KILLER RIDES #13

THE HOME OF AUSTRALIA’S Toughest STREET CARS

ISSUE #13 JUNE 2019

R E V L I S K QUIC T N A LI A V ER P U S ED ER W O -P TWIN-TURBO NASCAR

TORANA LC 71 N EP W T N O M IR FA 383ci XW O CALAIS B R U T L V LE EL EV H C K C EFI BIG BLO O EXPO T U A M O T S U C & D O R T O H SYDNEY ATS N ER H S A R B S P U IN P & S T RATS, TAT

From the Desk HAS IT BEEN 12 MONTHS ALREADY Man, where has the time gone. It seems like only yesterday I was contemplating my move back into publishing, scribbling down thoughts as they came to mind – usually in the early hours of the morning, and speaking with car owners and companies about being part of this new digital magazine! And here I am now I’m working on Killer Rides No. 13!

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Looking back over the previous 12 issues, I feel proud of what Killer Rides has become. The mag has showcased awesome cars, (many of which we featured first!) and covered plenty of great events. But it’s the acceptance from the scene that really blows me away the most.

Being stopped at shows to tell me how much people love the mag and the concept is quite humbling. The mag started from nothing but is now enjoying over 53,000 readers world-wide, most of which are from Australia! So thank you guys and girls for taking in Killer Rides. The same goes to those who have taken the time to send in event coverage, in the build pics and other contributions. I couldn’t have done it without your help. So where to now?

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The mag started from nothing, but is now enjoying over 50,000 readers world-wide...

I will be continuing to build the brand in many different ways. Our logo will be appearing on more and more event flyers, our signature event – Killer Rides Live, will grow and there’s a line of merchandise coming too. Being out and about more is definitely happening, so If you see us, pop over and say hello.

With that said, I hope you enjoy Issue No.13 of Killer Rides - the Home of Australia’s Toughest Street Cars!

See you on the street.

Paul

Shop online now @ WWW.SPEEDPRO.COM.AU

Contents

26 Twin Turbo Nascar-powered Pro-Street Valiant

640hp XW Fairmont

ISSUE NO.13 June 2019

REGULARS 06 WHAT’S HAPPENING News, views and things of interest 10 HAVE YOUR SAY Tell us what you think

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ANSMA HAPPENINGS Whats happening in the Scene

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DARE TO BE DIFFERENT The World’s Best ‘55 Plymouth Savoy

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ASRF NEWS Hot Rod & Custom Information

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COMING ATTRACTIONS Checking out Superformance

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ROCKING AND RODDING The 2019 Sydney Hot Rod Show

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Big block EFI Chevelle

60 RATS, TATTS ‘N PINUPS Music, cars and good times!

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SMOKE ON THE DRAGWAY Brasher Nats returns to Sydney!

102 IN THE SPOT LIGHT Corvettes for all occasions.

120 KILLER PIC Blown V8 VW Burnout from BrasherNats 122 WINDOW SHOPPING New Products from our Advertisers

Reworked Turbo Six-pack Calais

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124 PERFORMANCE DIRECTORY Quick Find Ad’s 126 SHOW TIME Events happening around the Country

FEATURES 26

LIGHTNING STRIKE Twin Turbo Nascar power for a humble VC Valiant

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GOING THE FULL CIRCLE One time Drag XW goes back to street duties!

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WEAPON OF CHOICE New wave Pro-Street LC Torana

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IDENTITY CRISIS Chevelle - the other GM Muscle Car

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Modern style Pro-Street Torana

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Sydney Hot Rod Show

Rats, Tatts & Pinups

2019 Sydney Brashernats

110 SIX-PACK TO GO Tubbed, tough Street VL Calais Turbo

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What’s Happening CHANGE OF DATE FOR KILLER RIDES LIVE

SUBSCRIBE TO KEEP UP TO DATE WITH KILLER RIDES NEW ISSUE RELEASES!

It only takes a minute to subscribe at the website (killerrides.com.au) and you’ll be guaranteed to be alerted when each new Issue of the magazine has been added to the website. Don’t miss out, SUBSCRIBE NOW!

Due to a mix up of dates, we have been forced to change the date for the 2019 Killer Rides Live. It’s now being held over the weekend of August 17th and 18th. It’s still happening GRUDGE KINGS OFFER $100K OVER inside the Illawarra Hockey Centre in Unanderra, just south of Wollongong. For more info, TWO CATEGORIES check out www.killerrides.com.au Whatever you have planned for Saturday 6th July, cancel them and head to Sydney Dragway for the “Baddest Grudge Race in Australia”, Grudge Kings. With two lots of “Winner Takes All” $50,000 prize money on offer, you’re going to see the best Pro-Street and Pro-Mod racing in Australia! There’s also a huge Show ‘n’ Shine, Traders, Babe Comp and lots of Food Trucks. This is one meet you simply can’t miss. Check out more at www.grudgekings.net

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What’s Happening RED CENTRE NATS JUST GOT FASTER!

The Red Centre Nats just got a whole bunch faster with the release of the official program and the announcement of an all-new Heavy Hitter drag racing category that will tear up the ASID quarter mile!

This new invitational category in the drag racing program will boast 20 incredibly fast street and race cars, with a huge $20,000 in prize money and tow support on offer. Racing kicks off from 7.30pm on Saturday, 31 August under lights at Alice Springs Inland Dragway.

See more at www.redcentrenats.com.au

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FEATURE YOUR CAR IN KILLER RIDES

Ever thought about being featured in Killer Rides? Here’s the deal.

Killer Rides is primarily about tough street cars – pro-street, protouring, tough-street, that sort of thing. It’s not about ordinary cars.

Stockers with a set of wheels and a reverse cowl bonnet just don’t cut it. Killer Rides features V8’s, 6’s, 4’s and rotors – as long as they are in tough cars! Oh, and we also feature the occasional cool custom bike too! The same goes for those cars in the build! So show us what you have! Send pics and info now to paul@killerrides.com.au

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MINUTES WITH...

Paul Bennett

OCCUPATION: Car Builder / Fabricator AGE: 56 years old.

CURRENT STREET CAR? Toyota Custom CURRENT MODIFIED CAR/PROJECT? 1969 Mustang

IF YOU DIED TOMORROW, WHAT WOULD PEOPLE REMEMBER YOU FOR? I hope my soft soul...lol.

NAME FIVE PEOPLE (DEAD OR ALIVE) YOU’D LOVE TO DO A ROAD TRIP WITH. Peter Brock. Don Garlits. Gandhi. Picasso. Bob Seger.

BIGGEST REGRET IN THE CAR SCENE? WHAT’S YOUR EARLIEST AUTOMOTIVE MEMORY? At the Selling the first car I built for myself, as I have kept everyone ever since.

Drags at age 3 or 4.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO CARS? Born with the interest and it WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME THAT DOESN’T INVOLVE CARS? grew from there.

What is spare time? I’ll catch up on my spare time when I’m dead...

HAVE YOU EVER MANAGED TO GET OUT OF A SPEEDING FINE? lol.

HOW? No, never!

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE SOMEONE ABOUT TO TAKE 9 ON A MAJOR CAR BUILD? Have patience. No paint, no gain. Its FAVOURITE FORM OF MOTORSPORT? WHY? the ultimate sacrifice and you need to stay focused. Form a plan I have varied interest in all kinds of Motorsport. and never deviate from that plan. Don’t even look at what anyone else is building. Its your car, do it your way! You can only FAVOURITE RACER? Big Daddy Don Garlits. create a masterpiece by looking forward.

BLOWER/TURBO/NITROUS OR ASPIRATED? WHY? Blown.

Turbo. NOS. Its all good!

WHATS THE BEST CAR EVENT YOU’VE BEEN TO? Any of the US Nostalgia Cackle Fest events. The best...

WHAT EVENT WOULD YOU LIKE TO ATTEND, BUT HAVEN’T? Pebble Beach.

PRO-STREET OR PRO-TOURING? I love them both. Its impossible to decide between the two.

WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE SCENE AT THE MOMENT? WHAT CHANGES WOULD YOU MAKE? I’d like to see more people being individual with their builds and thinking outside the box.

FAVOURITE CAR OF ALL TIME? Scott Sullivan’s Cheez Whiz ‘55 Chev and George Poteet’s Sniper.

Have Your Say! Got something to say? Send it to paul@killerrides.com. au or message us from the Killer Rides Facebook page.

SENSATIONAL SLEEPER

Hey Paul, Brian Davitt is to be congratulated for thinking outside the square with his beautiful big block HQ. What a great car! It certainly hides the muscle well and would definitely be a weapon on the street. Love it. Hope to see more sleepers in Killer Rides soon!

Regards, Tony J via Messenger G’day Paul, Lovin’ the sleeper HQ! I have seen that car up close and with the bonnet down, you simply wouldn’t know what was hiding under the bonnet. Plenty of power and Police-friendly – what more could you ask for? Congrats to the owner.

Michael via Email 10 Hi Paul,

Yet another great Issue of Killer Rides – well done…again! When first saw the HQ, I thought you were going to feature a stocker, until I read what was powering it! What a fun car that would be! I don’t reckon those white walls would be lasting me too long if it was my HQ! Keep the tough stuff coming!

Jarrod M via Messenger.

WONDERFUL WAGONS

Hi Paul, As a fan of cool Wagons, it was great to see your new Spotlight section focus on the increasingly popular “Long Roof” style of build. I am currently going through the motions of building a 1961 Impala wagon with a full late-model driveline and 18/20-inch wheel combo. It won’t be a show car, rather a nice cruiser for the family to enjoy on weekends. Looking forward to more cool stuff in Killer Rides.

Andrew Whittaker vai Email G’day Andrew, Impala wagons are very cool. In fact in my early days of freelancing, I was using a ’64 Impala wagon as my everyday driver. It sat low over a set of Weld Wheels but was rough around the edges, but looked cool none the less.

I look forward to seeing it finished when you’re done.

QUICK OFF THE MARK..AGAIN!

Hi Paul, Damn, no sooner had the entrants locked their cars away from MotorEx and you’ve got coverage in Killer Rides for everyone to see. How did you get it out so quick? I’m not complaining though, keep up the great work!

Stevie K via Messenger Hi Stevie, Sometimes deadlines are on your side, sometimes they are not. In this case, I did hold the mag back a couple of days to be able to get this feature in and after I got the pics sent to me on the Sunday, I worked very long hours to make it all happen. You’ve got to love the digital platform!

Hi Guys, Yep, Brian’s HQ is definitely cool and gets plenty of attention. I’m surprised we don’t see more and more sleepers like this in our scene, especially in those areas where the Police frown upon anything even slightly modified.

Maybe they are there and we just don’t notice them…

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HIGH CRANKING HIGH CAPACITY

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See more of their work at: superformance.com.au

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UPDATE ON CONDITIONAL REGISTRATION SCHEME IN NSW

Many of you in NSW are likely to have one or more of their vehicles on Historic or Classic Plates and are probably unaware of a recent change to the registration process that the RMS and Service for NSW have introduced about a month ago, with no notice and no consultation I must add. The change is that the “Historic Vehicle Declaration” and the “Classic Vehicle Declaration” can no longer be emailed to your Club for endorsement as they are required to be originals, RMS and Service for NSW will reject any document that appears to be a copy. There was no official information released by RMS when these changes we made so we are in the dark as to why such a change was made?

ANSMA has now reached a size that was unexpected when it was created by Graham Stubbs (RIP) back in 1985. We now have over 100 Affiliated Clubs across Australia and inexcess of 2,500 Individual member and growing. This growth is our strength in dealing with the Government over registration issues with our members vehicles but it is also a legacy to the foresight of Graham Stubbs when he started the Association!

More information can be found at www.ansma.com.au

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Dare to be Different

t l i u B y a llowPLYMOUTH SAVOY A1955

Here’s proof that ugly can be made beautiful.

All you need is a vision, and very few people have vision like Bobby Alloway...

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Here’s proof that ugly can be made beautiful. All you need is a vision, and very few people have vision like Bobby Alloway and his team when it comes to creating some of the slickest Street Machines in the world.

Built for Gene Suelzle, the ’55 Savoy isn’t quite what you would call a typical custom car project. And that’s about as much reasoning as Alloway’s Hot Rod Shop needed to create a one-off masterpiece. Mind you, the Mopar was the furthest thing from Gene’s mind when he casually strolled into Alloway’s shop to have a chat about building a ’55 Chev Belair. But in true Alloway style, Bobby convinced Gene that the humble ’55 had been done to death and he needed to have a look at a potential project he had sitting in the shop instead. The ’55 Savoy Club sedan is a lifetime away from the ’55 Chev – and that’s a good thing. In this game, you need to be different to stand out, and this Savoy certainly ticks those boxes.

In standard form, you probably wouldn’t give a 1955 Plymouth Savoy a second look. And then there’s Bobby Alloway’s version.

Hey, you do know its rude to stare…

Dare to be Different Kick starting the build is a full mandrel-bent Art Morrison chassis that in itself is a work of art with a four-link’d Currie rear end, Wilwood discs, an independent front end and power-steering. Impressive, huh? And then came the power plant…

A Mopar just isn’t a Mopar without a Hemi engine up front, and this Savoy has one big bad Hemi providing plenty of grunt. Built by Keasler Racing and Machine, the Indy 520ci all-alloy Hemi not only performs as you’d expect, but looks like a million dollars when the Savoy’s bonnet is lifted! Backing the engine is a Tremec five-speed manual box. The chassis and its components are held off the blacktop with a set of stylish Billet Specialties wheels.

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Body wise, you’ll be surprised to know that it’s almost all ’55 Savoy. The team deleted the badges, added inverted ’55 Chev side trim and then spent plenty of time massaging the sheet metal to perfection in readiness for the signature Alloway black paint.

Inside, it’s a completely different story. Pro Auto Upholstery covered the interior including the T-Bird bucket seats, custom centre console etc in leather to compliment the body colour.

The dash has been kitted out with one-off Classic Instrument gauges and they have even fitted air-conditioning.

A Mopar just isn’t a Mopar without a Hemi engine up front, and this Savoy has one big bad Hemi providing plenty of grunt.

Yet again, the Alloway team have created a one-off custom car that has everyone guessing just what’s been changed and what is original. And that is the true mark of a custom car for the ages…

This page is for all ASRF related happenings and information and will become a regular page in Killer Rides with input from thise within the ASRF. If you have something to add, email it to paul@killerrides.com.au or send info and images via our Facebook page.

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ASRF JUDGING OPEN FORUM - There’s work to be done in updating the ASRF judging system, hence the Australian Street Rod Federation (Vic. Division) invites all comers to an open forum to discuss judging criteria at ASRF events. “We are looking for participants to come with fresh ideas and thoughts in order to completely review the current rules and regulations,” conveyed State Secretary, Joanne Fregon. “If you are a builder, painter, trimmer, owner, show presenter or just someone interested in progressing the ASRF into the future, we would love to see you there. All welcome and everything is open to discussion.” All members and supporters are welcome at the ASRF Vic State Headquarters, factory 81/46 Popes Rd, Keysborough, on Saturday, June 22, from 10am. Refreshments will be provided. Your RSVP is appreciated by June 20. For further info call Joanne Fregon 0418 520 941.

Shop Tour

For more than 40-years, Superformance has been one of Australia’s leading Performance shops. We take a look inside the Queensland-based business and see why they are still leading the way in all things performance!

Superformance aren’t just a performance parts reseller - they are much more diversified than that. Sure, they can supply you anything you need from a simple oil filter to a full supercharger kit for a big block Hemi, they can also supply a full, turn-key car if you so 22 require. On top of that, they build engines and transmission combo’s to any specifications and can take care of the rear end conversion too, along with an array of one-off custom parts to suit any application. Superformance is a one-stop, high-performance super store catering for the Street Machine, Muscle Car, Hot Rod and Classic car markets.

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Another huge part of their Superformance business is the supply of vehicle parts to suit both American and Australian made vehicles - and these are shipped daily to various regions all over the Asian Pacific and Australia. If you require that hard to find part, chances are Superformance can help you locate it and get it to you!

Located At 539 Redland Bay Road, Capalaba QLD 4157. Phone (07) 3488 7831

Web: www.superformance.com.au

The mechanical shop is now complimented by a fully functioning custom paint and panel shop meaning Superformance can easily take on full, ground-up rebuilds of any car to any stage - street, race or show! Recently, the team completed a build of a blown and injected 1923 T-Bucket for famed Bronco’s NRL player, Josh McGuire. Imagine rocking up to training in this beast!

More recently, Superformance took part in a new TV show called Rides Down Under Workshop Wars, where they built the incredible supercharged and fuel-injected C10 Chevy pickup in under 100 days. With the new series coming up, the team are keen to get involved once again which will see them beamed across the USA and Europe / Asia in a one-hour format show.

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Superformance has certainly come a long way from its humble beginnings in 1979 where it was primarily a business that supplied high-performance V8 engine parts. When Grant Malseed took over the business in 2005, the growth spurt was astronomical and has seen Superformance grow into a one-stop custom car super store. From the modern Showroom to the paint, panel and mechanical area’s, Superformance can handle as much of your build as you need. Call Superformance now - (07) 3488 7831 to discuss your build options.

CHECK OUT THE WORKSHOP WARS BUILD ON OUR C10 PICKUP HERE! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ub8nlRJTSeI

ANGELO FURFARO - 1967 VC VALIANT

WORDS – Paul Beck PICS - Jimmy Tee Photography

g n i n t h g i L STRIKE

I first saw this ultra-cool Valiant when I got sent a few pics online – about a week out from the Victorian Hot Rod Show in January where the car was going to be on show for the first time. Walking into the venue, I went searching for the car and was gob-smacked. It was even more impressive than I had expected from the pics. The style, execution and innovation thrown into the humble ’67 Valiant had me hooked.

And I wasn’t the only one. The twin-turbo sedan drew a huge crowd all weekend at its prime position underneath the centre dome of the majestic Exhibition Building.

The next stop for the car was an unveiling at the Chryslers on the Murray event where the die-hard Mopar guys were going to cast an envious eye of what was to be the 2019 Car of the Show. As the covers were removed from the car, the “oohs” and “aahs” coming from the surrounding crowd spoke volumes for what the fellow Chrysler enthusiasts were thinking. For Angelo and his family, it was justification for a build that consumed their lives.

Every now and then, a car comes along that absolutely blows the minds of everyone. This twin-turbo Nascar-powered VC Valiant is that car…

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Purchased in Melbourne as a stocker, Angelo had latched onto the car he had always wanted to own. With the car now in his possession, he put the plans into practise to transform the Valiant into the masterpiece it now is.

It may not look it, but the original Valiant sheet-metal now features lots of modifications – some subtle, some not so. From the outside, the reshaped bonnet and cowl panel are blindingly obvious, as are the mini-tubs. The fuel filler has been relocated to the area between the boot lid and rear window and the lower section of the front guards have been extended to flow with the sill panels. In a complete turn-around to what we normally see, Angelo kept all of the badging and mouldings on the body as per the factory specs.

Lifting the reworked bonnet reveals a fabricated recessed firewall and a removeable radiator support panel and new bonnet catch and pins.

Inside, the metal work magic continues with a completely new floor and trans tunnel fitted, a six-point roll cage installed and a fabricated pushbutton start panel.

The style, execution and innovation thrown into the humble ’67 Valiant had me hooked. And I wasn’t the only one.

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Moving to the boot area and you see just how much work has been put into every section of the Valiant’s build.

The inside of the boot area has been filled and smoothed with a 100-litre fuel cell filling the space between the enlarged wheel-tubs. The hinges were moved inwards and uses gas rams to help with the opening and closing operation. With the metal work completed, the lot got covered in a custom mix of Silver that suits the VC perfectly.

But there’s so much more to this Valiant than just a master class in metal shaping and preparation. Just like the body, the interior space is a mix of old and new, keeping some of the 1967 styling and complimenting it with enough custom additions to make it unique. Instead of removing the bench seat and bolting in some later model buckets, Angelo had the original front seat modified into buckets that now incorporates an arm rest and custom console to house the B&M shifter. The rear seat has been sculptured to work around the wheel tubs.

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The standard issue dash was kept in place, but has had subtle changes done – such as deleting the radio to make space for an array of switches and start button. Lots of AutoMeter dials have been added to the dash.

The standard issue Steering wheel has been retained but now sits atop a Billetworks collapsible column. Under the dash sits a Wilwood brake pedal assembly complete with remote master cylinders and a Lokar accelerator pedal. To contrast the silver sheet metal, Angelo had the seats, door trims and other assorted pieces trimmed in Monte Carlo Nappa Blue leather, whilst the moulded headlining scored Alcantara suede. English Wilston carpet has been used under foot.

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There’s no denying though, that the hero of this build is the engine – and what an engine! In the Mopar world, the Hemi big block is considered the be all and end all, but for Angelo, he wanted to go in a different direction with the VC. He latched onto a Nascar-spec R5P7 small block and to make it even more special, he added two Competition T3 turbo chargers. With 358ci of force-fed, hard-core Chrysler muscle on board, this Valiant goes harder than it looks – and that’s saying something when it looks as good as it does! The numbers are impressive – 746hp, 680ft-lb of torque at 6200rpm! All that on just six-pounds of boost! Using an Autronic ECU to control to engine after the MSD ignition system does its thing, the pumped small block not only makes plenty of power, but is reliable enough for Angelo and his family to cruise around Melbourne without a car in the world. Visually, it’s just as spectacular when that trick bonnet is lifted.

All that power gets sent rearward via a purpose-built 727 Torqueflite box that features super-tough internals and a 3000rpm TCI converter. Down the back sits a 9-inch diff located via a custom 4-link setup and features a 3.25-geared Tru-track centre and 35-spline billet axles. It’s obvious that Angelo spared no expense in making sure the driveline in his tough Valiant was going to go the distance no matter what he puts it through.

Other underside updates include new rear rails and chassis connectors, torque boxes added which incorporates outer sill panels to inner rails as well as chrome-moly tubing that braces the front and rear rails. Finishing off the rolling chassis is a complete Rod-Tech independent front end. Keeping the whole lot rolling are 15x6 and 15x10-inch Street Pro II wheels.

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ERS! WINNERS ARE GRIy,NAnNgel o has Since the cars debut in Januar managed to amass quite a load of show awards.

2019 VIC HOT ROD & COOL RIDES SHOW 3rd Competition Sedan

THANKS TO

Peter – PET Racing; Troy & Sean – Eliminator Rod & Custom; Leigh – Pro Street Development; Peter and the boys – Style Rod Panels; Ryan – Race Coatings; Neal – Romsey Auto Electrics; Emanuel – Trim Shop; Antonio -Autobarn Epping; Al – Wizard Hoses; Peter – Custom Towing; Nazir – TCI Torque Converters; Gerto – Gerto’s Metal Polishing; Greg Maskell and everyone else that has contributed to the build. A very big thank you to my brother John for all his hard work, time and effort and last but not least, my wife Kylie and my two boys…

2019 CHRYSLERS ON THE MURRAY 1st Place Best AP5, AP6, VC Top 5 Australian Chrysler of the Show

MOTOREX 2019

Laurie Starling Excellence Award Gold in Bodywork – Street Elite Gold in Engineering – Street Elite Gold in Engine Bay – Street Elite ase Top Street Machine – Street Elite Showc Muscle Car Pinnacle Award

As you’d expect, a build of this magnitude is going bring with it some challenging times, and Angelo has had to experience plenty of troublesome times, but seeing how good the end product is, those problems are now just a distant memory.

So now the VC is finished, running and registered, Angelo is all about enjoying what he has created. That means more show appearances, but more cruising the streets to different events held around the Melbourne area. If you see it on show, take some time to check out the build quality and details. Like me, you’ll be impressed…

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But there’s so much more to this Valiant than just a master class in metal shaping and preparation.

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ON THE MARKET? Whilst Angelo loves the VC dearly, there’s a chance that he could be tempted into

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parting with it if the right offer came along. Think you have the necessary dollars in your account? Email me – paul@killerrides.com.au and I’ll pass your details on to Angelo so you can discuss the details.

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SYDNEY HOT ROD & CUSTOM AUTO EXPO - ROSEHILL RACECOURSE - MAY 25-26, 2019 Words / Pics – Paul Beck

g n i k c o R A N D

RODDING

The Hot Rod and Custom Auto Expo has expanded yet again in 2019 and now takes up even more space at the fabulous Rosehill Racecourse complex turning the sometime horse racing facility into Hot Rod Heaven…

The Sydney Hot Rod and Custom Auto Expo is one show made up of many smaller shows – all 36 spread across one stunning complex. Rosehill Racecourse is the ideal venue to stage the show, offering a mix of indoor and outdoor display area’s – all of which were filled to capacity this year.

Affectionately known as “The Sydney Hot Rod Show” and now touted as the biggest event of its kind in Sydney, there’s something to keep everyone entertained. There’s much more to this event than just being a static car show. Once you take advantage of the free parking right at the front door, your senses going into overload upon entering the venue. There’s Rockabilly bands playing, live tattooing happening, Pinstriping exhibitions and a number of Trade demonstrations on offer.

On top of that, there’s kids rides, custom pushbike displays and of course cars on show – lots and lots of cars on show!

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...this year as a tribute to Mario Colalillo, a new trophy for the King of Cool was added to the trophy list and was no doubt much sought after.

Promoted by Donna and Andy Minas and helped out by a myriad of people who help out to get the show set up and running, the Sydney Hot Rod and Custom Auto Expo offers a great atmosphere in a family friendly environment.

Without doubt, the biggest part of the event is the car show side of it. With two big indoor area’s filled to the brim with all kinds of Street Machines, Hot Rods, Customs, Bikes and traders, you’d spend half the day checking out everything on display. For those who decide to cruise their cool ride to the event, the Cruzin’ Magazine Show ‘n’ Shine Car Park is the first spot you’ll check out which allows you to securely park your custom car whilst you check out everything else inside. This part of the show always attracts some interesting vehicles and is a revolving car show within itself for two days.

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s, Dave & Sharon Dorman finally ade dec two ost alm ng nni spa iod per ld bui a After ney Show. Proving that good things got to unveil their ‘32 Ford Cabriolet at the Syd oped every award it was eligible sco ‘32 ow yell ht brig the t, wai o wh se tho to come nt, Top Trim, Top Undercarriage, Top for, including Top Roadster, Top Standard Pai - Top Hot Rod! Engine Bay, Best Displayed Car and the big one

The inception of Nostalgia Lane last year proved to be a hugely popular exhibition, so there’s no surprises that it returns in 2019, much bigger and better than the previous year, and this year as a tribute to Mario Colalillo, a new trophy for the King of Cool was added to the trophy list and was no doubt much sought after.

This part of the show will continue to grow if this year was any indication. Also found in this area, were around 25 Tattoo artists applying their talents to anyone who wanted to either have their first tattoo applied or wanted to add to their artwork. Needless to say, each booth was busy for the time we were at the show.

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Also found in this area, were around 25 Tattoo artists applying their talents to anyone who wanted to either have their first tattoo applied or wanted to add to their artwork.

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Thanks to the members of the Ratpac Inc. Hot Rod and Custom Club, you could win yourself a custom Morris convertible by purchasing a ticket for just $10. Built from the ground up through the support of many sponsors, the proceeds of the raffle were being donated to Ovarian Cancer Australia. A great initiative and a great way for the winner, Mark Haysmand, to get involved in the custom car scene‌

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The Betting Ring location was full of traders showcasing all kinds of gear from tools to paints, polishes and more.

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One car that surprised everyone upon its unveiling was this retrotech 1972 Valiant Charger built

by Justin Hills for a client. Keeping much of the Charger’s styling, Justin added his own unique touches showing just how a modern-day Mopar coupe could look like if done right.

Power comes from an all-alloy, EFI 440 backed by a TCI 6-speed auto with a 9-inch down the back. Custom 18 & 19-inch wheels fill the guards.

There’s a huge amount of body mods made before the Ferrari Rosso Corsa colour was added. It was no surprise to see the Valiant win the Elegance Award and Top 2 Door 1971-2019!

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The Betting Ring location was full of traders showcasing all kinds of gear from tools to paints, polishes and more. There was even a live painting demonstration happening inside a portable paint booth! The main stage was also situated here and was the spot for the live bands to provide the entertainment later in the day in front of a large crowd that decided to hang around until the 9pm closing time on Saturday night.

Those that crave raw, unadulterated horsepower weren’t forgotten about with the Drag Car start-ups happening just outside the lower pavilion. Maurice Fabietti and his AC Delco team had their Monaro Doorslammer on display and firing up to show the crowds what 3500-plus horsepower sounds like. The same ear-splitting display was applied to the awesome Lambo Supercharged Outlaw car – both putting on quite a show.

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There’s Rockabilly bands playing, live tattooing happening, Pinstriping exhibitions and a number of Trade demonstrations on offer.

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DAVID XUEREB - 1973 CORTINA TOP CAR OF SHOW TOP STREET MACHINE 1ST TRIM - STREET MACHINE TOP SEDAN 49-70

CUSTOM FABRICATION CUSTOM PAINT & PANEL DRIVELINE UPGRADES UPHOLSTERY ELECTRICAL CHASSIS’ It was obvious the 2019 Hot Rod and Custom Auto Expo was the largest yet. Featuring more cars, more traders and more family-friendly entertainment, the show was a complete success. The only problem Andy and Donna Minas have now, is too how to top this one next year…

PROJECT VEHICLE’S STREET MACHINE’S MUSCLE CAR’S HOT ROD’S

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CUSTOM CAR BUILDING

Supercharger’s The 2020 Hot Rod & Custom Auto Expo will be held at Rosehill Racecourse, May 23/24!

DON’T MISS THIS ONE!

GOING THE

FULL CIRCLE

It started as a streeter. Got rebuilt to go Drag Racing, and then returned to the street once more! The GT-inspired XW Fairmont has been there, done that!

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SERDAR KARABULUT – 1970 XW FAIRMONT SEDAN WORDS / PICS / VIDEO – Paul Beck

Serdar is no stranger to tough street cars. They have consumed his life for as long as he can remember, with around thirty XW’s and XY’s occupying his driveway of the years as well as four XE ESP Falcons and a Genuine XB GT Hardtop. There’s also been a couple of Holden’s, but Serdar didn’t elaborate on those. These days, his garage plays host to a trio of tough Ford’s including this old-school styled XW Fairmont. More on the other two soon.

Serdar swapped a bucket load of cash for the keys to this XW after his mate decided that 10-years of housing the car with little usage was enough reason to part company with it.

At that stage, the Fairmont had gone through a transformation from street car to drag car, complete with fibreglass panels, roll cage and a coat of green paint.

Serdar wanted to keep his engine aspirated.

He’s not into blowers or turbo’s, relying only on the raw horsepower produced the old school way – without the aid of any power adders!

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With more interest in driving the Fairmont on the street, Serdar when through the process of putting the XW back to more of a tough street car. The original sheet-metal was bolted back on, the roll cage removed and the green paint rubbed down in readiness for the shiny new Brambles Red colour with familiar GT blackouts, badges and striping. Alex at Extreme Paint handled the body and paint duties, bringing the body back to as new and removing a piece of bonnet metal before the PPG paint was laid on. The XW’s early years as a stock Fairmont are now just a distant memory.

Like the exterior, the insides resemble the GT Falcon of the time with lots of black vinyl covering the seats, door trims and headliner, with a splash of GT-wood trimming on the dash, doors and the restored GT steering wheel. If it wasn’t for the B&M shifter adapted to the GT console, you’d swear you were driving in 1970. At least the fuel would be cheap! Upright Upholstery are responsible to the rejuvenation of the interior space.

But it’s under the bonnet where this Fairmont has had the most attention paid. The Cleveland may still be in place but it’s been rebuilt by Reconditioning Services and now tops out at 383ci with 640hp being produced on E85 fuel. Before the bonnet is lifted, the twin 750HP Holley 54 carbs give you a clue as to just how tough the Fairmont is under the bonnet.

If not, the idle will! It’s wild enough to rattle the fillings from your teeth!

Serdar wanted to keep his engine aspirated. He’s not into blowers or turbo’s, relying only on the raw horsepower produced the old school way – without the aid of any power adders!

383CI CLEVO

640HP

E85 FUEL

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Before the reworked 4V heads, Weiand tunnel ram and carbs were bolted into place, the block was to be stripped down and filled with the best gear available for the humble Clevo. A Scat crank works with a set of Carillo rods and JE pistons to up the cubic capacity, while that wildly idling cam is a custom grind from Crane. A Mellings oil pump ensures the slippery stuff gets from the High Energy sump to the required places without any problems. The fuel supply from the huge boot-mounted cell happens thanks to the Magnafuel 500 pump. The MSD 6AL ignition combines with the Bosch distributor to provide the spark and after the bang takes place, the ensuing gases are shown the door via a pair of custom 2-inch headers that open into a dual, 3-inch system.

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Serdar swapped a bucket load of cash for the keys to this XW after his mate decided that 10-years of housing the car with little usage was enough reason to part company with it.

Al’s Raceglides were called upon to build the C4 auto, adding a reverse-pattern shift and much tougher internals in the process. The converter is a Dominator and stalls out at 5500rpm. Naturally, there’s a nine-inch diff hanging out at the back and easily handles any abuse thrown at it thanks to 35-spline axles and a Strange Tru-Trac centre. The suspension and brakes are almost as per the factory specsheets. The Pedders brand is attached to the front coil springs and all four shocks, with the rear end getting the leaf springs reset 1-inch lower and also scoring a set of Caltracs to help with the traction. And with all that power up front, it needs all the help it can get. Braking is still the ultra-reliable disc and drum set up.

Completing the old school build theme is a set of Weld Pro-Star rims – 15x4 on the nose and 10-inch on the rear.

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After a built time of about 18-months, Serdar is fairly happy with the way the Fairmont has turned out. There are a couple of changes he would like to make though including the wheels and a switch back to Premium Pump fuel just to make it easy to refill when he has the family out for a cruise. Sure, he’ll drop a couple of ponies in the process, but that’s a small sacrifice to make.

58 Eventually, this XW will be put on the market with the two others taking priority over this

one. One of them is finished and will appear in Killer Rides soon, whilst the other is in the build and promises to be one hell of a Falcon when completed. Stay tuned…

AVOID THE

FLAT BATTERY NIGHTMARE

Nothing’s more frustrating than going to fire up your killer ride only to discover the battery has died.

The ANBI Battery Switch eliminates drainage of stored power by isolating the battery from general energy leakage.

Installation is quick and easy and can be completed in less than 15mins.

THANKS TO;

First up, my wife for putting with everything associated with building a car like this. Alex at Extreme Paint. A good mate of mine, Joe Saab for helping with the fit up and final touches to get it finished and for the use of his hoist.

Don’t let a Dead Battery Kill Your Ride! Install an ANBI Battery Switch.

TRADE ENQUIRIES ANBI TECHNOLOGIES 1800 290 812 available at

WWW.ANBISWITCH.COM.AU

RATS, TATTS & PINUPS - SANDOWN PARK HOTEL - MAY 19, 2019 Words - Jim Pics - Jim & Evan@Kingpin Media

RATS, TATTS N

,

PINUPS

The Sandown Park Hotel event is usually the biggest in the Rats Tatts n’ Pinups calendar. This show was no different, After a bout of wintery wet weather, Melbourne put on a beautiful sunny day, ensuring owners of the finest of Melbourne’s Bikes, Rods, Kustoms and Street Machines opened their garages to take them for a run.

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The official opening time was 10am, but cars started arriving from 9.30 and by 10.30 the cars were being pushed onto the Grassed area, which was reserved 61 for overflow. Whilst the event is seen as primarily a car show, it is the carnival that is built around the cars that is the main feature. This is a family friendly event catering for all age groups and everyone in attendance has a great time.

Whilst Mum & Dad bopped away to the endless music inside the sports bar, the kids had endless amounts of fun on the various Carnival Rides (Dodgem Cars, Jumping castle, Bungee Jump, spinning wheel & fun carnival game attractions.

Patrons were offered the choice of where they wanted to listen to music and have a dance.

Inside the Sports bar the Kid James Trio kicked off things before The Vibrajets took over.

Patrons were offered the choice of where they wanted to listen to music and have a dance.

Inside the Sports bar the Kid James Trio kicked off things before The Vibrajets took over. The Nomads were next on followed by Rod Paine And The Full Time Lovers before Scotty Baker closed out proceedings. In the carpark a Semi Trailer acted as a stage for the outside patrons with The Aaron Schembri Band with Rosie Conforto entertaining everyone during the day.

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Whilst the event is seen as primarily a car show, it is the carnival that is built around the cars that is the main feature.

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...there’s even more this event has to offer. If you found the need for your follicles to be trimmed or adding to your body art, a Tattooist and Barber had set up shop inside the complex...

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Whilst Mum & Dad bopped away to the endless music inside the sports bar, the kids had endless amounts of fun on the various Carnival Rides - Dodgem Cars, Jumping castle, Bungee Jump, spinning wheel & fun carnival game attractions.

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Culinary delights were located at every end of the venue, with ALH putting on an outside Bar and BBQ, enabling you to relax with a beverage of your choice, whilst watching the parade of Melbourne’s most amazing cars. But there’s even more this event has to offer. If you found the need for your follicles to be trimmed or adding to your body art, a Tattooist and Barber had set up shop inside the complex...

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Kingpin, your one stop shop for fun and entertainment.

Kingpin Kuztums is never at rest. With this event over they now turn their attention to the next event, this time in the North end of Melbourne‌ The Excelsior Hotel on Sun 23rd June. If you are in for a raucous time of Rockabilly mayhem and High Octane machines, you must check this show out. To see a full calender of Kingpin Kuztums events, find their advertisement in this issue of Killer Rides or jump onto their Facebook page - www.facebook.com/kingpin.kuztums/

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Kingpin, your one stop shop for fun and entertainment.

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WEAPON OF

E C I O CH

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Nick Bru had always wanted an LC Torana. With a firm build plan in place for the right project, he found a well-worn, no make that completely stuffed, genuine XU-1 rusting away just begging to be saved. Little did he realise that it was to be a further 9-years before the Torana scored rego once again!

NICK BRU – 1971 LC TORANA

WORDS / PICS / VIDEO – Paul Beck

In the early stages of the build, Nick opted for a traditional big and little, 15-inch wheel and tyre combo in true Pro-Street fashion. But that changed along the way and now there’s 19x7 and 20x10 Simmons bolted up to each corner give the Torana a whole new look.

With a triple-carb fed 6-pack, the GTR Torana was unstoppable on Australia’s most famous Mountain. It was then that the humble six-pack GTR XU-1 Torana became a legend and every young lad wanted to have one parked in the driveway. Fast forward a bunch of years and Nick finally got the opportunity to build his own version.

Whilst the purists may frown upon Nick using a genuine XU-1 as a 74 starting point, the fact is the car was on the verge of rusting away to nothing anyway. I know which end result I would rather…

Before taking on the massive task of bringing the Torana back from the brink, Nick consulted with an RMS Accredited Engineer to make sure everything he did to the LC passed the legal requirements so Nick could eventually cruise the Torana without fear of being hit with a list of defects and fines.

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The build consumed more than 9-years of Nick’s life and a considerable amount of money, but thanks to some great mates, that amount could have been much higher.

While the Bathurst winning Torana’s did the job with just six-cylinders, Nick wanted more, so by adding two more cylinders and a considerable amount of cubes, it ups the ante yet again. To keep within the necessary guidelines, the engine powering the Torana is a 305ci 76 Chev small block built by Nick at NP Performance. Nick kicked the build off with a Dart block, adding a Scat rod and crank combo, forged Arias pistons and a solid roller cam that provides a menacing idle. A pair of AFR heads soon joined the horsepower party, as did the coated Victor Junior intake manifold and single, big Holley carb!

A pair of custom headers easily expel the spent gases and offer up a great exhaust note at the same time. On pump 98 fuel, the small block impresses with 463hp!

Sending the power to the narrowed, 3.7-geared 9-inch rear end is a built Turbo 350 auto that has full manual internals and a 4200rpm Dominator converter. Gear selections are made via Magnum Grip Street Bandit shifter.

To get the Engineers tick, Nick had to upgrade the Torana’s underpinnings, with the inclusion of HZ disc brakes on the front and VL discs on the rear.

Suspension wise, King Springs now occupy the front end, with a pair of Coil-overs and four-link replacing the factory springs and shocks. Nick also had a full chassis kit added to stop the Torana from turning itself inside out.

In the early stages of the build, Nick opted for a traditional big and little, 15-inch wheel and tyre combo in true Pro-Street fashion. But that changed along the way and now there’s 19x7 and 20x10 Simmons bolted up to each corner give the Torana a whole new look.

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The silver wheels compliment the reworked body shell that copped a coat or three of Quicksilver paint by Panthers Prestige after the 4-inch reverse cowl bonnet was added, the engine bay smoothed out, the rear guards stretched out, all the seams welded and the rear quarter indicators deleted. There was never any other colour considered for the Torana. Nick loves the classy look and with the chrome bumpers and polished grille, I reckon he made the perfect choice.

Inside, it’s not what is considered normal. Nick looked at a lot of options, but is a little over the use of tans, reds and blocks which is usually found in custom cars. Instead, Nick had Jeff’s Custom Interiors cover the Recaro front seats, reshaped rear bench (to work around the wheels tubs), door trims and dash in silver vinyl bringing the exterior colour to the interior. The dash now employs a full set of old school AutoMeter gauges sitting just rearward of the billet steering wheel.

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...with that all-important Engineers Certificate signed off, Nick can cruise anywhere at any time...

138 DUNSTERS LANE, CROOM, NSW 2527 20-minutes South of Wollongong

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The build consumed more than 9-years of Nick’s life and a considerable amount of money, but thanks to some great mates, that amount could have been much higher. With the rego plates attached, Nick now cruises the Torana whenever he gets the chance with his family – usually a sunny Sunday afternoon. And with that all-important Engineers Certificate signed off, Nick can cruise anywhere at any time and know he’ll be able to drive the Torana back into the garage at the end of day. Do it once. Do it right. Keep it legal. Sounds like great advice to me…

THANKS TO

Ivan Pirotta, Nick Plegas, Peter Haylock, Robert Elliott (VMC Engineering), Elite Fabrication (RIP Nathan), Ultimate Fabrications, Panthers Prestige Penrith, PFH 24/7, Jeff’s Custom Interiors, Dannybro, and last but by no means least, my wife Kelly for her patience while the build was happening.

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STANDARD AND PERFORMANCE ENGINE REBUILDING SERVICE SUPER FLOW ENGINE DYNO PERFORMANCE SPARES IN STOCK PRECISION MACHINE WORK INBOARD MARINE SPECIALISTS PH 02 4256 0100

Email: sre_mc@hotmail.com

MOBILE 0418 431518

BRASHERNATS – SYDNEY DRAGWAY – JUNE 9, 2019

WORDS – PAUL BECK PICS – TIM MC CORMACK

MAXIMUM

Destruction

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burnout There seems to be a never-ending array of s though shows on around the country. The BrasherNat is one of the biggest and best.

From the very first event, some ten years ago, the BrasherNats has cemented its place on the Sydney Burnout calendar. Each Sunday of the June long-weekend, burnout competitors travel from all parts of the country to do their best at creating a huge smoke haze over western Sydney, and in particular, Sydney Dragway.

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Mick and Linda Brasher live for burnouts! Not only do their do an excellent job of promoting their own events, but they are also actively involved in competing at other events around the country in their over-powered Toyota Corolla. Mad Mick, as he is affectionately known, certainly plays up to the crowd and adds his own theatrics to the burnout scene. Maybe that’s why so many other competitors come to this event – to support the team that supports the scene…

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Mad Mick, as he is affectionately known, certainly plays up to the crowd and adds his own theatrics to the burnout scene.

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When the gates at the Dragway flung open to entrants at 6am, there was already an impressive line-up of cars eager to tear the rubber from their rear tyres. By the time the call was made to get the party started, hundreds upon hundreds of burnout hungry spectators had started to fill the grandstand to watch the ensuing carnage.

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ce, the Whilst the tyre destruction was happening at full-for th wi ng wi flo er ov , on s wa ine sh d an ow sh ns tio ica br Lowe Fa ower. an impressive amount of colour, chrome and horsep

One after one, the drivers all tried to impress the judges and spectators alike with a “never say die” attitude, tipping into the pad at speed, hoping and praying that they don’t crunch the wall as they come out of the smoke cloud they had created. Those that got it right, made it look easy. Those that didn’t…well, they will live to fight another day.

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Each Sunday of the June long-weekend, burnout competitors travel from all parts of the country to do their best at creating a huge smoke haze over western Sydney, and in particular, Sydney Dragway.

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WHO WON WHAT! FINALS (1st - 5th)

Whilst the tyre destruction was happening at full-force, the Lowe Fabrications show and shine was on, overflowing with an impressive amount of colour, chrome and horsepower. Most burnout shows don’t 90 attract a huge attendance in the car show arena, but for some reason, the BrasherNats bucks the trend year after year.

LSONE Rick Fuller CEMBLN DEATHWISH (Wins Masters Ticket!)

TIPNIN GETTO

WILDNESS BURNOUT Clayton Barbara

BIGGEST TIP IN 1TUFHG

1ST ROUND BLOWN (1st - 3rd) UCSMOKE 1TUFHG LSONE

NATURALLY ASPIRATED (1st - 3rd) GETTO LIGHTEMUP DEATHWISH Kane Cook

6 BANGERS (1st & 2nd) TUFF4L Guy Clare TUFF4L Gerry Clare

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IDENTITY Crisis

Whilst everyone knows of the Camaro and Corvette, there was another famed GM muscle car in the late 60’s called the Chevelle.

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ROBERT SOLWAY – 1968 CHEVELLE POST

WORDS / PICS / VIDEO – Paul Beck

The 60’s and 70’s were a great era for those who loved high-horsepower muscle cars. The battle for supremacy between Ford, GM and Chrysler is now legendary and still continues today! During that period, there were some awesome cars made available to the power-hungry public from each manufacture. Ford were best remembered for the Mustang. Chrysler had the Charger and Challenger and for the GM crowd, the Camaro and Corvette were the favourites. But there was another major player! The Chevelle.

Available as a small block or big block powered version, the Chevelle wasn’t as popular as the Camaro or Vette, but was none the less, a very good car in its own right. Fast forward a bunch of years and with Muscle Cars commanding huge amounts of money, enthusiasts and collectors alike are looking for something a little left of centre. Enter the Chevelle.

“I remember watching a movie with Dad was I was just a kid and seeing this cool car on the screen. When I asked Dad what is was, he told me a Chevelle. That car certainly made a lasting impression as I told him one day I would own one of those!” That’s how far back Rob Solway wanted a Chevelle!

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Rob’s plan of attack was simple turn the Chevelle into a tough street car that was capable of holding its head high at any show or event. First to get given the flick was the lowly small block engine...

Although getting hold of one had proved a long exercise, with a few other cool rides getting the nod first including a blown XC Falcon, a genuine XAGT Coupe, a couple of wild Rotary Mazda’s and event Datto 1600! But even though he had spent time behind the wheel of many other rides, Rob still longed for that elusive Chevelle. A random ad in a magazine caught Rob’s eye with a Chevelle posted for sale. It was part of a deceased estate in Queensland which had been a long winded affair with the government wanting to purchase the large parcel of land contained within the estate. This meant that everything left was tied up whilst the land sale went through the processes. That didn’t stop our man Rob though. He spoke to the caretaker and arranged to head to Queensland to check it out.

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The original owner had bought the car new in the US and had stripped it in 1970 in preparation for a colour change but unfortunately, he passed away before that happened and the Chevelle sat in the loft covered in blankets to preserve the sheet metal from the elements. It stayed that way for the next 30-years until the wife passed away and it was added to the estate. Long story short, Rob’s attitude towards the car managed to secure the sale and the Chevelle was loaded onto a trailer for the long haul back to Sydney.

Rob’s plan of attack was simple - turn the Chevelle into a tough street car that was capable of holding its head high at any show or event. First to get given the flick was the lowly small block engine that was never going to get the Chevelle moving like Rob had hoped. It its place sits a built 454 that now sports 502-cubes and Fi-Tech fuel injection.

Rob had been down the “way too much horsepower” road before and this big block was more about cruising than bruising. After a “discussion” with the engine builder who thought more is always better, Rob decided to finish the build off himself. The end result being 632hp and enough torque to pull a block of units to the ground. A tough Turbo 400 auto fronted with a 3500rpm TCI converter, handles the horsepower transfer to the 9-inch diff that now houses 3.5-gears and a locker centre.

Hiding behind the 18-inch American Boss wheels are a quartet of Baer discs and calipers – 330mm disc with T4 calipers on the front and 328mm disc with SS4 calipers on the rear. Hotchkis 1-inch lowered springs work with the same brand shocks to help the Chevelle point and steer in the right direction, whilst the rear gets 2-inches closer to the blacktop via UMI springs and Koni shocks.

When the Chevelle left the factory floor, it was Gold with a black vinyl roof. The original owner hated the colour scheme, but because the Chevelle was in high-demand at the time, it was a case of take it how it is, or wait for what you want. He chose the former option. Hence his decision to strip it down early on for a repaint…

Rob wasn’t too fussed on returning the car to its factory colour either and after attending to the body work himself and satisfied it was ready for colour, he handed it over to Queensland Paint and Panel to have the Calypso Green (a Ford colour) laid onto the body. After the floor copped a few coats of black, the body was once again reunited with the now detailed and renewed, rolling chassis. The black stripes were added after Rob realised the all-green theme needed something to break it up. A great move I reckon!

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Inside, the interior is 90% original. And by original, I mean just that – they are the same seats, door trims, headlining etc that the car was fitted with in 1968. Remember that this car was stored for some 30-years the right way so the interior was preserved. It’s not all stock though. Rob did add his own personal tough with the AutoMeter dash, B&M shifter and seatbelts – a necessity when he takes his family out cruising.

It took Rob six-years of work and around $120K to get the car of his dreams and now that he has it registered and road going, there’s no stopping him from enjoying it every chance he gets. There’s been plenty of car show appearances (with around 15 trophies collected so far!) but the most fun is cruising the wheels off it regularly.

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Now he has had time to reflect on the build, there are a few things he would do different if he had his time all over again. Air ride suspension would definitely be fitted along with an LSA supercharged engine. The door handles would be shaved, as would the gutters and flush-mount glass would be used as well.

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Even though he has been offered huge money for the car, Rob told us his wife said the car is going to stay in the family – even though she’s not really into cars as such. Like the Chevelle, Rob reckons his wife is a keeper too…

THANKS TO: A big thanks to my family for putting up with the late nights. I have

done probably 70% of the build myself, as I can’t see the point of building a car and not knowing what went into it.

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In the Spotlight

WORDS – Paul Beck

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VETTE s m a e r D

From the early 50’s right through to the current model, the Chev Corvette has been a crowd favourite with those motorists around the world who want something special parked in their garage. This issue we check out a variety of Corvettes – Showcars, Drag cars, Pro-Street and ProTouring – each of which are simply amazing…

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SHOW CARS

It takes a special kind of person to transform a car into a Ridler-contending masterpiece. Both of these Vette’s have been painstakingly modified and detailed into show pieces that are built to wow show judges. This is the pinnacle of Show Car building.

PRO-TOURING

Corvettes are first and foremost a sports car so a lot of effort was put into the cars underpinnings to ensure the Vette handled better than anything else on the market each year. But by having the car treated to a Pro-Touring makeover, you’re going to extremes – not just in handling, but braking and performance too. Going big – that’s the theme of the Pro-Touring Corvette.

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PRO STREET

In the US, Pro-Street means exactly that – on the Street. It’s a different world over there in regards to rego requirements to what we have to deal with. So it comes with no surprise to find so many tough Corvette’s roaming the streets. Whether they be old school with big and little 15inch wheels or the new generation Pro-Street using 20-plus diametre wheels, they are all tough. The Corvette’s swoopy lines, from the first to the last models, lend themselves perfectly to the Pro-Street treatment.

Check out these stunners…

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Whether they be old school with big and little 15-inch wheels or the new generation Pro-Street using 20-plus diametre wheels, they are all tough.

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DRAG RACING

Drag Racing is all about getting down that 1320ft of bitumen before the racer in the opposite lane and a more efficient way of doing that is to cut through the air more easily. Thanks to the aerodynamic front end of the Corvettes, achieving that was already taken care of by the Corvette’s designers. If you’re going to race, you might as well look fast doing it.

LEO VANGELOVSKI

PHONE: 4285 0300 MVRC LIC: 54814

STOCKISTS OF

MOB: 0415939307 ABN: 73669 696 204

IN-HOUSE CHASSIS DYNO COMING SOON! www.blautomotive.com.au

leo@blautomotive.com.au 109

RICK DRESSINO – 1987 VL CALAIS TURBO

Words / Pics / Video – Paul Beck

SIX-PACK Swapped for a Torana, and repowered with a tough Maatouk’s Racing engine, this genuine VL Calais Turbo is tough with a capital T.

Currently on its run-in tune, the engine made a credible 500hp at the treads. Once the team at Maatouk’s Racing add more boost, that figure is set to grow considerably.

TO GO!

Rick Dressino had always wanted a genuine manual VL Calais Turbo, so when the opportunity presented itself, Rick had no hesitation whatsoever to part company with his Torana and set himself on the road to building a tough Calais turbo street car.

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Rick is a firm believer in doing a build once, and doing it right. With that in the forefront of his mind, Rick put together a plan that would see the Calais consume all his spare time and cash over the next five years. During the build period, Rick made sure every part of the Calais was done right – from the interior to the slick paint and smoothed out engine bay.

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When the deal was first done, the VL’s bodywork had seen better days, with a few imperfections across the sheet metal and a little rust in the usual places. Before any new colour was added, Rick shipped the rolling body off to the guys at Dapto Smash Repairs where they not only straightened out the body, but also modified the engine bay to remove and fill any unnecessary brackets, holes etc. They also added the fibreglass sunroof panel. It was at this time that Shawn Karn at Karnage Creations added the sheet-metal boot floor that incorporates a custom drop box for the fuel cell. The wheels tubs were added too by Tom at BAZ Fabrications.

With the metal-shaping tools back on the rack, it was time to prepare the body for its new colour. Rick chose the popular Soul Red from the Mazda range. A custom silver now covers the familiar Calais side trims and bumper bars. In stark contrast, the 20x8.5” and 20x10” FR20 Simmons feature black centres on a polished rim… With the body and paint now completed and the VL now looking more like a car again, Rick moved his attention to the interior space.

One of his all-time favourite cars just happens to be the VL Group A Walkinshaw, so it comes as no surprise to see a replica-Walky trim kit added to his tough Calais. The interior makeover was a joint effort between Top End Interiors and Mick “Pumba” Tiyce – both ensuring the Calais insides were on par with the rejuvenated body and paint.

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Rick intends to keep this Calais in the family and hopes to one day pass it down to his son when he is old enough to drive it, but more importantly, respect it.

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While the front seats, rear seat (which has been modified to work around the wheel tubs), door trims headlining were stitched to replicate the Walkinshaw, there have been some cool modifications made to the interior specs including the Racepak IQ3S digital Street Dash that occupies the same space as the VL’s analogue speedo and a Pro-Ratchet shifter that has been skilfully adapted to the original centre console to make it look like Holden had offered it as an option. The fifth wheel is a MOMO Hella and looks right at home. When out cruising, Rick and the family can enjoy some music through the upgraded Pioneer sound system.

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As cool as the trim, bodywork and paint is, everyone wants to see under the bonnet

As cool as the trim, bodywork and paint is, everyone wants to see under the bonnet and know what’s going on in the engine department. The original 3-litre, RB30 six-pack has been pulled down and given the complete Maatouk’s Racing makeover, ensuring that lots of horsepower is the end result.

Internally, there’s a custom Maatouk cam and lifter combo, JE forged pistons, nitrided and grub screwed standard crank and Nitto I beam rods. The cylinder head is a full-tilt Maatouk special. Externally, its top shelf products only! CPC supplied a Street intake manifold and billet throttle body along with one of their intercoolers. On the other side of the engine sits a GTX42 Garrett turbocharger and 6Boost exhaust manifold that unwinds into a custom stainless 3” system with a 4” dump pipe. AU Falcon coil packs work with the MicroTech X6 igniter box and ECU to provide plenty of spark to fire the tough six into life. As the owner and operator of South Coast Radiators, Rick built a cooling system that keeps the operating temperature where it should be.

A tough engine needs a tough gearbox, and they simply don’t come any tougher than a Two-speed Powerglide! Especially when they come from KEAS and are built to handle 900-plus horsepower. A TCE 3800rpm converter helps spool the turbo and get the Calais off to a flying start when needed.

The power then transfers through a 1000hp rated two-piece tailshaft to a shortened Borg Warner diff featuring 3.7-gears, a full-spool and 31-spline axles.

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Rick hasn’t gone overboard with the Calais ride height, instead opting for practicality. The front end has received Monroe short-travel shocks and King Springs, with Strange coil-overs providing a firmer ride in the rear. The power steering system is now electric. Whilst a VT Commodore booster and master cylinder has been fitted, the discs and calipers are Wilwood and easily handle bringing the Calais to a stop from any rate of knots.

The only thing left for Rick to do now, is to get the engine sorted with its new tune.

Currently on its run-in tune, the engine made a credible 500hp at the treads. Once the team at Maatouk’s Racing add more boost, that figure is set to grow considerably. We’ll keep you posted.

Rick intends to keep this Calais in the family and hopes to one day pass it down to his son when he is old enough to drive it, but more importantly, respect it. Till then, it’s a family weekend cruiser…

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THANKS TO;

My wife Michelle and kids, Marcus and Lara for their continued support. Trevor, Sam, Steve and Matt at Dapto Smash. Anthony, Drew and the team at Maatouk’s Racing. Luke from Elite Custom Wiring. Jamie from JS Fabrications. Tom from Baz Fabrications. Shawn from Karnage Creations. Ariel from C.P.C. Sean from Dapto Mechanical. Rick and Andy from South Coast Radiators. Dave from Top End Interiors. Mick “Pumba” Tiyce and Richo. Josh from JQR Detailing and everyone else who helped swing a spanner on the car…

Motorsport Video Specialists Over 6000 Video’s Online and More Added Weekly!

Killer Pic PIC - Tim McCormack

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Proving that just about anything go es in Burnout Comps these days, this blown V8 VW Beetle puts on quite a show at the recent Brasher Nats held at Sydney Dragway. And yes, that’s a skeleton ha nging on to the blower and carbs!

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Window Shopping PRECISION BOV’S IN STOCK AT SPEED PRO

Precision have just released their Turbo 5mm Blow Off Valve and its now available to purchase from the team at Speed-Pro. This unit is lightweight and compact, making it perfect for a vast majority of the turbocharged applications in the market.

Adjustments are seamless without the need to remove the entire assembly from the vehicle. It is compatible with many turbocharger kits currently in the marketplace. For pricing, call Speed Pro on 03 9794 5177 and quote part number #PBO083-2005. Or better still, drop into their shop at 11 Airlie Ave, Dandenong and check out the products first hand. www.speedpro.com.au 122

COOL CUSTOM SHIRTS FROM KINGPIN KUZTUMS

Not only do Rob and the team from Kingpin Kuztums run some great events - check out the Rats, Tatts and Pinups event in this issue, but they also have some cool merchandise for sale at their events, like this cool shirts. Their online store will be online soon as well as the soon to be opened Kingpin Pinball and Pool Hall in Dandenong. Shirts, Hoodies and Jackets start at $50 and go through to $150. Check out their next event on their promo ad following the event feature!

THE ULTIMATE LH/LX TORANA FRONT SUSPENSION NOW AT SUPERFORMANCE

After extensive and lengthy industry consultation, the totally new designed, engineered and Queensland manufactured Torana front end assembly is now available to purchase from Superformance. Check out the features! * Engine mounts available for Holden V8, Small block Chev or LS-series Engines. * Wilwood Pro Spindles * Wilwood Disc Brakes * Flaming River Power Steering Rack * Aldan Coil Over Shocks * Moog Ball Joints & Tie Rod Ends * Super Pro Polyurethane Bushes with Life time Warranty * Cold Drawn Seamless Tubular Control Arms * Grade 8 Hardware OPTIONAL UPGRADES INCLUDE: * Ridetech or QA1 Coil -over shocks * Slam Specialties Air Bags or Ridetech Shock Wave Air bags * Various disc rotors diametres and caliper types available.

For more information on this front end kit including pricing, contact Superformance on 07 3488 7888 or log onto the website - www.superformance.com.au

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Performance

y r o t c e r i D

Advertise your business here from just $55 per month* * Based on 6-month Booking @ 1/8 page size.

Email: paul@killerrides.com.au for more info.

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ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS HERE!

PHONE: Paul - 0432 795336

EMAIL: paul@killerrides.com.au

www.prostreet.com.au

Showtime!

To have your event listed here, send details to paul@killerrides.com.au

JUNE - 2019

JULY - 2019

AUGUST - 2019

31/6-03/7 - NSW Wintersun 2.0 Murwillumbah Showgrounds www.wintersun2.com.au

07 - NSW Blacktown Swap Meet Fairfield Showgrounds

02-04 - NSW Chrysler Wake Run Canton Beach Holiday Park www.hvcc.org.au

06-09 - QLD 2019 Winternationals Willowbank Raceway www.willowbankraceway.com.au 07-08 - NSW 30th FB-EK Holden Nationals Mudgee, NSW www.fbekholdennsw.com 09 - NSW KIller Rides / Illawarra Street Scene Coffee and Cars Catch Up Bunnings Albion Park Rail 7am-9am Phone Paul - 0432 795336 09 - NSW Brasher Nats Sydney Dragway www.brashernats.com.au 15 - NSW Powercruise 1 Day Powerplay Sydney Motorsport Park www.powercruise.com 17 - NSW Smoke ‘n’ Skidz Round 2 Sydney Dragway www.sydneydragway.com.au 22- QLD Hot Rods for the Homeless The Founders Pavilion, Toowoomba Showgrounds www.hotrodsforthehomeless.com.au

13-14 - NSW Killer Rides Live Illawarra Hockey Centre, Unanderra www.killerrides.com.au Paul - 0432 795336 14 - NSW KIller Rides / Illawarra Street Scene Coffee and Cars Catch Up Bunnings Albion Park Rail 7am-9am Phone Paul - 0432 795336 19-21 - QLD Ingham Autofest Ingham Showgrounds www.autofest.com.au 21 - NSW Coffs Harbour Swap & Classic Vehicle Display Coffs Harbour Showground sites.google.com/site/chvvcc/home 21 - NSW Wagga Wagga Swap Meet Wagga Showgrounds 0458 454477 chacawagga@gmail.com 28 - VIC Ford Flathead Festival Caribbean Gardens, Scorseby

03-04 - NT Coolalinga Classic Car Extravaganza Coolalinga Shopping Centre 03 - NSW GTR Festival Sydney Dragway 9am-5pm 11 - QLD Driven Not Hidden Car Show 9am-1pm Samford Showgrounds qldcruising@gmail.com 11 - NSW KIller Rides / Illawarra Street Scene Coffee and Cars Catch Up Bunnings Albion Park Rail 7am-9am Phone Paul - 0432 795336 16-19 - QLD Power on Petrie Nambour Showgrounds threemodsevents@outlook.com 17-18 - NSW Killer Rides Live #3 Illawarra Hockey Centre Waples Rd, Unanderra - just south of Wollongong.

Paul - 0432795336 www.killerrides.com.au 30 Aug - 01 Sept - NT Red Centre Nats Alice Springs www.redcentrenats.com.au

MURRAY BRIDGE SHOWGROUNDS & SPEEDWAY OCTOBER 25th to 27th 2019 Open to everything automotive from Cars, Trucks, Bikes in fact anything that has wheels is welcomed to join in on all the fun and with the theme of a Family Friendly Motoring Festival.

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I PR

OL O P

1st Place BURNOUT N/A Class = $2500 plus 2019 SPRINGNATS GOLDEN TICKET PASS 1st Place BURNOUT PRO Class = $2500 plus 2019 SPRINGNATS GOLDEN TICKET PASS 1st 6 Cly BURNOUT Class = $1500 plus 2019 SPRINGNATS GOLDEN TICKET PASS TOP SHOW CAR = $1000 plus 2019 SPRINGNATS GOLDEN TICKET PASS TOP STREET CAR = $1000 plus 2019 SPRINGNATS GOLDEN TICKET PASS Trophy’s will be awarded to all place getters in class category’s for vehicles in attendance

NOTE! SPRINGNATS GOLDEN TICKET INCLUDES; FREE SPRINGNATS ENTRY, FREE INDOOR GARAGE SPACE, FREE EVENT MERCH PACK. VALUE = $465

Show N Shine - Food Truck Festival - Bar Go To Whoa - Autokana Corkscrew - Trade Sites - Grab A Flag BURNOUTS and MORE! Proudly Supported By



For Entrant Forms or For More Information See www.autofest.com.au or Call Mobile 0417 511557

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PUBLISHING EDITOR

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

MAILING ADDRESS

PO Box 165 Oak Flats NSW 2529 129

WEBSITE

www.killerrides.com.au

VALUED CONTRIBUTORS

Lauren Jade - Xposed Photography Tim McCormack - Sweet Aussie Rides Chad Silvey - Pics by Chaddo Leisa Bonnici - Fordgal Images Blake Williamson - Insane Grunt Photography Greg “Beach” Ball Vincent De Rossi Joe Crispin Flaming Rim Productions Hunter Media Stephen Taylor - The Motorsports Project