summer 2013 - Lane Automotive

FEATURES:
The Parts You Need and the Service You Deserve!
1953 DeSoto FireDome!
The Spotlight .......................1
Editor’s Notes ......................2
New Allstar Products ............3
New Products .............4,5,6,7
2013 Lane Car Show .............8
Tech Forum .................................9
Rodding Journal .......................10
2013 Car Show Events ...............11
Lane Collectables ......................12
By John McLellan
One can often run across many interesting automotive finds
while cruising the industrial sections of larger cities. Such was
the case a while back when I was passing by a local machine
shop. I spotted some steel tubing stacked out by the street
with a “For Sale” sign staked nearby and pulled in to check it
out.
The owner came out, gave me a price and explained that
it was left over from a recent job he had finished and he just
wanted the steel out from underfoot. As we talked, I learned
that he was working on a hot rod project in the shop.
I followed him back into the large, metal building, and when
my eyes became accustomed to the light, a huge, pale yellow
car materialized. It was a Chrysler product for sure. Mid 1950’s,
but because most of its stainless trim was removed for body
work, I could not i.d. the make until I saw the massive “waterHere’s a shot where the hemi is actually running on its own run-in stand.
fall” chrome grille. It was a DeSoto, and the shop owner told
The little blower whines nicely.
me it was a ‘53. Perched
on an engine stand right
alongside the car was a
DeSoto FireDome Hemi
V8 awaiting its reinstallation. On top of the
engine was a 144 Series
B&M supercharger with
a Holley carburetor
mounted. When is the
last time anyone saw
a blown DeSoto hemi?
The owner could not
find a blower manifold
so he machined the
top off of a four-barrel
intake.
As we talked more
about the entire project,
The beautiful DeSoto “waterfall” grille, prized by customizers for many years.
the owner stated that he had originally answered the ad because he was looking for an early hemi to build for a possible
future project. When he actually saw the “donor” car he was
amazed at what good shape it was in for its age. It occurred to
him that this car already had a hemi and it could just possibly
be the future project he envisioned. The seller could have
cared less about the car itself, he was just interested in selling
the hemi. A deal was struck and everyone was happy.
When I took these photos, the DeSoto was really close to being roadworthy. If this large, pale yellow hardtop pulls alongside you at the stoplight sometime soon, beware. There is a
Massive rear quarters on the DeSoto are surprisingly straight.
blown hemi lurking beneath that sedate exterior.
SUMMER 2013 1
RACING AND RODDING
SUMMER 2013
Editor’s Notes
By John McLellan
Remembering The Early Days of the Show
Editor’s Notes
It has been a tradition with Racing and Rodding for several years now to insert a centerfold poster of recent car shows.
This issue is no exception, and we hope you enjoy it and that it earns a place of prominence in your collection.
Those attending the show had the opportunity to see a massive, 40 foot by 5 foot poster/banner depicting highlights of
all 24 previous Lane Automotive car shows, starting with the first Open House celebration in April of 1989. Created by Senior
Designer, Matt Hauch, the poster was met with rave reviews by all who saw it.
My part in this creation was sifting through thousands of photos, many undated, from the first ten years of the show.
I tried, with about a 98% success rate, to match photos to the correct year sections of the banner. Along the way, I had a
chance to reminisce about the “old” days.
Manufacturer reps, huddled under the awning on the front of the Red Arrow store back then, now display under a huge,
60’ x 180’ big top tent. Show cars that filled the old parking lot now completely surround our current building. One food
vendor tended to the appetites of show attendees in the early days, this year we had 16! The show has certainly grown,
thanks to the superb patronage of customers and friends and the extreme dedication of Lane employees who work very
hard to make it all happen.
One final thought on my work on the huge banner: A good number of the photos revealed
long familiar faces of show participants who are no longer with us. I endured several personal
moments of silence for those folks who had become good friends through the years. In fact,
longtime show participant, Louise Joslyn, who, showed her Monte Carlo or her '72 Buick Convertible at just about every show we have had, passed away just four days after this year’s show.
Louise, her husband Phil, daughter Kim and son-in-law Creight were mainstays of the Chevrolet
contingent at our shows. Godspeed Louise.
Ryan Gortney At The Car Show
A little over a year ago we were all shocked and saddened to learn of Ryan Gortney's near fatal
crash in the "Wheelie Wagon" during an exhibition pass at Osceola Dragway. Initial prognostications of partial or total paralysis, impaired speech and the like saddened us even further. Thanks
to a website tended to by Ryan's lovely wife, Angie, we were able to follow the progress as Ryan,
a very determined young man, overcame one obstacle after another to put himself well on the
way to full recovery.
Ryan and his Elkhart Career Center Engine Challenge teams again scored highly in this year's
event, copping first and fifth places against some stiff competition. Ryan still gets around many
areas in a wheelchair, but he was proudly standing, unassisted, as his teams posed for photos.
Ryan is a strong testament to the powers of prayer and strong will.
1IPOF-BOFt5PMM'SFF
New Allstar Products
Aluminum Frame Race Car Lift
ALL11272
Portable lift collapses to a low 3" profile and raises up to 17". Weighing
only 68 lbs., lift is easily positioned under race car to raise off the ground
simplifying tire changes and chassis tuning. Sturdy 1/8" wall 6061-T6
aluminum lift is tig-welded and supports up to 2,400 Lbs. Complete
system includes a 110V AC 3/4HP hydraulic pump with cord and plug,
hydraulic cylinders with down assist canisters, 1" bolt on risers for cars
with raised frame rails, safety struts to lock raised lift in place, assist handle and 20' of hydraulic quick connect
hose to attach pump to lift. The pump provides power up/gravity down operation and can be mounted either
horizontally or vertically, typically mounted to trailer or a hand cart. A push-button on the motor starts the unit to raise
lift. To lower, a manually operated release valve is used for finger-tip control of lowering speed. Pump is compatible with
hydraulic fluid, ATF, 10W30 or 10W40 oil (not included). Assembly is required, all hardware included.
37 Degree Flaring Tool ALL11016
This -AN fitting flare tool is essential when working with 37° flared fittings. Tool for use with
soft copper, aluminum and brass tubing will precisely flare from -3AN to -10AN and 3/16"
to 5/8".
Spark Plug Index Shims ALL96505
Stackable shims index spark plugs at 30° intervals up to 360° properly positioning ground
strap in cylinder head for increased power and clearance between spark plug and piston.
Shims are intended for use with 14mm flat seat spark plugs only. Package
of 24 shims contains 12 silver 60°, 12 black 90°, detailed instructions and dial chart.
Plate is designed specifically for lifting LS Gen IV engines. Installation of plate requires removal
of the intake manifold and valley cover tray to properly secure lift plate to engine block. Plate features
three lifting points for various chain positioning which allows engine weight to be balanced or offset. An
offset position is especially helpful when angling an engine (with transmission attached) in or out of a vehicle.
Constructed of 3/16" thick zinc plated steel.
SB Chevy Header Gaskets
Durable reinforced steel core and graphite composite gaskets remain soft and pliable to conform to header and head
surfaces providing an excellent, long lasting seal. Sold each.
Part No.
Description
ALL87260
ALL87260 ............. 1-5/8" Square Port (Stock)
ALL87262 .............. 1-3/4" D-Port (Standard)
ALL87264
ALL87264 .............. Spread Port (Staggered Bolt Pattern)
ALL87266 .............. Crate Engines (Non LS / Fast Burn)
ALL87268 .............. LS Series Engines (Excluding LS7)
Low Drag Rear Hub Seal 5x5 ALL72123
Hub seal keeps grease in the hubs and on the wheel bearings with less resistance than standard lip seals.
Fits AFCO and Winters hubs with 2-1/2" I.D. Bearings.
SUMMER 2013 3
New Allstar Products
LS Gen IV GM Engine Lift Plate ALL10143
New Products
Batteries
The combination of extreme power and
outstanding performance makes Odyssey
batteries perfect for auto/LTV, marine, commercial, racing and powersports.
Odysseys deliver twice the overall power and last three times longer than
conventional batteries. Part numbers with MJ are select batteries with a metal
casing for high heat applications. All batteries are 12 volt.
Ultimizer Chargers
Lightweight and portable, Ultimizer 12-volt chargers support the full line of
Odyssey batteries – automotive /LTV, heavy duty/commercial, powersports, and
marine. The three-step charge profile ensures fast, complete and safe charge. A
continuous trickle charge can keep batteries fully charged during extended periods of non-use. Available in 6, 12 and 25 amp, single bank versions.
Light Duty Winch Accessory Kit
The WARN #88915 accessory kit includes; (2) 1/2" (127mm) forged
D-shackle snatch block, rated at 9,000 lbs., (4082 kg) maximum capacity tree trunk protector, 1 in. x 8 ft. (25mm x 2.4mm), newly
styled WARN winching gloves to help protect hands and a heavy weight Denier nylon carry
bag to stow the accessories.
Medium Duty Winch Accessory Kit WAR88900
WARN’s newest edition is specially designed to get the most out of the WARN winch (10,000
lbs. or less). This accessory kit includes; snatch block rated up to 20,000 lb (9072 kg) maximum capacity, tree trunk protector 2 in. x 8 ft. to 14,400 lbs., recovery strap 2 in. x 60 ft.
(5cm x 9.1m) rated at 14,400 lbs. (8165kg) (2) 3/4" D-shackles (20mm), newly styles WARN
winching gloves help protect hands, heavyweight denier carry bag stows contents.
Billet Aluminum Tremec Shifter Levers
New Products
Direct bolt-on billet aluminum shifter levers are CNC-machined with a unique attractive window style that complements other Lokar products. Features include a special
machined groove for Lokar shift boot attachment, machined 3/8"-16 thread for shift
knob, 2-bolt mounting flange fit most factory and aftermarket shifters. Available in
standard and midnight black series for Tremec/Borg-Warner, Tremec TKO 500-600
Magnum and billet aluminum TKO 500-600 Magnum shifters.
Deluxe Top Shifter Boots
Deluxe top shifter boots and sliding bezels with O-ring are designed to be placed anywhere along the length of
the shifter lever, allowing a portion of the lever to be exposed. The bezel receivers’ groove makes it easy to attach
the boot. Sliding bezel works on Lokar’s 5/8" shifter levers. Available in round, or rectangular boot styles, boot
rings sold separately.
Nomad Seat with Fixed Headrest
Mastercraft Safety Nomad seat with fixed headrest is a budget version of the Rubicon. The Nomad is a true
suspension seat of precision hand-crafted tubular construction with an open-mesh liner, and high resiliency
foam for comfort, longevity and durability. Bolts in to most Jeep CJ5 and all CJ7 and YJs. Features include;
deep sided seat for containment on the trail, five point restraint slots, federal motor vehicle safety standard tested and rated. Sold in pairs, available in black only.
1IPOF-BOFt5PMM'SFF
New Products
Gen 3 Ultra Dominators
The original Dominator® took carburetion to another level in 1969
when it was developed for NASCAR® racing. It has been refined over
the years and is now receiving its biggest change ever. Introducing the ALL NEW Gen 3 Ultra
Dominator! The Gen 3 features a brand new main-body, brand new state-of-the-art calibrations, high volume HP fuel bowls and sizes up to 1475 CFM! The new patent pending GEN 3
main-body is 5/16" taller than the previous generation! This new height allows for larger radius
air entries, optimized with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software to deliver smoother flow into new fully machined,
big bore venturii. They are available in tumble polished aluminum with either Red™ or Black™ anodized billet aluminum
metering blocks and booster inserts, and in Hardcore Gray™ hard coat anodized finish with black anodized billet aluminum
metering blocks and booster inserts. Each calibration has been dyno and track tested to deliver proven performance!
750 CFM Street Demon Carb
The all new street demon delivers a stable idle, amazingly crisp
throttle response and smooth performance. Features include small,
1-3/8" primary throttle bores with triple stack boosters for superior idle. The Goggle Valve
Secondary (GVS) throttle plate provides over twice the air flow of the primary bores for superior
performance. 2-stage metering rods and four optional vacuum step-up springs dial-in the secondary
air valve control for complete fuel adjustment. Carb is equipped with an
electric choke and Ford A/T kick-down lever.
SB Chevy Endurance Series Shaft Rocker Arm Kit
Scorpion Endurance Series Shaft Mount Rocker Arms are built for the endurance level of circle track, dirt track, drag racing, and offshore powerboat racing
engines. Features include; .562" centerless ground ASTM certified quality steel
shafts, .520" centerless ground roller, 4140 heat treated steel stand, 120 gram
7000 series aluminum fully radiused rocker arm bodies, clear 1.650” springs and large roller precision
trunnions. Arms are fully assembled with .625" adjuster engagement and .260" underside bearing strap.
100% CNC-machined, anodized finish and black oxide coated steel parts offer maximum corrosion protection.
12-Volt AGM Series Racing Batteries
Sealed AGM series 12 volt lightweight performance battery utilizes AGM separator technology. Unique
valve regulated design ensures all cells operate evenly, eliminating on-charge gassing. No maintenance ,
no acid mess. Low profile design 1/4" bolt-in terminal design for lug style terminals.
Replace the original wiper motor with a new DSE modern 7-speed unit
with delay and speed control. Wiper kit includes a low-profile 7-speed
wiper motor with 5 delays, low speed, and high speed, rotary switch, adapter plate, and wiring harness.
1963-67 Corvette Electric Headlight Door Kit
DSE122005
Replace the stock electric actuated system on a 1963-67 Corvette with DSE’s electric
motor actuator kit that operates headlight doors more reliably and smoothly. Headlight door kit
includes two electric actuators, control module, wiring harness, mounting brackets, and hardware.
SUMMER 2013 5
New Products
Early Corvette and Mustang
Selecta-Speed Wiper Kit
New Products
Pl-1 Pocket Data Logger Kit
The PL-1 is the latest in easy data logging, compatible with
MTS (modular tuning system). For use with LC-1, SSI-4 and MTX gauges or any other Innovate
Motorsports devices integrates seamlessly to record all data. Includes a 2GB SD memory card,
SD memory card reader, USB to PC cable, 12-volt power cable, MTS patch cable 4-pin to 4-pin for
newer devices and a MTS patch cable 2.5mm to 4-pin for LC-1, SSI-4, TC-4 and LMA-3. Logworks 3.0
software required (not included), download available from Innovate’s website.
SB Chevy Single Plane 23° Intake Manifold
The RHS aluminum intake manifold fits RHS 23° SB Chevy cylinder
heads. Bolt pattern fits SBC originals, Vortec GM heads, and late model
perimeter corner vertical bolt style crate engines. Strong torque curve throughout the mid-rpm
range. For applications up to 434 c.i.d. Features auxiliary water ports, integral water crossover, dual
sided distributor mounting points, and female pipe threads at all corners.
SB Ford 215cc Iron Eagle Cylinder Heads
New Iron Eagle heads for small block Fords are a true bolt-on performance
upgrade for 289/302/351 engines. Features; 215cc intake runners, streamlined valve guide bosses
for improved air flow, 2.02"/1.60" valves, 58cc or 62cc combustion chambers reshaped to improve
combustion efficiency for increased horsepower. Available bare or assembled and sold individually.
Maximizer 4 Progressive Nitrous Controller
NXS15957
Operates one or two separate stages of nitrous based on time, RPM, MPH,
throttle percentage or boost pressure. The Maximizer 4 is the professional racer’s choice used on naturally
aspirated, forced air, gasoline or diesel type nitrous systems. The MAXIMIZER 4 monitors the engines Air/Fuel
ratio using a wideband O2 module, automatically adjusts the fuel and nitrous solenoids to achieve the targeted
ratio when the bottle pressure drops toward the end of the run, provideng a more consistent and safe AFR.
Custom Switch Panels
New Products
NX switch panels offer a clean and attractive solution for nitrous operation in the driver’s compartment.
Includes laser engraved switch nameplates for Nitrous, Stage 2 nitrous, bottle heater, bottle opener,
purge, electric fans, water methanol, fuel pump, accessory, go-baby-go, and ejector seat.
Ford 5.0 Coyote Plate System NXS20948-10
The NX 5.0L Coyote plate system features the phase 3 spray barless technology billet plate with
integrated solenoids that bolts between the throttle body and intake manifold. Kit includes jetting for 35, 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150 horsepower, TPS Autolearn switch activates and turns off
when lifting off the throttle, extra-long braided stainless feed line, master arming switch, relay
and wiring harness, and all necessary installation hardware. Fits 2011-13 Ford GT Mustangs
with 5.0L 4-valve Coyote engine.
GM LS 4-Bolt Plate System NXS20933-10
The NX LS plate system features a billet plate that installs between the throttle body and
intake manifold. Kit includes jetting for 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350 and 400 horsepower,
propower lightning solenoids, 10 lb. bottle with billet aluminum lightning 45 bottle valve, 6AN
feed line, braided plate lines, stainless bottle brackets, master arming switch, WOT switch and
all necessary installation hardware.
1IPOF-BOFt5PMM'SFF
New Products
GM COPO Camaro 2-5/8" Gauges
Officially GM licensed COPO Camaro gauges feature back-lit LED lighting, illuminated red pointer and a brightly lit Chevrolet gold and silver
Bowtie, trimmed in a dark gray Auto Meter Style bezel. Precision full
sweep electric gauges powered by digital stepper motor drives and
motorsports sensors found in today’s NASCAR cup cars.
GM COPO 5" Shift-Lite Memory Tachometer
ATM880445
Officially GM licensed COPO Camaro 5" Shift-Lite tachometer features a digital stepper motor that
swings from 0-10000 RPM in just 333 milliseconds, ensuring instant, accurate response to changes in
engine RPM. Adjustable shift-lite with memory recall.
GT Series 2-1/16" Gauges
The new GT series 2-1/16" diameter gauges are designed with a new timeless style dial with carbon
fiber construction and LED illumination through the dial and a black anodized bezel presenting a pristine
stealth look.
PRNDL + Gauges
The new PRNDL + series gauges allows the addition of turn signals, high beam, check engine indicators
as well as gear position for most automatic transmissions to any Auto Meter gauge combination. Features
include 2-1/16 " diameter, white, beige or black dial face, digital LED illumination through the dial, and
aluminum or chrome bezel options.
Circle Track Fuel Cells
RCI fuel cells are manufactured with cross-linked high strength
polyethylene bladder in a bright red steel container. Features include -8AN (standard) or -10AN
male pick up assembly hose designed to pick up from right rear corner, -8AN male rollover vent,
all circle track cells have a flapper on the lid assembly.
Circle Track Fuel Cell Filler Plate Assembly
Fuel Cell Foam RCI7050A
Prevents fuel sloshing under acceleration, deceleration and cornering. Drop in the circle track or drag
racing cell to keep the fuel located by the fuel pickup. Each stick measures 16"Lx6"Wx3"H. Sold individually.
1 Gallon Drag Race Aluminum Fuel Cell RCI2010A
Tig welded, aluminum cell has a 12-bolt, heavy duty flush mount cap assembly. Features include -8AN
male fittings, 1 pickup, 1 return and 1 rollover vent, and safety foam. Finished in natural aluminum with
welded mounting tabs. Cell measurements: 7"Lx6"Wx8"H.
46..&3
New Products
Circle track fuel cell cap oval 16-bolt complete cap assembly with -8AN or -10AN male pickup,-8AN
rollover vent check valve, and fill cap.
2013 Lane Car Show
2013 Lane Car Show
2013 Lane Car Show Perspective
Visitors to this year’s Lane Automotive Car Show, who were fans of funny car
racing forty years ago, no doubt recognized a familiar car among our Noisefest
participants. It was the famous Ramchargers ‘73 Dodge Demon funny car, fresh
from a perfect restoration by master funny car craftsman, Al Bergler. The car made
its very first “cackle” at our show this year. The Ramchargers Demon, with Clare
Sanders driving, was definitely a force to be reckoned with, as it won more than
its share of match races in addition to campaigning successfully at many national
events. Along with the Demon, we were honored to have driver Clare Sanders and
original mechanic Ed Schaider on hand for the festivities.
This car is not a clone, but the original car. Owned by Jim and Julie Matuszak
of Caro, Michigan, the car spent several years in a warehouse in Pontiac, Michigan
before they bought it and began the restoration process. A major obstacle in the
restoration - and one still unresolved - was the demand for a huge licensing fee by
the current owner of the Ramchargers logo. The resolution is in the hands of the
attorneys for both sides.
As cool as it was to see the candy-striped, red and white beauty at our show,
that was not the whole story. Displayed right alongside the Demon was Al Bergler’s original Vega funny car, the Motown Shaker. Al hauled this car back from
Maine a few years back and restored it to perfection. Seems that the owner at that
time spotted the replica funny Motown Shaker Vega, built by Kyle Wertzel, and
called Al to tell him that he had
the original.
That is still not the WHOLE
story. Displayed with the two cars
at our show was a huge blow-up
of a photo taken in 1973 at Martin
US 131 Dragway showing the
Ramchargers Demon and the Motown Shaker Vega doing smoky
burnouts at a match race there.
So, in addition to the original
cars, we had the original drivers, builders and one of the
Ramcharger mechanics on hand.
Another chapter written in the
fascinating history of drag racing,
and it was penned right here!
1IPOF-BOFt5PMM'SFF
Tech Forum
By Jim Kaekel
Pushrods: Still Doing The Job After All These Years
the vital to high RPM. However, builders have learned that
the mass of the “pushrod side” components (lifters and
pushrods) is not quite as critical compared to that of the
“valve side” components (valves, springs, retainers and valve
locks).
In the past, valve train manufacturer’s traditionally
stocked only 5/16" and 3/8" diameter pushrods and larger,
7/16" diameter pushrods were only available by special
order. Now Comp Cams, Crane Cams, Manley Performance
and Trend Performance have begun stocking 7/16" diameter
pushrods in both straight tube and dual taper designs. In
pursuit of maximum performance at high RPM, NHRA Pro
Stock competitors have begun using 1/2" or 9/16" diameter
pushrods. When in question, it’s always best to consult the
manufacturer of the camshaft for the proper pushrods to
use.
With diameter and wall thickness addressed, length is
the next consideration. Naturally, the longer the pushrod
is, the more susceptible it may be to flexing and vibration.
“FE” Fords, B/RB Chryslers, 400-455 Olds and tall deck, big
block Chevrolets all use pushrods well in excess of 9.” All
may be candidates for a pushrod upgrade if 5/16" pushrods
are currently used in a high performance application. “The
pushrod is still viewed as the weak link in the valve train”,
according to Comp’s Padgitt. For this reason, manufacturers’ are constantly looking for improvement. The ultimate
pushrod would not only be very rigid, but lightweight as
well. Some valve train manufacturer’s are currently using
Metal Matrix Composite (MMC). Similar to the material used
in the manufacture of composite driveshafts, MMC has the
strength equivalent of 4130 steel, yet is up to 60% lighter.
Initial SpinTron testing of MMC pushrods has shown reduced
flexing, valve float and valve bounce, but there is work still
to be done. Cost has also been a major concern.
The introduction of the Chevrolet Gen. III LS engine in
1997 and the subsequent release of the modern Chrysler
Hemi in 2003 has demonstrated that the pushrod engine is
here to stay. All of these signs ultimately point to the continued development and improvement of the pushrod engine.
SUMMER 2013 9
Tech Forum
Pushrod engines are often ridiculed by many in the socalled “elite” automotive media who seem to favor modern
overhead cam (OHC) power plants. However, the fact remains that in high performance circles where conventional
V-8’s are the norm, the pushrod style engine is still king. The
pushrod engine is physically smaller compared to its OHC
counterpart because the camshaft and relatively simple cam
drive are inside the block, making the engine narrower. The
OHC Ford 4.6/5.0/5.4L modular engine, for example, is significantly wider and has a far more complex timing system
compared to its predecessor, the Windsor small block.
Taking the brunt of the media’s abuse is the pushrod itself,
an uncomplicated length of metal tubing that transfers
motion from the camshaft and lifter to activate the rocker
arm. Often taken for granted, pushrods have recently come
under increased scrutiny since the introduction of the
SpinTron, a machine that uses a powerful AC motor and a
substitute crankshaft to spin the internal components of
a test engine. The SpinTron’s Laser Valve Tracking System
(LVTS) camera records component motion. Data is imaged,
graphed and examined so that engineers can identify problem areas and develop solutions. Sensors and gauges measure valve train component load. According to Chris Padgitt
of Comp Cams, the SpinTron can also measure valve float,
valve spring harmonics, pushrod deflection and “lofting”, a
condition where valves stay open at high RPM due to a loss
of contact between the cam lobes and the lifters.
Prior to the SpinTron, engineers found that valvetrain
vibration was caused by component flexing and much of
the flex came from the pushrods. Vibration increased with
engine speed, creating potentially damaging harmonics.
Aggressive cam profiles, extreme valve spring pressures and
large diameter, heavy valves further aggravated matters and
lofting caused the valves to remain open longer than they
should.
Engineers quickly learned that these problems could be
reduced or even eliminated by just using a more rigid pushrod. At one time, a 5/16" diameter x .080" wall pushrod was
acceptable for many high performance applications, but
that is no longer the case. Increasing pushrod rigidity merely involves larger diameter, thicker wall tubing. Of course,
larger diameter pushrods increase mass and convincing
engine builders to use a heavier pushrod hasn’t been easy,
particularly when lightweight valve train components are
Rodding Journal
Rodding Journal
Geezer Express - The Next Generation
By John McLellan
Much has been written lately about the concern for the
staging line for the next pass, a 150 mph blast. Again, Trever
next generation of hot rodders. Will they pick up the gauntwas real close at just a hair past the 150 point. Next, a quick
let thrown by the current generation, or will the sport we
break for lunch and cool down (for Trever and the car) and
have all loved and nourished die a slow death? If the geezers the car was put back in line for the required 175 mph run.
of the Geezer Express team have anything to say about it,
Trever handily passed the 175 mark. He was qualified for his
hot rods will flourish well into the next generation.
license and was given the go ahead to go for 200 mph if he
When the team adopted the new “white” car last season,
felt ready.
driver Brian Acton purchased the original black Firebird,
Trever and Brian had decided that it would be best to
pretty much intact, and set about preparing it for use by
“sneak” up on the double century mark. With this in mind,
his 17-year old son, Trever and, in a few years, younger son
Trever made one more pass on Saturday afternoon and
Kyle. The car was
upped his top
spruced up, the
speed thus far to
blower was mas178 mph. Since the
saged by Gary Dyer,
car was entered as
and the car was
a B/BGasAltered
buttoned back up
Coupe, and the
in time for the June
record in this class
ECTA Ohio Mile
was open, every
event in Wilmingpass Trever made
ton. The Actons,
set a record. Thus,
Brian, wife Dawn
when all left the
and Trever, along
track on Saturday
with crew chief
evening, the record
John Pranger and
stood at 178.
The final staging line is just behind the starting line.
his wife Debbie,
Sunday was
motored to Wilmagain beautiful,
ington early on
with clear skies
Thursday the 7th
and warm temps.
in order to arrive in
Trever wasted no
time for an aftertime in eclipsing
noon display at the
his previous run,
Wilmington Inn, the
tripping the timers
team's sponsor.
with a 183.00 mph
Friday was
pass. Again, the
tech day and the
car was put back
Express Firebird
in line and Trever
passed with flying
again pulled to the
colors. Trever also
line and aimed the
had some tests to
Firebird at the 200
endure, including
mph mark. He got
the timed escape
closer, at 188 and
from the car, in full
some change. One
Trever is all set for his maiden run down the Ohio Mile,
Brian demonstrates the parachute packing
racing gear, includpass more and the
a 9,000 foot former runway.
process, an important step.
ing the HANS device. He
car hit another 188.00.
managed a fantastic 12-second time, working against the
At this point, it was determined that the “tune-up” on the
30-second time limit. The rest of the day was spent going
Ben Herr built 383 small block Chevy was not set for 200.
down the proverbial check list of details that always must be Trever was perfectly happy, however. He left the Ohio Mile
attended to before making speed runs.
on Sunday June 9th as the official record holder in the class.
Saturday dawned cool and sunny with virtually no wind.
His name is listed only a few spaces from his Dad’s 200.7
The car was put in line, Trever was suited up and he was
record in the fuel class with the same car. It was definitely
ready for his first pass. In order to be certified, the rookie
a high water mark for the next generation to seek out, not
driver must make a series of gradually increased speed runs. to mention a very suitable lead-in for the following Father's
Trever's first pass was right on the 125 mph mark, just where Day weekend. (Photos by Dawn Acton)
he was supposed to be. The car was put right back into the
1IPOF-BOFt5PMM'SFF
2013 Car Show Events
Engine Challenge Winners And The Dyno Challenge Winners
Rank
School
Time
Sponsor
Hot Rodders Of Tomorrow
1
Elkhart Area Career Team #1 29:39 Edelbrock
2 Glenbrook North HS Team #1 31:17
DEI
Engine Challenge
The Engine Challenge was won by Team Edelbrock
the Elkhart Area Career Center Team 1! The events really
showcased the hard work and determination of the teams.
Congratulations to all of the teams! You are all winners with
the knowledge you have gained.
3
4
5
6
7
8
Lakeshore High School
Sequoyah High School
Elkhart Area Career Team #2
Dowagiac Union HS
Glenbrook North HS Team #2
Coloma High School
33:01
Derale
35:12
Allstar
38:04 Autometer
49:49
Fel-Pro
50:12
C-Tek
58:24 Be-Cool
#1
Elkhart Area Career Team #2
#5
Glenbrook North HS Team #1
#2
Dowagiac Union HS
#6
Lakeshore High School
#3
Glenbrook North HS Team #2
#7
Sequoyah High School
#4
Coloma High School
#8
Dyno Challenge Winners
The Dyno Challenge was popular again this year with both Friday and Saturday slots filled. The event is open to stock and
modified cars and trucks and measures the rear wheel horsepower and torque. The Dyno Challenge sign-up fees and the
registration fees for all the food concessioners directly benefit the Lane Automotive Relay for Life fund raising drive. Everyone had a good time checking out what their car could pull!
Mike Roy - Power Adder Car Class Dyno Challenge Winner
540 C.I.D. Turbocharged, 1543 HP, 1094 Ft./Lbs. Torque
Joe Dietrich - Naturally Aspirated Car Class Dyno Challenge Winner
511 C.I.D. Hemi, 507 HP, 484 Ft./Lbs. Torque
SUMMER 2013 11
2013 Car Show Events
Elkhart Area Career Team #1
LIMITED QUANTITIES
For those who missed our 25th Annual
Lane Automotive Car Show this year, there
is still a chance to acquire one of those nifty
silver 25th anniversary ‘70 Z/28 Camaros from
Green Light. We have limited quantities of
the car, available in two versions: standard
#WCCGL50956 and as Green Machines with
green wheels and base #WCCGL50956G.
$9.99
New 2013 Lionel NASCAR Arriving Daily
8300 Lane Drive Watervliet, MI 49098
Phone-"/&tToll FreetFax 800-772-2618
$19.95