After I sold Extreme Magazine (can you believe that was 16 years ago?), I vowed I’d never go back to printing magazines. I was adamant that the future of publishing was in the digital realm and that’s where I’d be staying. Well, here we are 54 issues into Killer Rides (with a brief stint as Performance Street Car) and I still think the future of publishing is with online magazines, but now, I am taking the plunge and getting ready to produce a limited edition print run of ‘The Best of Killer Rides’. These magazines will be available quarterly and will not be sold through newsagents. The only way you’ll be able to secure a copy is direct through the Killer Rides office or if you see us at an event. Who knows, if enough people show interest in these four issues over the next twelve months, there’s a good chance Killer Rides could be put into print full time. It all comes down to you…
With that in mind, I’m thinking the same thing could happen with Super Rod magazine. Whilst it’s been a while since I published the last digital version of Super Rod, I reckon there’s an opportunity to bring a uniquely styled Hot Rod & Custom Magazine to that scene as well. Again, I’ll test the waters over the next twelve months to gauge the reaction and see where we go after that. Talk about going the full circle! As they say, “Never say Never!”
Until then, you’ll still be able to enjoy Killer Rides online for free anytime, anywhere. I’ve been getting great feedback lately about our unique style of features and the fact that I promote so many events from around the country for free. I started adding event show flyers as ads in the magazine for free to help those clubs and promoters get the word out about their shows. It’s tough out there to make things happen with events, so it’s my way of giving back! Funny thing is, the ‘other guys’ are now doing the same thing on their digital platforms. Damn it’s great to be the innovator, not imitator… See
I started adding event show flyers as ads in the magazine for free to help those clubs and promoters get the word out about their shows...
Ask and you shall receive…eventually! Yep, I’ve taken the plunge and will be printing a series of four Killer Rides Best Of magazines. The mag will have a ten feature cars and will be available for purchase via our website or at the many events we attend each year. If you guys get behind the venture and its evident it’s a wanted thing, we’ll be looking at doing the printed version moving forward. The plan is to have the first issue for sale on our stand at the Sydney Hot Rod Show in May at Rosehill Racecourse. If you’d like to secure a copy of the, limited run we have planned, email me now – paul@killerrides.com.au
There’s no denying the Powercruise “No-Prep” Street Outlaw Series being held on the main straight at Sydney Motorsport Park has become one of the most talked about street car drag racing events in the country, with many of the Pro-Street big hitters coming out to take part. So I’ve decided to run a Street Outlaws Top 20 List each month to show who the big movers and shakers are. Gates open to Spectators and Entrants from 5.30pm with racing set to happen between 6.30pm and 10.30pm. Always check the Powercruise website: Powercruise.com and the official Street Outlaws Facebook pagehttps://www.facebook.com/StreetOutlawsAustralia
1. Jason Mansweto – Ford Capri
2. Alon Vella – Ford Capri
3. Gup – HQ Wagon
4. Danny Mobrea – LJ Torana
5. Tom Kassaf – LC Torana
6. Damian Baker – XD Falcon
7. Nathan Ghosn – Ford Capri
8. Shadi Tobaji – Ford Cortina
9. John Habib – LH Torana
10. Brian Thomas – Chev Camaro
After the success of the inaugural Hot Rod & Harley Expo last year, we knew the mid November date needed to be changed as it clashed with the local air show, and more importantly, the immensely popular Yamba Rod Run. The problem we faced is trying to find a date that not only didn’t clash with another event, but was also not too close to other major events in this area. The only weekend that we could get the Hockey Centre is the last weekend in November, 25th/26th. The search is now on for a completely new line-up of Hot Rods, Customs and custom Harleys. More info at www.killerrides.com.au
11. Andrew Natoli – VK Commodore
12. Sam Lentini – XD Falcon
13. Joe Messina – HJ Ute
14. Pat Defrancesco - Capri
15. Marcus Eichorn – 68 Camaro
16. Caleb Thomas – HJ Holden
17. Jamie Farmer – Ford Mustang
18. John Saad – Ford Capri
19. Ian O’Sullivan – Ford F6X
20. Dave Chapple – LC Torana
There’s no denying that John Willard’s 6-second Promod Anglia is one of, if not the toughest Anglia in the world, and thanks to a Go Fund Me page along with some sponsorship from Santa Pod Raceway in the UK, John, his family and his wild Hemi-powered Anglia will be racing in England later this year including some passes at the Sportsman Nationals, Summer Nationals and of course, Dragstalgia, with some demonstration passes at the Ford Show to complete the tour. John will be joined by Paul Stephens who will be shipping over his Altered to attend the same meets.
“I’ve been around tough cars all my life and one thing that I have learned is never to compromise on quality. That’s why my Mustang is fitted with Lovells Springs! INSIST on Lovells for your car too!”
Jake Myers - Burnout Champion!
Video by Road Rage Media
The worlds largest car cruise, the Hot Rod Power Tour is in its 29th year and will kick off on June 12, departing Atlanta Motor Speedway for five days of cruising, showing and generally hanging out with a few thousand like-minded car owners. The following days will see the entourage travelling through Columbia, South Carolina; Rockingham, North Carolina; and zMax Dragway in North Carolina before finishing at the Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee. Each stop will include drag racing, autocross and plenty of live entertainment. More information can be found at www.motortrend.com/events/hot-rod-power-tour
Built in 1923 in Lingotto, Italy, the Fiat Factory had one very special feature that set it apart from other manufacturers – a roof top race track where the factory would road test vehicles without having to leaving the factory. Built with two 443-metre straights joined by parabolic bends, the roof top circuit allowed cars to be assembled, tested and returned to the showroom with ease…
After pulling the pin of the South Coast Nationals, Lee and Debbie Pearce have continued to bring a range of custom cars to Moruya, but now in a more intimate couple of events that are housed at the local Ingenia Holiday Park. Held over the weekend of 3rd – 5th February, the South Coast Nostalgic Hot Rod & Kustom Run drew in a range of cars and entrants that made the laidback weekend a complete success with lots of money raised for the Australian Cancer Research Foundation as well as plenty of toys donated for the Children’s Hospital. The event featured cruising the park, a show and shine, Outdoor movies and even a visit from “The Stig!”
Got something to say? Send it to paul@pscmag.com.au or message us from the Performance Street Car Facebook page.
G’day Paul,
With the world seemingly getting somewhat back to normal, have you thought about trying again to get the Road Trip up and running? Whether it’s a 3, 4, or 5 day cruise, I’d be hopeful that you’d get a good roll up to make it a viable proposition. I’m sure in time, it will be the one event people will save up for to be a part of, but like everything I guess you have to start somewhere. I read that the first Hot Rod Power Cruise attracted less than 50 cars initially and now they number in their thousands. So, what do you think? Will you make it happen? Here’s hoping…
Cliff J – Maitland, NSWG’day Paul, I agree with you about the Summernats, it’s just become more about burnouts and the music that it seems like the cars are only there to entertain the boofheads that act as though they have never seen a burnout before.
Fixing the Nat’s is simple. Get rid of the grog! With the alcohol gone, so would 90% of the dickheads that line the cruise route for four days causing mayhem. Sure, there would be a drop in money coming in the door, but if it continues the way it is, the serious car guys will move on and the Summernats will become the Commodore Nats. It’s heading there now… Let’s hope the trend changes, and soon.
Graeme K – Warnambool, VICG’day Tony,
Hooray! My dream is coming true – a printed version of my favourite magazine. Even though it’s a best of series, I live in hope that Killer Rides will make a full-time commitment to be produced in print. I put up with the digital version because I love the magazine, but for me, nothing beats holding a hard copy. Sign me up!
Tony M – Ulladulla, NSWHi Tony,
How far we end up going with the printed versions of Killer Rides really depends on the support we get from readers. We’ll do four ‘Best Of’ Issues first and see how they go. If we get the support, then there’s every chance Killer Rides will return as a full-time printed mag with all new features. And for those interested, we’ve decided to introduce Super Rod back into the mix as well as a quarterly, high-end Hot Rod magazine – also in print. More news on release dates to come soon. Thanks for the support…
G’day Cliff,
I was pretty disappointed with how few people jumped on board after the initial post about the Road Trip sent my phone and email into meltdown. To be honest, I wasted a lot of time and money to have to pull the pin on the event all together. I agree that we just need minimal numbers to get through the first event and then it should build on that from there. I haven’t given up on the idea completely, but can’t see it happening in 2023 with so much else going on right now.
Yes, the amount of alcohol consumed is definitely an issue, but I can’t ever see it being banned from the Summernats. As for the cars, I can understand why young guys and girls are opting for Commodores. Can you imagine a 20-year old going to the bank to get a loan to buy an XY Falcon, SL/R Torana or HQ Holden? The bank would laugh at them. But, if it is for a Commodore, no problem… The price of older cars are just out of reach for the younger generation now. Having said that, I think the Summernats management need to look at the minimum standard of cars allowed to enter. No one wants to pay big money to come into EPIC and watch 1000 cars with mismatched wheels, multi-coloured panels and very little else. It will be interesting to see how Summernats 36 pans out…
Hi Paul,
I have just moved from Brisbane to east of Melbourne near Moe and am looking at getting back into a tough street car as soon as we have settled in 100%. It would be great to be part of a car club to find out about events and to have a network of parts, mechanics etc, but we just find any listed anywhere. Any idea’s?
Mark H – Moe, VIC
Hi Mark,
I would try jumping onto the Shannons Insurance website as they have a pretty comprehensive club listing from around country. On top of that, try to get to as many local events as you can to talk to regulars to find out more about clubs, events, service and parts etc. Good luck.
There’s no denying that the 65/66 Mustang Fastback is one of the most desirable Ford muscle cars every made. And no one builds ‘em quite like Southern Rod & Custom…
CUSTOM QUARTER VENTS
The purists will have you believe that Ford got it 100 percent right when they designed the iconic first-gen Mustang. Shane Rowe at Southern Rod & Custom begs to differ. Thankfully, he has customers that want to take Ford’s design and take it to the next level – and then some… Everyone agrees the Mustang’s bodylines are great, but check out what Shane’s team have done! The body has been taken
FABRICATED DASH FLOOR AND TUNNEL
back to bare steel, and now features a fabricated floor, reworked dash and trans tunnel, handmade bonnet scoop, custom rear plenum with exhaust cut outs, fabricated quarter panel vents, and both front and rear bumpers have been moved closer to the body. Lifting the bootlid reveals a completely handmade sheet-metal space with alloy fuel cell, floor and big wheel tubs.
5.2-litre COYOTE ENGINE
4L WHIPPLE SUPERCHARGER CUSTOM HEADERS
CUSTOM DUAL EXHAUST ESTIMATED 1200-PLUS HP
6-SPEED TREMEC
FOUR LINK NARROWED DIFF
INDEPENDANT FRONT END RACK & PINION STEERING
Moving to the underside, there’s a new chassis with independent front end incorporating coil-overs and rack and pinion steering while down the rear sits a narrowed diff, located with a custom four-link and coil-over shocks. The floor has been modified for the Mustang to sit low and still have clearance for the tailshaft that connects the diff and 6-speed manual gearbox. It was a tight fit but the guys managed to squeeze in the custom exhaust system. Wilwood brakes sit inside each big-diametre wheel. The custom wheels measure 19x9 and 22x12 and were designed by Southern Rod & Custom inhouse and are true pin drive knock-offs.
But this isn’t your garden variety factory-spec engine package. This one is topped with one of Whipple’s big, 4-litre superchargers...
The engine of choice is Ford’s current hero-engine – the five-point-twolitre Coyote. But this isn’t your garden variety factory-spec engine package. This one is topped with one of Whipple’s big, 4-litre superchargers, that was too much for the Mustang’s engine bay to hide – hence the custom bonnet scoop. It will also ensure
the engine performs with around 1200hp on tap! Back on its wheels, the Mustang has the perfect stance. And to make sure the next chassis is up to the task of Australia’s less than ideal roads Shane has had the Engineers in the shop performing Torsion testing to find any obvious weak spots. Next up, paint, trim and final assembly.
The custom wheels measure 19x9 and 22x12 and were designed by Southern Rod & Custom inhouse and are true pin drive knock-offs.
When John Micev purchased this HQ GTS Monaro from South Australia in 2012, I’m not sure if he knew it would turn out like this? The HQ’s sheet metal was showing small amounts of rust and quite a few imperfections in the original Cyan Metallic Blue paint, but John could see past those minor issues, knowing full well that a genuine GTS Monaro was always going to be a valuable car. When the Monaro arrived in Sydney, John spent a few years cruising the streets before deciding it was time for a freshen up. Wasting no time at all, the Coupe was stripped down to its bare bones, before John called on some mates to be part of the build process. Those mates just happen to be some guns in their own field of expertise, ensuring that when the Monaro was complete again, it was going to be a stand out ride for sure. The plan was always to keep the body pretty much how Holden had intended it to be. To toughen up its image, John added a Hornet scoop to the blue and white livery for that old school look, but has since replaced it with a Repliglass Fibreglass 4” reverse-cowl. The new look bonnet was added to the body before Darke smoothed out the body, added the minitubs and prepared the HQ’s panels for colour. Whilst you wouldn’t consider the factory colour scheme as offensive, John wanted to go in the complete opposite direction, and had Kevin Gilbert at Grange Smash Repairs lay on the more impressive Purr Pull from the factory colour chart. Kevin also added the original style GTS striping in white over the bonnet and bootlid, while the familiar GTS blackouts were also laid on.
Sometimes you need an important deadline to meet to get your project car finished!
After the ground up resto, and his mates seeing the car after five long years, they said the car looks “Killer” lol! So, another plate change came to mind - KLR 496.
Inside, it’s like taking a time travelling machine back to 1973. In fact, the standard issue seats are still in place and still wear their black vinyl and houndstooth covers like a badge of honour. It’s rare to find all-original seating in this model car, but it proves that this GTS has had owners that have cared for it. Of course, being a project of a hardcore performance car guy, it’s not all about keeping the ‘70’s vibe alive and kicking. The dash now sports a custom 3D printed facia that holds the Racepak IQ3s dash offers more
info that the Holden gauges ever could. The shifter is now a Precision Performance Products item that makes gear changes short and sharp! Retractable seat belts now keep John and his passengers safe – and the engineer smiling! And, to keep John entertained whilst out and about, an Alpine sound system has been installed. The tough street car theme continues into the boot area where there’s a 75-litre fuel cell and fuel pump, battery and hidden fuel lines. Making everything work right is due to the expert wiring by Dino.
There’s no denying the HQ Monaro is a factory muscle car, even though you could drive away from the showroom under the power provided by a 202, 253, 308 or 350 for those lucky ones that ticked the right boxes. For John though, those options are just too small for his needs. Thankfully, when he bought the car, it had already neem fitted with a 454-cube big block, 9” diff and Turbo 400. These though were stock in configuration and John wanted more! New plates were ordered as it had SA plates, (PRO 454) but the engine and drive line didn’t match the plates. John’s timing to kick start a new engine combo couldn’t have been anymore spot on, with the USD and AUD on par
back in 2011-2012. After making some enquiries, John decided upon Mark Jones from Vortec Pro Engines in the USA to piece together a new street and strip 496-cube combo complete from carby to pan. The engine came already Dyno’d, with a Stall Convertor, and cost around $10-$12K shipped! How could you pass up a deal like that? More rego plates were subsequently ordered again to match the car, this time reading GTS-496! After the new engine was dropped in and fired up there was a massive difference, and after a lot of street cruising and some racing a lifter failed, ensuing an engine freshen up to be carried out by Steve and Aaron Hambridge at APM.
On a strict diet of Premium 98 fuel, the big block makes an impressive 720hp!
The engine came already Dyno’d, with a Stall Convertor, and cost around $10-$12K shipped! How could you pass up a deal like that?
After the ground up resto, and his mates seeing the car after five long years, they said the car looks “Killer” lol! So, another plate change came to mind - KLR 496. John wanted to keep the engine hardware below the cowl scoop and make the big cube big block reliable enough for regular cruising. That’s why you’ll find a single 1050cfm Dominator carb fitted to a Brodix intake manifold, that when combined with the Brodix Race Rite oval port heads, forms the perfect engine topping for what John requires. What lies below all that good gear is just as impressive, with the GM block kitted out with a Scat crank, beefier rods, Mahle pistons and a Comp Cams solid roller cam that gives the HQ a menacing lope at idle. A Mellings oil pump ensures the slippery stuff gets everywhere it needs to from its resting place in the Moroso sump
as soon as John flicks the key and gets the MSD ignition firing. The exhaust system starts as a pair of Hurricane four-into-one headers with 3-inch collectors that flow into dual 3-inch pipes incorporating Hooker mufflers. Making sure everything looked the part was left up to the boys at Comp Coat. On a strict diet of Premium 98 fuel, the big block makes an impressive 720hp! Backing the 496-cuber is a TK Performance built Turbo 400 auto that employs a full manual valve body, and TCE billet 9.5-inch converter that stalls out at 4700rpm, to handle the power being showed through it. That raw grunt is then sent to the custombuilt, braced 9-inch diff, built by Red at Craft Diffs that handles the power with ease thanks to the 35-spline axles, and 3.7-motive gears inside the Mark Williams centre.
By now you’ve probably noticed the Monaro has a much better stance, that’s because there’s Viking coil-overs in the front end and Lovells Super Low coils with Viking shocks added to the rear end to get it closer to the blacktop. There’s an adjustable four-link thanks to Shanes Chassis and a quartet of Wilwood 320mm drilled and slotted disc brakes and calipers living inside the 15x3.5 and 15x10-inch Weld Racing rims – the rears featuring Dumesny single bead locks.
The closer the build came to being finished coincided with the upcoming wedding of John’s daughter. So the race was on to have it ready for the wedding, not only on time, but in absolute style! Of course, by now, John knew there was nothing going to stop him from making that all-important deadline. Naturally the car made it there. This was always going to be a happy ending for all involved! Since then, John has put plenty of miles on that big block, cruising to all kinds of events around Sydney, which is where I met him for the first time. It was at the Grudge Kings show and shine, where I was looking for a car to award the Killer Rides Show Standout award, when I heard this rumble coming down the road. The look. The sound. The attitude. It’s what Killer Rides is all about!
On a strict diet of Premium 98 fuel, the big block makes an impressive 720hp!
For those in the know, the annual Canberra Rod & Kustom Krooze is one of those events that is very much by car people, for car people.
Hosted by the Canberra Hot Rod Association, the annual CRAKK Run has quickly become one of my favourite events of the year, especially as an entrant! Based at the Capital Country Holiday Park on Canberra’s outskirts and held over the January longweekend, the CRAKK Run is four days of cruising, live music and generally having fun with like-minded people. It’s very much family orientated with lots of activities added to the event to keep children busy including the pool area that was kept very busy this year with temperatures above 30-degrees each day. The heat certainly didn’t affect the spirits of those entering the CRAKK Run and this year saw the most entrants ever assembled for the event. Most Rod & Kustom events have a cut off period of Pre ’66, but the team behind this great event has taken on the Australian Street Rodding Federations move to extend that to Pre ’78, which say a number of cool, chrome bumper cars turn up to mix it with the Hot Rod and custom crowds.
The Program for the four days offered plenty to do for entrants, with different choices on each day depending on what mood you were in. Thursday was early registration day, with a meet and greet that evening for sponsors before the club staged a sausage sizzle and drinks for entrants in the main gathering area while the first of the live music performed by The Meteors, jammed away for all to enjoy. Even at this early stage, cruising the park was well underway. Each day, the CHRA made sure that all entrants were well
fed for the day ahead offering back and egg sandwiches and fruit Friday and Sat mornings, with a pancake breakfast offered up on Sunday before the event program kicked off. On top of that, there were plenty of refreshments put on by the club whilst the live music and DJ sessions were held. And to save you from a trip into town for dinner, there was a burger and donut vans on site all weekend to make sure you didn’t go hungry. It’s things like this that keep entrants happy and wanting to keep coming back year after year.
As expected, Friday was set to be an action-packed day with hot temperatures forecast and clear blue skies. Entrants were offered a few different activities to take in including the Skid Pan driving experience, a cruise to Gold Creek for the shops, cafes and tourist attractions or a cruise to the Museum of Democracy and Old Parliament House. Whilst each cruise was worth taking in, we decided to join the line-up for some fun on the skid pan, after photographing the action last year. There were quite a few cars ready to tackle the wet track, but with two cars allowed each time, we didn’t have to wait long for our go. With Kathy on the sidelines with the camera (she wasn’t keen on being in the Chev) and Montana and Danyon with me, we eased the Chev around the course for a couple of laps to get our bearings and then the fun began! You know you’re alive when you have a car of this size hanging
the rear end out! Even more so when it unexpectantly spins around backwards on the main straight! Damn we had some fun… Car after car, the entrants tried to get around the circuit as fast as they could, but ultimately, they would end up backwards off the edge of the wet track. I can’t wait to do it all again next year. Back at the events base, the cruising was in full swing and poolside was the most popular place to be. An impromptu water balloon toss was taking place and soon got out of hand when multiple balloons were flying and the hose came into play! Yes, I’m looking at you Dave Andrews! Whilst this was happening, nearby, there was a metal shaping demonstration happening where Ben and the team from Lucky’s Speed Shop were showing how to chop a hot rod roof the right way. That night, Old Skool Rock entertained the masses to top off a great first day of the 2023 CRAKK Run.
Those that didn’t party too hard were up early on Saturday morning for egg and bacon rolls for brekky before getting their cars ready for the cruise to the picturesque Park in Queanbeyan for the official show and shine. Lined up under the trees, the cars created an amazing spectacle for those coming along for a look at what the event had to offer in the way of Hot Rod’s, Customs, Muscle Cars and more. With more than 200 cars on show, this was a great place to be. It was more of the same upon our return to the venue, with
lots of people cruising and having a good time. This was also the time where the ladies got to dress up and head over to the Dining Hall and Deck for the Cocktail Party. It was a booked-out section of the event and from what we could see (and hear), the ladies certainly had a great time! Saturday night featured the BOOMBox2U DJ playing a mix of 80’s songs that really had lots of people dressed up in their flouro colours and dancing the night away – well, giving it a great shot anyway.
After three big days of 30-plus degrees and sunny skies, Sunday morning started with the wet stuff and never really stopped, forcing the guys to shift the presentation into the dining rooms. After the pancake breakfast, the trophies were awarded, including the Killer Rides Show Standout award, which I (eventually) presented to Mark Cannan for his oh so cool ’32 Ford high-boy Roadster. Personally though, I was amazed to take home a place in the Top Three Pre ’66 Cars as well as the Integra Service Dogs Choice and the Dennis Moreau Memorial award. I’m still in disbelief!
After the presentation, entrants number was drawn out and given the choice of a myriad of prizes lined up on a table before the event closed with a Hot Dog lunch!
The laid-back approach taken by the organising committee is definitely a winner. There’s a reason why entrants keep coming back time and time again, and that most certainly comes down to how the event is run. As a sponsor, the event is worth being a part of from that side, with lots of promotion given to all that choose to be a part of it. As an entrant, it is without doubt one of the coolest events I have been too, and will continue to be a part of as long as we can. So if you own a Hot Rod, Custom, Muscle Car or Pre ’78 chrome-bumper cruiser, make sure you keep an eye out for next year’s entry forms… www.chra.org.au
“After building the Charger, I’d always wanted to do a Ute. The out of the blue, I got a call from a mate in Cooma who knew I was into Valiant’s, telling me that the “Barber’s Ute” was on the market. I quickly snapped it up and had it delivered on a mate’s tilt tray,” Liam explained. Luckily, this was 2013 and long before extra zeros were added to cars and parts around the world, so Liam got a bargain for just $1500! The old saying is “you get what you pay for!” but in this case, Liam got so much more. Being from the country, the body was rust free and covered in the original, but faded paint. Sure, there were the usual bumps and scratches, but that’s what happens to work cars more often than not. Regardless, Liam knew had had scored a great start for new build. Initially, Liam had the crew at Johns Twins Smash Repairs remove all the defects from the body before giving it a fresh coat of PPG Fuji White, which is complimented by the familiar Mopar stripe across its flanks in black, with the bumpers and grille surround also scoring the darker colour. The white flows into the smoothed-out load area where the mini tubs and black alloy fuel cell become visible.
Having already been entrenched into the Mopar lifestyle with a VK Valiant Charger, Liam Vezinias had his next project fall into his lap…
...there’s every chance the engine bay will see some forced induction one day soon which will take Mopar’s 485hp output to another level.
After the paint was sorted, Liam put the Ute back together using the bench seat and original trim and slotting a stock 245ci six pack back by a threeon-the-tree manual trans. That didn’t last long though with a tougher 265 Hemi and 5-speed replacing the smaller engine. Wanting more power, Liam decided to sell off the 265, with plans to drop a 340-cube small block into the engine bay. That would have been an easy option, but when he came across a brand new, in the crate, 6.4-litre injected Hemi at the right price, he simply couldn’t go past it. The 392 Hemi offers lots of performance as seen in the range of SRT 300C and Jeep variants its slotted into. With late model technology, the injected Hemi does everything right, and there’s a wealth of power upgrades available in the aftermarket now too! Fitting the new powerplant proved to be a bigger hassle than he first thought,
even though there’s people out there claiming that using their products offer a straight, bolt-in operation!
That’s rarely the case though as old cars were hand built in the factory to very loose tolerances so every car will be just a little difference. Though at times he wanted to call it a day, Liam persevered with the conversion whilst completing a Uni degree and dealing with finding the right parts for the job. One of those parts was the radiator, with a phone call to Rick at South Coast Radiators building a cooling system to suit. Some three years after he started, the Ute rolled out under its own Hemi power! Whilst the engine is more or less stock now (with a pair of stainless headers, 3.5-inch system and X-Force mufflers), there’s every chance the engine bay will see some forced induction one day soon which will take Mopar’s 485hp output to another level.
THANKS TO: My old man Paul – I couldn’t have done it without him, even though at times we both wanted to kill each other during the build. Simon Kryger – Innocent Motorsport. Tommy Raikko for brake and fuel lines. Johns Twins for all the paintwork on the car. Kon from WAS for the tune. All my mates who lent a hand and spun a spanner on the car over the years!
Backing the engine is a built 727 Torqueflite fitted with a reverse pattern, manual valve body and a custom SDE converter with a 3500rpm stall speed. Gear changes are made via a B&M Stealth Pro-Ratchet shifter. Daniel Engineering supplied a 3.5-inch tailshaft with 1350 unis and a Sonnax yoke that easily gets the power back to the 9-inch diff built by Geelong Diffs using a Tru-trak 3.7-geared centre and 35-spline billet axles. The underside also features Koni shocks front and rear, Wilwood 320mm and 280mm disc and calipers that live inside the ever-popular 15x10 and 17x4.5-inch Weld V-Series wheels. Getting the Ute lower to the blacktop is handled by the 1-inch heavy-duty torsion bars up front with reset leaf springs on the rear. Future plans call for Mono-leafs and Caltracs when Liam gets the urge to try some quarter mile action!
When the Ute reappeared, the old bench seat was given the flick, replaced by a pair of more-comfy, VX Calais leather buckets that look right at home in the old Valiant! The original gauge cluster is still in place, but Liam relies on AutoMeter gauges to keep him more accurately informed. Since its completion, Liam has made the most out of his new build, having scored a place in the Top 60 street cars at Summernats 34 and again at 35 with a place in the Retro Tech class, and at the time of doing the shoot, he was preparing to make the haul to Chryslers on the Murray to show off the Hemi-powered Hauler to those who live, breathe and eat Mopar muscle. He’ll certainly be in his element…
The old saying is “you get what you pay for!” but in this case, Liam got so much more.
For 12 years now, Elvis Barbieri has been staging the Showcars Melbourne event at the fabulous Moonee Valley Racecourse. 2023 was by all accounts, the best yet!
Elvis does things a little differently with his event – especially having a large portion of the showcars setup indoors, where he has Saturday as the setup day, and Sunday is when the public come in droves to check out all the glitz and glamour that he has assembled inside and outside of the buildings. Amongst the usual line ups of Aussie and US muscle cars, customs, Rods and highpowered street cars were a number of high end Show cars and a couple of new, unveiled rides as well. One of the
new cars on show for the first time was Rob & Anita Dickson’s oh-so-cool ’52 Ford Cab Over. Showcasing a stunning coat of Verde Schietto (we’ll call it pearl olive green) and rolling on smoothie rims, the all-Ford powered COE also sported one of the most talked about interiors at the show – the work of which was completed by Shannon’s Auto Upholstery. There’s quite a few COE is Australia now, but most seem to be based on the ’47 style Chev, which makes this one standout even more!
For those that like their rides a little left of centre, the turbo LS-powered 242 Volvo was a hit! With the slick silver paint glowing against the blacked-out Street Pro wheels, the Volvo would certainly be a “ett fatal” when that boosted LS comes on song! For those that don’t speak fluent Swedish, that means “handful”. For those addicted to horsepower, there was a large contingency of drag cars on display this year, along with the Lamattina Family Top Fuel Dragster that entertained the crowds with a couple of fire-ups during the show, bringing in excess of 10,000hp to life!
Customs and Hot Rods were big this year, with the ex-Mario Colalillo Cadillac front and centre and the ZOCCHI custom drawing heaps of on lookers too. There were plenty of cool Rod’s spread out around the show from those set-up inside, to those more driver-friendly arriving early Sunday morning to take up a spot on the grass area or in the full to the brim carpark! Tough Pro-Street cars are always a big feature at Showcars Melbourne and this year didn’t disappoint either. As you’d expect, there were plenty of killer Monaro’s, Falcon’s Torana’s, Chevy’s and Mopar’s, but what really impressed me the most was seeing Adam Reid cruise his blown Pro-Street Nova in from his house, with no bonnet and obviously no fear!
If you get the chance to head to the event in 2024, I suggest you do so.
There was so much on offer at the 2023 Showcars Melbourne event that you could dedicate half a magazine to it! If you get the chance to head to the event in 2024, I suggest you do so. We plan to cruise the Chev down next year and take in the experience firsthand. Maybe we can entice a few fellow Killer Rides owners to make the trip down the Hume with us. Until then, enjoy Chad’s pics and check out the official website for all the info on this and other events Elvis has coming up! www.showcarsmelbourne.com.au
For those addicted to horsepower, there was a large contingency of drag cars on display this year, along with the Lamattina Family Top Fuel Dragster...
DEAN LUCAS - HK HOLDEN UTE
Words / Pics - Paul Beck
Even back in 1997 when Ben walked into Goulburn Wreckers and spotted the well-worn, rusty XY Falcon, you didn’t get much for $250. Knowing full well of the task at hand, Ben pressed on anyway as he had always wanted an XY Falcon. Over the next 24-years, Ben spent time on and off the project, whilst life outside of the garage took priority over the old Falcon needing lots of attention. But still, Ben pressed on. Panel by panel, he toiled away removing the rusted pieces, and replacing it with fresh steel that resulted in a factory styled body that was not only better that what the factory
had offered in 1971, but also replicated the GT Falcon in every way with the grille (with spotlights), teardrop mirrors, fuel cap, GTstriping and of course the all-important Shaker and blackouts, all added to give the oh-so-popular look. Before the colour was to be added to the body and engine bay, Ben smoothed the outer skin, engine bay and added a unique panelling to the boot area. When he was satisfied with the sheet metal, he loaded up his spray gun with PPG Wild Violet and dumped its contents all over the barebones Falcon. The result – spectacular!
After dropping just $250 to purchase what was a rusted-out project car, Ben Ambrose had to wait some 24-years before driving the GT-inspired XY Falcon for the first time.
Originally, the HK left the factory covered in Silver Mink with red trim – one of the most desirable colour combinations for this model. The first thing Pete did was to remove the panels (including complete front end) and then sandblast the underside to clean it up and make sure there wasn’t any nasty surprises waiting for him. When the dust had settled, the bare floor proved to be in great shape and it was at this stage that Pete added a 3.55-geared Detroit Locker diff as well as HQ drum brakes and all new lines and bushes. And with a big horsepower engine upgrade planned, Pete dropped the HK off to Brett at Wicked Industries to add some chassis connectors and minitubs – just the thing to through those 15x8-inch Auto Drag Centerlines under complete with the 28x10.5-inch Mickey Thompson Sportsman Pros. Completing the underside makeover are HQ disc brakes, 90/10 shocks and lowered Lovells springs on the front end with 15x5.5-inch rims and 640Excelsior tyres. The rear end now sits lower too, thanks to reset leaf springs and Koni adjustable shocks.
The engine bay now houses just the 351-cube Clevo. Keeping the engine the main focus meant hiding the wiring, brake lines, and brake boosters, with the Astra electric power steering assembly mounted out of sight. Built by B&T Automotive and detailed by Ben, the 30-thou over 5.8-litre Cleveland has that classic GT look, whilst being topped with some EFI technology in the form of a Holley Sniper throttle body attached to an Edelbrock intake. Internally, the build also included 4V closed chamber heads and a moderate Comp Cam. Externally, there’s an Aeromotive pump feeding the engine plenty of 98-octane fuel, which when ignited, sends the gases through a pair of Pacemaker headers and a dual 3-inch system with Flowmaster mufflers.
The power pushes through a manualised C4 auto with a 2500rpm converter to the 2.75-geared 9-inch diff. Underside upgrades include a quartet of King Springs and Monroe shocks with the four-wheel-disc braking system comprising of Wilwood discs, calipers and master cylinder. Helping the XY steer like a newer model is an RRS rack and pinion assembly. The wheels of choice are 15-inch Outlaw Drag Intensity in black and silver that gives the Falcon a nastier look.
When he was satisfied with the sheet metal, he loaded up his spray gun with PPG Wild Violet and dumped its contents all over the bare-bones Falcon. The result – spectacular!
Sticking your head in any window will take you on a trip to 1971 with the seating, dash, door trims etc all reminiscent of just how a GT Falcon would have left the showroom floor back in 1971. Well almost. The console mounted B&M Shifter wasn’t a factory option back then, but Ben made it look like the Ford engineers fitted it none the less. Peter Porter Trimming transformed the XY’s worn-out insides to better than new, showing off his stitching skills. After such a long build period, Ben has certainly learned a few lessons. “I’d definitely use aftermarket panels instead of repairing the original items to save time and money as
there’s so much more available now then there was back then and I’d be buying a rotisserie so I wouldn’t have to lay on the ground to paint and repair!” The effort has been worth it though with the Falcon wining a coveted Top 60 spot at this year’s Summernats as well as Best Pre ’80 Ford at Rollin’ Chrome in Crookwell and 1st 1965-1979 Ford at the Goulburn Car & Motorcycle show. I’m sure there’s more to come too with Ben planning a few more show appearances including Killer Rides Live #5 after fine-tuning the minor details and then preparing the car for registration so it becomes a weekend cruiser!
Thanks To: Phil and Nat Kerjean – Fuelworx. B&T Automotive. Luke Demain – Elite Custom Wiring. Figtree Automatics. Peter Porter Motor Trimming. Westend Performance. Pro-Street Industries. PPG Paints. My wife and Children for their patience and understanding for all the time spent in the shed.
The Autofest crew head to Bathurst for one of their biggest events on their yearly calendar, and they’re followed to the mountain by several hundred high-powered street cars!
Bathurst Autofest, Mt Panorama - March 10-12, 2023.
Words – Paul Beck / Pics - Paul Beck & Ashley @ S8TEN Photography
The people of Bathurst have to prepare for three major events each year. The 12-hour Race in early Feb, and the Bathurst 1000 in October where the roundyroundy guys do their thing in front of an appreciative crowd. But come March, the Mountain welcomes the Bathurst Autofest where there’s more horsepower, more driving events and much more smoke than the other two events put together!
The Bathurst circuit is by far the most iconic race track in Australia, so it makes perfect sense to hold an event like the Autofest at the base of the most famous Mountain in Australia – as far as motoring fans are concerned. From the very first event staged there, those with a passion for modified car events have flocked to Bathurst and have continued to do so ever since. The great thing about Autofest events is that they are put together with the entrant in mind. The event program features plenty of
time for entrants to spend behind the wheel with events including Super Sprints and the Heads-Up Go to Whoa on Pit Straight, Autokhana, Grab-AFlag and the ever-popular Burnout competition in the pit area where you’ll also find the show and shine both days. Les and his team made a huge effort this year to make the event more family orientated too, with a range of kids rides, face-painting, slot-car racing and a big variety of food trucks – all guaranteed to keep every family member happy.
As you’d expect, the event attracts all kinds of high-powered creations – especially in the burnout comp where the bigger the engine in the smallest car possible seems to be a theme. This year’s event had plenty of those types of cars along with the usual burnout competitors all doing their best over two days to take home the top spot in their category and take home the bragging rights for another year. Check out the Autofest website (www.autofest.com.au) for a full list of results.
The Bathurst circuit is by far the most iconic race track in Australia, so it makes perfect sense to hold an event like the Autofest at the base of the most famous Mountain in Australia...
After covering Mt Panorama in thick clouds of tyre smoke for a day and a half, those cars with rego got to take part in a couple of laps of the famous mountain, before heading back into the pit area for the running of the finals in all of the driving events to round out yet another successful Bathurst Autofest. Up next for the Autofest team is a trip up north to Innisfail for the running of the Innisfail Autofest over the weekend of August 18-20. More info and entries can be found at www.autofest.com.au
For more pics, go to the Killer Rides Facebook Page!
As you’d expect, the event attracts all kinds of high-powered creations – especially in the burnout comp where the bigger the engine in the smallest car possible seems to be a theme.
Words - Paul Beck
Built by Rad Rides by Troy Owner - Glen Grozich
As President of Billet Specialities, Glen Grozich wanted a promo vehicle that would not only showcase the company’s products but also act as a test mule for some prototype gear that would eventually make its way into the ever expanding Billet Specialties inventory of cool custom parts! To get the ball rolling, Glen sat down with Troy Trepanier at Rad Rides and worked out the plan to build America’s coolest ’62 Biscayne. Knowing just how good the team at Rad Rides are at building custom rides, Glen informed Troy of what he wanted and then let Troy run with it. For both of them, the ultimate goal was to build the most impressive Street Machine the USA has seen. Originally, the Chev’s engine bay wasn’t going to house such an elaborate engine combo, but after Troy finished a similar twin-turbo set-up for a customer’s Corvette, he knew this would set the Biscayne apart from the rest. Glen quickly ditched the idea of a big block. Let’s face it, this was in the early 2000’s and having a true street car that could drive across the country, idle in traffic at under 1000rpm, produce in excess of 1000hp and still get 17mpg on the open road was unheard of. This was ground-breaking in the street machine world at the time! And not only does the engine make lots of power, it looks sensational in the process – a signature of a Rad Rides by Troy build. The twin-turbo small block features the best components money could buy is mated to a 4L80E auto trans that makes highway cruising a breeze.
How about that colour? Troy is well-known for his unique colour choices – some of which don’t seem like they are compatible when spoken about, but when they are laid onto laser-straight panels, there’s no denying that you need to trust Troy when it comes to creating a unique colour combo. Initially, Glen asked Troy is he’d lost his mind in regards to the lower section colour! I guess not, Glen. And when the interior colour samples arrived, the whole package simply came together. Technically the colours are called Medium Cypress on the top and Olive on the lower part of the Biscayne’s subtly modified body. Both are from the PPG catalogue. Speaking of the interior, Chicayne’s insides are anything but 1962. The standard issue dash is long gone, with a gaggle of AutoMeter dials now providing the information, sitting just behind the Billet Specialities steering wheel. The seats are factory items that have been modified to suit the build theme before being covered
Olive, Sage and Beige buffalo suede. There’s a carbon fibre console added to each seat, as well as a four-point harness to keep all passengers secure. There’s a multi-point, chrome-moly roll cage added to not only make the car track legal, but also keep the Chev from twisting itself inside out when that boost comes on song. The “taxi bar” pivots to allow access to the rear seat. Cruising tunes are provided by an impressive Kenwood/ Diamond Audio sound system. Completing the package is a set of 18-inch and 20-inch “Chicayne” Billet Specialties wheels – colour coded of course!
Knowing just how good the team at Rad Rides are at building custom rides, Glen informed Troy of what he wanted and then let Troy run with it.
Upon its debut back in 2002, Chicayne was awarded the SEMA GM’s Design Award and the Mothers Shine award followed by the 2003 Goodguys Street Machine of the Year! Twenty years later, the car is still as relevant, proving just how far ahead of its time Chicayne actually was. Glen recently parted company with the Biscayne, sending it to auction at the Scottsdale Barrett-Jackson, surprisingly with No Reserve. Everyone knew this iconic car was going to draw in lots of bids and when the hammer dropped, Chicayne had been sold for $291,500!
Initially, Glen asked Troy is he’d lost his mind in regards to the lower section colour! I guess not, Glen.
There’s no denying that the VL Calais Turbo is now regarded as a cult car and is very much in demand with prospective owners willing to drop a big load of cash to get into the driver’s seat. Finding a VL Calais Turbo in standard form is like finding out you’ve got all the Powerball numbers lined up. It happens, but very rarely. Then there’s guys like Chris Bosevski who just like to change things up a bit, adding their own changes to make their Calais Turbo a more impressive ride than the Holden engineers could. I came across Chris’ Calais in the show car pavilion at last year’s Springnats, where it certainly was a standout in amongst a building full of cool cars. It was the custom Red and Silver paint scheme that first grabbed my attention, but the closer I got, the more impressed I was with the build quality of the VL. Sure, the body was mint and the paint was so smooth, it looked like it was poured onto the body, but its more than just a nice paint job laid on by mate, Cameron Milne. This Calais is the complete package – front the outside in, under the bonnet and the driveline!
Chris modified the existing centre console to fit the B&M Pro-Ratchet shifter like it was meant to be there.
Originally, the HK left the factory covered in Silver Mink with red trim – one of the most desirable colour combinations for this model. The first thing Pete did was to remove the panels (including the complete front end) and then sandblast the underside to clean it up and make sure there wasn’t any nasty surprises waiting for him. When the dust had settled, the bare floor proved to be in great shape and it was at this stage that Pete added a 3.55-geared Detroit Locker diff as well as HQ drum brakes and all new lines and bushes. And with a big horsepower engine upgrade planned, Pete dropped the HK off to Brett at Wicked Industries to add some chassis connectors and minitubs – just the thing to through those 15x8-inch Auto Drag Centerlines under complete with the 28x10.5inch Mickey Thompson Sportsman Pros. Completing the underside makeover are HQ disc brakes, 90/10 shocks and lowered Lovells springs on the front end with 15x5.5-inch rims and 640-15 Excelsior tyres. The rear end now sits lower too, thanks to reset leaf springs and Koni adjustable shocks. /Users/killerrides/Desktop/’20:21 MAGAZINES/KILLER RIDES MAGAZINE/KILLER RIDES ON SHOW/RED VL COMMODORE_SPRINGNATS/IMG_1933.JPG
Inside is a mass of grey velour using the usual Calais patterned material highlighted with bold red accents, that covers the factory door trims as well as the more body-hugging VS GTS front and rear seats. The original gauge cluster has been made redundant so that the Haltech IQ7 dash can take front and centre position within the custom carbon fibre surround. Chris modified the existing centre console to fit the B&M Pro-Ratchet shifter like it was meant to be there. The custom trim continues into the boot area where once again, the grey velour is highlighted with red accents.
But it’s under the bonnet that gets most VL fans hearts racing. Sitting in amongst the surgically clean engine bay is one tough six-pack. Before the Barra came along, the factory turbocharged hero car was the pumped RB-powered VL. Over the years, these engines have seen serious development to the point where they are making incredible horsepower. Chris’ RB30ET engine is no different with a host of high-end gear to produce enough grunt to run a best of 9.0-secs @ 155mph in full street trim! The bottom end features Nitto pistons, rings and oil pump, and
race rings and bearings with everything being balanced and blueprinted. The cylinder head has been extensively modified with race porting, larger valves, heavier springs, half inch head studs and a Kelford cam. A Hypertune intake, throttle body and fuel rail was bolted up to one side, with the opposing side scoring a 6boost exhaust manifold, 60mm Turbosmart wastegate and Garrett GTX4202R turbo unit. The exhaust system comprises of 4-inch pipe from the turbo back, forcing the gases out with ease. The engine is controlled via a Haltech PS2000 ECU.
Finding a VL Calais Turbo in standard form is like finding out you’ve got all the Powerball numbers lined up. It happens, but very rarely.
Forget the standard 4-speed auto, Chris went with just two gears to handle the grunt, with the Powerglide auto featuring billet internals, transbrake and trans cooler. A 3-inch, one-piece tailshaft connects the ‘glide to the factory fitted Borg Warner diff that now has 31-spline axles and a 3.45-geared centre. Stopping power is ample thanks to the Wilwood brakes fitted to each corner, slightly obstructed from view by the 17x4.5 and 15x8-inch Billet Specialties Win
Lite wheels. Other notable underside upgrades include Nolathane bushes throughout, Pro9 lower control arms, 90/10 shocks in the front and 50/50 shocks in the rear. Chris’ efforts didn’t go unnoticed by the Springnats Judges scoring a bunch of awards including a place in the Top 10 Cars of Show, Top Sedan (Street Car), Top Standard Paint, Top Pro Street and Pro’s Choice! Like I said, it’s a damn impressive build. Looks like I’m not the only one who thinks so…
Situated around half an hour west of Goulburn’s CBD, Crookwell is one of those small country towns where not a whole lot happens for most of the year. But for car guys and girls, that all changes when the annual Rollin’ Chrome event takes over the local Showgrounds.
Country folk are a different breed, and I mean that in a good way! Everyone is friendly to everyone, even those that may be just passing through on their way to somewhere else. No matter where you go, you’re greeted with a smile and a ‘G’day’ with the locals only too willing to have a chat. So, when I saw the Rollin’ Chrome Car Show was going to be in Crookwell’s showground, Kathy and I just had to go. Initially, we were going to take the Chev, but circumstances stopped that this year, so fingers crossed, we’ll make the trip in the ’62 next Feb!
I’m still happy we made the trip for a look and to grab some pics though! Even though the Showgrounds are situated on the outskirts of town, the roadways around the venue were overflowing with spectators’ cars, bikes and trucks – always a great sign to see so much support for an event. Once we made our way into the show area, it become more than evident that the punters weren’t the only ones supporting the 2023 Rollin’ Chrome show. As we walked in the gate, we were in amongst around 50-60 custom bikes at a guess, with lots of food outlets and some traders occupying space around them, along with the live music that were set up right alongside.
Moving into the car display section, I was amazed not only at the sheer number of cars and trucks setup on display, but also the variety! If you went home from this show without seeing a favourite car, or at least creating a new favourite, then you’re a very hard person to please. The old school car show atmosphere took me back to the Wagga Wagga Street Machine Nationals. Lots of cars, lots of people and lots of support from the local and surrounding business creating a hive of activity all day. It really was worth the two-hour drive from home to get there and be part of the 2023 Rollin Chrome event. Congrats to all who helped make it happen. See you in 2024!
MARCH
17-19 30th CHRYSLERS ON THE MURRAY
Albury / Wodonga
www.chryslersonthemurray.com
25 DAY OF THE DRAGS
Sydney Dragway
26 HOLY TRINITY CAR SHOW
3 Strangeways St, Curtin ACT 10am-3pm
26 SUSSEX INLET CLASS SHOW ‘N’ SHINE
Lakehaven Reserve @ Bowling Club sussexinlet.nsw.au/shone-shine
APRIL
1 STREET, SPEED,MAYHEM
Ballarat Showgrounds
www.streetspeedmayhem.com.au
6-9 AUST. STREET ROD NATIONALS
Hawksbury Showgrounds, Clarendon www.asrf.org.au/hawksbury2023
6-9 NARRANDERA ROD RUN
Narrandera & Surrounds www.narranderarodrun.com.au
21-23 QLD HOT ROD SHOW
RNA Showgrounds, Brisbane www.qldhotrodshow.org
23 YASS SWAP MEET YASS SHOWGROUNDS
Ray - 0409 931229
27-29 COOTA 400
Cootamundra Airport
www.coota400.com.au
29 MOTOR MADNESS ‘23
Townsville Showground
30 JUNEE SHOW AND SHINE
Junee Showgrounds
Junee Motor Club - 0428 241388
30 WIDEBAY RODDERS SHOW N SHINE
Hervey Bay, QLD
MAY
6-7 21st MEGUIAR’S MOTOREX
Melbourne Showgrounds www.motorex.com.au
27-28 HOT ROD & CUSTOM AUTO EXPO
Rosehill Racecourse, Sydney www.hotrodandcustom.com.au
JUNE
7-11 COOLY ROCKS ON Coolanagatta, Qld www.coolyrockson.com
7-11 DOWNUNDER BEACHFEST Caloundra, Qld
www.beachfestdownunder.com
8-11 WINTERNATIONALS
Willowbank Raceway
www.willowbank-raceway.com.au
JULY
23 NSW ALL FORD DAY
Sydney Dragway
www.allforddaynsw.com
AUGUST
12-13 KILLER RIDES LIVE #5
Illawarra Hockey Centre, Unanderra (Wollongong)
www.killerrides.com.au
Australia’s
