FREE JANUARY 2020
TM
FOR THE AUTO ENTHUSIAST IN YOU
MAGAZINE
It’s not a Carolla…
SEE THE 2020 STL AUTO SHOW AD ON PAGE 2!
Also Inside: • Car Care: What is Peelable Paint? • Car Club Highlight: Horseless Carriage Club of Mo, Inc. • In The Garage, Reader’s Rides, Classifieds, NEW-Enthusiast Cartoon, & more
Also available online at: www.AutoUrge.com
Contents: 4
Car Care
5
Garage Talk
6
On The Cover: Photos by Ryan Ledesma
JANUARY 2020
AutoUrge Magazine Published by: Two Lane Ventures, LLC Publisher: Ron Tucker ron@AutoUrge.com www.AutoUrge.com Printed in the USA
What is Peelable Paint? By Nick Book of A&G Auto Spa Introduction by Gene Harris of Jim Miles Garage, LLC
Feature: It is Not a Carolla... Jim Dodds’ 2013 Lotus Evora S
Contact Us:
Correspondents:
Ron Tucker Ron@AutoUrge.com 636-442-2616
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Reader’s Rides
14
In The Garage Ken Brauch’s 1968 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS
Director of Photography/Head Photographer: Ryan Ledesma
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AutoUrge Business Directory
Contributing Photographers: Robert Ledesma, Karl Lund
From Auto Performance to Electronics and Accessories. A directory of local businesses.
Adam Tucker
Advertising:
Club Highlight
Bob Sampson’s locally owned 1964 Dodge Polara
Digital Content Producer:
info@AutoUrge.com
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The Horseless Carriage Club of Missouri, Inc.
Issue #38
Nick Book, Brandon Green
Eric Bischof Eric.AutoUrge@gmail.com 314-384-6869
Creative:
Designer: Victoria Braswell-Heskett design@AutoUrge.com
Photography:
Copy Editor: Taylor Tucker
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© Copyright Two Lane Ventures, LLC., 2016-2020 All content, copy, layout and design is property of Two Lane Ventures, LLC and may not be reproduced without permission. Disclaimer: AutoUrge simply connects sellers with buyers and is not responsible for any fact checking and/or inaccurate information. Publication of an advertisement and/or Free or Paid Classified does not constitute endorsement or approval of any product or service advertised, or any point of view, standard, or opinion presented therein. AutoUrge is not responsible for any claims made in an advertisement and/or classified appearing in its publications and/or on its website.
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Photo by Ryan Ledesma - 2017 Easter Show
Car Care
Wha t I s Pe e l a bl e Pa i nt ?
A
AutoFlex image (provided by A & G Auto Spa)
utomotive enthusiasts are always working to make their vehicles an extension of their own personality through whatever means possible. One of the most popular ways to make a vehicle stand out is by changing its color. Traditional methods of changing a vehicle’s color can be extremely costly, and vinyl wraps tend to deteriorate faster than actual automotive paint.
ClarityCoat: This newcomer to the market made a huge splash at SEMA 2019 back in October and is focusing on being able to offer any color you can think of – even factory colors from your favorite dream vehicles. Do you want your Miata to be the same color as a Lamborghini you saw on TopGear? With ClarityCoat you can choose any factory color from any car and have a better-than-factory paint job that is 100% removable. ClarityCoat also has a Matte and Gloss option. Both of these products are revolutionizing the way we think about vehicle customization while preserving the paint on your vehicle from the factory. No longer are the days of buying a car in a color you don’t love, or buying a color that won’t hold its value as it ages. You can change the color to anything you want and remove it when you are ready for a change. Keep your eyes peeled for installers of these brands to show up in the St. Louis area within the next year. ■ Article by Nick Book of A & G Auto Spa. For more information please visit www.agautospa.com Have a question or topic idea for Car Care? Email us at submit@AutoUrge.com
Over the last several years, a handful of companies have sprung up and created an entirely new market allowing for 100% reversible color changes that look like actual paint. Welcome to the world of peel-able paint systems. The two largest brands in this market are AutoFlex and Clarity Coat. These two systems offer two different approaches to changing the color of your vehicle. AutoFlex Express: AutoFlex is what you are looking for if you are trying to make your vehicle really stand out. With the availability of a huge library of pearls and dip dyes (this is where the color comes from), it is very easy to create something truly unique with AutoFlex. If you want to make your car neon yellow, color-shift between 2-3 different colors or even make it look like a bass boat; AutoFlex can do it all. You can also decide between Matte and Gloss finishes for a one-of-a-kind style for your ride. ClarityCoat image (provided by A & G Auto Spa)
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GAR AGE TALK A
INTRODUCTION...
fter many years of being told by friends and family that I should be operating my own business, I was finally able to put the pieces together and enter the automotive industry as a business owner in the summer of 2019 — purchasing a local garage that has been serving our area for over 30 years. As a result, I am energized and enthusiastic to cultivate new relationships with those of you that have a passion for cars. Shop owners, parts suppliers, technicians, backyard mechanics, and anyone that just enjoys their automobile all have stories and experiences that are unique. As many of you can relate, from a very young age I had a very keen interest in cars. My curiosity stretches across all areas of an automobile, including mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, paint and body, and even the newer electronically controlled systems (which admittedly are more and more difficult to work on if you do not have the appropriate diagnostic tools). I have spent the last 35 years tinkering on mine and my neighbor’s cars, learning the right way, wrong way, hard way, and easy way to fix an issue or add that customized touch. I have gone to car shows, both custom and new, local and national, to see who is doing what and to get
a sense of how people think about cars and then take those thoughts and translate them into their own realities. As you now know, my story is not unlike many of yours, one that encompasses many years of trials and tribulations, and highs and lows, but with a whole lot of fun in between. In the coming months, with the vast experience of our employees and our passion, we plan to touch on several topics that may shed some insight on perspectives from both the consumer and industry insiders’ viewpoints as they relate to all types of cars that we enthusiasts care about. ■ Article by Gene Harris of Jim Miles Garage, LLC For more information, please visit www.jimmilesgarage.com Have a question or topic idea for Car Care? Email us at submit@AutoUrge.com
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IT’S N
ByRonTucker PhotosbyRyanLedesma 6
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CAROL
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JimDodds’
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he Evora first saw daylight in 2008 from the British car manufacturer Lotus. The Evora was the first all-new car from Lotus since the Elise back in 1995. Today the Evora is still manufactured and there are many variants of the Evora throughout its lifespan, however, the Evora S is true to the original Evora design. The Evora S, first introduced in 2010 and ending in 2014, sports a 345 hp/295 lb-ft Supercharged Toyota 3.5 Liter V6 engine—hence the “S” insignia. In addition, under the skin sports an array of other performance features. The suspension dampers and steering were re-calibrated along with a new single-tubed exhaust system to mention a few. Now I know what you are thinking…you spelled Carolla wrong in the title. It is the correct spelling, and this is not going where you think it is. Stay tuned.
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This stunning example is owned locally by James Dodds of Lake St. Louis, MO. How Jim and this Evora S came together is quite an interesting story. In 2017 Jim decided he wanted to start looking for a nice modern “hobby” car. Jim had not owned a nice sports car before and spent many hours researching online all the different options available. Getting nowhere closer to deciding on the right car for him, Jim decided to seek the advice of an expert he had been listening to for years on the Adam and Dr. Drew Show Podcast… Adam Carolla. If you are not aware, Adam Carolla is best known for Loveline and The Man Show to name a few and is a big car enthusiast. Today Adam is one of the world’s most popular podcasters, in fact, he set the record for “Most Downloaded Podcast” with Guinness World Records in 2011. Jim called into the podcast and got through. He posed the question to Adam, “What would be his advice for a mid-life
crisis sports car for less than 100k?” Adam was happy to help and suggested possibly a used Aston Martin DB9, however, he was more inclined to suggest a used Audi R8 V8 model. Dr. Drew tried to help, however, he had more practical suggestions as he didn’t quite grasp the “mid-life crisis” car in need. Afterward, Jim started looking for an exotic, mid-engine, European sports car. However, it soon became apparent that even though Adam was correct that he could get an Audi R8 V8 for under 100k, it would have considerably more mileage on it than Jim desired. As he continued his search online, the Lotus Evora kept showing up in his search results. One car, in particular, caught his eye on eBay, a low mileage 2013 Evora S and was located in Phoenix Arizona. The car was basically stock except for an aftermarket exhaust system. As it turns out Jim had a lifelong friend -David Pessin- that worked in the car industry and lived near Phoenix. As a favor for Jim he went and looked at the car
and fell in love with it. He demanded Jim buy the car. There was only one problem, Jim didn’t have the money yet, as he was in the process of selling his company. Jim’s friend loved the car so much he offered to buy and store the car until Jim had the funds. What a friend to say the least. By June of 2018, Jim wired the money and arranged to have the car shipped back home to Missouri. Jim later called back into the Adam and Dr. Drew show to follow up. Knowing Adam’s personality, Jim was prepared to receive backlash from Adam. Jim was correct and Adam let him have it pretty good and told him he had sold himself short. However, as the conversation progressed, Adam looked up the Evora S specifications and ultimately came around and agreed Jim had bought himself a good “mid-life crisis” car. Continued on next page.
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Today Jim is enjoying his decision and attending many car events and various club track days. To get the most enjoyment from the car and track day events Jim added some upgrades. Jim took his car to Habibi Motorsports of Maryland Heights, MO. There the car underwent a BOE Stage 1 tune. In addition, a K&N intake air filter was installed along with a Radium Engineering oil catch can. Habibi Motorsports also did a thorough track prep and track inspection which included adding racing brake fluid to hold up to high brake temperatures to help eliminate any brake fade. To help protect his very clean Evora S, Jim sought the expertise at A&G Auto Spa of Maryland Heights, MO and had Clear Bra and Ceramic Coating installed. When asked what his favorite thing about the car is, Jim replied with “The fact that it is a rare car and the combination of English and Japanese automotive DNA.” Speaking of rare—we can’t verify it; however, we believe there might have only been less than 26 US Market Evora S’s produced in this color (Sienna Brown Metallic) in 2013 with only approximately 102 US Market Evora S’s produced in total that year. A total of 607 (all models) produced in 2013 with 264 making it to the U.S. Today the car has only 22k miles on it and looks as good as it did the day it rolled out of the factory. See even more photos of this month’s feature car at AutoUrge.com ■
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The fact that it is a rare car and the combination of English and Japanese automotive DNA.
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Horseless Carriage Club Of Missouri, Inc. Founded: Dec. 5, 1944
Website www.HCCMO.com we plan to share with you W month about a local car club/organization.
elcome to the “Club Highlight”. Each
This month we learn more about the Horseless Carriage Club of Missouri, Inc. What is the history/background of the club/org? Founders and early members included several pioneer automobile makers (Dorris, Dyke, Borbein, and other notables). Early events in the late 1940s attracted thousands of spectators and enthusiasts. Tens of thousands come to events in current years. The organizer of the Easter Concours d’Elegance in Forest Park with the sponsorship of AAA; supportive of non-profit events and activities; oldest car club in St. Louis and much of the midwest. Associated since the late 1940s with the Horseless Carriage Club of America. What automotive make(s)s is the club’s focus? Any make 25 years old or older is welcomed at events, the older the better. What need does the club/org fill in our area? Voice of the old car hobby. The use of historic vehicle license plates in Missouri was spearheaded by the HCCM along with continual monitoring of laws relating directly or indirectly to old cars. What sets your club/org apart from others like it? Four different books on club history (still in print) are available with abundant details. Is membership required to attend meeting/ events/other club activities? Visitors are welcome and membership is encouraged to appreciate the full joy of participating. How often do you meet? Monthly meetings along with one or more other events per month during peak seasons. What are the requirements to join? Have a sincere interest; submit an application form with payment/check (www.hccmo.com), approval by board; need not own an old car; membership benefits for husband-wife and minor children included. Club submitted photos
What are the top benefits of joining? Appreciation of old-car enjoyment with peers; discovery of the past; technical information; friendships & a multitude of activities. What would you tell potential members why they should consider your club/org? HCCM is one of the very best organizations to enjoy as an entry into the hobby and for the support/expertise of members. Does your club/org have a main event each year? --Yes, several: Easter Concours d’Elegance, swap meet, quarterly shows and exhibits including the St. Louis Auto Show. Do you support any non-profits, charities, etc. in our community? Several: Locally And Beyond and Choices Made Quarterly. Is there anything you would like to express to AutoUrge readers about your club/org? The HCCM interfaces with most other car clubs in the greater St. Louis area and has the reputation of being a stalwart leader in the hobby on regional and national levels. Is it ok for members to be part of other clubs? Indeed, yes. Quote from Club/org President or other representative of the club/org: If not the president, please include title. “Hosting a special exhibit at the St. Louis Auto Show has been a vital part of the HCCM schedule annually for 26 years. Thousands of visitors have come into contact with knowledgeable members of the club in our effort to educate the public and foster a keen appreciation for auto history. This is clearly shown by the selection of members’ cars for the 2020 auto show, ranging from cars from the 1980s as represented by a legendary Delorean, and reaching back to 1903 for a rare Dyke runabout made in St. Louis. Dozens of members enjoy the experience of ‘car talk’ with visitors. It’s all done in a wholesome manner and with a spirit of invigoration.” --Dr. Gerald Perschbacher, HCCM display coordinator. If you are interested in your club/org being highlighted, please visit AutoUrge.com and complete the online form. We look forward to learning more about your car club/ organization.
Reader’s Rides BOB SAMPSON’S LOCALLY OWNED 1964 DODGE POLARA MEMBER OF THE GATEWAY CLASSIC MOPAR CLUB Bob purchased the car about 60 miles south of Memphis TN. It was born with a 318ci poly (Polysphere) block. Bob naturally pulled the Polly and the 727 Torque-Flite. Now the transformation began. Under the hood, he installed a 440ci-60 overbore block, decked the block, added10:5:1 pistons, 6 pack rods, Erson cam, 452 heads with a competition valve job, Stainless steel valve retainers & springs, ARP Rod bolts, Steel crank, an Edlebrook intake with (2) 750 cfm Edlebrock carburetors and an electronic ignition. Then underneath a custom 4” driveshaft, built 727 transmission manual shift body (retained the push-button shifter), custom Super Stock rear springs, custom pinion snubber and an 8.75 rear housing with a 3.91 final gear. Finally to finish it off Bob kept the stock red interior and painted it Chrysler Cool Vanilla. Car owner submitted photos.
Share your pride and joy with us and possibly see your ride within the pages of AutoUrge Magazine in our Reader’s Rides section. Send us your info at submit@AutoUrge.com and/or visit AutoUrge.com. ■
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In the Garage
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hances are you are reading this while it is cold and dreary outside. Let’s take a peek inside some area enthusiast’s home garages and see what we can expect this coming car (warm weather) season with their current, local, winter build projects at hand “In the Garage”.
This month we take a look inside Ken Brauch’s garage and his current winter project. You might remember Ken’s, aka Sandman, “Quicksand” a 1950 Chevrolet 3100 custom Pickup from our May 2019 feature. No doubt Ken has the skills and vision to produce another one of a kind gem.
Attention Readers:
For additional pictures and to submit your ride, visit www.AutoUrge.com.
This summer we hope to see his 1968 Chevrolet Camaro RS/SS. The car sports an all numbers matching 396cu big block, 4 speed and 12 bolt posi rear end. ■ To see more of Ken’s build pics, visit AutoUrge.com. Owner submitted photos.
Submit Your Local Winter Project to be considered for February or March’s “In the Garage” section! Email us at submit@AutoUrge.com and/or visit us at AutoUrge.com. Please include a brief description and a few photos of your project.
JAN 2020
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Business Directory For our area’s local enthusiasts.
AUTOMOTIVE PERFORMANCE
MOBILE ELECTRONICS
AUTOMOTIVE PHOTOGRAPHY
CAR CARE
BUSINESS SERVICES/MARKETING
TRUCK/JEEP ACCESSORIES
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VARIOUS AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES
AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SERVICES
