ISSUE #21 - FEB 2020
READY TO
E L B M U R WARNING!
E! ID S IN R E W O P E S R O H LK U B
N O C L A F T X i c 3 9 3 N W BLO E C U E D Y E L R A H M O CUST BLOWN INJ 57 CHEV N E D L O H Z H i c 5 5 3 INJ V8 ESCORT BUILD
NITROUS 426ci DODGE DART
OFF THE LEASH!
VICTORIAN HOT ROD & COOL RIDES SHOW - NSW ALL AMERICAN DAY - SPOTLIGHT ON XW/XY FALCONS - INDOOR DRAG RACING HISTORY
From the Desk IS IT JUST ME, OR DO OTHER PEOPLE HAVE TROUBLE GETTING MOTIVATED TO WORK ON THE PROJECT CAR? We all know of the mechanic whose own car keeps breaking down and the Lawn Maintenance guy whose own lawn is so overgrown that he hasn’t seen his dog for weeks! I think I suffer the same deal with modified cars. Now, I’m not complaining, but I spend most of my waking hours working on the magazines, photographing features and going to events. Now, you’d think that being around cool cars all the time would have you hyped up to get your own car happening. And sometimes it does. But then reality kicks in and you realise just how time poor you are, which sees the car sit in the corner of the garage for another day, sometimes months…
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I’m envious of those that are able to get in the workshop to work on their cars regularly. I don’t profess to be as handy on the tools as I would like to be, and that’s probably part of the problem. I’m all for having a go at certain things, but there’s somethings you need professional help with. Fitting a Hemi into a Studebaker isn’t something you can buy engine mounts for, or headers and other necessities needed to do the job, so it becomes a waiting game with all the quality shops busy - which is great to see!
I am hoping that 2020 will be the year I can have, at the very least, the driveline fitted, the rear end sorted and the front end converted with disc’s and rack and pinion steering. I would hope that sometime before Christmas, the Stude will be back on its wheels and sporting a whole new attitude… I guess we can all dream. Now to find that elusive motivation…
Shop online now @ WWW.SPEEDPRO.COM.AU 11 A I R L I E AV E N U E , D A N D E N O N G V I C 3 17 5
P H O N E 0 3 9 7 9 4 517 7
Thanks for the favourable feedback on the new look of Killer Rides, and especially the expanded from cover. Enjoy Issue 21. See you on the Street…
Paul
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HIGH CRANKING HIGH CAPACITY
HIGH PERFORMANCE 1972 LJ Holden Torana, Dubbo NSW Recommended battery: Fullriver HC70
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ISSUE NO.21 Feb 2020
CONTENTS REGULARS
03 EDITORIAL From the Desk 08 WHAT’S HAPPENING News, views and things of interest 16 HAVE YOUR SAY Tell us what you think 20
COMING ATTRACTION A V8-powered Escort done by the Book!
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SEASON OPENER 2020 Victorian Hot Rod & Cool Rides Show
26 426ci Nitrous Dodge Dart
60 UNITED STATES OF COOLNESS NSW All American Day 82
ALL WEATHER RACING Indoor Drag Racing? Yes, it was a thing...
88 CYBER CRUISIN’ John Force COPO Camaro for Charity 6 102 IN THE SPOT LIGHT Ford’s all-time Classic XW-XY Falcon 120 KILLER PIC Where there’s smoke, there’s fire! 122 WINDOW SHOPPING What’s new and from where!
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38 Victorian Hot Rod & Cool Rides Show
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60 NSW All American Day
72 One-off Harley Deuce
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110 Street Elite HZ Holden
Pro-Street XT Falcon
124 SHOWTIME What’s on, where and when. 126 PERFORMANCE DIRECTORY Quick Find Ad’s
FEATURES 26
THE BRO CODE Nitrous 426ci Dodge Dart.
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WHITE NOISE Blown 393-cube XT Falcon tyre-fryer!
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DEUCE’S WILD One man’s take on the Harley Deuce. THE LONGEST ROAD Not so stock ‘57 Chev!
110 SECOND TIME AROUND EFI 355ci HZ Holden.
Don’t forget to Subscribe at www.killerrides.com.au
Pro-Street Blown Big Block 57 Chev
WHAT’S HAPPENING SPEED-PRO ORGANISED MEGA CRUISE FOR THE LOCAL CFA RAISES OVER $5000!
After the massive amount of fires ravaged much of the country, Aussies all over the country put their hands in their pockets and donated millions of dollars to those affected. Speed Pro decided that, with the help from local workshops, loyal customers and friends they could support the district 11 CFA directly by holding their own event. Meeting at the old Sandown Bunnings, the carpark quickly filled with over 150 tough street cars, hot rod’s & bikes, the drivers were more than happy to hand over $20 and more towards the great cause.
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9 The assembled crowd behaved perfectly on their way to the final destination – Pizze Societe in docklands via Mentone Bunnings through St Kilda taking in the warm sunny afternoon. Rob and Ariana and their crew from Pizze Societe not only fed the large crowd, but also generously chipped in with an extra $2000! The Police, who were also in attendance throughout the cruise, were more than happy with the proceedings, even stopping traffic for the cruise to start from Sandown.
PHOTO’S SUPPLIED BY
After counting all of the donations, over $5000 was raised for the CFA which will go towards replacing damaged and lost equipment due to the recent fires. The team at Speed-Pro want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who took part in the event helped raise the higher than expected funds for the CFA. Well done to everyone involved…
WHAT’S HAPPENING
BARRETT-JACKSON SETS RECORD AT SCOTTSDAKE AUCTION
Barratt-Jackson kicked off its “Road to 50” Celebration with its largest and most successful auction in its 49-year history. With many points of interest becoming available, including the Paul Walker Collection, it’s no surprise that this auction exceeded all expectations and managed to bring in more than $141-million dollars from the sale of over 1900 vehicles and 1200 pieces of Automobilia.
History making charity sales included VIN No.001 2020 Corvette Stingray that managed $3 million and the first production 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible Inspiration VIN 100001 that scored $2 million. 10
KILLER
Video
A FITTING SEND-OFF TO A LEGEND John Peterson single-handedly invented the Burnout Competition. His antics in his tough Zephyrs made him a legend in the Street Machine and Burnout scenes. Sadly, we lost John recently so his family got together and between them and Peter and Debbie Gray, decided to send the great man off in style! At Summernats 33, John’s ashes were placed into the rear tyres of the Gray’s burnout Camaro (sporting the familiar JP-289 number plates!) and with Peter behind the wheel and John’s son riding shotgun, they proceeded to blow the tyres off the rims showering John across his beloved burnout pad. It was an emotional day for all involved and a great way to send off a great man. RIP Johno. We all miss you my friend…
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WHAT’S HAPPENING HOLDEN HERITAGE TO LIVE ON
A rediscovered piece of South Australian automotive history has been excavated from the former site of the GMH Factory at Port Adelaide. The art deco mosaic is more than 90-years old and at one time was the main focus of the long gone Assembly Plant entrance floor. The building was torn down in 1991 leaving the mosaic to be exposed to the weather, though it has endured the elements well. The feature will be stored, repaired and later reinstated at the site as a unique feature of the public realm in the new master-planned residential community that is set to happen in the area. Thanks to the efforts of Artlab Australia, the mosaic was carefully retrieved during a five-day excavation process.
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The mosaic is the last physical remnant of the GMH factory, which was a saw-tooth building that used to face Nelson Street (formerly Birkenhead Street) and which employed 100 workmen at the time of its launch and had an assembly capacity of 35 cars per day.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
HAVE YOU SEEN OUR NEW MAGAZINE YET? Super Rod Magazine is aimed directly at the Hot Rod and Custom Car scene and will be published four times each year initially.
FREE MAGAZINE OFFER
Issue No.1 is now online at the website and is 161-pages featuring a great mix of cars and events. Check it out now, and make sure you add your details to the mailing list so you can get notified when each new issue goes live!
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Check it out now at www.superrod.com.au PRO-STREET SUNDAY
Hey everyone, in an effort to make sure entry in to the venue on the morning of the show is smooth and hassle free, I am asking everyone who intends on entering the Pro-Street Sunday event, to have their entry in and sorted by the end of February. This will give me enough time to sort out the paperwork, entrants bags and allow easy and fast access for those pre-entered into the show area to avoid long delays. Enter Now! To get your entry form, go to www.killerrides.com.au
TAKE YOUR VEHICLE TO THE NEXT LEVEL OF TECHNICAL PERFECTION
TO GET YOUR FREE COPY
CLICK HERE
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www.liquidintelligence.com.au
INCLUDES CASE STUDIES & ARTICLES OF ONE OF A KIND PRODUCTS
Mailed to your home or business
HAVE YOUR SAY Got something to say? Send it to paul@killerrides.com.au or message us from the Killer Rides Facebook page.
WANKERS EVERYWHERE!
Paul, I can’t believe this sport attracts so many dickheads? Yet again the boofheads who sit on the fringe of organised custom car meets in their standard cars, wait for the crowd to grow and then think they are impressing everyone with their single wheel burnouts, whilst their six-pack struggles to make any decent smoke. Then when they cause a disturbance and leave, the Police turn up and hassle those just hanging out. It’s just doesn’t seem right. So please guys, if these wankers turn up to an event you’re at, video them with your phone making sure you get the number plates. Let’s rid the scene of these clowns! Shane K via Email. 16
LYGON STREET CRUISE INFO
Hi Paul, Just read the article on the Lygon Street Breakfast cruise – what a great event. How often do these happen and who do I need to speak with to find out when the next one is on so I don’t miss it? Great mag, keep up the great work! Debra G via Email
Hi Debra, Yes, it certainly is a great event and one that I hope to be able to be a part of next time. To find out about this and other events the Kingpin Kuztoms crew hold regularly, jump onto their Facebook page!
DOUBLE COVER A WINNER
Hi Paul, Just finished reading Issue 20 and yet again, a great issue! That Torana has to be the toughest LJ I have ever seen, very deserving of its place on the cover. Peaking of which, moving to the double page cover is a winner. Can’t wait to see what you have coming up! Trevor D via Email Hey Paul, Great move on switching over to the double page front cover. It worked a treat with the Torana! Love the subtle changes to Issue #20 as well. That entire issue was awesome from the cool cover through to the last page. Love seeing all the show posters too! Keep up the great work mate. Harry J via Messenger. G’day Paul, Wow, Killer Rides really stepped it up with Issue #20 – great work! Love the new cover format and the line-up of cars was insane! This is why Killer Rides is my favourite read. I hope to keep reading Killer Rides for many years to come Steven M via Messenger
G’day Shane, I know exactly what you mean. They turn up everywhere, cause a shit load of trouble then take off and blend back into regular society leaving us as sitting ducks. I agree with the phone footage, why should they get away with it? It been happening for many years, but hopefully we can all work together to put an end to it…
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Hi Guys, Thanks for the feedback! I truly believe the move to the double page front cover is a good thing and I’ll do my best to prove that in coming issues! Being able to try things out to better the magazine is cool. The buck stops with me and if something doesn’t work, I’ll wear the blame. Thankfully, this seems to have worked! So what do you think of this Issue’s cover?
Australia’s Toughest Car Show!
PROMOTING MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES!
PRO-STREET & PRO-MOD CARS ONLY!
March 22nd, 2020 Fairfield Showgrounds 443 Smithfield Rd, Prariewood NSW
ENTRIES NOW OPEN! For More Information Phone Paul - 0432 795336 paul@killerrides.com.au www.killerrides.com.au
PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY
COMING ATTRACTIONS MK1 ESCORT_PRO STREET RESTORATIONS
ESCORT SERVICED
Every modification has been made with the Engineers approval...
In the world of modified cars, the old adage of bigger is better rings true with this fully fabricated V8 Escort.
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Small cars need big engines. That’s just the way we roll. And when you start with one of the smallest, like a Mk1 Ford Escort, the only option is to jam a V8 between the mounts. Beach Ball at Pro-Street Restorations has been given the task of not only building this wild Escort, but also doing it by the book so getting 100% street legal registration isn’t an issue.
8 V D R O F M A C D A U 4.6ltr Q TREMEC 5-SPEED F F I D " 9 D E T A C I FABR D N E T N O R F T N A D N INDEPE R A E R K N I L R U O F CUSTOM
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" 0 1 X 8 1 & 18X7" S L E E H W G N I C A R N A C I R E AM The engine itself is a 4.6-litre quad-cam Modular Ford V8 backed by a Tremec 5-speed manual box that will send the power through to a fabricated and braced 9-inch diff sporting 3.5-gears and 35-spline axles. The wheels of choice are 18x7 and 18x10-inch American Racing and hide lots of chassis work. Fitting an engine that big into such a small engine bay meant the inner guards were removed and chromemoly tube pipework was added to support the front chassis rails. The chassis has been extensively strengthened to deal with the increase in torque and power.
COMING ATTRACTIONS The front end now features a full Southern Chassis Works independent setup including coil-over shocks and big Wilwood discs with 6-spot calipers. At the other end, the narrowed diff is suspended by a Pro-Street Restorations designed and fabricated four-link with stainless arms and rod ends and coil overs. The Wilwood disc’s have 4-spot calipers.
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23 Inside will see a fabricated tunnel to cover the big Tremec box with seating to comprise of 2016 Mustang buckets in the front, with the rear seat from the same model being modified to fit the smaller confines of the Escort. The interior will be kitted out in Charcoal Italian leather.
m.au
www.prostreet.co
Small cars need big engines. That’s just the way we roll. And when you start with one of the smallest, like a Mk1 Ford Escort, the only option is to jam a V8 between the mounts.
COMING ATTRACTIONS
Initially, the aging Ford body was stripped down to its complete bare bones to ensure all repairs were made before putting the panels back on. Beach laid on the Orange body colour to the inner panels giving complete coverage. The body now features the flared “Mexican” guards with the quarters covering the larger fabricated wheel tubs. A Martin Dean built stainless steel tank with Shaun’s Custom Alloy filler and internal Walbro fuel 24 pump sits between the tubs in the painted boot area.
Every modification has been made with the Engineers approval and completed to the usual high standards the workshop has become renown for. When finished, this will be one Escort you’ll be happy to pay to have fun with…
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THE
E D O C O BR
The brothers bought the Dart back in 1996 from a drag racer whose sole purpose for the car was to get down the quarter mile as quickly as possible. Vince and Anthony continued to race the Dodge for the following couple of years before life duties got in the way, which saw both guys get married, start families and generally concentrate on everything but the stored Dodge. Then, three-years ago, the
pair decided it was time to take the one-time race car out of storage and make the transition back to a tough-as-nails streetcar. It was never going to be a regularly daily driver, so the boys decided to push the limits and make their Dart a pro-streeter capable of performing both street and strip duties. I spotted the Dart at the 2019 Chryslers on the Murray event where I awarded it my Editors Choice pick.
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VINCE & ANTHONY CIPRI_1968 DODGE DART
WORDS / PICS / VIDEO – PAUL BECK
Brothers Vince and Anthony Cipri share a passion for though cars. They also share one of the toughest – a nitrous 426 Dodge Dart!
The heart of any tough Pro-street car has to possess, above all else, a massive attitude, and the big block sitting in this Dart’s engine bay certainly ticks all the boxes. Sporting 426 cubic inches, the Wedge engine has been pieced together by Warren & Stu at Norwest Engine Centre.The centre piece of the build is obviously the two custom 1150cfm Pro-System carbs perched high on the sheetmetal intake surrounded by plenty of NX Nitrous solenoids (a big part of the Stage 2 NX Nitrous system), but there’s more to this engine other than what is visible.
If you’ve watched the video, you’ll know just how angry this big block is thanks to the custom roller cam and solid lifter combo. The crank is a Molnar unit and swings H-Beam rods and nitrous-spec, Ross Racing pistons wrapped in Total Seal rings. A Milodon sump holds plenty of premium grade oil for the Mellings pump to spread around to all the vital areas. The Max Wedge heads have had plenty of attention lavished onto them with big Manley valves added along with K-Motion springs to deal with the higher revs.
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The heart of any tough Pro-street car has to possess, above all else, a massive attitude... The fire in the belly of this Mopar beast is bought to life via a full-compliment of MSD gear including the Digital 7 ignition system, HVC2 coil, billet distributor and super conductor leads. After the fire ignites, the ceramic coated custom headers push the gases out through a fabricated, dual 4-inch system. At the moment, a 727-transmission fronted with a TCE 5500rpm converter backs the powerplant, but before the Dart gets reunited with the strip, that will be updated to something more suitable. Not at risk however, is the narrowed 9-inch diff featuring Strange 40-spline axles and a full-spool.
The underside is purpose-built to take straight line action seriously with the original Torsion bar suspension soon to be replaced with a tubular-front end to compliment the rack and pinion steering, Koni shocks, DBA discs and Wilwood calipers that are already in place. Down the back, the diff is held in place via a ladder-bar set-up with custom springs and Koni-shocks doing their best to counter-act the torque being sent through them. The discs, calipers and master cylinder are all courtesy of Wilwood on the tough rear end. The transmission cooler has been added behind the diff. The Pro-Street styling is also present in the wheel and tyre combo. The front wheels are 15x4 Weld V-Series wrapped in Mickey Thompson rubber while the bead-locked 15x10-inch Weld Alumastars are housed inside impressive 315/60 M&H tyres.
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Inside the Dart can only be described as race-ready. There’s nothing in there than doesn’t serve a purpose. From the Greg Banks built, multi-point cage, to the Jaz race seats, exposed 31 electronics and digital dash – this interior has been constructed with one goal in mind. Sixpoint harnesses keep both the driver and passenger in place, but still allow easy access to the big NX Nitrous bottle added between the seats. The pedestal-mounted RTS Striker shifter completes the race car componentry. The only soft material used in the Dart is the black vinyl seats covers, the dash and door trims are carbon-fibre…
The body was in reasonable shape when the boys took ownership, but that didn’t stop them from putting the coupe in for a freshen up anyway. Though the body looks factory fresh, there are some subtle changes. The rear wheel openings have been reshaped to adapt to larger-walled drag-spec tyres and both the bonnet and boot lid are now fibreglass and have had their hinges ditched to allow complete removal from the body. The inner guards are also fabricated and that cool bonnet scoop has been chopped up to allow the air cleaners to get clean, uninterrupted cool air. With the body sorted, the boys called on Bonnyrigg Smash to lay on the fresh coat of Custom Metallic Grey and Mopar stripes on the quarters.
Inside the Dart can only be described as race-ready. There’s nothing in there than doesn’t serve a purpose.
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The brothers bought the Dart back in 1996 from a drag racer whose sole purpose for the car was to get down the quarter mile as quickly as possible.
THANKS TO: Greg Banks for all the fabrication work and the huge
effort he put into the build overall. Mario and Vince Gulisano for their help in putting the car together from the fuel cell to the radiator upon its return from the paint shop. Gerry from Bonnyrigg Smash for the paint and panel work. Warren and Stu from Norwest Engine Centre in Castle Hill. Victor and Stel for the tune and sorting out the electricals. Keith Clews for always being there to help out with all of our builds. To Dad for his inspiration. And last but not least, our wives and kids for all the late nights and weekends we spent in the garage.
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Like any build, there have been enough problems associated with bringing the package together, but none were too much of a challenge that the boys couldn’t overcome it. After two and a half years of work, the brothers used the Chryslers on the Murray event to debut the Dart, much to the delight of those in attendance who love their Chryslers a little on the wild side – OK a lot…
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“This one is for you Dad!”
So now that its driveable once again, Vince and Anthony intend on making the most of it with more event appearances before making the upgrades to the trans and front end. When that happens, it will be time to hit the quarter mile again where it’s hoped the Dart will jump straight into the 9’s before dipping into the 8’s when the gas is unleashed. Both Vince and Anthony dedicate the build of this car to their late father for everything he showed the boys about fixing and rebuilding different parts of cars. His passion for cars had obviously rubbed off on the guys from an early age. “This one is for you Dad!”
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Season
2020 Victorian Hot Rod & Cool Rides Show - January 25-27 2020 - Royal Exhibition Building Carlton
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Words & Pics - Paul Beck
The 2020 Indoor Car Show season kicked off in style with the Victorian Hot Rod & Cool Rides Show inside the stunning old Exhibition Building in Carlton.
OPENER
The long weekend in January is a busy time in and around downtown Melbourne. The city is full of tourists either shopping, checking out the Australian Open Tennis or for those with high-octane fuel running through their veins, it’s time for the annual Victorian Hot Rod & Cool Rides Show - one of my favourite shows of the year. 39
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There seemed to be more Hot Rods inside the building this year which ranged from regular drivers, to those high-end, big-ticket show cars... Normally, you prepare for very hot weather this time of year (especially inside the building) and after the recent fires that ravaged the area, that’s what we expected. Hell, we weren’t entirely sure whether we’d even be able to get down the Hume Highway from Wollongong into Melbourne because of possible road closures. But thankfully, the area’s affected by the fires got a reasonable dumping of rain which helped the Fire fighters take control over the area’s, keeping the roads open. Our thanks go out to those who spent their Xmas and New Year period out in the front line keeping people as safe as they could. The weather forecast for the three days of the show saw temperatures to be perfect conditions to take in the event. Thankfully, the weather gods were smiling…
Once inside the building, you were greeted by a mass of cool cars, custom bikes and lots of traders. There was a new floor plan in place that really opened up the show area and made it much easier to navigate around the cars on display. A pair of Chev’s were the first thing you came in contact with when walking through those big doors. One was a finely crafted ’59 El Camino that sat low and sported a nicely detailed “cruiser-spec” small block. What sat beside it couldn’t have been further from what the “El-Co” offered. The orange and black late model Camaro was built with just one thing in mind - destroying rear tyres as quickly as possible, thanks to the blown injected power plant that sat level with the roof! These two cars set the theme for the 2020 Victorian Hot Rod & Cool Rides Show.
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There seemed to be more Hot Rod’s inside the building this year which ranged from regular drivers, to those high-end, big-ticket show cars that, combined with their street machine counter-parts, occupied the centre-stage right under the buildings dome section. Making the trip down the Hume from Sydney were Graham Barker with his stunning silver FX Holden Ute and Dave Dorman with his equally impressive, yellow ’32 Ford Cabriolet. Both cars gained plenty of attention from those who really appreciate the level of detail cars of this calibre display.
Keeping the NSW pair company, were Paul Caccamo’s high-tech ’37 Slamback, Tony Wilson’s CHOODA, Peter Olver’s LEETHL ’34 Coupe, Steve McDonald’s DEFNIN 31 A Coupe, John Mercieca’s recently completed big block Ford-powered ’33 3-window coupe, Jeff Hind’s ’37 Slamback which was built as a tribute to his brother Rowdy and the tough as nails, blown injected Hemi-powered ’32 coupe owned by Chris Thomas. Greg from Maskell’s Customs and Classics had not one, but two stunning Holden’s on display, a slick HK Monaro and an injected small-block EH Holden - both cars worthy of their spots in the centre of the venue.
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There were quite a few cars that really grabbed my attention. These “Super Rods” included “TOOSKI” the blown, yellow ’34 3-window coupe; Mario Abela’s ORSM32 Roadster; the candy red early custom Caddy; the big block, silver and flamed ’41 Willys coupe; the pro-street, twin-turbo ’55 F-truck and the all-white, nitrous LS-powered pro-street ’34 Coupe.
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There were lots of traders scattered around the building too, selling everything from memorabilia to model cars, vintage signs, period clothing, magazines and books and car care products. This part of the show is always congested with people looking for that cool collectable to take home from the show…
But it’s not all about what’s happening inside the building. The organisers have transformed what was the rear car park into an outdoor “drive-in show area” where spectators can park their cool rides securely and in the process, stage an impromptu show and shine with food outlets, shaded seating and to top it off, live music! It was a popular place to hang out with many suggesting some of the cars should have been inside! I tend to agree… Traditionally, the front of the building also offers space for those people wanting to bring their custom cars to the show to have a look. This offers a revolving car show for free and served up the perfect precursor for what was awaiting inside.
There were lots of traders scattered around the building too, selling everything from memorabilia to model cars, vintage signs, period clothing, magazines and books and car care products. 46
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Everyone I spoke to during my time at the event all had the same opinion, the 2020 show certainly saw an increase in quality and with the new layout, all agreed the event was a great way to open the indoor show season. If this is any indication, I can’t wait for the Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide events to follow suit‌
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E T I H W E S I O N DANNY DEBONO - 1968 XT FALCON WORDS / PICS / VIDEO – Paul Beck
When you’re a member of one of Australia’s wildest car clubs, the Thirlmere Fryers, there’s three rules to abide by. Your car must be tough; you must have bulk horsepower and you must be able to destroy rear tyres at will. Mission accomplished!
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Danny DeBono is a proud member of the Thirlmere Fryers and is the first to admit that when he’s behind the wheel of his blown Falcon, he struggles to keep his right foot from being planted hard against the floor sending the tacho needle into the fun zone and the tyres into smoke. He does however, know there’s a time and place and does his best to keep it that way. Honestly. No, really, he does…
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When he swapped a moderate amount of cash for the XT Falcon in 2011, it was a clean and tidy stocker – the perfect platform for Danny to transfer into a tyre-melting monster. Providing the power to make that happen is a Westend Performancebuilt Cleveland small block punching out 393ci and over 900hp! Starting with an Arrow block, Sam added an Eagle crank, H-Beam rods, JE forged pistons and a wildly-idling blowerspec cam. A Mellings oil pump spreads the lubricant around the engine from the ASR sump. CHi 2V heads soon joined the bottom end, but not before being fitted with Pac springs wrapping around much bigger valves. But it’s the induction system that is the absolute hero of this engine combo.
The polished 8/71 Blower Shop supercharger is attached to the engine via a Newby intake and gets fed plenty of E85 fuel via a pair of blower-referenced 750cfm Holley carbs and is most of the reason for the neck-snapping power. After the MSD 6AL ignition fires the engine into life, the custom headers send the gases outwards through the Gonzo-built 3.5-inch exhaust system. Not wanting to take any chances with the transmission, Danny had Al’s Race Glides build a bulletproof trans-braked C4 auto box featuring a Dominator converter and B&M Shifter. The box has no problems in getting those 900 rampaging ponies through to the 9-inch locker rear-end housing 3.5-gears and 35-spline Moser axles. Built Ford Tough? You’d better believe it!
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Being an Interstate truckie, Danny doesn’t get to use the Falcon as much as he would like too. But when he does, he gives it everything it was built to handle - and then some.
Whilst the underside was getting all of the attention, Danny fitted the rear end with 8-leaf springs with a reverse leaf to get the car much lower in the rear. Drum brakes hide inside the black 15x8.5inch Centerlines. Up front, the wheels measure just 5-inches wide and hide XY disc brakes and 3-inch lowered coil springs. An RTS master cylinder and brake booster is mounted under the dash, cleaning up the engine bay considerably. 56
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Built Ford Tough? You’d better believe it! The driveline sits inside the almost stock, original body. Whilst now modelled of the GT of the era, the Falcon’s sheet metal is minus a big chuck of bonnet steel to let the blower and carbs grab all the attention. The original paint has been removed from the Falcon’s body and replaced with a fresh coat of PPG White with blackouts courtesy of the team at TSR Smash Repairs. While the Falcon looks the part in this colour, Danny did hint at a change of colour in the not so distant future.
Like the body, the interior retains some of its original components, but has been given a “tough car” look with the addition of the RCI front seats with harness belts, AutoMeter gauges and 6-point roll cage. The back seat is standard and plays host to a baby seat for Danny’s son Rocky to join him when cruising the Falcon. Like the paint, the interior will get a make-over when Danny pulls the car down for a freshen up some time soon. Being an Interstate truckie, Danny doesn’t get to use the Falcon as much as he would like too. But when he does, he gives it everything it was built to handle - and then some. And he wouldn’t have it any other way…
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THANKS TO: Bejay at TSR Mechanical for tyres and help with the stuff Danny
can’t do. Nathan Ockers, Chris Eggleton and Troy Cunningham for their help during the build. Sam at Westend Performance for the killer engine package. Al’s Raceglides for a box that doesn’t break! A big thank you to my wife Sarah and kids Marlee and Rocky for all of the support and help on the car and for not counting the dollars spent – and about to be spent…
UNITED STATES OF
Words / Pics - Paul Beck
38th NSW All American Day Macarther Square Shopping Centre Campbelltown NSW Hosted by the Mustang Owners Club of NSW
Coolness
After weeks of devasting fires and the associated smoke haze and ash storms, the wet stuff finally fell – just when the annual NSW All American Day show was set to shine.
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They say if you want rain, run a drag meet. Funnily enough (unless you’re a Drag Racer), that’s exactly what happened. There was a major meet planned 61 for Sydney Dragway for the Friday and Saturday, and the All American Day was scheduled to happen on the Sunday about half an hour from the track. But was the racers arrived at the track, so did the rain, which continued on and off the three days – including the show day. There’s no doubt the dire weather forecast affected the number of cars on display this year, but that’s not to say those that braved the weather didn’t attend in force and bring a great mix of cars with them!
As we’ve come to expect, any American-based car show will always have wide mix of brands, models and styles with everything from down-trodden Cadillac’s to finely crafted, modified performance machines. This show had them all. Mostly though, this show is about the regular drivers and the people who own them. With the Mustang club playing host, there was always going to be a huge turn out from those owners. And when you add in the Chev’s, Buick’s, Oldsmobiles, Cadillac’s, Fords, Mopar’s, Pontiac’s and even a Studebaker, it really was a mixed bag of goodies on display! 62
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Though the rain persisted through-out the day, most owners were happy to keep a chamois handy to give their cars a clean when needed.
No matter where you looked, you would see someone who obviously wished they were still living in the era of Elvis, 50c hamburgers and fuel priced at 20-cents per litre. Their slicked back hair, their pointed leather shoes and their choice of clothes said it all. Good on them for reliving their youth I say!
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There’s no doubt the dire weather forecast affected the number of cars on display this year, but that’s not to say those that braved the weather didn’t attend in force and bring a great mix of cars with them!
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Though the rain persisted most of the day, most owners were happy to keep a chamois handy to give their cars a clean when needed. It also offered those there for a look the chance to speak with the owner to find out more info on the car.
With the Mustang club playing host, there was always going to be a huge turn out from those owners.
No matter where you looked, you would see someone who obviously wished they were still living in the era of Elvis, 50c hamburgers and fuel priced at 20-cents per litre.
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Sure, it wasn’t the largest gathering of cars we’ve seen at this show, but there’s no way you could have walked away from the show disappointed. Well done to the Mustang Owners Club for another great show and to those that dealt with the rainy conditions, great work! See you next year…
CAR & BIKE ENTRY BY INVITATION ONLY! ALL NEW CARS AND BIKES ON DISPLAY FOR 2020!
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AUGUST 15-16, 2020
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FOR MORE INFORMATION ON: CAR & BIKE ENTRY TRADE STANDS & SPONSORSHIP Please contact Paul Beck @ Killer Rides (0432) 795336 paul@killerrides.com.au or Via Facebook
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DEUCES
While the days of hand-crafted, over the top Choppers may be numbered, there’s no stopping those wanting to modify their factory Harley’s…
Wild
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JASON SINGH_2000 HARLEY DAVIDSON SOFTTAIL DEUCE WORDS / PICS / VIDEO – Paul Beck
Jason Singh wanted to create a one-off custom Harley Deuce from his stocker. To make sure it was done right, he had three very important ingredients – mates that can build custom Harley’s in their sleep. When you’re prepared to drop a considerable amount of money on a custom build, you need to know those that are involved are up to the task at hand. No such problem here for Jason with three of the best in the business all combining to help transfer his stock Deuce into a head-turning custom.
The build has taken around a year and a half and more than one bucket load of cash to complete!
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To get the ball rolling, Jason took his bike and his vision to Daryl Farnon at Farst Cycles to work out a game plan to make his planned changes a reality. In terms of design and attitude, Daryl nailed it. The bike sits lows, fat and has an attitude that screams “don’t argue!” Daryl handled all of the fabrication on the bike including the modified rear swing-arm and custom rear fenders to accommodate the planned bigger wheel and tyre combo. The fender incorporates an integrated tail light. Replaced too are the front fender and fuel tank that was modified to suit after it was sourced from the USA.
With the tins sorted, work progressed to the frame where, apart from the wider swing arm, the factory Harley also scored a Thunderbike chin spoiler, a brand new, genuine Harley Davidson inverted front end and HHI 6-degree raked triple trees holding custom made 1.75-inch drag bars with a half-inch riser, HD contrast cut hand grips and Arlen Ness mini oval mirrors. Daryl also added PM 2-inch forward controls, swapped the belt drive to a chain to handle the new horsepower that was coming and also fitted a Hoglight LED Daymaker headlight. Other custom inclusions added include Brown Industries front indicators, a Motogadget mini digital dash and
a side-mount number plate frame bracket fabricated by best mate Dominic, who works with Jason at TM smash Repairs. With all of the fabrication done and all of the custom additions trial fitted, the bike was stripped back down so Dominic could start prepping the metal surfaces for paint. Between the two of them, Dominic and Jason added the custom PPG paint mixed by Jason and dubbed O SO SEXY candy. Complimenting the new base colour are decals made by Angel Signs that have been sprayed on to great effect. Contrasting the candy paint is the jet-black paint covering the frame, swing-arm, engine and associated components.
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Jason had good mate Lorenzo Capogna at Powerhouse Cycles pull the twin-cam V-twin engine down with the intent of gaining as much power as possible without the aid of any power adders.
As all facets of the bike were finished, Lorenzo scored the job of carefully piecing the bike back together...
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Whilst the tins were being prepped and prepared for the paint to be laid on, Jason had good mate Lorenzo Capogna at Powerhouse Cycles pull the twin-cam V-twin engine down with the intent of gaining as much power as possible without the aid of any power adders. Lorenzo is well versed in V-twin engines and knows just how to get the best from them. Now sporting 117 cubic inches, Lorenzo added S&S big bore forged flat top pistons along with an S&S 640” solid roller cam and lifter kit and adjustable Screaming Eagle pushrods. The heads were CNC-ported and fitted with AV&V valves before being bolted down to the bottom end. Fuel supply is now handled by a 45mm Mikuni carb topped with a Ness air filter. A set of black Vance & Hines big radius pipes complete the engine package that’s now good from around 135hp. The original fivespeed gearbox has been kept in place, but has been fitted with a 25mm offset Screaming Eagle clutch to deal with the new-found power…
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As all facets of the bike were finished, Lorenzo scored the job of carefully piecing the bike back together, adding not just the engine and gearbox, but also the SAS air ride suspension and those cool, big and little RSD contrast cut Slam wheels that compliment the build perfectly.
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The build has taken around a year and a half and more than one bucket load of cash to complete. Jason needs to thank those three key players who put their heart and soul into the bike and knows that without their expertise, the big wouldn’t have been finished to such a high standard. The Deuce now looks a million times better than it ever did and has enough power to embarrass new model Harley owners who think they have enough power to have a go. Jason just smiles as he powers away…
To make sure it was done right, he had three very important ingredients – mates that can build custom Harley’s in their sleep.
THANKS TO:
The three artists that bought my dream bike to reality. Daryl Farnon (Farst Cycles); Lorenzo Capogna (Powerhouse Cycles) and my best mate Dominic (TM Smash Repairs).
EASTER 2020
9th April - 12th April FOUR BIG DAYS OF HOT RODDIN’ FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! CRUISING - SHOW ‘N’ SHINE - SWAP MEET - MARKET STALLS PIN-UP COMPETITION - LIVE MUSIC - EASTER BUNNY FOR EVENT INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT RAY OR BARB - (03) 9761 6706 b/h STEVEN - (03) 57972062 Email: narranderarodrun@outlook.com Website: narranderarodrun.com.au
All Chrome-Bumper Cars Welcome! 141
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Words - Paul Beck Pics - Chicago Indoor Drag Strip
All Weather
g n i c a R
Just imagine the smell of smoke and burnt rubber lingering within the enclosed area.
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Drag races have become one of the staple motorsport activities in the U.S. So much so, that some American muscle cars like the Ford Mustang GT have been equipped with Drag Strip Mode so it would be superior in the said race type. The straight-line racing has a long history to boot, to the point that the first cars used in drag races date back to the history of the automobile itself.
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The amphitheater was actually intended to host many things other than indoor racing.
It’s inevitable, as human beings are hard-wired to love racing. In the 1960s, recording race results via electronic timing and speed sensing systems started to become a thing. You know what else became a thing during that decade? Indoor drag races. Apparently, there was International Amphitheatre in Chicago, Illinois, that was a home to the petrol-heads of that era, orchestrating straight-line races between several hundreds of attendees. It was built in 1934 but was demolished in 1999.
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The amphitheater was actually intended to host many things other than indoor racing. Concerts, circuses, and exhibitions were the common happenings, but nothing beats the peculiarity of indoor drag races that racing promoter Bill Schade started. Just imagine the smell of smoke and burnt rubber within the area, as well as the sound that echoes in the enclosed auditorium.
Schade worked with the United States Auto Club (USAC) in making the indoor drag races happen. It was meant to shield the racers through the chilly months of Chicago’s winter, with the first-ever indoor drag race was held on December 30, 1962. It was a short track, though, as the 440-foot stretch of concrete within the auditorium served as tarmac for the gasolineburning muscle cars at that time. The lanes were 60-foot wide, guarded by steel rails.
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It’s inevitable, as human beings are hard-wired to love racing.
The first race was a success, giving birth to a second race that happened on January 5, 1964. However, that would be the last indoor drag race at the International Amphitheatre, without any solid explanation why.
CYBER CRUISIN’ JOHN FORCE TEAMS WITH CHEVROLET FOR CHARITY! At the recent Barrett-Jackson Auction in Scottsdale, many cars went under the hammer raising lots of money for various Charities. John Force Racing worked with Chevrolet to build a very special 2020 COPO Camaro to celebrate the 16time NHRA Racer and Chev’s factory race car. Distinctively styled with typical Force branding including a cool ghosted American flag on the bonnet, the supercharged race car is a true one-off that will not be replicated…ever! The Camaro is tagged with a unique “2020COPO-FORCE” build plate.
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The heart of this 2020 COPO Camaro is a revised version of Chevrolet Performance’s supercharged, LSX-based 350ci engine, featuring a 2.65-liter Magnuson supercharger and all-new LSX-SC cylinder heads. Also included is a Racer’s Package, which consists of a carbon-fibre air inlet, dual batteries, weight box, parachute and a quick-change coupling for the supercharged engine. 89
The winning bidder, who spent $600,000 also received a custom helmet and fire suit provided by John Force himself making it a truly collectable package. The proceeds from the sale were donated to DonorsChoose.org – a charity helping bring teachers’ and students’ dreams to life in class rooms across the U.S.
HAVE YOU SEEN OUR NEW MAGAZINE? ISSUE #1 OF SUPER ROD IS NOW ONLINE!
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Ray Gruppetta - 1957 Chev Sedan
t s e g n o L The
d a o R
Words / Pics / Video - Paul Beck
Back in 1983, a young and impressionable 19-year old Ray was about to say goodbye to his license for 3 months after being caught out too many times trying to prove the posted speed limits were way too low. Facing a stint on the sidelines saw Ray wanting something to keep him busy to pass the time away. Ray had heard of a big block ’57 Chev sitting dormant in a driveway that was coming up for sale which was owned by the brother of a friend of Ray’s sister. When Ray went to check the Chev out, the owner, Arthur Matsakis suggested a swap for Ray’s HJ Holden Panel Van would seal the deal. Needless to say, keys were exchanged and Ray found himself the proud owner of a classic piece of American motoring. Ray and Arthur have been friends since that day.
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For 37-years, Ray Gruppetta has owned this slick ’57 Chev, and he still enjoys taking the long way home…
In its first guise, the Chev was returned to the street sporting a coat of blue paint and a single carb big block. Ray cruised the car every chance he could and even partook in some Drag Racing – his claim to fame being the quickest Chev at the Canberra-based Chev Nats Drag Meet until fellow ’57 Fan, the legend Victor Bray upstaged him. On his return to the event 12 months later, Ray grenaded the transmission mid track, resulting in a “quick” rebuild that lasted some ten years. When it returned to the Chev Nats for its first outing all those years later, jaws dropped at the completely rebuilt, pro-street styled sedan. I was fortunate enough to have been at that event and Ray and I have been friends ever since…
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When Ray headed back to the Capital with the new look Chev in tow, no one expected just how different the ’57 would be. During the rebuild period, the custom car scene was going through the Pro-Street movement and out-there colours with graphics were all the rage – and Ray’s ’57 embodied everything that was happening at the time. It’s all about impact! The aging blue paint was now just a memory, replaced by a smooth coat of Apricot that covered the body, interior pieces and complete underside, including the driveline components.
The engine itself was initially built to run 9.9-sec quarters, but now Ray is on the other side of 50, he prefers to cruise, so Mat made sure the big block was able to handle regular street use.
At that stage, the familiar chrome-work that usually adorns each side of the Chev, was removed in favour of some cool Ralfus graphics. Ray wasn’t convinced at first, but now knows it was the right move. Then tragedy struck. Whilst cruising the freeway to pick up guests for a wedding, one of those big rear wheels parted company with the Chev put the Chev into a spin, causing plenty of panel damage in the process. The Chev was sent to Sydney this time to be reworked with new paint and of course, new flamed graphics – this time by American “Big D”. Ray spent every weekend travelling up the Hume to help with the Chev’s resurrection. Sadly, some problems appeared with the body and paint some time later, that resulted in yet another paint job, and a third set of graphics by local legend Matt Egan. Hopefully Ray gets plenty of mileage out of this paint combo, even though he said he “still cops shit about the colour!”
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One thing that has stay constant from the initial new look build is the all-white leather interior trim. Stitched up by the team at Reservoir Motor Trimmers, the interior of the Chev now features a pair of bucket seats from the dark side (XY Falcon) that keep the factory rear bench company. The front seat flips back to get access to the under-floor mounted brake booster and the custom centre console houses the B&M shifter, necessary switches and an arrangement of gauges, including the all-important AutoMeter tacho. Speaking of gauges, the factory dash facia has been modified to hold VDO gauges, with a wood rim Autotechnica steering wheel partially blocking the view from the drivers’ position. There’s no in car entertainment to mention other than the whine of that blown, injected big block that provides the right cruising tunes…
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When Ray went to check the Chev out, the owner, Arthur Matsakis suggested a swap for Ray’s HJ Holden Panel Van would seal the deal.
Lifting the bonnet reveals one tough big block. And when I say reveals, that’s a massive understatement! Ray wanted the engine to be the hero of this build and didn’t want any part of it blocked from view by an ugly radiator or support panels. A lot of time and effort went into constructing the open plan viewing of that big block by ditching anything that was in the way – including the radiator! If you look carefully, there’s now two, smaller radiators mounted behind the grille with another laid under the front bumper to maximise air flow to the cooling system. Does it work? Of course it does. Ray regularly cruises the Chev and no matter what the Melbourne traffic throws at it, it simply doesn’t get hot! The engine itself was initially built to run 9.9-sec quarters, but now Ray is on the other side of 50, he prefers to cruise, so Mat made sure the big block was able to handle regular street use. Mat Lagoon at Lagoon Engine Developments freshen up the pumped big block and had Michael & Peter at Quickbitz put in, as Ray calls it, a “Wedding Tune” so he could do a family member’s Wedding, though other issues ended up putting paid to that.
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Starting with a basic 454-cube, LS7 fat block, the bottom end comprises of a factory crank, stronger rods and Hypereutectic pistons. The cam of choice gives the Chev an angry idle. A pair of ported and polished cast heads complete the long engine, laying the platform for the induction system. Mat was so precise when piecing the engine together making sure everything was 100-percent. Shoving ample 98-octane fuel through the engine is the sole purpose of the Enderle injector hat and Mooneyham 6/71 blower that’s attached to the engine via a portmatched Weiand intake manifold. The injection system is now electronic and gets the signal from a Haltec Elite 2500 ECU that operates the Joe-Blo injector plate that’s hidden inside once mechanical hat. A full manual Powerglide with 3000rpm Dominator converter backs the big block and send the power through to the narrowed nine-inch diff that houses 31-spline billet axles and 4.11-gears.
Lifting the bonnet reveals one tough big block. And when I say reveals, that’s a massive understatement!
Apart from being detailed in the body colour, the underside of the Chev has had plenty of work lavished on it. The pointy end has been upgraded with HQ V8 coil springs wrapped around heavy-duty shocks. The drum brakes have made way for VT Commodore disc that will soon be swapped for more beefier HQ items. Down at the business end, the diff is suspended via an Alston Chassis 4-link using Koni coil overs. The rear brakes are HQ Disc. The wheels of choice are the only set of Prime Billets in Australia and measure 15x6 and 15x10 inches. At the moment, those rear Hoosier tyres measure 29x12.5-inches, but they too will be replaced with bigger 29x15-inch Mickey Thompsons to fill up those tubs just that little bit more…
THANKS TO: Mat Lagoon at Lagoon Engine Developments for the awesome
engine combo. Norm at Aussie Desert Coolers for sorting out the cooling system. Michael & Peter at Quickbitz for fitting me in when they were extremely busy to 100 get the engine tune sorted for me.
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During the rebuild period, the custom car scene was going through the Pro-Street movement and out-there colours with graphics were all the rage – and Ray’s ’57 embodied everything that was happening at the time.
After 37-years of ownership and many years off the road during that time, Ray is extremely happy with where the car currently sits. “It’s still an ongoing project. When I get bored, I pull it apart,” Ray explained. As for the dollar investment to date, Ray said “why would you bother keeping track of the money spent? If you enjoy building them, there is no cost!”. Let’s hope he doesn’t get bored anytime soon and the Chev can get some extended time cruising the streets of Melbourne…
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
XW / XY FALCON Without doubt the XW/XY series Falcons are the most popular ever released here in Australia and are much sought after from those wanting to build a custom creation, restore a classic or do some form of racing. Built from 1969 through to 1971, the XW and XY Falcon really put Ford on the map in Australia. It was the first time the highly revered “HO Phase 2” and later “Phase 3 GTHO” edition GT Falcons were released to the public and had motorsport fans salivating. The success on the race track is now legendary, which has seen any variant of the GT Falcon from this exciting era of motoring more valuable than some houses. But it’s not just the GT-spec versions that have become much sought after. Even a basic six-pack Falcon 500 in reasonable condition will still set you back $30,000-plus! So even building a GT look-a-like 102 will take you over $100,000 to complete to a high level!
Touted as the fastest production car ever, buyers couldn’t get their wallets out quick enough.
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Ford offered these two models in various forms, the popular family sedan and wagon, the workers Ute and the Panel Van aimed directly at the surfing brigade. The Falcon 500 was the base model, with the GS and Fairmont and also adding to the list available from the showroom floor. But it was the GT-spec cars that had everyone’s hearts racing. Touted as the fastest production car ever, buyers couldn’t get their wallets out quick enough. Those clever enough to realise their potential value back then, would be sitting on quite a return now… Over the years, there’s been plenty of modified XW’s and XY’s hit the modified street car scene including a pair from Owen Webb – the winged black Ute named the Bruiser, and later his blue, graphicclad Pro-Street sedan dubbed Wild Thing. Both were built to show car standards and were top of their game. One of the more famous XY GT’s was (is) Chris Christou’s electric blue GT that was crowned Burnout King at the Summernats and was used successfully as the poster car for Bridgestone Eager tyres. The GT recently returned to the Summernats and still looks as good as it did back in the day. 104
No matter whether you’re into a fine crafted show car, meticulously finished resto or a hardcore tough streeter, the XW/XY Falcon will always remain an Australian favourite.
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IN THE SPOTLIGHT More recently, we’ve seen John Saad’s rammed big blocked “FAT XY” make an impression as well as other such as the one-time Summernats Grand Champion BLOWJO XY sedan, the tubbed PROSTK sedan and the candy coloured, Procharged KINGXY to name just a few. There’s been plenty of tough street and strip cars that have impressed too – and many of them seem to come from the Dandy Engines stable. One of the best known is Frank Marchese’s twin-turbo XW - a genuine low 7-second streetcar and is totally streetable as proven from its appearances at Drag Week.
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Even a basic six-pack Falcon 500 in reasonable condition will still set you back $30,000-plus!
Some clever individuals out there have even taken the humble XW/XY body style released by Ford and created their own unique Falcons. We’ve seen stretch Limo’s (sedan and wagon), convertibles, one-tonner conversions, 4WD Ute’s, sedans and Van’s and even the odd Hearse or two! Then you have factory released customs such as the Surferoo Ute! Even when it comes to power plants, Ford offered various option – inline 6-packs and a couple of size V8’s. But even that didn’t satisfy the custom car crowd. Over the years we’ve seen lots of different engines dropped into the bays of Falcons including big blocks, 5-litre injected engines, turbo crossflow 6’s and on the rare occasion, small block Chevs.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Fast forward a bunch of years and there’s now a much larger selection of engine options to choose from. It’s now not that uncommon to see high-horsepower turbo Barra 6’s powering XW/XY’s along with the new Coyote 5-litre V8, the 4.6 and 5.4-litre modular V8 from the BA-BF series Falcon and such cool engines as the KAASE Hemi-headed Ford big block! And yes, those bowtie lovers are infiltrating the Blue Oval fraternity and fitting LS-engines between the shock towers… In the world of Motorsport, the XW/XY Falcon has played a huge role since day one. Its feats at Bathurst and other circuits around Australia have earned the humble Falcon legendary status. The battles the Ford drivers had with their Holden counterparts were hard fought, much more than they are today with the primitive Falcon offering no creature comforts or drivers aids. These were the days when the drivers battled their own cars as well as the competition. Even today, the Falcon still gets used and abused in the Touring Car Master series much to the delight of motor racing fans of all ages with undying respect for the model’s heritage.
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No matter whether you’re into a fine crafted show car, meticulously finished resto or a hardcore tough streeter, the XW/XY Falcon will always remain an Australian favourite. Though the prices they now command putting them out of reach of many, there will always be those who will pay any amount to own a piece of Australian performance motoring history – even if it means a second mortgage on their homes…
SECOND Time Around
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A 19-year old Stasy Kriaris purchased this HZ in Oct ’83 as his first car. Eleven years later they parted company. Obviously regretting the sale, the HZ returned home to Stasy in 2001, never to leave again…
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STASY KRIARIS_1979 HZ KINGSWOOD PICS BY – JIMMY T PHOTOGRAPHY WORDS BY – PAUL BECK
It’s funny how fate plays such a big part of what we do. Obviously Stasy still had a connection with the HZ after the sale happened, as he would see the car cruising around from time to time, making his decision to sell in the first place even harder to shake as it was always on his mind. In September 2001, he spotted the very tired looking HZ parked just two blocks away from his home. After stopping to check out his previous ride, a short conversation
with the owner took place and long story short, the HZ was back in Stasy’s possession two weeks later when the owner disclosed that he was looking to sell it. For a brief moment, Stasy considered parting the car out and making a profit on his initial outlay, but when he sold off the entire driveline, it was then that he decided to rebuild the HZ. This was in 2002 and it took another six and a half years before the HZ was to see the road yet again.
When the HZ first came into Stasy’s possession back in ’83, it was powered by a 202ci six-pack backed by a “3-speed on the tree” manual trans. That was never going to cut it...
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The stripped-out body was placed onto a rotisserie where every single nut, bolt and fitting was removed leaving a blank canvas for Stasy to work with. Many hours were spent ridding the body and all associated panels of their old paint in readiness for a new colour. Stasy hand stripped the entire body including inside and out and underneath - a massive job by anyone’s standards. With no trace of the paint to be seen, Stasy handed the metal over to Steve at Resurrection Auto Restorers to not only repair and prep the metal surfaces, but also lay on the paint as well. Body mods were kept subtle and consist only of the removal of the door and boot locks, colour coded door handles and mini-tubs. The Statesman front and GTS guards were added to the body during Stasy’s first stint of ownership after an accident wiped out the original sheet metal. When it came time for the paint, Stasy found the perfect colour for his HZ on another Holden – a VE Commodore. Called Red Passion Metallic, it really brings the HZ alive especially with the chrome work fitted back up to the car. The underside scored the same colour with all of the bolt-on components powder-coated in Charcoal Grey.
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In stark contrast to the body colour, the interior has been restitched by Jim at Terry’s Motor Trimming in Cream Connolly leather, that now covers the Statesman seats and door trims along with the centre console that has a B&M shifter taking up residency in place of the factory item. The headlining was made in a colour-matching fabric. With a colour-coded top, the dash has been upgraded to a GTS-spec item and offers Stasy all the gauges he’ll ever need when he peers past the SAAS leather steering wheel. Electric windows are now fitted and operate the factory tinted glass. One trick item that isn’t so obvious until it’s pointed out is the interior door locks have been removed and the door trims modified to suit. That doesn’t mean that Stasy can’t lock the car, he can, but through a remote control. He also has switches on the dash for the doors and boot. Retractable seat belts, also from a Statesman were fitted along with a Pioneer sound system that is controlled from the glove box, keeping the factory radio in its original hole.
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Stasy’s goal was to build a neat and clean street car, with a heap of attention paid to detailing everything.
When the HZ first came into Stasy’s possession back in ’83, it was powered by a 202ci six-pack backed by a “3-speed on the tree” manual trans. That was never going to cut it, so Stasy installed a 350 Chev, Turbo 350 and 9” diff combination in 1987. That served Stasy well for five years until the need for second family car saw the driveline replaced with a 253ci, Trimatic and Salisbury rear end, so the HZ was more suited as a daily family driver until it was sold.
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When the HZ completed the latest rebuild, the engine bay hosted a stock 5-litre so Stasy could get the car on the road, instead of waiting one more year for the engine set up he really wanted. Now, there’s a “built by Stasy” 355ci Holden stroker providing the power featuring a Scat crank, Crow solid cam and a pair of COME Racing alloy heads. The hero of this engine combo though is without doubt the COME Racing, EFI twin-throttle body fuel injection. In a world dominated by LS-swaps, it’s so refreshing to see a modified Holden set up. The 355-cuber not only looks the part, but makes around 430hp in the process! Backing the engine is a stage 2, Turbo 400 auto with a BTE 3800rpm converter and a 9-inch diff featuring 3.75-gears.
The hero of this engine combo though is without doubt the COME Racing, EFI twin-throttle body fuel injection.
As mentioned, the underside is detailed like a show-only build, yet Stasy gets behind the wheel to go cruising as much as he can. The suspension has obviously seen a reduction in ride height by 2-inches thanks to quartet of King springs that work in with Monroe gas shocks to provide a firmer ride on the road. The braking system has been upgraded with the fitment of HZ Statesman discs front and rear that get covered from view by the 15x6 and 15x8.5-inch Convo-Pro wheels.
Stasy’s goal was to build a neat and clean street car, with a heap of attention paid to detailing everything. As usual, he went a little further than he thought he would, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Since its completion, the HZ has been shown at MotorEx twice and also at the Geelong and Dandenong All Holden Days where the HZ scored some awards. For now, he plans to cruise the HZ, dubbed ZEDi, with other members of the Kool Kruisers & Killer Klassics Kar Klub (K6) and when the time is right, give his ’69 Firebird a makeover it needs… 118
In September 2001, he spotted the very tired looking HZ parked just two blocks away from his home.
THANKS TO: Steve at Resurrection Auto Restorers for the body and paint. Jim at Terry’s
Motor Trimming for the interior. George Hatzi for the wiring and helping with the engine build. George @ Overline Technology for the ECU set-up and tuning. Peter, Noel, John, Jim, Colin and the K6 Krew for advice and helping in prepping and assembly.
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KILLER PIC
. . . e k o m s s ’ e r e h t Where ! E R I F s ’ ...there
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Nothing evokes an image of anger more than fire! And when that fire is wrapped around the rear of a wild, over-powered car, it takes it to the next level! Drag cars performing Fire-Burnouts were a big thing in the 60’s and 70’s which would bring the crowds in the stands to their feet.
WINDOW SHOPPING
NEW BILLET SPECIALTIES WHEELS AT SPEED PRO
Billet Specialties have just released the new Supersport wheel, it mixes classic styling with modern sizes. The forged 6061-t6 machined centre is mated to a precision spun rim for the ultimate in strength and trueness. The powder-coated centre makes detailing simple. Available in conventional rim sizes 17” thru 20” and bolt patterns up to 5” in diameter. Each wheel is custom manufactured to your specs for the perfect fit. Give the team at Speed Pro a call on 03 9794 5177 to get your order in. Speed Pro are located at 11 Airlie Ave, Dandenong VIC 3175 www.speedpro.com.au
ENGINE SAVING PRODUCTS FROM LIQUID INTELLIGENCE
Peter Maher has spent a big part of his life developing products that help your engine survive for more kilometres with his specialty products that includes Oil Leak Seal Expander, Blown Head Gasket Repair and Gasket Test Kit, Cooling system cleaning kit, Waterless coolant and many more. Peter is a Member and Contributor to the Institute of Automotive & Mechanical Engineers and stands behind his products with a wealth of knowledge. To check out the range of products and find out how they can work for you, click on any of Peter’s ad’s in each issue of Killer Rides and don’t forget to click on the free Magazine offer on page 15 for even more info. Alternatively, you can speak direct with Peter on 1800 441163 or go to www.liquidintelligence.com.au Lots of classic cars overheat on hot days. These largely unknown Australian made products reduced overheating by 20%. Click here to find out more!
NEW LOOK FULLRIVER BATTERIES AVAILABLE NOW
Fullriver HC Batteries now have a new look & are available at R&J Batteries. These new case designs are replacing the original yellow casings to highlight their High Cycle, High Cranking and High-Performance capabilities. The range features advanced AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) technology to provide a genuine no-compromise, high output, dual-purpose battery; perfectly suited for classic cars, racing & motorsport. Available in sizes up to 1400 CCA. Visit rjbatt.com.au for more information.
ENTHUSIAST INSURANCE
Having comprehensive Insurance for your cars, whether they be your everyday driver or your weekend cruiser, is a must these days. The team at Enthusiast Insurance can offer you complete cover even on your modified ride. To get yourself a quick quote, call them on 1800 101044 or jump onto the website at www.enthusiast.com. au to see all the benefits they offer and also organise a quote.
SHOWTIME MAR - 2020
To have your event listed here, send details to paul@killerrides.com.au
7-8 - NSW Bathurst Autofest Mt Panorama, Bathurst www.autofest.com.au
22 - NSW Killer Rides Pro-Street Sunday Fairfield Showgrounds 0432 795336 paul@killerrides.com.au www.killerrides.com.au
8 - NSW Show & Shave for a Cure Coffs Harbour Leagues Club shownshineforbloodcancer@gmail. com
22 - VIC All Commodore Day Caribbean Gardens, Scoresby www.allcommodoreday.com
8 - NSW Kool Kruisers Charity Car & Bike Show - Liverpool Catholic Club John - 0417 401402
28 - SA Old Skool New Age Car Show Morphett Vale Football Club autoshow@oyrp.com.au
8 - VIC All GM Day Apex Park, Wangaratta ckiskoc@bigpond.com
APR - 2020
13-15 - VIC 28th Chryslers on the Murray Gateway Lakes, Lincoln Causeway www.chryslersonthemurray.com 15 - NSW Rich River Rod Run Perricoot Rd, Moama fbowles@aussiebb.com.au 20-22 - SA Adelaide Chrysler Festival Harts Mills, Port Adelaide www.cccsa.net.au/acf 21 - VIC All Holden Day - Western Victoria Pertobe Rd, Lake Pertobe Peter Dunn - 0400 638928
5 - ACT All Clubs Show & Shine Canberra Greyhound Racing Club Symonston www.boostersgarage.com.au 5 - ACT HeartKids Hillclimb The Hill @ Fairbairn Park Motorsport Complex, Sutton Rd, Majura www.heartkids.org.au 5 - QLD Power Up Show & Swap Meet Nanango Sporting Association nsapowerup@gmail.com 5 - VIC Shepparton Motor Museum Show Goulbrn Valley H/Way, Kialla info@sheppartonmotormuseum. com.au
9-13 - NSW ASRF Regional Nationals Goulburn Showground alan.cooper.anu.edu.au 10-13 - SA 32nd Corvette Nationals Encounter Bay, Victor Harbour, SA tonybeersmith@gmail.com 10-13 - NSW Camaro & Firebird Nationals 2020 Tumut info@cfnats.com.au 12 -NSW Sydney Cars & Coffee Hubertus Club, Luddenham 2nd Sunday of the month 7am-11am 18 - VIC Echuca Swap Meet Echuca RV Park, Campasie Esplanade echucaswap@outlook.com 18 - ACT Wheels of Wamboin Wamboin Community Hall, ACT president@wamboincommunity.asn. au 26 - VIC Gippsland Vehicle Collection Swap 1a Sale Rd, Maffra gippslandvehiclecollection.org.au 26 - NSW The Volkswagens Family Show Hovel Treet Park, (Albury) NSW vitsvw@hotmail.com Reece White - 0437 770503
PERFORMANCE DIRECTORY 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 HERE
JUST $55 PER MONTH CONTACT PAUL - 0432 795336
www.prostreet.com.au
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Easter 9th-12th April
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PRE EVENT - TEST & TUNE FRIDAY 17th APRIL Racing from 5.30pm till late Entrant Fee $80 Spectators $25 Kids under 14 FREE (open to anyone) HOLDEN NATIONALS EVENT SATURDAY 18th APRIL Racing from 10am till late Pre Entries Only Via Facebook page (limited spots) Entrants $140 Spectators $25 Kids under 14 FREE NO EFT facilities on site
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e v i t a v o n n Get I with your Advertising
HERE’S WHAT WE OFFER! EXCEPTIONAL RATES! GLOBAL AUDIENCE! ONLINE 24/7! VIDEO ENHANCED AD’S! ALL AD’S LINKED! NEW PRODUCT PROMOTIONS! For more information on advertising in Killer Rides, please contact; Paul Beck 0432 795336 paul@killerrides.com.au
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 Stephen Taylor @ The Motorsports Project John Antoniw @ 9000rpm Photography Jimmy Tee Photography Greg ‘Beach’ Ball - Joe Crispin - Jason Lowe