Performance in Motion Magazine Vol. 11 No. 2

Auto

The

Show

Issue

Vol.11 #2 •

SPRING 2011

Performance in Motion 1100 The Queensway Toronto, ON M8Z 1P7 Phone: 416-259-3678 Fax: 416-259-6433

EDITOR/PUBLISHER Bob McJannett bmcj@sympatico.ca PRODUCTION DESIGN Rob McJannett CONTRIBUTORS Thomas Anderson Mark Ackert Jesper T. Andersen Steve Cole Greg Forman Jim Madigan Frank Malfara Robert Michaelson Paul Sonstrop Leonard F. Slye with Bonnie Staring as the Reluctant Passenger PROOFREADER Spike “The Machine” LaVigne Are you Moving? Let us know, email us at: moving@

Table of Contents Reluctant Passenger Glossary....................................4 price of fuel getting you down?..................................6 2011 Drag Race Schedules.........................................8 Directory Ads..........................................................10 Texas Vanity Plates..................................................12 Book Review............................................................14 2011 Autoshow........................................................16 Icons: Camaro & Firebird.......................................22 Ford - Modern Muscle.............................................28 Mailbag...................................................................35 World’s Biggest Engine?..........................................36 Win a 555 Big Block................................................38 Conquistador Surf Bike .........................................40 Mustang raises $200K.............................................44 Editorial..................................................................47

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performanceimprovements.com PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40609642 • PERFORMANCE IN MOTION is published four times a year: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Circulation is 30,000+ (ISSN 1703-8421) Copyright ©2011 All rights reserved by Performance In Motion Publishing. The fine print: We respect your privacy, and do not sell our mailing list. All opinions are those of the usual gang of idiots, most of whom sniff gas fumes. The information presented is via said gas sniffers, from which there can be no responsibility by the Publishers as to legality, completeness or accuracy. Recycle this magazine - give it to your friends. If you enjoy our magazine, be sure to let us know! This magazine may not be reprinted without permission of Performance In Motion Publishing. (We’re nice guys, just ask) • Thanks for everything Russ! •

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WINTER 2011 • PiM • 3

Reluctant Passenger Glossary

A

h, Spring! Just the thought of April showers rinsing away all the vehicleeating salt and grit brings a smile to any car nut’s face. And that’s when it happens—the twinkle in his eye turns into an idea, and the idea turns into a road trip.

Sometimes there’s no avoiding it. Not when he’s all giddy, rubbing his hands together like a kid on the last day of school, beaming because his ride is ready to go. As a reluctant passenger, you’ve agreed to abide by a certain A panel A group of judges used on shows like American Idol B panel The people who didn’t get picked for the A panel Bumper Someone who rides your ass Carson top A toupee that makes the wearer look like Johnny Carson Crank shaft A miserable date who insists you pay for dinner Cylinder head What you get when you keep rollers in too long 4 • PiM • WINTER 2011

code—one that involves actually sitting in the passenger seat from time to time.

So why not make the ride more enjoyable by expanding your knowledge of automotive terms? I’ve taken the liberty to select some random words I’ve heard during cruise nights, auto shows and actually talking to drivers, and I’ve provided what I’m sure are the correct definitions.*

Differential The amount still owed on a tab after everyone says they’ve chipped in

Instrument cluster A group of awkward-shaped instruments blocking a fire exit

Drive shaft A miserable date who insists you pay for dinner, parking and gas

Master cylinder A geometric shape that takes itself way too seriously

Fan belt What happens to fans that get too close to a celebrity Fly wheel A toy for flies Hood ornament A landmark specific to a particular neighbourhood Hub cap Short length of time a husband willingly shops

Lug nut A hoarder who owns an RV Rad flush A water-saving toilet Rocker arms Muscles created by pumping your fists in the air while listening to Aerosmith Rocker panel A group of people with rocker arms

Sump The expression on a driver’s face when a vehicle won’t start Tire pressure Pushing yourself beyond exhaustion

Torque A type of hat worn by angry Frenchmen in the spring

It’s doing small things like this that make drive season so much more interesting.

There you have it—now you can impress any automotive enthusiast, or at least keep them entertained between pit stops.

Enjoy the ride.

•

* Please note that the words “correct” and “definition” may have been used incorrectly in this sentence.

About the Author: Bonnie Staring is a comedian,

advertising copywriter and one of those people who enters all kinds of contests. To see what else she’s been ranting about, visit her website: www.bonniestaring.com

Photo Illustration created by Robert Michaels.

WINTER 2011 • PiM • 5

price of fuel getting you down?

I

s the price of fuel getting you down? If so there are numerous relatively simple things you can do to get better mileage. Here are some that we use in our own cars.

Replace your highly restrictive air filter with a K&N or Spectre free flowing lifetime air filter.

Replace your belt driven fan with a high quality Flex-a-Lite electric fan. This will reduce the effort your engine puts out to drive the belt driven fan.

Be sure your tire pressures are correct. Carry a good quality pressure gauge in your glove compartment and check them weekly.

6 • PiM • WINTER 2011

Clean or replace your battery terminals. Your alternator has to work harder to charge the battery through the debris growing on the terminals.

Install synthetic oils and lubricants like Royal Purple.These will reduce engine friction and improve your fuel mileage.

Install a vacuum gauge and use it to get the best fuel mileage. When driving, keep your gauge reading as high and as steady as possible. The highest reading will give you the best fuel mileage.

Do a tune-up, replacing the spark plugs, oxygen sensor and fuel filter will ensure your engine runs best, while using the least amount of fuel.

One of the functions a vehicle tuner can perform is to increase the fuel efficiency of your car or truck.

By tuning your vehicle’s fuel injection, ignition and transmission shift characteristics, the Superchips Flashpaq can deliver up to a 20-percent improvement in fuel economy for diesel pickups, and 10-percent for gasoline-powered cars and trucks. That’s money you can put in the bank!

If you own a pickup truck install an Extang Tonneau cover to reduce the turbulence created in the back of the truck.

WINTER 2011 • PiM • 7

2011 Drag Race Schedules

Johnny O in his bad blown Chevy II - Photo by Mark Acker

T

he 2011 season for the Ontario Street Car Association (OSCA) looks to be one of the best ever since its inception back in 2000. The addition of the stock suspension X275 drag radial class and the heads up Pro Street bike class will only add to the best heads up street legal style drag race action!

Giant wheel stands, 2,000 horsepower street cars, big smoky burn outs and 200MPH motorcycles make the OSCA one of the most exciting drag race series in Canada. Come see your favourite early and late model muscle cars battle on the legendary quarter mile race tracks in Cayuga and Grand Bend.

Check us out at www.raceosca.com or follow us on Facebook!

May 28-29: “Let the Battle Begin” Toronto Motorsports Park June 18-19 : “The Heat is On!” Toronto Motorsports Park July 9-10: “Summer Sizzler!”

Toronto Motorsports Park July 30-31: “Battle by the Beach!”

Grand Bend Motorplex August 13-14: “Hot Summer Brawl!”

Toronto Motorsports Park Sept. 17-18: “Championship Finals!”

Toronto Motorsports Park

The home built hot rod of Danny Medeiros. With little exception Danny and his brother Joe did almost all the work on his EZ Street Camaro.

Photo by Mark Acker

8 • PiM • WINTER 2011

T

he Joe’s Transmission TNT Super Series (TNTSS) is very excited to announce its 2011 event schedule. The 10.90 sportsman drag racing series has new features for its fifth anniversary season.

For 2011, the schedule will remain centered around southern Ontario and western New York with twelve points races PLUS a non-points “open” and the first-ever TNTSS Race Of Champions.

The season will open as always at Dunn Tire Raceway Park (DTRP) on Friday, May 6. Then will return to Cayuga Dragway at Toronto Motorsports Park for a double header weekend May 21-22 along with the PMRA, Quick 32 series and the Can-Am Stock / Super Stock series.

The TNTSS then heads to New York state for two double-headers. The first on June 3-4, starting at DTRP on Friday, June 3 and ending at Empire Dragway on Saturday, June 4. The second double will be at DTRP on July 1-2.

Next stop is a non-points race tentatively scheduled at Grand Bend Motorplex on Friday, July 15 at the IHRA Mopar Nitro Jam Nationals.

St. Thomas Raceway Park will then host its first-ever TNTSS double-header weekend on August 20-21 joined again by the Can-Am Stock/Super Stock series.

Labour Day weekend sees the TNTSS return to Cayuga Dragway for another doubleheader with the Can-Am Stock / Super Stock series AND for the first-ever TNTSS Race of Champions on Saturday night. The TNTSS will then return to DTRP to close out the 2011 season on Friday, September 9.

TNTSS Director Ted Barnes is excited to have some unique events in this year’s schedule. “To have the dates set for 2011 will allow our competitors and fans to plan their season.

Stay tuned for more news about enhanced payouts at select events!”

•

Steve McCarrick’s 1956 BB Chevy

May 6: Dunn Tire Raceway Park May 21-22: Cayuga Dragway June 3 : Dunn Tire Raceway Park June 4: Empire Dragway July 1-2: Dunn Tire Raceway Park July 15: TNTSS OPEN Grand Bend Motorplex (tentative)

August 20-21: St. Thomas Raceway Park

September 3: TNTSS Race of Champions Cayuga Dragway September 4: Cayuga Dragway September 9 : Dunn Tire Raceway Park Schedule - Subject to Change WINTER 2011 • PiM • 9

Directory Ads

www.lawrencetransmission.com

PIM_AD_final.pdf

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Texas Vanity Plates

Is this plate worth

$15,000?

And you thought Vanity plates were expensive in Ontario!

Written by: Thomas Anderson • Photos: Courtesy of myplates.com

Texas

recently held an auction for 33 specialty plates. You bid on a personalized licence plate that is fully transferable. The plate is good for 25 years, however, you must pay the annual vehicle registration fee over and above.

About a thousand Texans witnessed state history at Cowboys Stadium the night of the auction. The first-ever auction of licence plates in Texas set records. My Plates estimates that the 33 plates went for a grand total of $138,650 or an average of $4,200 per plate.

Unlike other Texas licence plates, Auction plates 12 • PiM • WINTER 2011

can be sold legally to someone else, so there’s the chance winners could take the plate they won at auction and sell it for a profit.

FERRARI set the record for most expensive plate ever sold in Texas at a whopping $15,000. COWBOYS was the second highest-priced plate at $11,500. GOHORNS went for $10,500.

RANGERS brought in $10,000.

Auction winners are not bound to a certain background design. They are purchasing the message, example COWBOYS, that they may then put on any of the designs. Texans have bought more than 34,000 My Plates

since November 2009, putting more than $2.6M in the state general revenue fund.

This money comes to the State as it faces roughly an $18B (yes, billion) deficit.

Texas has come up with a creative way to raise money that is not a tax or a fee.

Buying a specialty plate is a choice, not only do they get fun, cool, colourful plates, but that a portion of the sale goes to help pay for services to all Texans.

If you are moving to Texas or are simply interested in learning more, further information is available at www. myplates.com

•

Q: Which of the plates above were not authorized by Texas, but came from a list of outlawed licence plates? See below for answers.

Here are the 33 auction plates and what they sold for • Lot 1: GIDDY UP . .....$2,500 • Lot 2: T BIGTEX ........$2,500 • Lot 3: FISHING ..........$1,400 • Lot 4: MILLION .........$1,500 • Lot 5: RAIDERS .........$2,000 • Lot 6: DIAMOND . ....$2,000 • Lot 7: RANGERS .......$10,000 • Lot 8: FREEDOM ......$2,500 • Lot 9: SOONERS . .....$4,500 • Lot 10: FORD4U .......$2,000 • Lot 11: MUSTANG ....$7,000 • Lot 12: RANCHER . ...$1,500 • Lot 13: GO HORNS ..$10,500 • Lot 14: COOL DAD . .$4,500 • Lot 15: AGGIES 1 ......$2,750 • Lot 16: BELIEVE ........$6,250 • Lot 17: DRAGONS . ..$7,750

• Lot 18: TEX4NS . .......$1,000 • Lot 19: MY TEXAS . ..$3,500 • Lot 20: COWBOYS ...$11,500 • Lot 21: 2FAST 4U .....$3,000 • Lot 22: NASC4R ........$2,500 • Lot 23: FERRARI .......$15,000 • Lot 24: HUNTING .....$1,500 • Lot 25: T STARS ........$1,000 • Lot 26: MICHAEL . ....$800 • Lot 27: AMERICA .....$3,000 • Lot 28: T DALLAS . ...$1,500 • Lot 29: MAVS FAN ...$1,200 • Lot 30: FT WORTH . .$5,000 • Lot 31: PORSCHE .....$7,500 • Lot 32: BEST MOM . $3,750 • Lot 33: Bidders Choice $6,000 WINTER 2011 • PiM • 13

A: 6Q-2Q, ESTICL, REDNEK, FL8ME, 3MTA3, MOMLUV, UZI4U & 3M3TIB

Book Review

Book Review: Automotive Sheet Metal Forming and Fabrication

If you enjoy building your own automotive projects, this is the book for you. Matt Joseph shows you how to design and fabricate things from metal. How to create fenders, hoods, and other auto parts made from sheet metal.

Metal forming tools from low cost to expensive are covered in the text of this book. You will learn the basics of using dollies, hammers, shot bags etc. You will also get instruction on the English wheel and other more exotic tools.

There are also tips on material choices, “what to use when.” However, the emphasis is on the basics, things you can do yourself with a little Author: Matt Joseph instruction and a lot of patience.

SA196 • 144 pages softcover It doesn’t matter if you want to take this book Suggested Retail $24.95 out to the shop or simply to read about techniques you may never use, Automotive Sheet Metal will provide insights into a group of skill sets often considered as an occult science.

•

Are you getting our

News?

Visit www.performanceimprovements.com and sign up to get our performance newsletter featuring new products, rebate programs, event listings, exclusive promotions and more!

• We value your privacy and hate spam as much as you. We never sell our mailing or e-mail list. • 14 • PiM • WINTER 2011

Performance Engine Gaskets for Drag Racing, Oval Track and High-Performance Street MULTI-LAYERED STAINLESS STEEL (MLS) CYLINDER HEAD GASKETS • Multi-Layered Steel (MLS) head gaskets are designed for extreme cylinder pressures produced by high horsepower – high compression, turbo-charged, supercharged and nitrous oxide engines • Manufactured from Viton rubber coated stainless steel layers to resist corrosion and positively seal engine fluids • Stress formed inner and outer layer embossments act like springs that rebound under cylinder head clamp load, creating force to seal excessive combustion pressure in cylinder bore • Used by numerous top-name NHRA Drag Race Champions including Duane Shields - Top Alcohol Dragster, Brian Hough - Top Alcohol Funny Car, Kyle Seipel -Super Comp, Jimmy DeFrank & Dan Fletcher - Super Stock

www.mr-gasket.com

Embossed Stainless Steel Middle Spacer

Embossed Stainless Steel Outer Layers

216-688-8300 WINTER 2011 • PiM • 15

2011 Autoshow

2011 Canadian International Auto Show Autoshow Stories & Photos by Bob McJannett & CIAS

T

oronto’s Metro Convention Centre was the venue for the 38th annual Canadian International Autoshow. With over 600,000 square feet covered all of the auto manufacturers’ latest offerings, plus dazzling displays of “the unobtainables,” you know the cars we all lust after, but would have to sell all our children into slavery to afford, there was lots to see.

This year’s show was extremely upbeat; after the effects of the recession, it appears the consumers were coming out with an interest to buy.

The Camaro section had a lot of cool cars.

Here is a legendary Don Yenko-built 427-powered Camaro.

See more F-Bodies page 26.

16 • PiM • WINTER 2011

Many firsts are displayed during the shows ten-day period, and if you are in the market for a new vehicle, it is a great place to start.

We are not, so instead, we chose to focus on the cars we thought our readers may be interested in. Two of the “Big Three” domestic manufacturers were truly promoting performance, while the third was a little more low key about it. (Oh, I know, they are no longer the big three, but they still are to me.) Here are some of the cars and displays that caught our eye.

•

Hidden underneath that fancy tablecloth was the all-New BMW 6 Series Cabriolet, due to arrive in Canada this spring. The 4.4-litre V-8 engine develops a maximum 400 hp between 5,500 and 6,400 rpm, generating peak torque of 450 lb-ft between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm.

Ford is hoping to make big waves in 2011 with its first EV passenger car, the Focus Electric. Visually, the Focus Electric has an improved aerodynamics package, incorporating a new front fascia that looks a little Aston Martin-like.

See more Fords page 32.

For creativity, you have to give the folks at Mini an A+. Mounted on the wall above their exhibit was this full-sized Mini.

WINTER 2011 • PiM • 17

You have to admit Mercedes has come a long way since this was their top of the line vehicle.

Carl Benz patented his horseless vehicle on January 29, 1886.

Looking for a luxury two-passenger sports convertible? This BMW Z4s could certainly fill the bill. Powered by a twin turbo inline 6 engine, it will run 0 – 100 km in 5.0 seconds.

This Honda Indy car was on display in the Honda stand promoting the Toronto Indy Race July 8-10 2011.

Honda has come a long way from the plain-Jane box it once was. This CR-Z features a 1.8L VTEC 4-cylinder engine, 15” aluminum wheels and a 4-speaker 160 watt sound system.

18 • PiM • WINTER 2011

Today’s top of the Mercedes line is this magnificent SLS AMG Gullwing coupe. Described by Mercedes as “a cockpit, an engine and two wings.” What can you say, classic styling with all today’s creature comforts, plus a 563 hp engine that will get you up to 100 km for that banzai off-ramp pass in 3.8 seconds.

Looking to spend six figures for a premium luxury sedan? The Mercedes CLS 63 AMG is worth a look. Featuring AMG sport suspension, exhaust and wheels, with a 507 hp engine to take you from 0 – 100 km in 4.5 seconds, no slouch for a sedan.

WINTER 2011 • PiM • 19

Central Driving Position Its central driving provides exhilarating experience similar to driving a singleseater competition car. This important advantage gives a lot more stability and driveability.

20 • PiM • WINTER 2011

The cockpit of the Pléthore has plenty of space to comfortably accommodate a driver and two tall passengers. The possibility of integrating a passenger on each side of the driver makes the Pléthore the unique Supercar with three passengers.

HTT Pléthore The Pléthore LC-750, the first and only Canadian supercar, manufactured by HTT Automotive, powered by a 750hp engine and built entirely in carbon fibre, was unveiled in its latest version at the CIAS 2011.

Plethore, French for Plethora or overabundance.

With 750 horses under the hood, a top speed of 388 km/h and a 0-to-100 km/h time of 2.8 seconds, it certainly offers an overabundance of power.

Maximizing last horse out of the 7-litre super-charged V8 engine is the 100 per cent carbon-fibre body and frame, which allows the car to weigh only 1,250 kilograms (about the same as a Volkswagen Golf).

WINTER 2011 • PiM • 21

Icons: Camaro & Firebird

ICONS CAMARO

&

FIREBIRD

2011 Canadian International Autoshow had a section celebrating “The Legend of the Camaro & Firebird.” There were numerous examples of these great cars on display, in both original condition and modified. In addition, there were a couple of Camaro race cars out on the show floor. Here are the ones that caught our eye.

•

Now that the Camaro is back, there is a new version of the Indianapolis 500 pace car.

Check out the cool fender badge they are using now.

22 • PiM • WINTER 2011

Richard Pickering’s “Z Skunk” street legal 1968 Camaro Z28 race car features a 420HP-301CI small-block cross ram equipped engine.

David and Zoe Parr had their 1967 Camaro RS/SS pace car convertible on display. This car has had a frame off restoration.

Moving to 1969, John Quindamo’s Camaro pace car features both a big block engine and four-speed transmission.

WINTER 2011 • PiM • 23

2010 Lingenfelter T/A • LPE455 The engineers and designers at Lingenfelter managed to transform a new Camaro into a firebreathing (655HP, 610 TQ ) tribute to the 1971 Firebird Trans Am cars.

Jason Ramsay’s 1968 Big Block powered RS/SS four-speed car was fully restored in 2005.

This certainly brought back great memories of the time when Mark Donohue and Roger Penske ruled Trans Am racing.

24 • PiM • WINTER 2011

P.I. TORONTO 1100 The Queensway Toronto, Ontario 416-259-9656

P.I. BRAMPTON 12 Rutherford Rd. S. Brampton, Ontario 905-453-9901

P.I. HAMILTON 891 Upper James Hamilton, Ontario 905-574-6940

P.I. PIERREFONDS 4909 Boul. St. Charles Pierrefonds, Quebec (514) 626-1866

P.I. BARRIE 422 Dunlop St. W. Barrie, Ontario 705-735-1274

P.I. GUELPH 567 Silvercreek Pkwy Guelph, ON N1H 6J2 519-821-6740

P.I. OSHAWA 1487 Simcoe St. North Oshawa, Ontario 905-725-3533

Call Toll-Free: 1-877-471-6700

WINTER 2011 • PiM • 25

General Motors also featured a number of skunk works vehicles modified by others. Additionally they did have a nice representation of the modern muscle cars currently offered directly from the dealer’s floor. Camaro and Corvette were the big guns at this booth.

•

SLP is building these ZL585 Super Camaros. Starting with the factory 426 HP engine and 6-speed manual transmission, they add a supercharger, low restriction cold air package, free flow exhaust and more to reach 585 HP. Add in many styling changes and upgraded suspension and you end up with a truly impressive car.

Even on the GM web site, they call this “the fastest production car they have ever built” The supercharged LS9 engine produces 638 HP. The car comes with more carbon fibre than the ZO6. The parts list is amazing, things like titanium valves and titanium rods are hidden in these engines.

26 • PiM • WINTER 2011

The Corvette ZO6 features a 7.0L LS7 engine, aluminum frame, and selected carbon fibrebody panels. There are pages of special feature that come on this car. Perfect for the owner who wants a daily driver and a weekend warrior in one unit.

This 2011 Cruze competes in the FIA World Touring Car Championship.

There is a series in Canada and another international series that runs primarily in Europe.

Check the size of the intake valves on these angle plug aluminum heads. They should flow like crazy.

Part of the GM display was this dream shop with high performance parts out on the benches for all to see.

Check out this 2011 Camaro SS Coupe, a great looking car that you won’t have to sell the house to own. Powered by their 6.2L V8 engine with a 6-speed manual transmission.

Ford - Modern Muscle

W

ith their “Legendary Looks Modern Muscle” graphics emblazoned on the wall of their display area, Ford were definitely trying to appeal to the enthusiast. They had a number of vehicles on display that had been built outside the factory walls to show what could be done with their products.

•

This 2.0L Ecoboost-powered 2012 Ford Focus STR was a co-operative project of Ford and Ford Racers building a club racer base that would meet race rules in many series.

Included is an FIA regulation roll bar, a racing 6-speed transmission, big brakes etc.

Here is a 2012 Focus titanium Hatchback without all the race parts.

A very nicely optioned grocery-getter.

28 • PiM • WINTER 2011

2011 Ford Taurus SHOx is loaded with aftermarket upgrades transforming it into a remarkable high-powered great handling long-haul cruiser. 465 horsepower and a paddle shifted 6-speed automatic combine to send our Taurus swiftly down the highway.

The Razzi body kit, Baer Brake upgrade, H&R springs and redone interior make this a pleasure to drive.

Looking for an upscale crowd carrier, this Ford Edge SEL featured custom paint, a sunroof, a custom grille, 22” wheels, lowered suspension, huge sound system, with a leather and suede interior. Brand names like K&N, Magnaflow, Dupont, H&R, and Katzkin were all used by K Daddyz Customz to create this head turner.

WINTER 2011 • PiM • 29

Ford is bringing back the Boss 302 Mustang, all the muscle of the 69 version with the creature comforts of today’s automobile. 444 horsepower, upgraded suspension and brakes, plus Boss 302 spoilers combine to make this Mustang unique.

30 • PiM • WINTER 2011

WINTER 2011 • PiM • 31

Chrysler took a more low-key approach to high performance, choosing not to have any outside-built specialty cars on display, they did, however, fill the floor with a number of their high performance Hemi-powered models.

•

2011 Challenger SRT 392 Hemi. Add all the features of the Charger RT, tighten up the suspension, add some unique body accents and then enlarge the Hemi engine to 6.4L (392) that produces 470 hp and you have the Challenger SRT8 392 edition.

Beneath the hood of this rather conventional looking white Dodge Charger RT AWD lurks the 370 hp 5.7L hemi engine. To appease the gas mileage gods, it is equipped with Chryslers 4-cylinder mode fuel-saver technology. The Charger rides on 19” aluminum wheels and comes with more than 60 safety and security features.

32 • PiM • WINTER 2011

If you need a larger more sedate looking sedan, the Chrysler 300C should fill the bill. Featuring most of the high performance options available, these come with a slightly detuned 360 hp 5.7L engine.

The Chrysler 200 Convertible will fill the bill for those who like the wind in their hair. If you order the Touring trim, you will get the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine with a 6 speed automatic.

WINTER 2011 • PiM • 33

Call Toll-Free: 1-877-471-6700 performanceimprovements.com 34 • PiM • WINTER 2011

a long time, recently found it in Michigan and have made the deal to purchase it and return it to Ontario.

Canadian Hot Rods has a great five-page spread by my friend Mike Lowden on the search for the roadster.

The follow-up article about finding the car will be in the next issue.

The reason I am sending this to you is that it just seemed to fit when I received your Vol. 11, #1 issue of

Performance in Motion magazine. The article about “OLD COOTS” –and I do qualify, plus the pictures of nostalgia Hot Rods.

Congratulations to you for being in business and in supporting the hobby for all these years.

Cheers, John Willoughby Walkerton Ont.

We love to get your letters & feedback – and if you send us a highquality photo, (bigger is better) we might even print it! letters@performanceimprovements.com

Seeing you have been around since 1964, brings back some great memories during the 60s in London, Ont. I have attached a couple of pictures. The first one is me at 22 years old with my ‘32 roadster. The second is our drag race car during the mid 60s. I sold the roadster to pour money into the drag car. The third picture is my old ‘32 roadster as it looks today. I have been looking for this car for

Mailbag

Mailbag

WINTER 2011 • PiM • 35

World’s Biggest Engine?

Is this the World’s

BIGGEST Engine?

Story by Len Sly • Photos courtesy of Wartsila-Sulzer and Jesper T. Andersen

F

or those who have to have the biggest, I think this is it. Imagine the size of the car that Jay Leno would have to build to use this one!

The Wartsila-Sulzer RTA96-C turbocharged two-stroke diesel engine is the most powerful and most efficient prime-mover in the world today. It is available in 6-through 14-cylinder inline versions, designed primarily for very large container ships.

The new generation of larger container ships needed a bigger engine to propel them. The cylinder bore is just under 38” and the stroke is just over 98”.

Each cylinder displaces 111,143 cubic inches (1820 liters) and produces 7780 horsepower. Total 36 • PiM • WINTER 2011

displacement comes out to 1,556,002 cubic inches (25,480 liters) for the fourteen-cylinder version.

Fuel consumption at maximum power is 0.278 lbs/hp/hour (Brake Specific Fuel Consumption). Fuel consumption at maximum economy is 0.260 lbs/hp/ hour. At maximum economy, the engine exceeds 50% thermal efficiency. That is, more than 50% of the energy in the fuel in converted to motion. For comparison,

most automotive and small aircraft engines have BSFC figures in the 0.40-0.60 lbs/ hp/hr range and 25-30% thermal efficiency range.

Even at its most efficient power setting, the big 14 consumes 1,660 gallons of heavy fuel oil per hour. No matter what the cost of fuel is, this baby is expensive to run. We don’t even want to talk about air pollution.

•

Wartsila-Sulzer RTA96-C: Engine weight: 2,300 tons (Crankshaft alone weighs 300 tons!)

Length: 89 feet Height: 44 feet Maximum power: 108,920 hp at 102 rpm Maximum torque: 5,608,312 lb/ft at 102rpm Total displacement: 1,556,002 cubic inches Fuel Economy: 1,660 gallons of heavy fuel oil per hour

The ‘EMMA MAERSK’ entered service in 2006, and is propelled by the world’s first 14-cylinder in-line engine, the RTA96-C. WINTER 2011 • PiM • 37

Win a 555 Big Block

Support a Good Cause

WIN A• 555 Story by Steve Cole • Photos courtesy of World Products, Inc.

• • • PROJECT 1320 is going to raffle one of JOE

T

he Quarter Mile Foundation, a notfor-profit foundation dedicated to saving the pioneering history of drag racing, is producing PROJECT 1320, a documentary film series about the growth and history of drag racing from its inception thru till the end of the 80s. The intention is to create 25 filmed episodes detailing the sports growth from the people who lived it.

First-person oral histories from the men and women who made it happen.

Now you can help them reach their goals.

Joe Mondello Engines and World Products are building a 555-cubic-inch Chevrolet Mk IV engine to raffle off in support of PROJECT 1320.

“This will be the first of a series of ‘Save Our Heritage’ engine raffles in conjunction with leading engine builders.” Noted Traci Hrudka’ Foundation Chairman “As I talked to Traci and some of the Foundation’s board members, I was struck by their dogged determination to make this documentary a reality, Our sport and the 38 • PiM • WINTER 2011

industry should have done this job many years ago, and I want to provide whatever support and encouragement I can to this endeavor.” said Mondello.

Bill Mitchell, Jr. of World Products said, “I have grown up in this sport and industry, and although I was not fortunate enough to watch from the very beginning, I have seen many milestones over the years. Racers and fads come and go. Whether it be running around the shop at Motion Performance, while Dad was building some of the coolest muscle cars, or being at the race track during the days when he competed in Competition Eliminator, the education was invaluable!

“When Joe came to me with his proposal for support and hearing the passion in his voice that has obviously helped drive the sport to where it is today, we had to be part of it and felt it would be an honour.

The engine, dubbed “Mondello’s Vintage Rat,” is designed to run on pump gas and will be complete (including ignition) from carburetor to the oil pan, from the nose

MONDELLO’s 555 Cubic Inch BIG BLOCK Engines pulley/harmonic damper to the flexplate. It will be a 555-cubic-inch Chevrolet (Mk IV version), with a single four-barrel carburetor and designed for use with an automatic transmission.

World Products is supplying the core of the engine: a Merlin engine block, heads and the intake manifold. It will deliver an estimated 700-plus horsepower and 650 ft-lb of torque. The valve covers will be engraved with the Mondello Engine and World Products names. Once completed, it will be dynoed, and the dyno sheet will accompany the engine to the raffle winner.

According to Joe Mondello, the engine will be vintage in name only. Using the very latest cutting-edge parts, from the industry’s leading manufacturers, we will build an engine to die for. “I am pleased to say all of the manufacturers are supplying the components without charge.”

Raffle tickets will be available at events where the Quarter Mile Foundation will have a presence, as well as thru the

Foundation’s website www.PROJECT1320. com, according to Ms. Hrudka. Tickets will be priced at $10 (US) each or 6 for $50. The raffle tickets will be available beginning at the Race & Performance Show, February 26 & 27 at St. Charles, Ill. The winner will be drawn at the Performance Racing Industry Show on December 3, 2011.

Believe us, your chances to win are far greater than if you buy a lottery ticket, plus the money will go to support PROJECT 1320. These films will not only save our history, but be wonderful tools to explain the sport to those who do not understand it and to politicians who might want to force us off the roads.

Canadians are eligible to win, however, Canadians will not be able to declare a taxdeduction for their donation Buy your tickets now. Let’s bring that massive engine home to Canada.

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WINTER 2011 • PiM • 39

Conquistador Surf Bike

Written by: Jim McBurney • Photos: Courtesy of Paul Sonstrop Jim McBurney has been around the car scene for more years than he will readily admit to. He has built numerous hot rods and customs plus he use to put on the Wheel World car shows in Niagara Falls. Here is his story about the Conquistador Surf Bike.

T

he first thing people think when they meet me is, where is your bike parked? Well, I used to ride but that was about 30 years ago; I guess I looked the part, although all the bikers I remember, looked like Fonzie.

About two years ago, I happened to end up at an auction of very rare Hollywood movie “stuff,” I saw this bike, well sort of a bike, more like a pile of parts. I tend to see things very clearly in my mind in a finished state. This was a bike with 40 • PiM • WINTER 2011

no front end, handle bars, wheels, brakes, any kind of functional levers, seat, exhaust , and no cables, chain, engine side cover, (did come with two sets of wheels that didn’t belong to it) taillights, wiring or battery, but lots of potential.

Well, never one to turn down a challenge, I came home with it. The bike was originally built in 1975,

by Bad Boys in California.

Commissioned and owned

by Edd “Kookie” Byrnes of 77 Sunset Strip fame. (77 Sunset Strip, for those too

young to remember, was about the coolest show back in the early sixties, many cool hot rods and great looking girls had all the young guys watching). This bike was in a few magazines and the Bikers from Hell movie.

The paint on it was the first thing to catch my eye, not to mention the great design of the surf board, the front and rear fenders, headlight, and gas tank. The builders were instructed to break the molds after casting the glass fenders, genuine one-offs.

The motor and transmission had been completely rebuilt with a slight over bore to about 1100 cc, so nothing needed there.

Someone had to have dropped this bike at one time in its life, it had a few scars.

I began by making templates of all the art work, kept track of all the colours used, stripped everything down, repairing any damage and base-coated all parts. Clear coated, then sanded down the clear coat, redid the art work with the help of a good friend Mike Vandervoet of M J Signcraft, then cleared again.

I hand-built the forward controls, all brake brackets, changed the brakes to disc front and rear, purchased all brake components and new wheels in Florida.

I wanted to keep it old school so I went with wire spoke wheels, Z handlebars on top of 10 over Big Dog front end.

The side panel vents are from a 1936 Graham (come on, it had to have some car parts, on it, Ha!). Hand-built side panels, found a seat to suit it, new rubber, matching handle grips, WINTER 2011 • PiM • 41

Conquistador

forward control pedals in a diamond format, Jack Daniels risers, drag style exhaust pipes, hand built wiring, skull tail lights, added an S&S carb to finish it off. Because there is no kickstand available, I had to build a custom kickstand for this surf bike. This bike is over ten feet long and is very well balanced trail wise, it rides well .

All photo credits go to Paul Sonstrop. Special thanks to Gary Holland, Chuck Nagy and my wife Gayle for the foresight to let me build this machine (she is the owner and tells me it is up for sale). I called this bike Conquistador (Spanish for conqueror) and also after the Procol Harem tune.

•

Conquistador 1972 Harley Davidson Sportster Restored by W. James McBurney, Cardude Vehicle Restorations & Creations Niagara Falls 42 • PiM • WINTER 2011

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P.I. PIERREFONDS 514-626-1866 Call Toll-Free: 1-877-471-6700 WINTER 2011 • PiM • 43

Mustang raises $200K

MODIFIED MUSTANG RAISES MORE THAN $200K FOR CHILDREN CHARITIES Written by: Thomas Anderson • Photo: Courtesy of SEMA

A

one-of-a-kind customized vehicle, known as the WD-40/SEMA Cares Mustang, helped raise more than $200,000 for two children’s charities, Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp.

Sold at the Barrett-Jackson Auction in January, the ’11 Ford Mustang GT received an online bid of $100,000 and generated another $125,000 in donations from others who wanted to support the effort.

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44 • PiM • WINTER 2011

“We’re pleased that WD-40 chose to sell the WD-40/SEMA Cares 2011 Ford Mustang custom coupe at our 40th Anniversary Scottsdale auction,” noted Craig Jackson, chairman/CEO of BarrettJackson SEMA Cares represents the automotive specialty equipment industry and has been raising money for Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp for more than three years. The sale of the Mustang represents the single biggest contribution to SEMA Cares to date.

“We are overwhelmed and completely surprised with the results of the WD-40/ SEMA Cares Mustang that was auctioned at Barrett Jackson,” said Mike Spagnola, president of Street Scene Equipment and SEMA Board member. “I am eternally grateful to Barrett-Jackson for their help

with the auction, as well as the management staff at WD-40.”

The car, rebuilt with high-performance aftermarket parts and a 5.0-liter V8 engine, produces nearly 600 horsepower, features a custom body kit and interior, entertainment system, and paint that emulates the WD-40 brand. Build partners included Street Scene Equipment, Paxton Superchargers, Stillen / AP Racing Brakes, MagnaFlow, Forgeline, Advanced Clutch Technology, Katzkin Leather, Hotchkis, Polk Audio, California Pony Car, Nitto Tire, PPG, Grant and GTR. Childhelp® is an organization that provides services to abused and neglected children, and the Victory Junction Gang® Camp provides life-changing camping experiences to special needs and chronicallyill children.

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WINTER 2011 • PiM • 45

RAISING the BAR

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46 • PiM • WINTER 2011

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For a free catalog call 888-882-8340

I

pride myself on being a careful car owner, preferring to look after simple maintenance items before they become more serious. Recently, my wife came home complaining about the power steering on her car. It was stiff and hard to steer, and seemed as if it had become manual.

Knowing that I had just checked at the fluid levels in both our cars, I went out to take a look. I stared down into the engine compartment unable to locate the power steering fluid reservoir.

After ten minutes of looking, I resorted to the owner’s manual. I could find nothing on power steering; now I was really curious. I came upon the page with the fuse diagram and found a 15 amp fuse marked EPS. The light came on, this car came with electronic power steering. I located the fuse, but it was OK. That was all that the owner could do, so it was off to our friendly mechanic who looks after the problems that surmount me.

We laughed about my inability to find the power steering reservoir, but he assured me I wasn’t the first. He said there have been problems with these units and sometimes “reflashing” the computer fixed them. If not, we would have to replace the unit, “Not cheap,” he noted. The car went off to the computer expert and came back working OK. Unfortunately that didn’t last, after a week the problem came back.

When it quit as my wife was going to one of her regular projects, she arm wrestled it back to our mechanic with instructions to get the part and get it fixed.

He ordered an OE replacement EPS unit and installed it; as he had said, it was not cheap! However, the car

Editor’s Note

Editorial

now seems to be working fine, and to my wife that is all that matters.

I have owned many cars for over 50 years, and this is the first time I ever had to do more than put fluid in the reservoir. Even after running them so dry they complained, a little fluid solved the problem. Searching the Internet for “problems with GM electric power steering” turned up over 700,000 hits.

It became obvious that this was not just a one-off problem, it seems we have joined a fairly large club.

Two things bother me about this situation. When I looked at the part taken out of the car it was clearly marked Delphi “made in Taiwan.”

Second, they are building cars with drive by wire technology, no throttle cable, acceleration is controlled electronically from the pedal to the fuel injection. What will happen when that malfunctions? I shudder to think.

I still wish for the good old days, something like a 1965 Chevelle with the rare Z16 package. All you had to do was lower it 2” to 3”, install a disk brake upgrade kit and you had a truly memorable car. A car where you could find everything you might want to fix.

Get every sparkplug out with nothing in the way. Change alternators, starters etc. easily. Try any of these projects on today’s vehicles.

But we call it progress and, of course, I realize we can never go back, it’s simply wishful thinking. But man, those were good times for car guys!

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WINTER 2011 • PiM • 47

0-415 MPH in 11 Months

At Spectre Performance, racing is in our blood. We have been chasing speed records for nearly three decades, from open road racing to dry lakes, salt flats and more. In 2009 we took our gasoline fueled, Caddy powered streamliner to Bonneville and went 330mph. Fast enough to set a world record, but not fast enough. We went back to the drawing board. More power, more R&D. In August 2010 we went back, the car went 366mph. Still not fast enough. A month later at the FIA Shootout we hurt a piston, ate a few turbos, spent all night on the salt and eventually went 415mph. On gasoline. With an iron block Cadillac. Sucking air through twin Spectre hpR filters. That's right - we run air filters on every run, pulling air from the dirty high-pressure zone a few inches above the salt - and we don't need to change 'em, just knock the salt off and keep running.

If you're going to buy air filters for your street car, race car or tow vehicle, shouldn't you buy the brand tested at 415mph?

www.SpeedBySpectre.com