Killer Rides #55_April/May 2023

s e d i KILLERR ISSUE #55- APRIL/MAY 2023

Australia’s Street Car Community!

SMOKIN’ VK

HEMI34 COUPE

’ N I K I R ST

D L O G

650HP SHOW ‘N’ GO FALCON STREETER!

PLUS

PRO-STREET ‘67 DODGE DART - STREET ELITE XA HJ HOLDEN & HK BROUGHAM VIDEO FEATURES CHRYSLERS ON THE MURRAY - 25TH STREET ROD NATS LYGON STREET BREAKFAST CRUISE AND MORE!

From the Desk It’s no secret that since Covid-subsided, motoring events around the country have been flourishing…

I have just returned from four days in Wodonga taking in the Chryslers on the Murray event – the first since 2020, and I have to say, although I expected it to be a big event, I didn’t expect it to be as massive as it was. A record amount of entered cars from all over Australia and more people flowing through the gates than I have ever seen.

And this isn’t a one-off. The Summernats saw records broken with entrants and spectators and let’s not forget the Sydney Hot Rod Show last year, the Showcars Melbourne event and many others that have seen huge increases in attendance. To me, it looks like Covid was a good thing for the greater modified car community!

And then I had news filter through that the planned return of the Qld Hot Rod Show has been shelved due to lack of interest. Wait. What? How is that possible? Queensland has such a healthy car scene that this just shouldn’t be happening. There’s plenty of high-end show cars coming from up there and even the quality of the street cars, drag cars and of course Hot Rods should easily make up one hell of a show. Come-on guys, where’s the support? If we don’t get behind these events, they will disappear forever. So, if you get the opportunity to help bring back this historic event next year, please do so. Get some mates together and put a club or group display in. There’s such a great history to this event, it needs to be back on the calendar…

With that said, on top of the killer range of cars I have featured this issue, I have three big events covered – the amazing Chryslers on the Murray, the oh-so-cool Lygon Street Breakfast meet and the Australian Street Rod Nationals held just a few weeks ago over Easter in Sydney – all of which featured lots of entrants.

Let’s keep that trend happening.

See you on the street,

Paul 03

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Australia’s Street Car Community

s e d i KILLERR

www.killerrides.com.au What’s In This Issue?

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KILLER RIDES MAGAZINE Po Box 165 Oak Flats NSW 2529

Issue No.55 - April/May 2023

PUBLISHING EDITOR Paul Beck (0432) 795336 paul@killerrides.com.au WEBSITE www.killerrides.com.au

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WHATS HAPPENING News, views and things of interest HAVE YOUR SAY Got something to say?

COMING ATTRACTIONS HG Holden Kingswood ON THE STREET Tuff Street XR Falcon Ute RUMBLIN’ INTO TOWN Melbourne’s Lygon street Breakfast Cruise ON THE PAD Bryan Smilie’s TIPNIN VK Calais VIDEO FEATURE Blown Big Block HJ Holden ON THE TRACK Pro-Street ‘67 Dodge Dart BORDER FORCE The 30th Chryslers on the Murray the biggest yet!

VIDEO FEATURE Blown Pro-Street HK Brougham ON SHOW Highly detailed XB Falcon sedan.

EASTER CRACKER The Street Rod Nationals rolls into Sydney.

ON SHOW Hemi-powered ‘34 Ford Coupe PERFORMANCE DIRECTORY Need a product or service?

COMING EVENTS What’s on, where!

Tough As Nails Pro-Street Dodge Dart!

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Tough Street XR Falcon Ute

1100HP Burnout VK Calais

Street Elite XB Falcon Sedan.

Hemi-powered ‘34 Ford Hot Rod

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WHAT’S HAPPENING BEST OF KILLER RIDES PRINT MAG RELEASE DATE!

Not long after this issue goes live, the first release of The Best of Killer Rides, will be available to purchase as a printed magazine. The plan is to have the limitededition magazine for sale at the Sydney Hot Rod & Custom Auto Expo at Rosehill Racecourse over the weekend of May 27th and 28th. If you can’t make it to the show, but still want to grab a copy whilst they are available, we will have copies at events everywhereafter that or you can send an email in to secure your copy now! paul@killerrides.com.au

10 OF THE WILDEST, MOST INSANE CARS FEATURED SO FAR!

LIMITED EDITION!

ALL KILLER, NO FILLER! R&J BATTERIES INTRODUCE LOKITHOR JUMPSTARTER

Anyone that has every suffered a breakdown in the middle of the night or a flat tyre in a remote area will tell you how frustrating it can be not being equipped to handle such emergencies. But those down times can be made easier to deal with if you have the Lokithor JA301 Jump Starter in your boot! Lokithor is a 4-in-1 lifesaver featuring a jump starter, air-compressor, power bank and an all-important LED light all rolled into one portable device. Having one of the Lokithor’s in your tool kit will give you confidence knowing that if something does occur, you’ll be well-equipped to deal with it – from a flat tyre to flat battery! And the good news is, these must have devices are now available from R&J Batteries branches Australia wide. For more information on pricing and ordering, go to: www.rjbatt.com.au

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POWERCRUISE STREET OUTLAWS TOP 10 LIST

There’s no denying the Powercruise “No-Prep” Street Outlaw Series being held on the main straight at Sydney Motorsport Park has become one of the most talked about street car drag racing events in the country, with many of the Pro-Street big hitters coming out to take part. So I’ve decided to run a Street Outlaws Top 20 List each month to show who the big movers and shakers are. Gates open to Spectators and Entrants from 5.30pm with racing set to happen between 6.30pm and 10.30pm. Always check the Powercruise website: Powercruise.com and the official Street Outlaws Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/StreetOutlawsAustralia 1. Jason Mansweto – Ford Capri

2. Alon Vella – Ford Capri 3. Gup – HQ Wagon

4. Brian Thomas - Chev Camaro

5. Tom Kassaf – LC Torana

6. Shadi Tobaji - Ford Cortina

7. Johnny Habib - Holden Torana

8. Danny Nobrega - LJ Torana

9. Pat Defrancesco - Ford Capri

10. Joe Messina - HJ Holden Ute

11. Damian Baker - XD Falcon

12. Tomi Raikko - LJ Torana

13. David Chapple - LC Torana

14. Andrew Natoli - VK Commodore

15. John Saad - Ford Capri

16. Nathan Ghosn - Ford Capri

17. Peter Vozzo - Chev Camaro

18. Brad Lowe - VL Commodore

19. Sam Lentini - XD Falcon

20. Caleb Thomas - HJ Holden

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DODGE DEMON’S LAST HURRAH! Dodge is well-known for doing things a little differently when unveiling a new car – especially something like the Dodge Demon. Those sitting around the table that makes all of those marketing decisions, decided to use their own event – the Dodge Last Call (in collaboration with MotorTrend) to launch their 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon 170. And instead of driving it out onto the drag strip amongst much hype and guitar driven background music, the ultimate Challenger was flown in via Helicopter – hanging on a platform before being dropped onto the strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. It certainly made an entrance, and will be fondly remembered by all that was in attendance… So what makes this one so special? Well, for starters, it’s the last in the Hellcat range, so you know Dodge are going to go out with a bang! The numbers don’t lie. How does a 0-100klm in 1.66-seconds sound? Producing that type

of grunt comes from the Demon’s 1350hp (at the engine) which also gives the ‘170’ a top speed of in excess of 215mph (over 340klm/h!) and a wheels-up quarter-mile time of 8.90-seconds making it the world’s first 8-second production car! Hell, it even comes with a parachute! At this stage, Dodge claims the starting price will be $96,666 plus taxes etc – but that’s before the dealers take advantage of the limited supply and send pricing through the roof.

So I’m guessing that to own one (of which there are 3000 planned for the US and just 300 for Canada), you’d either have to be on the board of Directors at Dodge, head up a major Bank or have connections in Dubai.

Good luck with it if you’re in the market. At this stage, Dodge claims the starting price will be $96,666 plus taxes etc – but that’s before the dealers take advantage of the limited supply and send pricing through the roof.

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Gary Myers - Burnout Legend!

! gs rin Sp lls ve Lo e us I y wh ’s at th , rs ca y m in s rt pa st “I only use the be ” o! to e oic ch ur yo em th e ak M ! rs ye M am Te r Lovells are the ONLY choice fo

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www.lovellsauto.com.au

WHAT’S HAPPENING KILLER

Video

F1 CAR VS OUTBACK – DANIEL RICCIARDO’S GREAT AUSSIE ROAD TRIP Video by Oracle Red Bull Racing

OZ CARFEST TO REPLACE CLASSIC HOLDEN NATIONALS

After a success campaign as the Classic Holden Nationals, the Autofest team have decided to expand the event series to include classics from Ford and Chrysler into the mix – offering more car owners to take part in the event. To be held in Mansfield, Victoria over the weekend of Feb 2nd-4th, the newly named Oz Car Fest is open to owners of all Australian built cars from 1897-1985 – plus some other special interest vehicles. For more information and entry details, check out the Autofest website – www.autofest.com.au

KILLER RIDES SHOW STANDOUT AWARD CHRYSLERS ON THE MURRAY

1320VIDEO TURNS 20!

Congratulations to Kyle Loftis and his team for achieving yet another huge milestone – 20-years of bringing the power-hungry people of the world, the best in Street Racing, Competition and generally car crazy video! Long before Facebook, Youtube and Instagram were a thing, Kyle and his helpers were out filming everything they considered insane and then fed them around the world on specialised message boards.

But then they ventured into DVD’s which really kicked off the 1320Video brand.

When I owned Extreme Magazine and opened the doors to Extreme…The Shop, I was bringing the range of 1320Video DVD’s into Australia and distributed them around to my readers. These days, social 14

media allows the team to get there video’s out more efficiently and with a huge range of merchandise on offer, along with their own range of high-quality car care products, the 1320Video juggernaut doesn’t look like slowing anytime soon.

Congrats guys! Here’s to another 20-years of hardcore car fun! To see more and maybe get yourself some cool merch, go to www.1320video.com

Choosing just one car from over 950 to award the Killer Rides Show Standout trophy too was always going to be a big ask. In reality, I could have handed over 20 or more!

But I need to stick to my guns and give one lucky owner his very own trophy at certain events. At the recent Chryslers on the Murray event, I picked Ray Elia’s blown, injected big block-powered Valiant sedan that was one of the reveals that happened on Friday night. The next one happens at the Street Rod Nationals at Easter!

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WHAT’S HAPPENING OUT & ABOUT SUSSEX INLET CHARITY CAR SHOW

On Sunday, March 26th, Kathy and I hit the road in the Chev to the small NSW coastal town of Sussex Inlet for the Show & Shine held at the Bowling Club. Put together to raise money for the local Marine Rescue organisation. Around 150 cars and bikes converged on the small community to showcase everything from modified street machines, restored classics, custom cruisers and everything in between. BY all accounts the event was a complete success and will become an annual event, held on the last Sunday of March each year...

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HAVE YOUR SAY Got something to say? Send it to paul@pscmag.com.au or message us from the Performance Street Car Facebook page.

DEALING WITH DICKHEADS

G’day Paul, Why is it that whenever there’s an organised car meet on, its like a bright light signalling every dickhead on four wheels to come and do something stupid that ultimately threatens to put an end to the meet? Do they even realise the damage they are doing? And when they are spoken to about their behaviour, they start complaining about being picked on! If we don’t get these people out of our scene, we run the risk of having legitimate meets shut down.

Warren T - Albury, NSW

TRUE CAR GUYS AND GIRLS ALWAYS WELCOME!!

Hi Warren, Yep, I reckon you’re right about our meets attracting the wrong crowds. Mostly they are in the minority, but are still capable of causing plenty of problems for those running these events. We get them to our monthly Killer Rides Mid-Week meets as well, and no matter how much you ask them not to do the wrong thing, they still continue to do so. I’m at the pont now that I will be taking photos of every car in attendance sp if they do the wrong thing, the photo of the offending cars simply get handed to the authorities. It seems like the only way they will learn...

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ORIGINAL STREET MACHINE NATIONALS COMEBACK?

Hi Paul, Cracker job on Killer Rides. I’m really enjoying the new look and concept, it shows the scene in the way its meant to be. I’ve just returned from the Street Rod Nationals at Richmond and thought what a great venue that could be for a possible comeback for the original Street Machine Nationals. The many buildings, cruise roads, grassed areas and parking on site makes it an ideal venue, don’t you think? I know you tried to revive the Nationals at Rosehill and Sydney Dragway, but I reckon this venue is much more suited than those. Yeah, there’s no burnout pad, but do you really need to include burnouts? Just a thought anyway...

Tony K - Hornsby, NSW

CAR CLUB WITHOUT MEETINGS

Hi Paul, I’m new to the modified car scene, and wanted to keep up to date with everything happening in the scene in regards to events, registration, insurance etc, and everyone tells me to join a car club. But I work shift work and making meetings is near impossible for me. Is there any Clubs or Association’s around that I can get what I need without having to attend regular meetings? Great mag by the way.

Harrison A - Werribee, VIC G’day Harrison, Being a member of a club is a great way to not only find out all of that stuff you need, but also make contacts to find parts and people that can help with the build or maintenance of your car. I completely understand about not being able to attend meetings. You can check out the Australian National Street Machine Association (ANSMA) at www.ansma.com.au as they are the governing body for Post ‘4 vehicles in Australia. LIkewise, we are looking at setting up an online community car club within Killer Rides for those exact reasons also. Stay tuned...

PRE ‘78 CONTENT ONLY Hi Paul, Just wanted to run something by you. Like many I’m sure, I have no interest in cars with plastic bumpers. Late model cars all look the same, you can’t G’day Tony, Yes, I agree, its the ideal venue for an event of that modify too much and they are simply boring. How about making Killer type for sure, and as it happens, there was a group Rides a Pre ‘78. chrome bumper cars only? of us chatting about that exact thing. Whether or not Andrew F - Capalaba, QLD anything will come of it is anyones guess. The cost, amount of events already on the calender and industry Hi Andrew, support are all crucial factors that come into play and Thanks for your suggestion. I think really, most of the features I run in then there’s the huge amount of personel needed to Killer Rides are chrome bumper, old-school cars anyway and if a late make it all happen. Who knows, though. Someone may model car is included, its because its something very special either in the show or go department. certainly take the task on...

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COMING ATTRACTIONS

LUKE & ANNE-MARIE EASTHAM - 1971 HG HOLDEN WORDS – PAUL BECK PICS – SUPPLIED BY OWNERS

t l i u B e m o H

KINGER!

Luke Eastham took an already tough HG, stripped it down and put plans in place to bring it back much wilder than it ever was before…

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S R TE OA FL H IT W F IF D H NC -I 9 ED OW R NAR FOUR-LINK WITH COIL-OVERS 29X15-RUBBER

This HG has been around for a while and in its previous life before moving into Luke’s garage to be rebuilt, it had been subjected to the abuse dumped on it in burnout competitions. The stresses and strains that go hand in hand with putting on a smoke show for the crowd hadn’t been kind for the Kingswood, so when the time was right, Luke got stuck into reliving the HG of all its boltons to give the old girl a freshen up. Before too long, the HG was just a shell with all of the removable panels, interior and complete driveline removed.

ORIGINAL STYLE INTERIOR

REPAINTED IN FACTORY

427CI SMALL BLOCK CHEV DOMINATOR CARB DIRECT PORT NITROUS ALLOY HEADS E85 FUEL SMOOTH ENGINE BAY

FABRICATED INDEPENDANT FRONT END

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The body shell was subjected to a thorough make over that saw the sheet metal taken back to bare steel before being banged, bashed, welded and grinded back to better than it was when it left the showroom floor all those years ago. All of the rust was removed with new panels added to those areas. Luke and mate Andrew Brown handled the body work duties before handing the repaired body and associated panels over to another mate, Jake Spokes, to give the body, reshaped engine bay and panels the once over prior to adding the factory coral and white colour combo.

The underside of the HG has been cleaned up and fitted with a custom independent front suspension set-up with a rear clip and four-link added to the back to house the 29x15-inch wheel and tyre combo.

ered ff u s G H e th in s a w t a th k c lo b The original small out rn u b l a n fi s it g n ri u d n w o d lt e a major m take to d e id c e d s n to is p l ra ve e s appearance when . k c lo b e th f o e id s e th h g u ro a leave of absence th

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The original small block that was in the HG suffered a major meltdown during its final burnout appearance when several pistons decided to take a leave of absence through the side of the block. A new, 427cube small block was ordered through well-known engine man John Sawka, who fitted a solid roller cam, AFR heads and an NOS direct port nitrous kit. The previous tunnel ram has been replaced by a single dominator and intake and

runs on a strict diet of E85 fuel. Backing the stretched small block is a Powerglide auto fronted with a Coan converter while the narrowed 9-inch diff houses 35-spline axles, floaters and 4.56-gears, giving the HG a stout driveline capable of handling any punishment Luke chooses to throw at it. The interior is set to resemble a fullresto with the front seats to be recovered and the rest of the interior cleaned up and reused.

If all goes to plan, Luke is hoping the HG will be back on the street by Christmas, but with baby number two shortly, it will happen as it happens. One thing is for sure though, this HG is being engineered for regular street use, but will also be run down the strip, and subjected to a burnout comp or two. Wherever the HG appears, it will be doing it in style with new paint, smoothed out engine bay and pro-street style wheel and tyre combo. Bring it on…

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ON KILLERRides THE STREET Words - Paul Beck Pics - Darren @ Trackside Images

A six-year nut and bolt resto turned a one-time work hack into a high-powered, street, strip and show full-tilt Falcon!

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TONY

1967 XR FALCON UTE

There’s only one way to tackle a complete rebuild on an old car – and that’s to strip it down to its bare bones and replace every single component you can so when it’s time to put the car back together, everything is new and should be good for hassle free cruising. Tony has employed the same standard, giving his XR Falcon Ute a thorough makeover, sparing no cost in the process and like most things, preparation is everything. And trust me, this Falcon Ute is as good as they get.

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It’s the paint that first grabs your attention. Whilst Ford used a similar Gold to cover the sheet metal on the XR GT Falcon, Tony wanted to go one step further, making the colour on his reworked Ute much punchier than Ford offered back in 1967. Officially called Bronze Pearl, the new colour covers a smoothed-out body and engine bay and lays down the platform for the rebuilt XR. The paint is laid onto a body that is essential just as Ford had intended with the exception of the reverse cowl bonnet that is all steel and the mini-tubs down the back. Complimenting the body colour are GT-decals and badges. The one-time load area houses the fuel cell, enlarged wheel tubs and a coat or two of Line X tub liner.

Under the cowl bonnet sits a Jason Mansweto built single carb Cleveland that sports no less than 383-cubic inches producing an impressive 650hp...

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The GT theme continues into the Falcon interior with the seats, and centre console reminiscent of the GT Falcon of yesteryear, in particular the XY series. Just forward of the custom dash sits a wood-rimmed XRGT steering wheel and the door trims are what you would have found when the GT rolled off the showroom floor in 1967. Not being too trusting of the factory gauges, Tony added a line-up of AutoMeter dials to keep him up to date with what is happening in and around the Falcon’s vital areas. These are housed in a custom carbon fibre facia.

And to make it look like a factory inclusion, the console has been modified to accept the B&M Pro Ratchet shifter.

Whilst Ford used a similar Gold to cover the sheet metal on the XR GT Falcon, Tony wanted to go one step further, making the colour on his reworked Ute much punchier...

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Under the cowl bonnet sits a Jason Mansweto built single carb Cleveland that sports no less than 383-cubic inches producing an impressive 650hp – more than enough for a tough street car like this. To reach that figure, Jason added a stroker crank and rod combo to the stout bottom end along with a pair of 4V heads and an 825cfm double-pumper Demon carb mounted to a Funnel web hi-rise intake manifold. Sparking the powerhouse into life is an MSD ignition system with the gases shown the door via a pair of ceramiccoated Pacemaker headers that flow into a three-inch mandrel bent exhaust. A full-tilt manualised C4 with 5000rpm Dominator converter backs the stretched engine and sends the power through a custom tailshaft to the custom big-tube 9-inch diff with 4.11-gears, tru-trac and 31-spline Moser billet axles.

Not being too trusting of the factory gauges, Tony added a line-up of AutoMeter dials to keep him up to date with what is happening...

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The wheels of choice are 17x4 and 15x10-inch Outlaw Drag Intensity rims with appropriately sized rubber giving the Falcon that desirable Pro-Street look. Hiding behind the wheel combo is a completely overhauled braking and suspension setup. The front end scored XY ventilated discs with XF calipers along with Pedders springs while down the back, drum brakes take care of the stopping

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power. An XR GT big-bore, tandem master cylinder and remote XR GT brake booster are all part of the upgrades made. With the Falcon reassembled, engineered and ready to go, Tony has been making the most of that potent stroker Clevo, attending as many events as he can get to with others from the Oldskool Muscle Car Cruises. A trend that will no doubt continue on…

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RUMBLIN’ INTO TOWN

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With the Police and Council on board, the weather on track and hundreds of hungry car guys and girls at the ready, the first of two Lygon Street Breakfast meets went off without a hitch.

Rob Bellio and his team at Kingpin Kuztums, pride themselves of staging events that puts the entrants before anything else, and when they converge on Lygon Street early on a Sunday morning, the main attraction is getting together for a coffee, a bite to eat and to admire each other’s cars’. And there was plenty to admire at the first of two such events to be held in 2023! As per previous events, it didn’t take long before every good (and some bad) parking spot along the usually very busy Lygon Street strip filled up.

LYGON STREET BREAKFAST_KINGPIN KUZTUMS_MARCH 5, 2023 WORDS – PAUL BECK PICS – COREY @ SHOW ‘N’ GO PHOTOGRAPHY

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Residents that live nearby were awoken by the rumbling of V8 engines idling into position – yet no one was to complain about the sweet noise coming from the roadside. Everyone was on their best behaviour knowing full well that even though the event had been given the thumbs up from the Victorian Police, the Highway Patrol and the Melbourne City Council, it would only take a few knuckleheads to ruin it for future meets. Thankfully, the future looks very bright with everyone happy with how the event was managed.

Residents that live nearby were awoken by the rumbling of V8 engines idling into position – yet no one was to complain about the sweet noise coming from the roadside.

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The leafy streets were the perfect backdrop for this event with hundreds of Hot Rods, Customs, Muscle Cars and Cruisers taking every vantage point to be close to those businesses who opened for breakfast – keeping their staff run off their feet to give them their busiest Sunday morning ever – well since the last Lygon Street Breakfast meet anyway!

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The leafy streets were the perfect backdrop for this event with hundreds of Hot Rods, Customs, Muscle Cars and Cruisers taking every vantage point...

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It’s a well-known fact that Kingpin Kuztums events are held in high regard by those in the modified car scene in Melbourne – especially the Hot Rod, Custom and Muscle Car scenes...

It’s a well-known fact that Kingpin Kuztums events are held in high regard by those in the modified car scene in Melbourne – especially the Hot Rod, Custom and Muscle Car scenes, with many events held during the year around the greater Melbourne area attracting a huge number of vehicles and people to each venue. So it came as no surprise to see so many cars turn up, even though it was an early Sunday morning start…

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As quickly as Lygon Street filled with the sights, sounds and smells of the highoctane cruisers, it was vacated just as swiftly in time for the hustle and bustle that usually takes over Melbourne city on a Sunday. And just like that, the first Lygon Street Breakfast meet for 2023 was done and dusted. For those that missed the March meet, you’ll have another opportunity to go again on Sunday December 3rd when it all happens again. Keep an eye on their official Facebook page (click the logo) for regular updates on the Kingpin Kuztums range of events…

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ON KILLERRides THE PAD Words / Pics - Paul Beck Burnout Pics - S8TEN Photography

BRYAN SMILIE

Bryan Smilie bought a stock, 5-litre VK Calais when he turned 18. Three rebuilds and 16-years later, that Calais has gone from nice daily cruiser to blown, injected burnout pad bruiser!

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Initially purchased as an everyday driver, it wasn’t long before Bryan got the bug to change things up a bit, which saw the factory 5-litre Calais, increase its capacity to 355-cubes surrounded by a now smoothed out engine bay.

The VK stayed this way for a little while before having mini-tubs

1984 VK Calais installed to fit the 20x10-inch billet wheels. The third and most recent build saw the VK stripped down to its bare bones to have the entire floor pan removed and a three-quarter chassis fabricated and installed along with a recessed flat firewall and a much tougher driveline.

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Externally, the VK is pretty much how the Holden engineers had signed off on. OK, the tubs weren’t a factory option and the smoothedout engine bay and custom radiator support panel were after thoughts, but the Spindrift colour with silver body mouldings is. To make the colour standout a little more, Jody Vincitorio at JV’s Paint & Panel added a little pearl to the mix before laying on a fresh coat or two of colour. The colour also extends into the interior where the original dash has made way for a custom metal version that

now hosts a variety of AutoMeter dials and switches that sit alongside the Computech DataMaxx digital dash. An Intro billet steering wheel tops the Roadster column, which also holds an AutoMeter light and extra gauge. The front seats are Scheels that once lived in a VK Brock, with a pair of VS SS front buckets added to the rear after they were reshaped and retrimmed to match the fronts. Sitting between them is a fabricated tunnel that has been painted the body colour and holds the TCI Outlaw shifter.

For the immediate future, Bryan has sentenced the Calais to a life of high revs and lots of tyre smoke, entertaining the crowds as best he can. And he does it well too!

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When the original 308 was stroked to 355-cubes, Bryan probably thought that his new engine combo would suit him forever. Nope, not even close. The last build saw the Holden engine taken from its mounts and a new and much more improved small block Chev take its place. Built by BNR Engines, the Chev sports just 354-cubes, but makes in excess of 1100hp thanks in part to the 8/71 Blower Shop pump and mechanical alcohol injection forcing ample amounts of methanol through the small block. A pair of AFR heads top the Dart Little M block that features a billet Bryant crank swinging Carillo rods and forged JE pistons with Total Seal rings. The cam of choice came from the Comp Cam catalogue and gives the Chev an idle that screams performance.

A custom billet alloy Dan Olsen sump

caps the bottom end while plenty of oil gets pushed around the blown small block via a Peterson 5 stage dry sump system. When the MSD Digital 7-plus ignition fires the engine into life, the gases have a short trip down the fabricated headers. A Reid-cased Powerglide fronted with a custom TCE converter backs the engine and passes all those 1100-plus ponies down the line via a 3.5-inch chrome-moly tailshaft to the narrowed sheet-metal diff that uses 35-spline axles and a 3.15-geared 9-inch centre. The diff is located with a four-link, with the only brakes needed being the VT disc and caliper setup on the front being controlled by a Wilwood master cylinder. Now being used primarily for burnout competitions, no rear brakes are required. The wheels are now 20x8.5 and 20x13-inch Intro Twisted Vista 5s.

THANKS TO: Cam at Hussin Auto Detailing for keeping the VK looking its best.

Brett Niddrie at BNR Engines for building a bulletproof engine combo. Jody Vincitorio at JV’s Paint and Panel for always helping out when touch-ups are needed. Steve Edsall (SKDUTE) for all of his advice and help. Harry Seaman (HAZARD) for fixing up the quarter panel when I ran out of talent. And most importantly my wife for tolerating my passion for skids and late nights in the shed getting ready for comps and for being by my side everywhere!

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When the original 308 was stroked to 355-cubes, Bryan probably thought that his new engine combo would suit him forever. Nope, not even close.

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The VK has certainly come a long way from when that 18-year-old first flicked the key on to light the digital dash and hear that stock 5-litre idle as smoothly as a used car salesman.

For the immediate future, Bryan has sentenced the Calais to a life of high revs and lots of tyre smoke, entertaining the crowds as best he can. And he does it well too, with a few wins under his belt including Top 10

at Summernats 2017, Top 20 at 2018 Burnout Allstars, 5th place UBC in 2019 and 4th place at the Brashernats the same year. He also scored the Biggest Tip in at the Brashernats too! After the smoke clears for the final time, Bryan may tame it down somewhat and turn it back into a tough streeter.

Until then though, there will be a stock pile of tyres stacked up waiting to be blown to pieces…

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s e d i KILLERR VIDEO FEATURE

TODD STEWART - HJ HOLDEN

AARON MARMARA TRACK

ON s e KILLERRid THE Words / Pics- Paul Beck Burnout Pic - Hunter Media

1967 DODGE DART

After spotting Aaron’s oh-so-tough two-door-post Dart at the Chryslers on the Murray’s track day, I had to have a closer look.

Some cars simply live up to the muscle car tag that they are given. Whilst many still refer to a nicely restored Mustang, Chevelle or Challenger as a muscle car, its cars like this Dart that take that description to the next level. For me, this Mopar is muscular, with its stout 500cube big block jammed into the engine bay, the menacing stance and the mini-tubbed rear end. And the sound…damn! I’m sure there’s footage from the recent Chryslers on the Murray driving events, where Aaron gave the big block every opportunity to show the rear tyres that they were not worthy!

The ’67 Dart two-door post (or two-door sedan as some call it) is a rare car in Australia. In fact, if Aaron’s mate hadn’t decided on selling this one, chances are of use and abuse. Aaron’s name has appeared on the rego papers for 14-years now, and the body and 2K black paint were sorted some eight years ago by Barry’s Paint & Panel. Body mods are minimal such as removing the badges and mouldings, tubbing the body to the rails and fitting the familiar “Mopar-esque” bonnet scoop. Satin finish Street Pro wheels measuring 17x4.5 and 15x10-inches complete the tough street look Aaron was after.

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Under that rather large scoop sits a big block sporting 500-cubes of raw Mopar muscle. Whilst in theory, having a big block under any bonnet is a good thing, but trying to fit that lump of engine into the confines of the relatively small A-body engine bay isn’t as straight forward as you’d think. And trying to find suitable engine parts locally proved to be stressful as well. Built by AK Fabrications, the single carb fat block makes around 450-horsepower on 98 pump fuel with the factory block comprising of a Scat crank and rod combo, SRP pistons, Mahle oil pump, a factory sump and a wildly idling Howard’s cam. The heads are alloy Edelbrock RPM items and a perfectly matched to the intake manifold from the same catalogue. Supplying ample amounts of fuel via the Quick Fuel high-volume pump is the 850cfm Quick Fuel carb. AK Fabrications also built the custom headers with 4-inch merge collectors and dual 3-inch exhaust system.

The dash now has extra AutoMeter gauges added to give Aaron a more accurate reading of what’s happening in and around the Dart...

A B&M-spec 727 auto trans is mated up to the big block using a Red Diamond 4000rpm converter to handle the grunt, with gear selections made via the retro-cool Hurst Lightning Rods. The power is then sent through a 4-inch Spicer tailshaft to the narrowed 9-inch diff featuring an alloy centre, True-trac with 3.55-gears and Dutchman 35-spline axles. That’s one hell of a tough driveline in anyone’s language. There’s no doubt that this car is setup more for straight-line action, but it does see plenty of street use, so Aaron made sure the suspension and brakes were up to the task. Keeping the Dart bearable on the street meant updating the shocks to Calvert’s (90/10’s on the front and adjustable on the rear), adding split mono leaf and adding 1-inch Torsion bars to the nose. The original brakes up front were replaced with ’68 GT Dart discs and calipers, whilst the 11-inch Ford drums handle the rear with ease.

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In stark contrast to the all-black exterior, the Dart sports a bright red interior where Red vinyl has been used to cover the factory bench seats (the rear modified to suit the wheel tubs), door trims and headlining. The dash has been painted red to suit, as has the standard issue steering wheel.

The dash now has extra AutoMeter gauges added to give Aaron a more accurate reading of what’s happening in and around the Dart, whilst the Hurst Lightning rods take pride of place on the trans tunnel – the knobs of which are also colour coded. The carpet is of course, red as well…

Aaron told us that it will never be a show stopper – even though it has won a few trophies over the years...

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Owning a rare car in Australia offers up all kinds of problems when trying to locate certain parts, but thankfully, Aaron has hooked up with a fellow ’67 Dart owner in the USA who has helped out many times with parts when needed. So, what’s next for the Dart? Aaron has tipped that there’s a bigger brake upgrade coming along with air-conditioning and there’s a possibility that if he ever decided to redo the paint work, the Dart would emerge a different colour. Aaron told us that it will never be a show stopper – even though it has won a few trophies over the years, but insists this Dart is a definite driver.

And can you blame him?

For me, this Mopar is muscular, with its stout 500-cube big block jammed into the engine bay, the menacing stance and the mini-tubbed rear end.

THANKS TO: Obviously, my wife for

putting up with the lonely nights and dollars spent. Big thanks to Ash Knowles from A K fabrication. He has pretty much turned spanners on this for years, and built my first engine way back (before I zinged it and snapped a rod at 120mph) He built the current stroker 3 years ago and continues to assist with anything I come up with. He has just fitted a set of custom 2” headers which let the old girl breathe a lot better. Kingston Auto electrics help keep the smoke in the wires! Apart from that I do as much myself as I am able.

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BORDER FORCE

30TH CHRYSLERS ON THE MURRAY_GATEWAY LAKES WODONGA_MARCH 17-19, 2023 - WORDS / PICS – PAUL BECK

Last held on the weekend Covid struck our shores, the Chryslers on the Murray has made a big return to the 2023 motoring calender with a record number of vehicles making their way to the NSW/VIC border towns of Albury and Wodonga to celebrate the 30th staging of this all Mopar event…

History shows that since the Covid restrictions were eased, most motoring events that made a return, did so with increases of entrants and spectators. That was always going to be the case with the Chryslers on the Murray event. Having already attracted more than 700 or so entries a month out from the event, hopes were high for a record-breaking entry list. That was achieved on Sunday morning with more entrants coming through just for the day, taking the total number of registered entrants to a staggering 953! I reckon there were probably another 30 or 40 Chryslers parked outside that could have very easily been part of the show too!

I rocked up to the DECA Centre just after 9.30am to see a line-up of cars ready to head out on the track...

This year, I decided to head down the day before the event kicked off so I could get across to the driving events early enough on Friday morning to take in all of the action first hand, instead of rocking up just as the cars were finishing for the day.

Before leaving Wollongong, I was anxiously watching the weather forecast – not because there was impending rain, but because there was a heatwave due to hit the region during the course of the event. Yep, mid to high 30’s for the three days! Yeah it was going to be uncomfortable, but at least it was under clear blue skies!

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I rocked up to the DECA Centre just after 9.30am to see a line-up of cars ready to head out on the track and a carpark full of cool rides that had come to watch those game enough to push their cars (and their own) limits. The pit area featured some heavy hitters with a quick walk around revealing a blown V10-Viper powered Dodge Ram truck, a Trackhawk Jeep that was always going to be quick, a couple of restored ex-racecar Chargers with period correct livery and a bunch of street cars – both old and new, that were keen to put on a show.

Five cars were let out onto the track together for five or so laps, before being called in to let the next bunch go. There were some surprise packages in amongst the group, with a ratty Valiant Ute really taking it to the two Chargers and in a couple of instances, passing them with ease. Ok, so it did pack a turbo Ford Barra

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six-pack, but damn it was quick! The Chargers sounded exceptional too. But it was Mick Noller’s Viper that set the pace for everyone else to follow. Soon after the everyone had a couple of turns on track, the officials turned their attention to the straight, where the go to whoa was set up. Many struggled to get off the line without smoking the tyres, which looked spectacular but was detrimental to the times. After everyone had had enough, it was Shane Withers that topped the time sheets, covering the strip in his CJ Valiant sedan in a time of 8.75-seconds. Friday finished off with a dozen cars revealed back at the Gateway Lakes venue. Hosted by Classic Resto’s “Fletch”, the covers were lifted off some very special cars that were at the event for the very first time.

Each one had an interesting back story and each one was unique in their own certain way.

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Saturday once again kicked off under brilliant blue skies and as I arrived at the picturesque Gateway Lakes grounds, the temperature was already heading towards 30 and it was just after 9am! The line-up of cars waiting to get into the show and shine area proved it was going to be a big day, with hundreds of cars already setup, many waiting in line for judging. I had to drive through the everexpanding swap meet area to park my “nonChrysler” and I was amazed by just how many more swappers and traders had arrived at the event this year. And from what I could see, there were plenty of people spending to find that hard to find part or piece of merchandise.

Likewise, the official COTM Merchandise tent saw the club members run off their feet over the weekend, all but selling out of their range and t-shirts, hats and other goodies. I have to mention too that this event also has a section for AMC/Ramber cars with yet another great line-up of these unique models on display.

Friday finished off with a dozen cars revealed back at the Gateway Lakes venue.

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The program showed that there was a cruise happening from the show and shine to Ettamogah Pub for this years Spotlight group photo highlighting AP5, AP6 and VC Valiants. Wanting to get there before others to get a good spot for pics, I was greeted by a roadway overflowing with cars parked up for a look and a carpark in front of the Pub already loaded up with Chryslers of all years and styles. It certainly is a great place for photos and I managed to real off a couple of hundred before the heat got the better of me. After a break in my air-conditioned room, I ventured out onto the streets where the usual Saturday night cruising was well underway. On that one short strip of road between Albury and Wodonga, a few thousand spectators found a spot roadside to take in the sights, and sounds of the cars cruising – and not just Chryslers! It was like going back to the early days of the Summernats! Great times. Unfortunately, the heat stroke I suffered early in the afternoon, cut my night short…

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The final day for the 2023 Chryslers on the Murray saw many records broken – especially in car entries with a flurry of cars making their way into the grounds just for the one day taking the total to a staggering 953-entries. Likewise, the number of spectators coming through the gates were in their thousands and as already mentioned, the support from the industry with trade stands and from swappers was larger than it has ever been. Sunday also had the Top 5 American and Top 5 Australian vehicles on display and I was told that there were just a few points that kept a few cars out of the Top 5 on each side. I also awarded a Killer Rides Show Standout trophy, which I gave to Ray Elia for his rebuilt ’72 VH Regal sedan. Ray’s sedan was part of the reveals on Friday night and now sports a blown, injected 440-stroker to provide the power. Check out the full feature in this issue for all the details. The trophy presentation took place after lunch, ending what was by far, the biggest and best Chryslers on the Murray yet. The full list of winners is now on their website – www.chryslersonthemurray.com

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s e d i KILLERR VIDEO FEATURE

WAYNE MCFADDEN - HK BROUGHAM

ON s e KILLERRid SHOW Words - Paul Beck Pics - LSX Media

GAVIN HALL

1973 XA FALCON

Purchased after a relationship breakdown and then built three times during the last ten years, Gavin Hall finally has his XA Falcon where he wants it. For a while anyway…

Some people are never satisfied. They finish a job and then sit back and think, “I could have done this better, or done that a different way”. It’s just human nature.

Gavin Hall is one such person, hence why his XA Falcon has changed three times in ten years. The current look was completed within 12 months and has appeared back onto the Townsville car scene looking better and brighter than ever!

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When the Falcon came into Gavin’s possession, the body was rusty, but hadn’t been played with so what you saw, is what you got, with no hidden nasty surprises.

It did come with a GT Bonnet and guards, but this didn’t mean Gavin was going to build another GT replica. The guards have been retained on the latest build, but the bonnet now features a scoop based on the BOSS429 Mustang that has been reshaped to suit the XA body lines. Body mods have been kept to a minimum with just a small front spoiler added to an otherwise untouched exterior. The engine bay has been smoothed out with all unnecessary holes welded up, with the same process done to the underside.

With the metal prep done, Gavin had Adam Colquhoun at Chad Panel and Paint lay on litres of Red Pepper paint to the entire body before the unique side strips were laid on by Kai’s Signs. Completing the exterior makeover is a set of colourcoded Outlaw Intensity rims measuring 15x4 and 15x8-inches.

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Inside, there’s yet more red. It’s probably not the place to be early in the morning after a big night, but that’s not to say it’s not cool!

Peter Pardon at Perbrery Upholstery got the nod to stitch up an interior that was going to make the XA a standout. Mission accomplished! The original XA seats have been replaced

by BF Falcon items, the door trims are custom and the centre console is a one-off to suit Gavin’s needs. The colour of choice is a retina-burning Fire Engine Red with covers all the new trim with contrasting dark red

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carpet under foot. With the dash pad painted red, the facia is all black and retains the circa ’73-gauge cluster, though it’s now partially blocked from view by the AutoMeter tacho and shift light that sist between the dash and the billet steering wheel. The console holds the Aeroflow shifter and alloy cupholders. Whilst out cruising, Gavin has the tunes pumping through an impressive Retrosound and Kenwood sound system. Where he could, Gavin installed new glass as well as all rubbers etc to give the XA’s interior a true, new look and feel.

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Hiding under that reworked bonnet sits a finely detailed Cleveland sporting no less than 393 cubic inches. Pieced together by a local engine builder, the small block not only looks sweet, but goes every bit as good as the visuals suggest. The standard block was taken 30-thou over to accept the Scat forged crank, rods and forged pistons wrapped in SRP rings along with a Comp hydraulic roller cam, modified factory oil pump and a 7-litre ASR sump. From there, a pair of Edelbrock RPM alloy heads kitted out with the usual high-quality gear the company is known for.

The Air Gap intake manifold also sports the Edelbrock branding and plays host to a single 750cfm DP Quick Fuel carb. After the MSD ignition system fires the tough small block into life, a pair of Pacemaker headers sends the gases out into the atmosphere via a dual,

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three-inch exhaust system. With a belly full of 98-octane fuel, the stretched Clevo produced 400hp and 570 foot-pounds of torque at the wheels. Other notable features include the CVF Racing pulleys and bracketry that also incorporates the air-conditioning pump etc. Gavin backed the engine with a built C10 auto fronted with a 4200rpm converter that gets the power to the 4.11-geared trutrac XB disc brake 9-inch diff. The axles are Billet A9 31-spline. As well as being detailed like the upside, the suspension and braking systems have seen plenty of upgrades with the frontend scoring 350-pound springs, and dual-valve GM shocks from the Viking catalogue. Down the back, the springs are 3-inch lowered Kings with matching Viking shocks and Gazzard Bros Caltracs. DBA crossdrilled disc rotors live inside each wheel.

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The current build was only completed Feb this year, but prior to that, the XA had won its fair share of awards at various shows including Top 10’s, Best Engine Bay, Top Ford, Peoples Choice and more. No doubt, there will plenty of more gold coming Gavin’s way now this makeover is complete. So, what does the future hold?

Gavin explains, “I’m going to enjoy the car for the next 12 months with some shows and some runs down the quarter mile, but mostly cruising on the street. At some stage I’d like to Procharge the engine for more horsepower at which time I’ll do more work to the engine bay too!”

Sounds like the Falcon is far from finished…again!

THANKS TO: Peter Pardon at Perbrery Uphostery. Adam

and Chad at Chad Panel and Paint. Nathan at Ace Upholstery for Headliner and carpet install. Maddy at Kai’s Signs for graphics along with Paul Monkhouse for all his contacts.

Bruce McKean for his 3D printing and design work in heater control deletion panel so I could add 3 switches to instead of drilling into dash, rear seat lever button and surround, and filler plated for new LED interior lights. Most importantly, my son Brendan Hall for his assistance.

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r e t s Ea CRACKER

25th AUSTRALIAN STREET ROD NATIONALS - RICHMOND, NSW - EASTER 2023 WORDS / PICS – PAUL BECK

For a while, it looked like the 25th Bi-Annual Australian Street Rod Nationals was never going to happen. Thankfully, after being mucked around in Albury, the decision was made to take the show on the road to Western Sydney…

When word went out that the Australian Street Rod Nationals were heading back to Sydney for Easter 2023, the hype spread quickly. So quickly in fact that in no time at all, accommodation was drying up at a rapid rate. It was a great sign that the Nationals were going to be a big event. When last held at Clarendon Showgrounds between Windsor and Richmond in Sydney’s west, the Street Rod Nationals attracted lots of cars from all over Australia and early on, it was evident the 2023 event was going to be the same.

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Fast forward to Wednesday 5th April, and the roads leading into the venue were starting to fill with all kinds of cool Rods, Customs and Muscle cars...

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The weather gods tried to dampen the enthusiasm by sending a bunch of black clouds over the venue, threatening with heavy rain and predicted hail.

Fast forward to Wednesday 5th April, and the roads leading into the venue were starting to fill with all kinds of cool Rods, Customs and Muscle cars – with the event now open to Pre ’78 model cars. Those arriving early used the down time to set up camp and get familiar with the surroundings before the Nats officially kicked off. When Kathy and I arrived in the Chev on Thursday afternoon, there were already plenty of entrant’s setup in the camping area and the cruising was

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in full swing. As soon as we went through the registration process – an easy fiveminute deal, we thought we’d check out the cruise route and idled the Chev around the showgrounds, checking out the variety of cars scattered around the venue. But it was the impending wet weather that was the talk of the event at this stage. With the forecast warning of torrential rain and possible hail, everyone was preparing for a wet Friday.

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Whilst Friday did start with a fair bit of rain falling, by late morning the sky started to clear and soon the venue was bathed in sunshine. Like everyone else, we had the chamois out getting the Chev gleaming yet again. Friday is an Entrants Only day with no public allowed into the venue which allowed for plenty of cruising. It was also an opportunity for the entrants to scour through the trader’s hall looking for some new gear along with stocking up on the official event merchandise. While many cruised, many more kicked back around the roadways edge to take in the cars cruising the grounds. The weather gods tried to dampen the enthusiasm by sending a bunch of black clouds over the venue, threatening with heavy rain and predicted hail. Thankfully, we watched it go around us, with just a little rain falling for a short time. Still, the bands played on and cruising continued until the 10pm curfew. The next day, we heard lots of stories of hailing falling just five minutes from the showgrounds proving the man upstairs is a Hot Rodder at heart…

The area looked full and colourful and gave the venue an American Fairground feel – something like you’d see at a Goodguys event.

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Blue skies greeted the thousands of spectators who made the journey out to Richmond to take in the Nationals, the first time this event had been back in Sydney since 2001.

Due to the rain the night before, the decision was made not to send the 950-plus cars onto the grassed oval, instead opting to have them fill every available spot around the venue. Whilst some were jammed into positions they didn’t want to be in, I personally think it added a great atmosphere, keeping the cars (and therefore spectators) around the traders, bands and food outlets. The area looked full and colourful and gave the venue an American

Fairground feel – something like you’d see at a Goodguys event. Saturday saw the pre-booked Ladies luncheon take place at the nearby tavern, a meet and greet session with the invited American Guest Matt Murray from Iron Trap Garage, the kids ride’s in full swing and lots of cool live music on the main stage to entice those keen to kick up their heals on to the dance floor. With the general public leaving the grounds around 4pm, the cruising kicked off again between 5pm and 10pm, with plenty of cars flexing their muscle around the ground. It was a big day and was looking good for more of the same on Sunday.

Thankfully the blue skies stayed around on Sunday, allowing the show and shine to move out to the large oval where it was wall to wall Hot Rods and Customs.

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Thankfully the blue skies stayed around on Sunday, allowing the show and shine to move out to the large oval where it was wall to wall Hot Rods and Customs. The great thing about this scene is no two cars are the same. Sure, there were lots of black and red 32, 33 and 34 Ford coupes, but each one was individual in its own way, making a walk around the 900 plus cars on display that much more enjoyable. When it came time to choose the winner of the

Killer Rides Show Standout award, I could have handed out a dozen. But it was the Barra-powered Pro-Street ‘48 Anglia Van that scored the trophy for Grant and Keith Azzopardi. The fact that Grant had turned 18 just as the Van was finished the week of the show and he was cruising with the P-plates attached won me over.

There were so many standout cars at this event, that I don’t envy the judges that had the task of choosing the Top 25 Cars of the show.

All in all, the 25th Street Rod Nationals was a complete success. After a few years of work and organising, and with nearly 1000 cool cars in attendance, it was certainly an event to remember. Lots of traders took advantage of the event and were kept busy with customers, justifying their investment, the food vans had long lines of people all weekend (even though their prices were outrageous!) and the music played on providing the entertainment. For 96

us, we had an absolute ball. Its just a shame that the Nationals doesn’t have a permanent home in Richmond as the potential to grow this event at this venue is huge. But that’s not to be as the 2024 Street Rod Nationals heads to Mandurah in WA over March 22-25 before the event returns to Victoria in 2025 at a location still to be determined. For more info on future events, check out the ASRF website – www.asrf.org.au 97

WHO WON WHAT TOP STREET ROD

John Bridge - Blue ’33 Ford Coupe

TOP 25

Noel Harper - Blue ’32 Ford Coupe Neil Rushton - Beige ’32 Ford Coupe Tom Fulton - White ’33 Ford Coupe Peter Gruyters - Bare Steel ’32 Ford Coupe Ron De Been - Black ’34 Ford Coupe Darren Cahill - Blue ’34 Ford Coupe Greg Jones - Bronze ’33 Ford Coupe John Bridge - Blue ’33 Ford Coupe Craig Barber - Blue ’37 Ford Tudor Laurie Grima - Red ’56 Chev Tudor Gunter Maric - Black 35 Ford Tourer Tony Murray - Blue ’34 Ford Roadster Melissa Scrim - Black ’34 Ford Coupe Dean Wilson - Burgandy ’37 Plymouth Coupe Steve Dupond - Red ’32 Ford Roadster Michael Taranto - Black ’56 Ford Victoria Ian Wicks - Green ‘28 Ford Tudor Stephen Durrington - Green ’37 Chev Coupe Warren Wilkie - Red ’36 Ford Coupe Marc Alcock - Green ’32 Ford Roadster Matt Olver - Black ’34 Ford Coupe Brett Huxley - Black ’28 Ford Tudor David Lumsden - Red ’32 Ford Victoria Colin Mangelsdorf - Black ’36 Ford Cabriolet Carl Bayard - Black ’32 Ford Coupe

KILLER RIDES SHOW STANDOUT AWARD Keith and Grant Azzopardi – 1948 Anglia Van

MATT MURRAY IRON TRAP GARAGE TROPHY Joanne Fregon – 1932 Ford Roadster

GMS HOT RODS PICK

Warren Wilkie – 1936 Ford Coupe

SHAUN MACKIE DESERT SPEED TROPHY 98

Harley Maric – 1934 Ford Coupe

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KILLERRides SHONOW SHAUN & TRACEY PASK Words - Paul Beck Pics - Paul Beck & Chad Silvey

Long-time Hot Rodder Shaun Pask, has owned all kinds of cool and unique cars. His latest, this Hemi-powered Hiboy, certainly turned plenty of heads at the recent Street Rod Nationals in Sydney.

1934 Ford Coupe

Over the past 40-years, the Pask garage has been a revolving door of Rods, Customs and Racecars. There’s been way too many to list, but most recently there’s been a series of Willys coupes including a ’33, a ’39, a ’40 and of course a ’41 Gasser. There’s even been a Valiant Gasser known as “Knuckle Duster” and a big-block ’55 Chev that’s been part of the family for some 37-years! This nostalgia-styled ’34 three-window Hiboy coupe is just as cool, if not, his coolest build yet! Shaun’s still not sure why he started another full-tilt built after completing a huge undertaking on the ’33 Willys prior to starting this one. I’m sure now though, that he is glad he did.

This car was always going to have a big block Hemi and Shaun scored this one from a mate, Nick Levitt...

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The build started with a stage 3 rolling chassis and steeled-out Rod Bod’s body that a mate, Wazza, had sitting in his shed in Townsville. Having done some trading in the past, it was a short phone call that saw the deal done and the body and chassis loaded up on a truck bound for Brisbane for Shaun to get stuck into. The body was handed over to Craig Bloomer and Jim Varney to get the fibreglass perfect for paint, deleting any imperfections in the process. Satisfied that the body was as good as it could be, the custom mix,

Cool Caramel, was laid down. Before too long, the body was bolted to the chassis. Kamo at Atomic Fabrication had already spent time reshaping the steel hood to match the aftermarket grille shell as well as fabricating the hood sides that allow the Hemi to poke a head out of each side, in a little teaser of what is providing the power. He then had the car again to design and fabricated the fenders and brackets that cover those 15x4 and 16x5-inch Vintech steel wheels with Firestone rubber.

This nostalgia-styled ’34 three-window Hiboy coupe is just as cool, if not, his coolest build yet!

Whilst in his workshop, Kamo brought Shaun’s interior design into life, hand shaping the unique brass and alloy panels that are a highlight of the interior. A mix of body colour, brass, alloy and black vinyl make the interior a great place to be with everything added performing a duty.

There’s nothing inside that doesn’t serve a purpose. As they say, less is more! From the eBay-sourced Autotechnia seats to the unique octagonal steering wheel, enough gauges in the dash to get the job done and the desirable Hurst Lightning Rods shifter, this interior is on point and a perfect addition to the build.

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This car was always going to have a big block Hemi and Shaun scored this one from a mate, Nick Levitt, who had bought it in from the US. Knowing it was a good running, stock 392 didn’t stop Shaun from sending the engine to Geoff Hayes, where it was stripped down for a thorough inspection. What they found was a standard bore in mint condition that could have been reassembled and cruised, but while it was apart, the pair decided to freshen up the old engine anyway, adding some performance parts in the process. The standard steel crank was kept and swings original rods

with 10.4:1 forged Arias pistons inside the factory block. An Isky cam with a nicer idle was added along with a highvolume oil pump and Hot Heads sump.

The factory cast iron heads remain in place and offer a place for the Hot Heads four-barrel intake with 750cfm Holley carb to bolt to. Shaun then called on Dan Swanney to fabricated the headers and exhaust system to expel the gases when the MSD ignition fires the Hemi into life and burns that 9-octane fuel. Shaun has no idea how much horsepower the aspirated Hemi makes, and to be honest, he doesn’t really care!

Shaun wanted to stress that his wife Tracey was an integral part of not just this build, but all builds they undertake.

Bolted up to the back of the big block is a brand new, B&M Street & Strip Turbo 350 auto that uses a Hot Heads adapter to mount to the Chrysler engine. The converter is also a B&M item. Driveline Services built the tailshaft to send the power through to the limited slip 9-inch diff. There’s no glitz of glamour when it comes to the ‘34’s underside, just tried and true hot rod engineering. Up front, there’s a SoCal drop axle with hairpins and shocks from the same catalogue. A HQ steering box gives a nicer feel when out cruising. Braking is left up to Commodore discs and Ford drums, all controlled by an XY master cylinder.

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After a two-year build, Shaun and Tracey were keen to debut the coupe at the Yamba Hot Rod Run. With just a final inspection to do before attaching the HEMI34 plates, the coupe went through that process without any hassles, getting ticks all round. At Yamba, the Coupe scored a spot in the Top 10, Top Interior and Commerce Choice. Shaun wanted to stress that his wife Tracey was an integral part of not just this build, but all builds they undertake. “She’s an important part of any build, playing her part in building, driving and racing our cars!”

There’s no glitz of glamour when it comes to the ‘34’s underside, just tried and true hot rod engineering.

THANKS TO: First and foremost, my wife Tracey! Geoff Hayes – Engine Build. Driveline Services – Tailshaft. Jim Varney & Craig Bloomer – Body and Paint. Kamo at Atomic Fabrication – interior components and fenders. Dan Swanney – Headers and exhaust. Precision Powder Coating. G James Glass – fitment of all glass. Custom Auto Electrics.

Tony Dack and Craig Barber for their continued help.

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COMING EVENTS APRIL 27-29 COOTA 400 Cootamundra Airport www.coota400.com.au 9

MOTOR MADNESS ‘23 Townsville Showground

30

JUNEE SHOW AND SHINE Junee Showgrounds Junee Motor Club - 0428 241388

30

WIDEBAY RODDERS SHOW N SHINE Hervey Bay, QLD

MAY 6-7 21st MEGUIAR’S MOTOREX Melbourne Showgrounds www.motorex.com.au 7

NSW ALL GM DAY Museum of Fire, Penrith

JULY 23 NSW ALL FORD DAY Sydney Dragway www.allforddaynsw.com AUGUST 12-13 KILLER RIDES LIVE #5 Illawarra Hockey Centre, Unanderra (Wollongong) www.killerrides.com.au 27

LOWRIDER SUNDAY Marine Pde, The Entrance www.lowridersunday.com

SEPT 17 APPIN WHEELS FESTIVAL Appin Public School OCT 13-15 22ND EARLY FALCON NATIONALS Nata Oval, Narooma NSW

27-28 HOT ROD & CUSTOM AUTO EXPO Rosehill Racecourse, Sydney www.hotrodandcustom.com.au

20-22 AUTO RUMBLE MORUYA Ingenia Holiday Park Moruya

JUNE 7-11 COOLY ROCKS ON Coolanagatta, Qld www.coolyrockson.com

NOV 17-18 ADELAIDE AUTO EXPO www.customautoexpo.com.au

7-11 DOWNUNDER BEACHFEST Caloundra, Qld www.beachfestdownunder.com 8-11 WINTERNATIONALS Willowbank Raceway www.willowbank-raceway.com.au 24 110

DAY OF THE DRAGS Sydney Dragway

25-26 HOT ROD & HARLEY EXPO #2 Illawarra Hockey Centre, Unanderra www.killerrides.com.au 24-26 SPRINGNATS 30TH ANNIVERSARY Shepparton Showgrounds www.autofest.com.au Please check closer to the day to see if any of the events have been cancelled due to Covid.

DO YOU HAVE AN EVENT YOU’D LIKE TO PROMOTE? Email your Show Poster to paul@killerrides.com.au for inclusion into each issue leading up to the date!

s e d i KILLERR

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Paul Beck paul@killerrides.com.au Phone 0432 795336

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VALUED CONTRIBUTORS

Lauren Jade @ Xposed Photography Chad Silvey @ Pics by Chaddo Leisa Bonnici @ Fordgal Images Jimmy Tee Photography Greg ‘Beach’ Ball Joe Crispin Jason Lowe Luke Hunter @ Hunter Media Charlie Sant @ Pro Flo Performance