When it comes to restoring cars, cutting corners is simply not an option for us, and our decades of experience in the business makes Cliff Avenue stand out from all the rest. A detailed and high-quality finished project is our signature mark. This is accomplished by perfecting every detail, such as having all the original bolts, plating, colors, upholstery and stunning paint jobs. If you’re not looking for a concourse original but are looking for something customized, our staff has the ability and skill to complete specialized vehicles as well.
By Tom Olsen | Photography by Shane Monahan
It's probably safe to say that most people in our area are familiar with Blue Bunny Ice Cream. Based in Le Mars, IA, Blue Bunny Ice Cream was owned, up until early 2023, by the Wells family. Wells Dairy originated in 1913 when Fred H. Wells started a milk delivery route. In 1919 Fred's brother, Harry, came on board as a partner. The company evolved into the world's largest familyowned and managed ice cream producer. Wells Enterprises was sold on January 23, 2023. Harry Wells' grandson, Mike, was CEO of the corporation from 2007 until the recent sale.
While many CEOs might slip away into a leisurely retirement, that isn't Mike's style. Mike tells me that he's as busy, or busier than ever with his retirement ventures. Mike and his wife, Cheryl, are co-founders of Red Shed Enterprises. The purpose of Red Shed Enterprises is "to support and invest in the future of Le Mars by creating unique spaces where people want to live, work, play, and visit."
I was fortunate recently to visit Mike in one of those locations: The Garage at 800. The Garage at 800 is designed as an event center, but there's much more to it than your average event center. I found it to be a step back in time. From the moment you enter, you are presented with a variety of classic cars and trucks, hundreds of vintage signs, outboard boats from the 1960s, antique gas pumps, and interesting collectibles. There is a car collection, certainly, but one could also consider it to be a museum. A really cool museum!
As you proceed through the building, you enter a large area that recreates a portion of downtown Le Mars in the 1950s. A muralist from Des Moines, IA, spent 14 months creating murals covering the walls depicting the library, coffee house, movie theater, ice cream parlor (of course!), Standard gas station and Chevrolet dealership. Most of the buildings appear as they did in the 1950s. Some still appear that way today. Inside the Chevrolet dealership sits a beautiful 1950 Chevy on a rotating carousel. In the murals, the people appear almost lifelike, and all furnishings and subtle touches are accurate to the time. The ambiance felt while attending an event here must produce a heavy dose of nostalgia.
I'll discuss the event center further, but this being The Motor Market, let's talk about cars.
As with many of us, Mike's interest in cars came from his dad. Mike grew up near the river, and his dad loved all things mechanical. There were several boats in the family over the years, many of which had automotive engines. Mike credits his dad with teaching him how to wrench on engines. In high school, Mike bought a 1968 Chevrolet. He then continued
The Garage at 800 is designed as an event center, but there’s much more to it than your average event center.
to get more involved in the car hobby as time and resources permitted. He bought a 1969 Chevelle convertible in the 1990s, which he restored. The 1968 Chevelle in the collection now is a tribute to that first Chevelle, which Mike and Cheryl had when they were married.
The collection covers a wide variety of cars and trucks. Many were purchased with the intent that they would be display vehicles and add to the overall effect in the event center. While Mike is primarily a Chevrolet guy, brand wasn't the determining factor for the cars purchased. Mike wanted "colors, different manufacturers, and different body style looks." Many of the cars are displayed as purchased, although Mike has had several restored or "resto-modded."
When Mike set out to find a variety of body styles and looks, he certainly accomplished that! From one extreme to the other, it's here. From a lifted "monster truck" style 2.5-ton KaiserFrazer military truck, to a stunning Shell Valley Cobra kit car, to a 1951 Kaiser-Frazer Vagabond and a variety of others in between, there is plenty to see. There were fourteen cars on display during my visit, plus a 1964 Harley Davidson Servi Car as a bonus. Mike noted four favorites in the collection: a 1959 Chevy El Camino, 1968 Chevelle hardtop, 1956 Chevy 210 Handyman, and the Shell Valley Cobra.
The El Camino "means a lot" to Mike. He was born in 1959, and this was the first "high-end" build he did. This car is on a Roadster Shop chassis and uses the original 348 block with many high-performance additions, Holley Sniper fuel injection, and a Tremec 5-speed transmission. It's finished in Porsche "Guard Red" and has won several car shows.
A 1956 Chevy 210 Handyman wagon is another favorite of Mike's. He feels it is an "eclectic, family car of the 1950s." His 210 is red
and white, sits on the original chassis, and features a 350ci engine with a 700R4 overdrive transmission for great drivability.
How could a Shell Valley Cobra with nearly 750 horsepower not be on the favorites list? It would have to be, of course. Mike commissioned Jeff Roling of Classic Auto Works in Kingsley, IA, to build the Cobra. Power comes from a GM LS3 engine mated to a Tremec 5-speed transmission. Mike previously owned a different Cobra, which he found just wasn't what a Cobra should be. This one has the power and the vintage feel that makes it "so much fun to drive!"
Rounding out the favorites list is a stunning 1968 Chevelle with an original style black vinyl top finished in BMW "Frozen Bronze." The license plate gives away the power plant in this one. It's powered by the legendary L-88 427 Chevrolet big block coupled to a GM 4L80 automatic transmission. Halibrandstyle "kidney bean" wheels and a gorgeous leather interior
complete the look. Jeff Roling in Kingsley, IA, also built this car.
As noted earlier, other cars and trucks in the collection are many and varied. They include:
A 1963 Studebaker Lark convertible, white with a maroon convertible top. Mike's wife, Cheryl, fell in love with the car. It was purchased on bringatrailer.com, as was about half of the collection. The original lacquer paint was faded and checked, so an exterior body and paint restoration was done on the Lark.
A 2.5-ton Kaiser-Frazer military truck, often referred to as a deuce-and-a-half. Taylor Made in Texas built the truck. Mike had his eye on this vehicle for years; Cheryl bought it and surprised Mike with it at a family event celebrating the sale of the business. The truck is used in parades and car shows, and it's "a beast to drive!"
A 1956 Chevrolet Bel Air two-door in Harbor Blue and Ivory with an original style interior. The Bel Air sits on a Roadster Shop chassis, is Chevrolet LS powered, and Mike feels it's the nicest driving car he has. He "just wanted a driver; it sounds good and looks phenomenal."
I mentioned the 1950 Chevy Deluxe sitting on the carousel in the Chevrolet dealership diorama previously. The Deluxe was in great condition when purchased and required only minimal paint restoration to one area; new chrome bumpers were also added. The interior is original and appears like new.
A pinkish red and white 1956 Ford Fairlane Victoria was the first car bought after the sale of the business. There is a light dose of a unique gold glitter in the paint that really sets it off. The Victoria had the Thunderbird engine package available in 1956.
There are additional cars and trucks, some of which you'll see in the photos, but this gives you a good feel for the variety and quality of the collection.
There is a very cool green 1949 Mercury 2-door coupe in the collection. This car sat in a dealership for 30 years as a showpiece. This car is all original and is just as purchased. This style of Mercury is a total throwback to the early hot rodding days of the late '40s and early '50s. The spotlight and windshield visor really add to the effect.
A maroon and white 1955 Chevy 3100 pickup truck has all original running gear. Mike is a "pickup guy" and really enjoys driving the truck. If you've noticed, there are several reds and maroons in the collection. Red is Mike's favorite color in vehicles.
The "most interesting vehicle in the collection" is a 1951 Kaiser-Frazer Vagabond in coral. This model is the originator of the hatchback style in automobiles. There is an assortment of accessories and original literature in the car. It's interesting to note that the spare tire mounts inside the rear seat passenger
area. The Vagabond was located in Sioux City, IA, and was "very nice" when purchased.
While there are still others, the last vehicle we'll discuss here is a 1938 Dodge one-ton "humpy." The term humpy comes from the raised area in the roofline of the truck. This humpy is one of six built on a one-ton chassis. It was a "total rust bucket" when found. This is another vehicle that Jeff Roling restored. Beautifully finished in white and blue, the Blue Bunny Ice Cream and Wells logos are featured on the sides. Inside is an ice cream freezer where ice cream bars are stored for distribution during parades and other events.
There are additional cars and trucks, some of which you'll see in the photos, but this gives you a good feel for the variety and quality of the collection.
In addition to the car collection, you'll notice the huge collection of signs on the walls. Two pickers helped locate the various collectible signs. Mike didn't necessarily want "9s and 10s, but nice quality, well-patinated" signs. There are approximately 210 signs on display, mostly automotive and petroleum-themed. Also included are outboard motor signs, beverages, and a large Smokey Bear. (The Smokey Bear being one of Mike's favorites.) A "three-legged John Deere" is likely the most valuable. Other collectibles include neon signs, gas pumps, vintage Wells and Blue Bunny Ice Cream items, and a working vintage jukebox with 45s. A collection of ten NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson’s actual race-worn helmets was interesting to see.
As you can tell by now, the Garage at 800 is not your average event center. It has been created to provide an exclusive setting to "get beyond the same event every year at the local convention center." The purpose is to support local charities
with which they partner. As Mike tells me, "The exclusivity drives an interest in selling tickets. Most events sell out within a few weeks as people want to come experience the venue and support the cause."
Presently, only a few events are held each year. Two hundred twenty to two hundred fifty attendees can be accommodated. Last year, charity events were held for the Floyd Valley Hospital, the Le Mars Arts Center, and the Chamber of Commerce. Mike and Cheryl wanted to build a great venue to bring the community together, and they certainly accomplished that.
The Garage at 800 is not open as a museum or for tours. Presently, the only way to view it is to "attend a charity event or write an article for a magazine." I count myself as fortunate to be that writer and receive the full tour! If you ever get the opportunity to attend an event here, I suggest you don't miss it.
At Mitchell Tech, your tomorrow begins today. With more than 35 career-driven programs, you’ll learn by doing, not just listening. From hands-on labs to real-world experience, every step prepares you for a high-demand career.
This fall, take the next step toward your future. There’s no better way than experiencing Mitchell Technical College for yourself.
Tech
Camp – Wednesday, October 22: Hands-on sessions designed just for high school students. Try out different programs, meet instructors, and see where your skills can take you.
Exploration
Day – Thursday, November 6: Tour the campus, connect with students, and explore the many high demand career opportunities waiting for you.
Visit us in person or online—and see how you can get ready at Mitchell Tech.
TALKING TIRES
BRAKE CHECK WHAT
ABOUT BRAKES
By ArticleCity.com
Your vehicle's brakes are among its most critical safety components, yet many drivers overlook regular brake maintenance until problems arise. While brake failures cause only about 5% of car crashes, routine brake checks remain essential for optimal vehicle performance and safety. Understanding how to maintain your brakes can prevent costly repairs and dangerous situations on the road.
Modern brake systems are more complex than they appear. When you press the brake pedal, you're initiating a sophisticated process that involves multiple components working in harmony. The pedal sends a signal to your brake fluid, which creates the pressure needed to activate your brakes. Most vehicles use either disc or drum brakes, and when problems occur, they typically stem from issues with brake fluid or worn brake pads.
Brake fluid serves as the vital link between your brake pedal and the actual braking mechanism. Without it, your brake pads and sensors wouldn't receive the input from your foot pressure. This hydraulic fluid requires professional attention every one to two years, as it can become contaminated or lose effectiveness over time.
Checking Brake Fluid Levels
While professional servicing is recommended, you can monitor your brake fluid levels as part of routine maintenance alongside oil changes and tire rotations. Locate your brake fluid reservoir and check the dipstick. The level should read between the "add" and "full" lines.
Unlike other automotive fluids, brake fluid doesn't get consumed during normal driving. If levels drop significantly, this often indicates worn brake pads or, more concerning, a system leak. Fluid below the "add" line requires immediate professional attention. Additionally, dark or discolored brake fluid suggests it needs flushing and replacement.
Pay attention to how your brakes feel while driving. A spongy brake pedal sensation often indicates brake fluid issues and warrants an immediate inspection.
Professional Brake Fluid Service
Brake fluid replacement is more complex than it appears, requiring complete system drainage before refilling. The fluid is also highly corrosive to paint, skin, and clothing, making professional service the safer choice. Attempting DIY brake fluid work risks missing critical system leaks that professionals are trained to identify.
Brake pad replacement schedules vary significantly based on driving conditions. Drivers in mountainous regions or areas with severe weather typically need more frequent replacements than those in temperate climates. Hills and frequent braking accelerate brake pad wear considerably.
Warning Signs Your Brake Pads Need Attention
The most reliable indicator of brake pad wear is sound. Listen for these warning signs:
Screeching sounds when braking indicate your brake pads are beginning to wear and need attention soon. This is your first warning sign; don't ignore it.
Grinding noises mean your brake pads have worn completely down to the metal backing. This creates a dangerous situation and results in more expensive repairs than simple pad replacement.
Other concerning symptoms include rattling noises, brake pedal vibration, or your vehicle pulling to one side when braking. Sometimes foreign objects become lodged near brake pads, mimicking wear symptoms, but it's always better to have these sounds investigated promptly.
Regular brake checks save money, time, and prevent potentially dangerous situations. Brakes are fundamental to vehicle safety, and neglecting maintenance can quickly lead to extensive damage throughout the braking system.
A qualified brake specialist can identify issues before they become major problems, ensuring your brakes operate smoothly and safely. Professional technicians at Graham Tire have the expertise to distinguish between normal wear and serious system problems, providing peace of mind and reliable performance.
Don't wait for warning signs to appear before scheduling brake maintenance. With winter approaching and challenging driving conditions ahead, now is the ideal time to have your brakes professionally inspected. Regular brake checks are an investment in your safety and your vehicle's longevity. Schedule your brake inspection with Graham Tire today to ensure reliable stopping power when you need it most.
An unfortunate duty in the Traffic Section of the Sioux Falls Police Department is investigating serious traffic crashes. Believe it or not, around 6,700 traffic accident reports are generated every year by our department alone. The vast majority of these are handled by one or two officers and are pretty straightforward and not of a serious nature. However, unfortunately, some of these are of greater concern by way of serious injuries and fatalities.
In 2024, according to our records, we investigated 987 injury accidents and 7 fatalities. This is something that generates public interest, not only due to the tragic circumstances, but also the often large scene and impact on traffic flow. The number one priority in a serious crash is proper care for the injured as well as scene safety, to prevent further injury to any other parties and responders.
Our Traffic section consists of one Lieutenant, three Sergeants, ten Officers, and three Traffic Case Investigators, who are essentially in a detective role. Typically, these Officers and Investigators conduct traffic enforcement and education, impaired driver detection and apprehension, hit and run investigations, as well as events, escorts, and house moves, in their day-to-day responsibilities. Everyone in the division has varying specialty training and skill sets to investigate
serious crashes. They receive training in Forensic Mapping, Advanced Crash Investigation and Reconstruction, and Crash Data Retrieval, to name a few.
In the event of a fatality crash, some or all of these resources may be called in, depending on the circumstances. Typically, the roadway is shut down for their safety while these highly trained professionals investigate the scene. They look at physical facts from the roadway and investigate many factors, such as operator error, whether other unknown vehicles could have been involved, or if mechanical failures could have contributed to the crash. The scene is well documented by photographs as well as with mapping equipment to plot evidence points to scale. Evidence from the investigation is also logged by our friends in the Crime Lab. Often, these scenes can take hours to complete, and typically, the higher the speeds and the more vehicles involved contribute to the longer duration of the investigation. Sometimes, serious injury crashes are investigated the exact same way, particularly if there are life-altering injuries and/or serious criminal charges potentially involved.
In the event you come across, or are unfortunately involved somehow, in a large, serious crash, please do not move vehicles and parts or personal effects. Where these items came to rest helps our investigators piece together what happened. While your heart may be in the right place by trying to help clean
up, it can hinder the investigator's efforts. Likewise, always stay at the scene and provide a statement as to what you observed to our Officers. If you come upon a crash scene that is being investigated, do not drive around the squad cars or barricades blocking the road. You may have to find an alternative route to your destination. I assure you, there probably is one.
Friendly reminder: to prevent crashes like these, remember to slow down, utilize safety equipment like seatbelts, put your phone down and pay attention to the road, and drive sober.
Do you have a traffic safety question?
Email heather@michelscom.com to submit your inquiry and Sgt. Travis Olsen will offer an explanation in his monthly Motor Market column.
GARAGE TIME
Why Autumn Is the Best Season for Car Projects
There’s a certain rhythm to fall in the automotive world. As the temperatures drop and daylight hours shrink, many enthusiasts retreat to their garages, rolling up the doors and tackling the projects they’ve been saving all summer. For some, it’s about preservation before winter storage. For others, it’s the thrill of finally bringing an old machine back to life.
The seasonal shift
Autumn is the perfect time for garage work. The heat of midsummer has passed, making long hours with a socket set more bearable. At the same time, the looming winter months create a natural deadline: finish the upgrades now, or face the frustration of a stalled project waiting for spring.
Projects in motion
Every fall, the garages of hobbyists across the country become laboratories of ingenuity. Some are tearing down engines that burned oil all summer, carefully labeling bags of bolts and polishing cylinder heads. Others are welding patches onto floors that saw a few too many salty winters, hoping to save a classic before corrosion spreads too far. Still more are chasing cosmetic dreams: fresh paint on a set of wheels, a custom interior install, or a new set of gauges to modernize a dashboard.
One enthusiast we spoke with described fall as his “reset season.” After a summer of long drives and car shows, his ‘68 Camaro spends October on jack stands. “It’s when I take stock of what worked, what didn’t, and what I can make better,” he says. “By the time spring comes, I want it dialed in and ready to run.”
Why fall matters
Beyond the practical side, there’s something deeply satisfying about autumn garage projects. With football on the radio, leaves blowing against the shop door, and a favorite set of tools in hand, the act of wrenching becomes a ritual. It’s not just maintenance, it’s connection. Connection to the machine, to the craft, and to the seasons themselves.
Looking ahead
As the last bolts tighten and the cars roll into winter hibernation, these fall projects carry a sense of momentum. Whether it’s a small improvement or a complete transformation, the work done in autumn is what makes next year’s miles possible. And for enthusiasts, that’s the payoff: knowing the long hours in a chilly garage will turn into warm asphalt under the tires when spring finally arrives.
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NAME:
CAR YEAR-MAKE-MODEL: 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS Supercharged
Dale Earnhardt Jr Signature Edition Number 1583
ENGINE: 3800 V6 series 2
TRANSMISSION: Heavy-duty overdrive
SUSPENSION: Sport suspension
EXHAUST: Dual exhaust
INTERIOR: Black leather
Richard Haken owns every replica of diecast cars ever made, and he's an avid fan of Dale Earnhardt, Jr. For a collector like Richard, the only thing more satisfying than having a diecast model of a Dale Earnhardt, Jr. car is owning and driving the real thing; his 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS Supercharged Dale Earnhardt, Jr. Signature Edition.
This isn't just any Monte Carlo. Only 2,883 of these special editions were produced, making Richard's car exceptionally rare. What makes it even more unique is that it's one of only 328 built without a sunroof, a low-production variant that true collectors prize.
Richard's connection to this particular car began in 2015 when he first spotted it on carsforsale.com, where he works. The car caught his attention, but it wasn't meant to be, yet. Seven years later, in 2022, fate intervened when the same Monte Carlo appeared for sale again. This time, Richard didn't hesitate. Tired of driving his truck everywhere, he purchased the car from Highway Chevrolet in Rock Valley, Iowa, initially intending to use it as a reliable second vehicle.
Richard dubbed his acquisition "Red Alert" for its attentiongrabbing original Victory Red paint color and impressive performance. "It's pretty quick for having a supercharger engine," Richard adds. "It's a great car for road trips. It gets a lot of head turners!"
What started as practical transportation quickly became something more precious. "I realized it was pretty nice to be driving every day, so I started storing it," Richard says. "It sits in a heated garage when it's not being driven."
The car remains largely original, with only a few modifications:
Want the whole story on this car?
Listen to the Chevy Girl podcast.
ground effects, front spoiler, front headlight covers, and tinted windows. Thanks to the previous owner's son, who was a mechanic, the Monte Carlo was exceptionally well-maintained when Richard acquired it. Apart from needing new tires, everything was in excellent condition.
For Richard, the Monte Carlo SS's NASCAR heritage creates the deepest connection. He watched Dale Earnhardt, Jr. race in the 2003 Daytona 500, making this car a tangible link to that memory. The Signature Edition features Dale Earnhardt, Jr.'s incorporated stripes along the sides, while the interior showcases original Dale Earnhardt, Jr. floor mats. The racing legend's autograph graces both the back of the seats and the dash plaque, and his iconic number 8 appears on the car body and speedometer.
Richard considers only minor updates, mentioning he might someday install a new sound system while keeping the original stock system intact.
Richard's passion extends beyond just owning the car as he actively shares it with fellow enthusiasts. "I've always gone to car shows. My son Tavis and I sell diecast cars on the side, muscle car diecasts, also plastic model cars and Hot Wheels," Richard explains. This family business inspired his personalized license plates: 'RAT WHLS,' where RAT represents Richard and Tavis.
"I take this to all local car shows. I've gotten a trophy in a few of them, but it's basically show and shine. I don't really like competition. I just like showing my car off," Richard says. For him, the joy lies not in winning but in celebrating automotive passion and connecting with others who share his appreciation for these remarkable machines.
PREPARING TO POWER THE FUTURE THROUGH AN EDUCATION AT MITCHELL TECH
By Sarah Grassel
Step into any Mitchell Technical College classroom or lab, and you'll feel it right away: the hum of welders sparking, the steady click of keyboards in information security training, the whir of drones mapping farmland, and the confident voices of nursing students practicing patient care. This isn't education in the abstract. It's hands-on, high-impact training designed to launch careers and fuel South Dakota's future.
At Mitchell Tech, students don't just get ready for a degree; they get ready for what comes after. With more than 35 programs in highdemand fields like healthcare, energy, construction, manufacturing, and precision agriculture, the college has become a powerhouse of workforce preparation. Employers know it. Communities depend on it. And for students, it means real-world experience that translates directly into opportunity.
For recent Automation Controls/ SCADA graduate Bianca Medina, Mitchell Tech stood out because of its reputation for producing graduates with strong, practical skills. Industry leaders specifically seek out Mitchell Tech students, and Bianca quickly saw why. "Working with the material hands-on helped reinforce what I learned, making the information stick," Bianca says.
we needed to know for our careers but also showed us how to create successful resumes and taught us how to continue learning on the job," she explains. Even when challenges arose, she found instructors ready to guide her, not just through the problem at hand, but through the process of problem-solving itself.
Jackson Caba also knew that Mitchell Tech was the right place to start building his future. With dreams of becoming a lineman, he chose the Power Line Construction and Maintenance program, one of Mitchell Tech's most highly regarded offerings.
Bianca pursued her career path after being inspired by her father, who worked in the same field. "Watching my dad work and hearing his stories always fascinated me. Listening to what he did made it seem like he never had a boring day," she recalls. That spark, combined with the DOUBLE EDGE Scholarship she received, fueled her journey through Mitchell Tech.
What stood out most to Bianca was how the college prepared her for life beyond graduation. "They not only taught us what
"My older brother is a lineman, and that was a big influence on my decision to enter this field," Jackson says. "The program is taught in a way that prepares you for work after college. The instructors have been in the industry, so they know the standard and what to expect from their students."
Jackson funded his education through a combination of local scholarships, including the Golden West Scholarship, Tyndall Rotary Scholarship, Hoch Foundation Scholarship, and the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship. Those resources allowed him to focus on his training without financial stress.
Like many students, Jackson's biggest challenge was adjusting to college life. But Mitchell Tech worked to make the transition smoother. He adds, "They realize it's a big change for most students, so they try to make the process as easy as possible. The college also hosts multiple activities, giving students a chance to make new friends."
Mitchell Technical College, we offer more high-demand, high-tech programs to give you the best hands-on education out there.
want to get ready for a great career, got to work for it, learn by doing, limits, and apply your skills world. That’s what we do
mission is simple: prepare you skilled, successful career. Recognized as one of the top performing technical colleges in nation, we offer an experience checks every box: cutting programs, expert and experienced instructors, real-world and outstanding value.
person or online—and see how get ready at Mitchell Tech.
Scan to apply online.
Events
SWT TEACHES
October 11, 2025. 10 am - 12 pm. 901 S. Cliff Avenue, Sioux Falls, SD facebook.com/share/1FM1hg58x3/
HARDEE'S, SATURDAY NIGHT MOTOR MADNESS
(Every Saturday at Hardee's - SF through end of year) facebook.com/share/19fFP2YouY/
CRUISER CAR SHOW
October 4, 2025, 12 pm - 4 pm Rapid City, SD visitrapidcity.com/events/annual-events-and-festivals/ cruiser-car-show
BLACK HILLS SPORTS CAR CLUB AUTOCROSS TRIALS
October 12 - Rapid City, SD centralstatesfairinc.com
4TH ANNUAL CRUISE N FOR A CAUSE, CAR & MOTORCYCLE SHOW
November 20, 2025 - 10 am - 12 pm - Papillion, NE CycleFish.com
TOPPERS CAR SHOW
February 13-15, 2026 - Sioux Falls Convention Center, Sioux Falls, SD topperscarclub.com
COUNTS CAR CLUB CAR & CYCLE SHOW
February 20-22, 2026 - The Monument - Rapid City, SD countscarclub.com
ROD & CUSTOM CAR SHOW
Feb 22-23, 2026 - Monticello IA rodandcustomcarshow.com
DONNIE SMITH BIKE & SWAP MEET / BIKE SHOW
March 28-29, 2026 - Saint Paul, MN donniesmithbikeshow.com
LE SUEUR COUNTY PIONEER POWER - SWAP MEET
April 24-26, 2026 - Le Sueur County, MN pioneerpowershow.com
HIBBING MOTORCYCLE SWAP MEET
Date TBD - Hibing, MN hibbingmn.gov/465/Special-Events
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THE EXTRA MILE
Important Parts
Custom bodywork and paint job: $25,000. Billet custom wheels and tires: $4,500. Spending an extra $500 on extreme-duty pistons that will not fail under load, priceless!
In today’s environment, custom engine building can become a more expensive task than expected in order to get the desired reliability and performance out of an engine package. There is so much information out there online, from friends or from magazine articles on particular builds that brag about inexpensive engine projects that most people seem to trust as fact, but most usually have many costs and actual reliability left out. We all want to get the most out of our dollar, but cutting corners on engine parts and necessary machine work is not a wise choice.
Building a cheap or inexpensive engine is a recipe for disappointment and will cost much more to repair or to start over later after it fails. It seems
to be easier to spend tens of thousands of dollars on things we can see, like the vehicle body and paint, wheels and tires, custom interior, turbo systems, superchargers, valve covers, intakes and headers. But the things that make the car move like the engine, transmission, suspension and rear end, seem to quite often get the low-budget treatment. This is what leads to a vehicle that will not perform to the potential that is expected and often leads to failure. It is harder to spend money on things we cannot see, but it will always save time, disappointment, frustration and money in the long run to take the advice of your engine builder machinist, and do things correctly the first time.
Some of the hard parts in the engine to look at spending a bit more on are the pistons, ring package, connecting rods, crankshaft, engine bearings, valve train, engine fasteners, valves and valve springs. You may not see these parts, but you will notice them when you use your engine. Reliable engine blocks and cylinder heads are also important things to consider for a reliable engine build. Even the best parts in the world will not survive unless all of the machine work and
engine assembly is done correctly. Some of the most important things about the engine are to have correct straight and round cylinder bores, equal deck heights, parallel and flat deck surface, straight and round main and connecting rod bores, correct and true valve seats, a flat and true head gasket surface, correct valve guide clearance and precise engine balancing. All of this will come together with the correct engine assembly. If time and serious attention are taken to the engine assembly, the build will be a success, but if anything is skipped, overlooked, or forgotten, it will most certainly end in disaster.
Here at Sehr Performance, we pride ourselves on keeping up with current machining procedures, continuing advanced education in our industry, and keeping up with new engine hard part technology. All of these things and more are what we call “The Extra Mile,” and our customers all enjoy the talent we have to offer.
A Street rod’S Life ContinueS
By Bob Schmeichel
Ever wonder where street rods are going today? As I get older, I feel like I am part of a dying breed that likes old cars and the attention they get. Even though they make me feel young in my mind, my body tells me differently.
In 2005, Les Ramstad wanted to recapture some of his youth by building an old car, but rather than dealing with an old, dented, and rusty derelict, he decided to build a new car. He connected with Don and Mike Jones, who were one of the local rod shop builders at the time, then called "Color Mystic." After a bit of discussion, it was decided that they were going to build a new 1933 Ford Victoria for Les.
A new reproduction ‘33 Ford fiberglass body with fenders from Downs Manufacturing was ordered, as well as a complete TCI (Total Cost Involved Engineering) frame. Now here is one thing that really bothers me: when too many people think this is a "kit car" when a build is approached this way. This is so far from the truth, as there are no instructions on how to put it together, and every little piece has to be specially ordered or obtained to complete the car and meet the customer's preferences.
With this specific car, I saw five sheets of just parts ordered that totaled
$70,000.00. Again, no instructions, but you must have an idea of how everything goes together. When people ask how, I have always used my comparison of building model cars when you were a kid: it's the same thing, just on a full-sized scale.
During the course of mocking the car together, a Walker radiator was installed, along with a ZZ4 350 Chevy crate engine with a 350 transmission, followed by a Currie 9" Ford rear end. On the inside of the 3" chopped top fiberglass body, an overhead console with an FM radio and CD player was installed, as well as a tilt steering column, a Lokar floor shifter, Vintage AC/heat, power windows, and Stewart Warner gauges to monitor the engine functions.
After the body work and painting were complete with the gorgeous color called Romanesque Crimson over black pearl gleaming in the sun, Billet Specialties wheels with knock-offs were added along with exhaust to quiet the ride down. Then, after about eight months of working on the build, the nearly finished project was handed off to Executive Touch to finish the interior in a light tan leather, which matched the outside in quality, thus making the car a standout in any crowd or car show.
After it was completed, Les showed up a few times at car shows, and then I don't know what happened, but time went by, and I had not seen the car for quite a few years. Then in 2023, one of our club members bought the car and after a couple of months decided to sell it himself, as he had physical issues getting in and out of the suicide-opening doors while being afraid of scratching the painted running boards since the car was so perfect. It wasn't practical for him.
John Honey heard of the car for sale, so Kevin Lucas and I went with John to inspect the car on a hoist to see what John was thinking of getting. We were all very surprised that the quality and parts underneath, which people in the car culture seldom look at anymore, matched the topside down to the smallest detail, finished to a show-quality level.
The thing that was unusual about the car was that it had only a bit over 2,000 miles on the odometer, making it practically a new car. So, after seeing the five sheets of parts lists versus what he could buy it for, John bought it.
John has not sat still, putting 10,000 miles on the car since he bought it. He has individualized it by removing the front bumper, front brackets, and horns to take away from the original look, bringing it to his version of a hot rod appearance. He has also replaced the painted fiberglass running boards with original steel running boards that he installed new rubber on, eliminating the worry about the paint being scratched while keeping the vehicle more maintenance-free.
Both John and his wife, Peggy, especially like the attention the car gets. John mentioned he really wishes he had been in this car hobby earlier in his life because of the camaraderie among friends who help each other out while you learn, which keeps it fun.
Now, a short note on the sad side, followed by the lighter side. While the original owner Les, passed away in April of 2025 at 80 years of age, his vision of this outstanding ‘33 Vicky continues to roll down highways, creating happy memories for both John and Peggy yet to come, even though Peggy does complain about not having a trunk occasionally.
A farm boy from Salem, Bob’s family moved to Sioux Falls when he was 12 years old. After graduating from Washington High School, he attended USD, where he majored in Commercial Art. A lifelong auto and art enthusiast, Bob wanted to combine his passions into a career. A self-taught mechanic, bodywork, welder and painter, he worked in the industry for seven years. He later went to work for Horner Waldorf Box Company, where he worked for the next 33 years, retiring as Package Design Manager for Smurfit Stone Container. Bob has built dozens of street rods over the years, doing everything except the upholstery work. Bob started the Great Plains Street Rodders Car Club in 1985, and today the club has over 340 members. You can see more of Bob’s paintings and car features on the club’s website: www.greatplainsstreetrodders.com
TUNE-IN AND TUNE-UP!® ASK THE MOTOR MEDICS®
Dear Motor Medics,
with The Motor Medics ® Shannon Nordstrom, Russ “The Super Tech” Evans, and Chris Carter From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show.
Hi, guys. I’m the not-so-proud owner of a 2022 GM truck with a 6.2 engine. Here is my problem with them. I bought a 2010 Chevy Suburban that made it 105k miles and then had the camshaft lifter failure that so many have had. I paid to replace the engine, and it made it 60k more miles, and it happened again. My second new purchase was a 2016 Silverado, and at 90k miles, the same thing. Camshaft lifter failure caused the need for complete engine replacement, and I also had two transmissions fail on it. Both get 3-month 3k-mile oil changes and do not tow. Now, my 6.2-powered Silverado is burning oil and is under the crankshaft failure recall, and does have the code P0016. What now?
Thank you,
Rick in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Dear Motor Medics,
I have a 2004 Ford F150, and it has a misfire. This truck has been through so many of them that I am worried about engine longevity. The first issue was coils and spark plus, and I drove it for almost a month before it was fixed, running about 1k miles, and it ran fine once they replaced the parts. The next thing was cam phasers, and it missed for another month, and a lockout kit fixed that. Now, I have a mouse that has chewed through several injector wires, causing a misfire, and they want $400 to fix it. With 300k miles, I’m leery if it will be worth it, as they said driving it that way may have damaged the engine.
Thank you. Janice in Longview, Texas
Dear Rick,
We feel for you as a shop that sees many customers in the same situation. The other trucks are in the past, so let’s talk about the 2022. Yes, GM has recalled a ton of these for crankshaft inspection. During this inspection, slated to start in June, they will change the oil and look for debris, and check for the code P0016. Many will be replaced under this extended coverage warranty. This should not cost anything if you are under it. The oil will also be changed to a 0w40 Mobile Supercar oil, and the cap replaced to indicate the change. See your dealer for details.
Take care, The Motor Medics
25362 Hwy. 11, Garretson, SD
605-594-4181 or 888-200-7562 www.nordstromsauto.com
Dear Janice,
That is a lot of misfire events, but if the repairs were made and the truck still ran well, you dodged the proverbial bullet. What you have now is very common, as rodent damage is seen in our shop almost every month. We would be much more concerned if it were coils not working for an extended period than injectors. The reason for this is that fuel pouring into cylinders unburned can cause damage and get into the oil, and cause even more damage through oil dilution. The only way to know is to repair the issue and see if it works. Maybe look into a cat, too.
