Coast Hot Rods as I live on the West coast, so this was great to see for me and it ran string all day long.

I had no Idea this was Eli English, couldn’t get to see him in the Pits as he was busy but loved this coupe, Great Hot Rod Family too.

Tidy Three Window sat happily on the fine Sand at Wilwood, really nice looking rig, Chromed 32 grill shell, Dropped headlight Bar, BLC lights, 40 steelies on Firestones

It sure was humid on Saturday, before I went to the race, I looked at a few rides that  were scattered about the Beach, loved it all and many different styles and models to see.

This 30 Model A with what looks like a Dodge Truck grill shell set up seemed to have fun and received plenty of attention in the Pit area as I arrived here.

Really well built Roadster, Loved the Kelseys, the 48 Chevy tail lights and the push bar at the rear, as well as the marvel Mystery Oil catch can like I have on my Roadster.

Plenty of different styles of Hot Rods to look at and get really close too, that was a bonus for me, the day was going to be great.

Very tasty and sits so well on the sand, nothing I don’t like on this Roadster, its bang on the money in my eyes and was glad to be able to look over it as we walked around the Pits.

Great Minds think a like, I have Edelbrock heads where he has Offy but we have same intake and carbs and the same Catch tank too.

Nice to see people chlling and cacthing up, chatting about their machines and what they hope to do with it, this Triple 6  Model T Roadster looked like fun and it sure was.

This A Bone say really high but, was an advantage on the deep sand and he ran all weekend long too.

Love the Barney Navarro 21 stud heads, running triple carbs, not a fan of the Alternator but a great ride none the less.

The Pits were a buzz with activity and the smell of Castrol Oil or Marvel Mystery was definitely in the air when we arrived.

What a wicked Roadster, Love it all and the Flathead sounded so sharp and crisp too, I even loved the Color of the body too.

This old Fella in his Altered Model T rang hard and Long all weekend, showing the younger guys what Racing is all about, wearing a Buco style Crash Helmet this guy was serious about Racing.

Lining up in thePits to get ready to lanes  you Raced at the Wooden Surf Towers and then Flag started right there on the beach.

A couple of Five Window Coupes Pass like ships in the night one with steelies, one with wires, getting ready to do battle as the Races start to get a little closer here at Wilwood.

Awesome Roadster, NJ plates, Quick change and Flatty powered a real cool Period style Hot Rod.

See, what a fun sight, people hanging out and getting ready to take their own contraption for a blast along the sandy beach and go for all its worth at the Race Of Gentlemen.

This got my attention real quick, take a peel at this rail, Killer set up with the rear tank acting as a pressurized Radiator , some neat touches to this Jalopy for sure.

Tri- Carb powered, Alloy 24 stud heads, Crab Distributor and look how cool the tubing was that exited the water pumps and headed back to the tank at the rear of the chassis.

Take a look at the Banger, loved the Headers on this Model A, it was simplistic , functional and reliable too.

This is the fella from Gas Monkey Garage and he drove the rail in a few races and looked like he was having a lot of fun sitting on a bodyless Hot Rod.

Coupes are not just for Chickens and we saw many here at Wilwood, what I liked is that I had never seen these cars as they were mostly East Coast machines.

This Channeled 5 window is so East coast style and for me, great to see, they do say the reason so many were Channeled on the East Coast was many of the floors were rotted from the harsh weather conditions, so it made sense to channel the cars and also cut the rust out, sounds pretty feasible to me. This is Eli English who owns and runs Traditional Speed & Custom.

Early Plate on this Model A, I noticed many liked to use the single stop light in the middle, looks great and makes use of the three holes that are there from factory.

Sat in the Pits before entering the beach staging lanes, a hive of activity was going on but the Humidity was Killer on Saturday, I have never experienced that before but was so glad that we made the 2500 mile trip here to see this event take place in New Jersey.

Lisa in her Roadster, she was having a blast and not afraid of giving this 29 Roadsters Right pedal a hammering as she raced the guys all weekend.

Last puff of hos Cancer Stick before he hits the beach, Smoking is dangerous, racing Vintage Hot Rods is too but thats half the fun, racing Jalopy’s I mean as I dont smoke.

Hot Rods and Motorcycles out on the Beach at Wildwood, the Breeze helped thats for sure and I was surprised how fast the tide came in and, it came right up to where they were racing.

A different set of T&A’s on the Beach to what you lot normally see right?

People came from not only all over the States, but Globally, especially from Japan, so cool to see the Nostalgic culture is World Wide still and seems to be increasing, but any racing is dangerous and poor Sushi crashed his Harley, he rattled his head and went to hospital but I hear he is ok, just a little battered and bruised.

Believe it of not- This is Gene Winfield himself, I spoke to him and said what did he think of this meet, he said he loved it, I asked him if he had raced and he said hell yeah and was excited, he also informs me that This coming Saturday will be his 91st Birthday.

Gene wearing an old Patco style Race helmet drives back from a Run up the Beach, just look at that Blown Ardun Flathead motor, must be $100,000 in that Motor alone easily.

This 5 window looks to be an original Race car of the Jalopy Races era and un chopped too and great to see this racing once more.

Another unchopped 5 window, headlights covered up and hood sides fitted, this was a great traditional car thats daily driven.

Scott Sheehan ran strong all weekend, this Roadster is really dialed in, its not happy in the soft sand, but where it is a little more compacted, the A-Bone comes into its own and he was hard to beat.

Scott’s Ride is bang on the Money, a tough ride and tuned really well, it sounded awesome too.

Traditional Modified look Great in Suede Black and Red Kelsey Hayes, sat on the ground well and was a tough machine, loved the Flathead too.

Killer Roadster, I thought it was a California car as I saw Chino on the Hood, but East coast, and a great job done for sure on this 32 Special, ran hard and straight as well.

How cool is this 29 Roadster? I mean , it is right on the money here, Drilled I-Beam, Juice Brakes,Steelies with Firestones, Flathead mill 32 grill shell and Ox Blood interior, I loved this.

Loved the Patina on this Roadster as it came back from its run up the beach, the old boy was having a blast and probably said to his wife  first thing in the morning

. ” Just shooting up to the Pharmacy to pick up my prescription” LOL!

Making the turn into the pits to get ready for another run at TROG.

Bikes came back from there run, riding on the Beach is not as easy as you may think.

Easy Lad, Easy- the sand sure gives you a work out if you are using handlebars.

Everyone was having fun though at this event and thats the main thing, there was plenty to see thats for sure.

Loved the front springer and the bars on this Harley, sounded great as he went by me.

Wo Boy! This HD was starting to fight the rider all the way through the pits, must of been quite a work out and am sure was aching for a few days after the Races.

I really liked this Harley, it sat so well and was proportioned right on for me, great job number 143 thats a Killer machine right there.

Plenty of Riders and Drivers got stuck or had a few little mechanical issues but- it was all resolved pretty fast to my surprise.

I loved that Belly tank that was on the Beach and it ran all weekend, must of been bumpy as hell.

A fun atmosphere at Wildwood, the people were all friendly and had a blast taking on all the other Hot Rods as they made their start up by the Wooden Tower, to a Flag start.

Keeping the Motorcycle up in Soft sand in the Pit area was a tad difficult at times but, some how they kept it pointing in the right direction and got to their service area.

My mate Jimmy White of Circle City Hot Rods in Orange, California came all the way up with his Machine.

Jimmy White makes the save as the soft sands kills power and steering, but he kept his cool as always and ploughed through this part of the pits as it gets pretty tore up in the area from all the traffic that was moving to and from the staging lanes all weekend.

Back on the Power and no worries as Jimmy heads into the Pit area for some refreshment and a little service work on this Humid day in New Jersey.

The Flat Bastard was running well all weekend too, these are not cheap machines let me tell you, some of these are worth in excess of $20K to get them right.

This old fella in his 30 Roadster ran a tight ship, the 255 ci flatty sounded strong, it sat well and handled the sandy beach pretty well.

Seeing this Model T was great, it was light as hell and rab pretty strong with the 4 Banger and I think surprised a lot of people on the track this weekend.

 

What is not to like about this Roadster, Canadian Heads, Thickston High rise alone made it great, sits well and sounded amazing as it drove by us in Wilwood.

Pulling in from racing on the beach, the pits were getting a little chopped up but that made it good for me to be able to take a few photos as they drove into the area.

I watched this 1928 Model A Run all weekend and loved the whole look of this Period machine, what a great Hot Rod, loved the lines and style, the guy was having a ball with that Jalopy.

28 Roadster sat high but looked great and seemed to handle the sand pretty good, maybe due to the height, still see the Running Board struts showing.

I tried a few different vantage points at the Pits but to be honest, it was so busy, if you moved, someone would jump in your place, so I stood fast for a while and took snaps when I thought it would make a good picture.

Everybody got a run but the wait time was too long to be honest and the humidity was up the Ying Yang.

Cleaner than any cats Arse, this Roadster was bang on, even the doors fitted well, my ones are about as close as I dare and could still stack pennies in the gap below, this machine was just put together meticulously and it showed and good on him for bringing it out for all of us to have a look at.

50’s style 5 window sat really well and had the Roundy Roundy Chicken wire windshield.

Some of the photos I have taken look similar to others but I assure you that these were on different races and times of the day, but hope these do not bore you as they do not me, I love looking at Hot Rods and even though each photo is almost 10 megabytes and takes ages to load onto my website, I believe its worth all the time and energy I have put into it to share with everyone.

Hurry Up and Wait was the order of the day but- I am sure all the races had something to chin wag about as they waited for the OK from the man in the Tuxedo and the Bird with the flag.

 

The T-Wrecker was pretty cool, bring Broken down Motorcycles back or towing Hot Rods down the beach and ran fine all weekend.

The good thing was there was plenty of people around to help if you got stuck in the boggy sand, but there really were too many people in the pits to be honest.

A cooler Breeze later helped big time and that tide started to move in real fast, then later the fog came in too but was still in the 80’s.

If you look hard enough, you can see Two Motorcycles that are 3/4 of the way up the track, guy on the right is getting down over the tank the best he can for the Win.

Mechanics and drivers all hung out between races to stratagise and come up with some sort of game plan to edge the other racer out, I think just Nail it and go would be my Philosophy.

A Hole Lot of Regerts?

Orange Turtle Deck T- Roadster makes its way up the beach, you can see someones drone trying to chase it.

Come in Number 416 your time is up, this was part of the Beach I could not walk on, but some people came to his rescue once they noticed he was struggling, ever tried to push a Motorcycle in the Sand? It’s bloody hard work.

Heading out, decent tire tread helps a lot and this geezer seems to be alright for the moment, as he makes his way to the staging lane.

Getting to the pits was a bit of a task in the afternoon but, most people got it sorted out. But this young Bloke seems to be well in control to be honest.

How thew hell was this bloke clean? I mean he lined up, raced, and then made the return and not a spec of sand on him.

Another super clean machine makes it back virtually unscathed, quite amazing!

Old Fella’s still having fun and getting a work out too, love seeing this and great job mate.

Getting a little bumpy now but a good area for me to take a few snaps as the bikes came back from their Races and return back to the pits once more.

Now I have no idea what a Scrubby Puffer is and not sure I want to either, as the dude in the super cool Yellow Sedan looks on.

This Blokes Indian wanted to stop for a breather as it was pretty Hot in the afternoon but he got it fired up after a bit of kicking and swearing and on his way.

How cool is this 29 Model A? Period car here and he has a blast in that all day.

Digging the Bars on this, looks like he is 2 up but thats another geezer on a bike right behind him.

Motorcycles and Hot Rods, a Super Combination if you ask me and everybody got along.

I think that is Mr Chin in his Roadster, this is an original built Hot Rod from back in the day, I saw this Race up at the RPM Nationals in Santa Margarita Ranch last year, a consistent machine for sure.

Theres a different angle shot I took of this super Nice 28 Roadster, what a really cool ride, great job mate I loved it.

I wanted the McCullogh Blower and intake oiff of this machine, it sounded wicked and you could tell the power difference right away.

A work out but something that you wont forget when you finally get home and the next day you have more aches than a set of infected teeth.

This Board Track Racer was consistent in running hard and did really well on the Sandy Conditions.

Model A Coupe bouncing its way back, making more noise than the waves crashing in behind him.

This 34 Roadster was really well built, sat well, drove hard and handle awesome, a nice Hot Rod there.

This inline Four Indian did well and he even rode it home, Loved seeing all these old bikes having a go on the Sand.

A Mixture of everything here, Mid engine Roadster Ran pretty Hard all weekend too.

If at first you dont exceed, feck it, leave it there.

Fog was coming in and it was Humid at the same time and, the tide was coming in too.

Gene Winfields Blown Ardun Powered Roadster, with the 90 year Old behind the wheel was just Epic.

Getting ready to line up and GO!!!!!

Gene will be 91 years Young This coming Saturday, how cool is that?

New Jersey Roadster sits patiently and waits for the go ahead to race.

See how sometimes it gets foggy from the humidity? it will then rain, then get even hotter, so weird to me.

Another Rail with a Flathead and clean as can be, this was really well built, so much time and detail in this creation too.

Lisa awaits her start as she sits in the 29 Roadster with everybody else.

Hey, Come on you lot, lets get this race underway, times a wasting and I got stuff to do.

Getting ready for the Big Off, almost ready to go as they all sit on the Beach getting Hot.

Come on lads, give us a push.

I took so many shots, I am trying to keep them as cool as I can, dont want you lot getting bored of the same car but these are pretty cool to look at.

Looks like at some point in time, this 28 Roadster had Schroder steering or a bell set up, as you can see the hole in the side for the pitman arm to exit the steering box.

This Bloke was having fun with his A-Bone all weekend.

This Roadster was just so right, loved everything I saw and it sounded really crisp too.

Evans Heads equipped with a Quad Intake Manifold, check the exhaust out too.

Plenty of activity later on in the day.

Jenn thought the Security Guard looked like The Big Lebowski, I must admit he does look like Jeff Bridges.

Some awesome Motorcycles here, not so sure on the cut front fender but the rest is on the money.

This Young Lady Ran all weekend and the Modified was super clean too.

In the Pits and Boy was it getting crowded in there.

I would love this for my Roadster, this had a unique sound of its own as he hit the Gas pedal.

Even Billy Lane turned up and Raced here.

People braved the Sea to get a free view of the Racing here at Wilwood.

Getting ready to line up against each other and head on up the beach , the geezer with the Penguin Suit on lines em up.

Trying to get as many races in before the Mist gets in, the tide gets in and the storm gets in.

Things seem to be rolling to a start a little faster now and thank god as I was sweating buckets and hoping my camera would not fog up with all this Humidity on the Beach.

The Tuxedo bloke reminded me a little of ED ROTH.

Our guy from the O.C. Grant Peterson jumps of his Checkered Harley and goes for it and wins.

East Coast special, Un-Chopped and Channeled and ready to Rock.

This school teacher had his Pupils build this, for shop class, how cool is that? Ran great too.

Heading on the Return from Racing, I liked this Model A and the lines were clean.

You can see that the tide is now getting closer to the shore.

What a Killer 3 Window Coupe.

I think the guy in the Leathers rode to the event.

Pit crews heading to the cars as the time gets closer to race.

There is that rail again, I wonder if he will be running with a body on it for next years event?

More drivers heading back for their final run.

How fun would this be eh? he must of been grinning all the way up the Beach.

The smell of Burnt Gas and oil, a great Combination.

Running a little Rich there Sir?

I loved this shot, I shoulf of done it in Black n White for a period feel to it.

Gene Winfield getting ready for another run in the Blown Ardun Roadster.

Outta My Way Buddy, I’m in this next Race.

What are these Two Guys up to? Laying bets?

Getting set up to Race each other as the Tide comes in and the Waves start to crash towards them.

Loved this 4 Banger, the headers were Bloody awesome.

Oilers Mid Engine Roadster was way cool to see and watch it run and it ran hard all the way.

Camera men all over the place from all over the world.

Grant gets set up to race an Indian on the beach.

Grant Petersen almost touch the Sea.

The Mist is coming in and rain comes down but, only for a short while, I have never experienced weather like this before, even when I lived in Australia.

Coming in Hot, 13B aptly named Four Bits comes into the pits, keeping his speed on so he does not bog down in this silty, soft silver sand.

The Daytona Flyer heading back out to race again.

Hanging in there on his Henderson.

Marvel Mystery Oil T- Roadster had some Motor issues, the timing jumped a tooth on the gear sprocket, so they rebuilt the motor over night and ran, very cool.

How frigging Tough is this Coupe?

I loved this 5 Window, really mean looking ride with a great stance set up.

It sure turned heads I tell ya.

Pretty cool 5 Window Model A Coupe with Frenched Model A Tail Lights was a great looking set up.

How much fun would this be at El Mirage? Or anywhere for that matter.

 

Getting into it with as least wind resistance as possible.

That Throttle is turned as far as it can go on this blokes Sickle.

Having fun and pushing the boundries of your two wheeled machine,and experiencing something that was done many many years ago.

Both Rails going Hell for Leather and it was a fun race too.

The 34 Roadster takes the Win on this Race and by quite a margin too.

The Young lady was hauling ass and winning by a big gap, but the guy on the Indian did not give up and pushed as hard as he possibly good, never back off on a race at all at anytime.

 

This Girl was leading all the way and as she approached the Checkers, for some reason she backed off, to allow the guy on the Indian to take the win.

Cam snappers 28 Roadster was cool, but as a couple of Motorcycle guys crashed racing, the cops made everyone wear Modern DOT helmets, thats kinda ruined the event to be honest.

What a wicked 29 eh? I watched this all weekend and it sounded great out of them Lakester style headers.

BRAAAAAP!

 

Now thats some Close Racing right there and so enjoyable.

Good to watch these two battle it out and it was who wanted it the most, we all saw Lisa win but the tower gave it to the old fella, you should of heard the Crowd fire up.

Number 24 trying to position himself to get some good traction by laying his body weight over the rear tire.

Some neat racing that I will never forget.

Caught him up but Just missed out by a nose.

This fella looks as relaxed as hell but he was sure having a blast on that Indian Motorcycle.

Enjoying time in the saddle and I loved this machine.

Doesnt look fast but he was hauling balls to be honest, very cool Model A Roadster.

Next up is Scott Sheehan who hails from Bay City in Michigan its a city that in Bay County that is located near the base of the Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron. His Roadster is dialled in and on harder packed sand this would haul ass, winning 2 of the 3 races, he lost this race that I took photos of, because the rear end broke out, the sand was soft but, Scott kept the pedal hard to the steel and straightened it out but the other guy had managed to keep his straight to take the win. here are a few shots I took that I thought were pretty cool.

Digging in like a Tick on a Dog, but Scott keeps the Gas ploughed down.

Scotts hands are literally crossed over, fighting the girl all the way but not giving up, and thats the way to go on sand, as if you back off you will lose momentum.

People got a show this day and I was cheering him through my camera lens as I kept snapping pics of this epic race.

Flat out is the only way to go and persistence does pay dividends in the end but great to see to be honest, it just goes to show how unpredictable Sand can be.

You can see the Roadster has straightened out and is now in a perfect squat, getting power to the rear wheels and torqueing the rest of the way.

 

 

That was a Great Race and good entertainment for the Audience as well as onlookers in their Jalopy’s. Nice job there Scotty!

This Roadster has the Perfect stance, everything is great and I enjoyed watching it speed up and down the beach all weekend in Wilwood N.J.

How can you not have fun in partaking in an event such as this? I sure hope we get to do some more in Southern California.

Great times these two had, belting along the beach on their bikes and giving it all that it is worth.

Another Fine Model A and kept it on all four wheels the entire weekend too.

The Great lakes Special returns back down the beach, he had fun all the weekend.

Yet another Model A I liked, this 1929 Model was fun to watch and it sat really well.

Riding back to the start again, I could stop looking at the fella in the Pink lid, Cops made Competitors wear DOT lids on Sunday.

Killer 5 window, these #14 old Jalopy was tough as nails and warrants a couple of photos for sure on here.

There ya go, two different angles, what a cool piece of Hot Rod History right there.

I am glad I managed to grab some photos, I’m not a photographer as such but like to click away and see what I get when I go to shows and events as this is my passion and lifestyle, in that I mean Hot Rods and Motorcycles.

Hands up as he just loses out, but thats racing and he gave it his best shot. The Girly whooped his Arse!

Hot Rods, Sand, Sea and Surf, how cool.

That Model A is so right, could not stop watching it run up the track, just a well put together machine.

Great to see so many Roadsters and not one the same at all, that makes us all unique in this hobby and love what we do.

I wonder how much clean up this took when he got the chassis home? As I am sure it was ready for its new body.

This Young lady should of been named, Mrs Consistent, this ran well and enjoyed watching her take on the guys.

We also enjoyed watching this Tub race, yet another well put together Hot Rod and he had such a Blast racing .

I took this as he had finished the race and was heading back down the track to return to the pits.

Quad Carbed Roadster ran hard and sounded well dialled in, yet another cool machine that got a lot of attention .

How can you not like this Roadster, Epic build mate, well done.

29 Roadster with Kelseys and knock off Caps looked great with the T Wrecker next to him.

Hubba Hubba, just take a look at this 5 window, such a great example of a Hot Rod.

Model A on stock rims sits high but probably good in the soft sand.

Yes mate, sweet as a nut this ride, really is.

Boy did this sit high.

He was having fun and I guess if he broke down, at least you could easily crawl under it.

Was drawn to this Model A Roadster quite a bit, I have 36 Torque Tubes in storage that I want to use as exhausts and needed to see how loud these were by the doors.

But this has a 4 Banger in it so I could not gauge the noise level as a V8 will be way louder thats for sure, but really liked this Roadster.

The Oilers Turtle Deck slammed Roadster sounded great as it belted along the beach and was pretty fast too, but you would feel every bump being that low to the ground.

Tide was starting to come in but they still raced until it was almost at their tires and this was great to see these 2 rides on the Beach together.

These Boat Tail was just plain weird looking to me, not a fan at all to be honest but- Each to their own Right?

The Boat tail ran up to the end of the track after every heat of Races were complete and the drivers and riders would follow them back to the start line once more.

Giving it some Beans, the 34 Roadster Races the 5 window and the Roadster takes the Win.

This little Belly Tank was nuts, but loved it, how the fella hung on in there I do not know as the Torque of this motor would pull you out of the seat.

How wild is this? That’s the smallest drop tank I have seen, I had a P-38 version but way longer than that, albeit mine had a V8-60 motor, but this 4 Banger was Hopped Up!

Looks more like a Straight 6 Motor than a 4 Banger, the Tiny Drop tank must of been a small feat of Engineering genius to be able to get this to all piece together and a good job too.

I would drive it for sure but I am sure its a Bone Shaker, but, just like they would of built it back in the 40’s for sure.

Quick way of stopping the H2O from getting in as we got a few Sporadic rain flurries and the Humid Air didnt help all day for sure, look how clean this is and Loved the finned Intake.

How cool is this, 1936 5 Window Coupe was the Tow vehicle for the Belly tank, thats Priceless.

Check out the bigger Brother Drop Tank, this is one serious Piece of Kit too and ran well all weekend.

This was a greast piece of Nostalgia and loved watching it throughout the weekend, by the time I noticed it, I kept missing a photo opportunity, but not this time.

Check the 5 window and another Belly tank, complete with Cool Cockpit cowl, what a killer Duo.

The Tornados Club had some great machines Racing at TROG and glad I was able to see them.

Three More great Tornados club Hot Rods Park in the Pit Area.

The Pits was busy all day, it got too busy and the next day the Pit area was closed off to the public as people were getting in the way of the lane that goes out to the track.

People came up in their Hot Rods to watch the races and parked on the beach as there was a little Classic car show on.

Another Clean 28/29 Roadster cruises about and looked pretty sweet.

This Roadster was show quality and the Young Lady had a great heavy Right foot and was into it all weekend and beat many people, awesome job 533.

What a Blast this must be to Throttle this Mid Engine dry lake racer down the Beach for all its worth, a Real cool Lakester for sure.

This Roadster sits well, ran hard and is worth a pretty penny for sure, loved it.

Narrowed with Suicide front end, Schroder Steering and on Kelseys with Dirt tracker tires, this Japanese Special was so cool.

This geezer must of won something as he looks as happy as Larry! Maybe it is LARRY?

There is that Daytona Flyer once More, he sure enjoyed himself here at Wilwood.

Above, Gene Winfield in the Blown Ardun Roadster, this Motor sounded every $100,000 that was put into it, a phenomenal machine and guy.

Heading out to head to his Hotel, Gene Revved the Motor and it was music, purse Music.

Loved seeing the Rides heading on out of the Beach.

Hot Rain started to get a little thicker as a Storm was approaching, so it was a good time for us to make a move to our Bed & Breakfast where we can get changed and go eat.

These 5 windows were parked at the Car show on the beach, they couldnt race even if they wanted to, as they didnt have Flat heads or 4 Bangers, but looked cool in my eyes.

Dig the Nerf Bar and Vintage Hot Rod Trophy Topper on the Spreader Bar, two buddies having fun on the Beach.

There goes the Jalopy Racer, Great piece of American Hot Rod History right there and still running, and Racing today.

The little Silver Bullet heading back for some food and rest after a day of Sand and Sea.

Now that really is a well built 5 window on Deuce Rails and the Flatty sounded Gnarly, Great job #52.

This Old Fella had a smile all weekend and I know why in that machine, it ran really well too.

Handle Bars and flat caps were the order of the day, the Roadster ran well at Wilwood and is a good looking Hot Rod, always loved this Dark Blue Color.

T

This 4 Banger 5 Window was another Hot Rod that was right on the money, getting some of the cooler Breeze that was coming in from the storm approaching helped keep them happy.

Lisa brings home the Roadster after spending the day, teaching the Lads how to Race on the beach, loved this girl and she really has a passion for the Hot Rods, great to see this, well done Lisa.

The Toughest looking Coupe out there, this was a real head turner, the right stance and look, and great to see a coupe that has had a full chop and keeps the insert, not often you see this.

Another Ride that ran well through out the Race Of gentlemen was this 34 Roadster, so much more room than a Model A too.

As you can see, it was a little ride to be able to get off the Beach at Wilwood, but cool to  watch as the Hot Rods and Motorcycles headed out in line like Geese going to a Bread crumb Outlet, these ran all the way then under a tunnel that was beneath the Boardwalk.

The Girls also made them selves known, especially in this T- Roadster Modified, it was a great looking machine and was really consistent on the track, they sure had fun all weekend.

Mile High Model A Club was well represented here, no way could this get stuck in the mud.

This ole Fella ran all weekend but never lit that Cigar, but I saw him make quite a few runs in this Roadster and the Flathead sounded really healthy.

This East Coast Unchopped and Channeled Coupe is reminisent of all the old small format Hot Rod magazines I read Decades ago and was great for me to see for myself.

Service Car was another cool sight as you really never see these and to take it out on the beach and open it up was a real treat and glad he bought this along, great job Sir.

Having fun in the 28 with his Girl as they head out from the track to get some food for the night after spending time Racing, I am surprised how this has no Sand all over the body.

This 1928 Black Roadster was right in every-way, from Motor to Interior, I loved this look and have always Like Henry Fords Black lacquer Paint scheme.

This Bloke was having fun all weekend too, a great Vintage Harley that pulled pretty well and got up to a fair amount of speed in a short distance, sits well too.

Scott had a Blast all weekend in his Roadster, him and His Girly had such fun I am sure, this Roadster is dialed in and gave it all when he was under the flag.

This FORD 1936 Five Window with Ribbed Bumpers, Hollywood Flippers looked really cool.

Many people loved this Yellow 29 and I sure did too, a Timely piece that catches the spirit of Years of Drag Racing gone by to the present, a super example of Drag Racing.

Looking like this was a barn Find, this 28 got lotsa of great looks from spectators, I loved this A-Bone and he am sure enjoyed this weekend driving it.

Heading home with the Mrs and nice to see some Brit stuff Blapping around the Beach at Wilwood New Jersey.

Outta my way I’m coming through, this Rail was put together right and am looking forward to see this with a Body on top of the frame next time.

Hoping that we all get the chance to do this back in California again as we have as many Vintage Rides down here and so many more Beaches too, lets do it California!!!

Meaner than a scolded Cat, this 5 Window would look great anywhere, If Elmer did anything to this ride, then it would of been done right and, it looks right to me.

Another period Coupe and this time East Coast TY RODS 5 Window, amazing Historical HOT ROD and was stoked to be able to see this for myself.

Indian heading home after thrashing about in the sand.

Check this Harley out, looks the parts and rides really well, they sure love their Motorcycles out here on the East Side of the Country too.

Another fella on his Hawg and sitting well on the sand as he heads home to have a few Brewskis to get that sand taste from out of his mouth.

Trying to get back to their Hotel before the heavy Rain arrives as a Storm was indeed approaching.

Du’Vall and Hallock Windshield look great, but not so when they have a top up, just looks a little weird, but thats just me, each to their own, with out the top they look Killer.

The Rain was just starting and we knew it would down pour later so many people made sure they were on their way back before the storm took full effect here in New Jersey.

OH OH! Here comes the Rain- Take Cover !!!

Old School AV8 heading home as we were about to leave too.

This Lady Loved her Harley and had many Runs on the beach and seemed to enjoy it all, thats a cool Girl right there.

Unusual rear tail lights on the 29 as it sped passed me on its way home.

This Flathead sounded so mean, I listened to it idle and wished I had chatted to him as it was really a dialled in Flathead, Great job mate that made my day listening to it.

I have Always liked Indians and we were spoiled at the Race Of Gentlemen with plenty of them Racing the Harleys at Wildwood.

How bad ass is this Flathead Roadster, Super Bell axle, Roll bar and long Radius Rods made this a Nostalgic step back in time for me.

Louvered deck lid, Classic Push Bar, Moon caps and Firestones with a Roll bar, just a great HOT ROD that looked fast even when it was parked up.

Mom and Dad heading home, bet they never told the kids what they were up to this weekend.

Yellow Peril heading home after having the day driving up and down the Beach, so much room when they are not chopped eh?

Now thats a super Happy Face, the Double deuce heading South Bound.

Scott Sheehan heading back to the Hotel with his girl after a day of spraying Sand over everybody that watched him today.

Scott had a full day of get squirly and loved it, this is a great Roadster with a strong Flathead Motor for sure.

This 5 Window didnt race as it isnt a Flathead or 4 Banger but, sure a neat HOT ROD none the less and sits well on the sand.

So glad that Jennifer and I made the 2500 mile trip to the East side of the country to check out TROG, it sure was fun for us and enjoyed the whole 4 days away, I wasn’t sure what to expect and was pleasantly surprised at how much fun it was for us.  Thanks for reading the Blog, I didnt type much as I figured the photos would really speak for them selves, I know there is a lot of photos but- If you are like me and dig the Nostalgia Hot Rods and Motorcycles, then I am sure that you smiled at a few of the snaps I managed to take.

Thank you for reading and hope you follow me on here.  Hope to see you at an event, come up and say hello as it is always great meeting like minded people such as Me and Jennifer.

BONNEVILLE SALT FLATS SPEED WEEK

Posted on by Steve Carpenter
06 Jul

Ever since I was a teenager, I was intrigued with the American Hot Rod, I loved the Country, the Lifestyle and the possibilities you could achieve with hard work and, determination.

Back in the UK I even had a Hot Rod, a 1932 Three Window Coupe, chopped and channeled, this Hot Rod was a Nostalgic style that reflected what I was into.

carpy hot rod

Then in 1997 I left the shores of the British Isles, jumping on a Big Silver Bird to the other side of the world and landed in Australia, another Hot Rod Country that really loves mechanical machines and anything that moves on 2 and four wheels.

 

I built a 58 Work truck and had a 29 Roadster that I was finishing, but things in life happen and had to sell both but sure was a cool look.

carpy f150carpy f150acarpy-truck5

 

In Melbourne I worked for Norm Hardinge of Aussie desert Cooler, helping him with the manufacture of Radiators for many Hot Rod and Customs cars, this took me all over Victoria and NSW and never was there a sad time, they are big Hot Rodders and the only way of topping that was to move to the United States of America, the Land I dreamed of living in from Middle school.

carpy falcon

Feb 2000 I arrived in Southern California and 17 years later here I am and love it, I now own a period style 1928 Model A Roadster, complete with a 1939 Flathead V8, just a little 221ci Mill thats fun for me and hope to add rare speed equipment later on.

????????????????????????????????????
Well, in 2000 I was lucky enough to head to Muroc Dry lakes with a bunch of Hot Rodding Buddies and was fortunate enough to drive Drew Pietsch’s ’28-’29 Dodge Roadster around this famous dry lake, where even the Space shuttle would land if it was too windy in Florida.

muroc7

So, coming up in August is Speed Week at Bonneville Salt Flats, a place that I have only dreamed about going to and watching all sorts of Hot Rods and Motorcycles giving their all to try and acquire a record of speed over a timed area. And as it will be my 55th Birthday, My Girlfriend Jennifer Sun is taking us out there to experience the life, racing on the salt.

carpy belly

Obviously I am spectating but who knows, the bug may catch me and I will have a go on a bike or car if I can get enough sponsors, always a cool thing to try.

carpy el mirage6

 

So, I am so looking forward to that and if ANY of you are attending and see a Sun Burnt Limey walking around with a Gorgeous Hawaiian Girlfriend, then that’s will be me, come and say hello.

on July 16th SUNDAY at: El Mirage Dry Lake 20471 Mountain View Rd Adelanto, CA

Royal enfield 1

I will Also be at El Mirage next weekend and riding my Red Royal Enfield about ,if ya fancy a little blap on it let me know, so if ya around, just let me know as I will be there early in the morning on Sunday, until the evening about 5pm and will be heading home. it is a superb place to spectate and watch the racing, as well as being able to get close to the start line and watch them go, I love it, some speeds in excess of 200 MPH too.

Drop me a text on 714-598-8392 if ya gonna be up there, I shall have an easy up and generator and a couple of chairs as I like to park half track and watch the bikes and Hot Rods run, then jump on the Motorcycle and go to other parts of the track. So i can see the Start and the finish and see them flat out.

bonnevile salt

Here is a little bit of History for you, but I am sure that you are familiar with it. I hope you enjoy this little Blog I have created today.

– This was filmed in September, 1932 at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Ab Jenkins is testing the new, 1932 Pierce Arrow 462 cubic inch V-12 in a 24-hour endurance run. His average speed was 112.91 mph.

For years the Bonneville Salt Flats was the home to land speed record attempts but these were for elite drivers like Sir Malcolm Campbell. After World War Two, Hot Rodders wanted to test their metal on the salt but officials balked at allowing these people they saw as Juvenile Delinquents defile their Salt Flats.

Silent 8mm but great footage none the less.

Vic Edelbrock Jr Passes away.

Posted on by Steve Carpenter
11 Jun

 

Vic Edelbrock Jr. passed away Friday, June 9, at the age of 80 after complications from a cold.

“It’s with deep sadness that we announce the untimely death of our visionary and leader Vic Edelbrock Jr.,” the company website read. “Vic passed away this evening from complications following a recent cold. His passing was peaceful and in the company of his closest friends and family. The Edelbrock Fun Team sends their deepest condolences to his family and will always hold him in our hearts.”

vic edelvrock

Vic Edelbrock Jr. took over the aftermarket performance parts company that bears his name after the untimely passing of his father, Vic Edelbrock Sr. Vic Jr. was just 26 when his father died in 1962. With a small but dedicated band of 10 employees, Vic Jr. not only kept the company growing but made it into one of the largest performance parts entities in the world.

vic

It’s a long story that starts in 1933 when Vic Sr. opened an automotive repair shop on Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills. Soon after, Edelbrock cars were racing on the circle tracks and dry lakes of Southern California during the golden age of hot rodding. In 1938, Vic Sr. bought a ’32 Ford and used it to test new speed parts, more or less inventing the marketing tool that would later be known as “the project car.” The first big seller from an Edelbrock project car was the Slingshot manifold, used by Vic Sr. on the dry lakes to clock a prewar time of 121.42 mph in the ’32.

edelbrock

Business wasn’t the only thing growing for the Edelbrock name. Vic Jr. was born in 1936 and started working summers in his dad’s shop at age 12.

“I was making $2 a day and I thought I was really living,” he told us when we spoke to him for a 2002 story.

vic1

The towering Vic Jr. went to the University of Southern California on a football scholarship, graduated with a degree in business in 1959 and went to work full time for his dad’s business. Just three years later, Vic Sr. was diagnosed with inoperable cancer.

“He had no chance,” said Vic Jr. “Four months later he left us.”

Not only did Vic Jr. have to deal with the death of his father and mentor, but he suddenly found himself at the helm of a fully funded company with 10 employees and $200,000 in the bank.

Many an heir would have blown it all in a couple of years, and some expected Vic Jr. to  do just that. But one thing the father had taught the son was the value of good people. Among the 10 Edelbrock employees were Don Towle, Bobby Meeks and Bob Bradford.

“They stuck with me,” said Vic Jr.

vic2

In 1965 Bob Joehnck, who had been a close friend of Vic Sr., called Vic Jr. with a suggestion.

“He said, ‘Make a manifold for the small-block Chevy,’” remembers Jr. “I said, ‘They already make one.’ He said, ‘Trust me, make one.’ So we made one.”

Did they ever. The Edelbrock manifold for the small-block Chevy became the foundation from which the company springboarded into legend. That manifold led to a relationship with Holley to mate Holley carbs to it, which eventually led to more parts for more cars.

vic4

We drove an excellent example of the Total Performance Package back then in 2002 in the streets around Edelbrock’s Torrance, California headquarters — Vic Edelbrock’s own 1967 SS 396 Chevelle. With an Edelbrock intake, cams, heads, carbs and water and fuel pumps, the 468- cubic-inch big-block Chevrolet made 540 hp and 539 lb-ft of torque (those are gross figures, not today’s legal SAE net measurements). In keeping with the Total Performance Package philosophy, the car also came with Edelbrock springs, shocks, trailing arms and wheels. All we needed was a cigarette behind one ear.

The big-block started with a screech, reminding us how much internal friction these big, meaty engines have. The gauges jumped to life as the car body torqued in the direction opposite crank rotation. Steering through the big, skinny wheel was heavy, the way things were in 1967, and we cruised the streets waiting for the engine temps to warm up. In a few minutes we had enough heat to open it up a little and suddenly it all made sense. Why would a working guy spend a month’s salary on parts? Because of the way this magnificent old beast opened up when you floored the throttle. Suddenly the big-block roared in one long, uninterrupted wail, the exhaust note went to a higher-pitched whaaaaaaaa as the engine neared its 6000-rpm power peak and the ’67 SS leapt forward, scaring the hell out of a number of sensible midsized sedans nearby. Telephone poles, indeed, looked like a picket fence.

vic5

Goodbye, Vic Jr. Say hello to Senior for us.

vic6

The Name will Live on in the Automotive World and always there will be a part of the Edelbrock family on an engine if you are a performance fan.

201-Vic-Edelbrock-Jr-obit.jpg
201-Vic-Edelbrock-Jr-obit.jpg

 

Model A was fun to drive on the weekend

Posted on by Steve Carpenter
31 May

Well, memorial weekend has come and gone by so fast, although in that time I caught a head cold that whooped my arse and have only just got back to a level playing field.

DSC_0002 (2)

So wanted to throw some photos up I took of my 1928 Model A Roadster that I have and over that weekend I removed the fenders and bumpers to give it a more post war 1940’s look, and right now I am loving this little A-Bone.

????????????????????????????????????

I have always been into old vehicles and Motorcycles since I was a kid, back in the UK I had a 32 three window Coupe and, as I went to school on the East Anglian side of Great Britain, I was very close to the American Airbases and actually learned to ride a motorcycle on one of the WW2 Bomber Runways in Rougham  . ( Suffolk )

????????????????????????????????????

This Model A of mine is a fun machine, not the fastest in the world but thats what I didnt want, what i wanted was a cool period Hot Rod that would of been around Southern California after the war and young serviceman and women had all these New engineering skills from working on aircraft, boats and tanks etc that they used their skills to hop up their Jalopys.

This Model A has a few cool parts now to make it quite a traditional ride.

 

Breakdown of parts:

16 inch Kelsey Wire wheels

1939 Flathead V8 Motor

1939 Three speed gearbox

1936 rear radius Rods

1940 Ford Juice (hydraulic) Brakes

32 style K member

40 ford pedals

1948 F1 steering Box

1940 Ford steering wheel ( Limeworks Speed Shop)

2 inch chopped stainless steel windshield.

Converted to 12 volt system

Edelbrock intake Manifold

Two Stromberg 97 Carburetors 

????????????????????????????????????

I still have more to do like eventually I shall be removing the radiator and grill shell and replacing it with a Walker radiator and a genuine 1932 deuce grill shell and insert, popular back in the 1940’s.

DSC_0022 (1)

Then I hope to make some exhaust headers that will run outside the Roadster up near the doors, using 2 old 1936 Ford Torque Tubes, another 40’s hop up that was very popular back then.

????????????????????????????????????

This was and always will be one of my Passions, I was simply Born in the wrong country as I have always loved the American way of life, the people, the country and of course, the invention of the Hot Rod.

????????????????????????????????????

This was built in Memory of My MUM that sadly passed 2 years ago and if it wasnt for her, I would not be here, Mum loved sitting in my old coupe, she even got her arm stuck in the window, chicken winging one day as i had a 4 inch chopped roof.

DSC_0026 (1)

Plans are for the exhausts, the radiator, and some cool 1949 Kaiser Taillights that I fitted into 1948 Chevy Bezels and will fit them in the back under the rumble seat.

I shall also be getting a Canvass Top for her, as My hair grease melts in the Southern California Sun!

????????????????????????????????????

Hope you dig my Roadster as many people love the same stuff I am into, Motorcycles, Hot Rods, ww2 planes, boats etc, anything vintage.

I will keep you updated on other things I do to my AV8 Roadster.

 

ANTIQUE NATIONALS FONTANA May 2017

Posted on by Steve Carpenter
17 May

Well, it was that time of year already, I almost forgot it to be honest and as Jennifer was washing her Motorcycle, I loaded up my Camera and jumped onto my Triumph and headed off to see the cool Drag Racing that will be going on at Fontana drag Way .

The Sun was out and so was I, I flew up the 57 freeway, then the 60 and then the 15 and then headed to Fontana, took me about 50 minutes and was great to see many Hot Rods and Customs lined up at the staging Lanes as I pulled into the event.

I have been going to this for 17 years, this was the 47th Annual Meet and a perfect day for racing.

Once I unloaded my back pack, I had my trusty camera in my hand and walked the Pits to see what we had this year, plenty of great Nostalgia vehicles all over the place, its like a candy shop for the eye, seeing peoples rides that they chose to drive up to this part of Southern California and have a go at hitting the loud pedal on the 1/4 mile drag strip.

People from all over had turned up, I spoke to a fella from Western Australia, and then saw a bunch of guys wearing Flying Norwegian’s tee Shirts, had a chin wag to them and they wanted to come and check the place out, as they had flown in to race at El Mirage Dry lake next week with their Belly Tank racer, which was stuck at Customs, awaiting clearance, so a Great Experience for them for the first time.

fontanaa11

I never tire of this event and the reason is the weather is usually always good, the cars and bikes are fantastic to see, and also everybody is happy and wiling to talk to you about what they are up to and what their vehicle is etc. A totally cool event with a great vibe, fun for everybody in the family too.

fontan114

The other thing I like about the Fontana track is that you get close to all the action of racing, you can sit in the grand stand or stand by the fire lane and watch along the fence, you can see, smell and hear the Vintage Flatheads or the Hilborn injected Hemi’s as they hit the Loud button when the lights change from double Orange to green.

fontan120

The Pits are a great area to see people working on their cars etc, Heck you could even help sometimes, be it pass a wrench, push a car or jump right in and help on the Motor etc.

fontana27

I did not do a car count this year as i was so immersed into the event of trying to at least capture some of the rides that were attending this great show, but a nice turn out none the less and am glad that i managed to make it out here to Fontana raceway, this is right next to the NASCAR track as whilst cars was were racing up the Drag strip, you could also hear the roar of a few V8’s on the Oval track getting some lap times in.

fontana28

They also have a Go Kart track too that had a race on as well as drifting saloon cars too, so something for everyone and worth the trip up to these parts for sure.

If you are going to visit, I would make sure you take plenty of liquids, some good walking shoes and a hat, as the Sun can really bely down here, plus if you want to walk the whole track side, well you can as the pit area is huge and fun to take your time and have a look at all the vehicles that are there and, to the sound of screaming motors running beside you up the 1/4 mile is something to experience.

 

fontana82

I saw my Fellow Compatriot ” Tony Thacker ” Walking about taking photos with Ryan of Hop Up magazine, always a great social event too, best place to catch up with friends and of course make new ones.

fontana thacker

No attitudes, just all enthusiasts and a healthy fun vibe was felt all day. I have always dug the California lifestyle and even though I have been here 17 years, still feels like just a couple.

Below is a few sets of snaps that i took and you can look at your own time, many cool styles of cars and genre’s and I am sure at least something there to make you smile, you may not be able to smell the leaking 97’s, or feel the heat of the Fontana sun burning the back of your neck but, you can sit back with a can of your favorite suds and take in some of the cars that was at this super cool show.

 

 

Plenty to see whilst you are here and I loved it all, it is a relaxed atmosphere for racing and I have been to many race tracks over the years, if you want to just hang out and check things out at your own pace, what better than to come to this event, try and make it next year if you can and spread the word, the more, the merrier.

fontana7 fontana8 fontana9 fontana10 fontana11 fontana12

A Little bit of everything for everyone here in SoCal and I love the coupes, Roadsters, Sedans, Tudors and of course then theres the Gassers and Rails too.

I loved them all to be honest and already looking forward to next years event and hopefully can drive up in my Flathead powered 28 Roadster. Check out these rides below, just take a look at that Tri-Powered 4 banger Three Window Coupe. Really a rare machine these days and thats what I like about the Antique Nationals as there are so many Nostalgic rides here to look at close up.

So much cool Nostalgia to see, I was sure glad I had ridden up today to check this event out. I should of taken a few more but after a while, I simply forgot what car I had taken a pic of.

I am certain that you have a favorite amongst the snaps that I took on this Saturday and, if you can make it for next years event, I know you will be smiling all weekend. There is a constant running of motors, the sound of laughter and the announcer is pretty cool, letting you know who the driver is and what car he has brought to race etc. So look below as I have quite a few photos, but I wanted to share all I saw with you.

I took as many shots as I could until my battery ran low on the camera and hope that at least some of them grabbed your attention.   The Branch Family  ( Above )had a Blast too.

I know a lot to look at, so you can imaging how I felt walking around taking this all in again for another year, this seems to get bigger and better at every event and next year I hope to be driving up to the Drags in my 1928 Model A Roadster and join in with everyone.

 

I wish this was a two day event to be honest, then I could take my time and take it all in, time flies faster than some of the 1/4 milers when you are here but a full weekend would be a blast.

I am partial to Model A’s and loved this as it sat in the pits, great look to it.

fontana136

Cool 28/29 Roadster with the 4 banger, how Nostalgic is that with 16 inch skinny Bias Ply Firestones and an angled windshield, gives this a Period look.

fontana137

Body work is great, hope mine looks half as good when I remove my fenders this month and get a few miles under its belt.

fontana138

39 Tear drops, louvered Rumble seat deck lid and Moon discs, set this apart for sure.

fontana139

Now theres some money sat in a row, not often you see that right?

fontana142

So, until Next year, Many thanks for taking your time to see what I got up to on Saturday at Fontana in Sunny Southern California.

 

Older posts