AutoUrge March/April 2020 by Autourge

FREE MAR/APR 2020

FOR THE AUTO ENTHUSIAST IN YOU

MAGAZINE

Ask the Man that Owns Two!

Also Inside: • Mobile Electronics: What Do You Want? • Car Club Highlight: STL Sports Car Council • The Perils of Potholes, Garage Talk, Track Talk, Business Directory, Enthusiast Cartoon, & more

Also available online at: www.AutoUrge.com

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Letter from the Publisher IN THESE TIMES

Dear Readers, As I write this a lot has changed since our last publication hit the stands. First, a handful of weeks ago we had an opportunity to change our “hit the stands” date to be at or close to the first of every month—starting with this issue. Therefore, you didn’t see a March only issue. However, with the new in stands date, there was only a two week void between new issues. Now to the more serious and impactful change since then…the current situation we find ourselves in with the Covid-19 virus. We are pleased to provide you with the New April 2020 issue you are reading now and hope we can provide a little escape in these uncertain times. Due to the recent mandates, AutoUrge is available only in all* Dierbergs Market locations this month. We don’t know, at this time, what the future holds, however, we will do everything we can to continue bringing AutoUrge to you each month. With that said we can’t do this without the support of our valued local advertisers. Now would be the time to research a car care upgrade, audio upgrade, tune, tires, service, specialty auto insurance, JDM or classic car purchase, or any other service or product our partners offer. Give them a call to discuss, purchase online or in-person— if feasible and responsible (again not knowing what the current situation will be as I write this) and/or schedule a future appointment. We print and support local! Now more than ever it is important to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and our website to stay up to date with whatever changes may come our way. We were already working on a more in-depth and interactive online magazine for you…in addition to the print magazine. Watch for news regarding this update as well.

As I mentioned before, we hope while you are in the store getting provisions for you and your family, your FREE AutoUrge picked up on the way out provides that much-needed break from this situation. And when you are home please visit our website and social media channels for even more. I know we as Americans will pull through, in the meantime, if you can, please help any locally owned business with your support—it is more important now than ever. With that said please be responsible for your actions. I like to think “We the people” as a whole know how to support each other and look out for and protect those most in need. Stay safe and keep the faith. “Special Note: The much anticipated “Event Calendar” that can usually be seen within the pages of AutoUrge Magazine from Spring to Fall is temporarily postponed. See the Events Calendar at AutoUrge.com for updates and Submit your events and more. “ Sincerely,

Ron Tucker Publisher AutoUrge a Two Lane Ventures Company, LLC *except Four Seasons

Mobile Electronics

Garage Talk

Feature: Ask the Man that Owns Two!

What Do You Want? By Brandon Green of The Car Audio Shop

On The Cover: Photo by Ryan Ledesma

Contents: The Aftermarket by Gene Harris of Jim Miles Garage, LLC John Sherman’s locally owned 1950 & 1955 Packards

Track Talk

Club Highlight

The Perils of Potholes are Upon Us

AutoUrge Business Directory & More

Introduction: Who is SPS Performance Garage? By Dave Whitworth of SPS Performance Garage STL Sports Car Council

It’s that time of year - the motorists’ dreaded “perils of potholes period,” is upon us.

From Auto Performance to Electronics and Accessories. A directory of local businesses.

MARCH/APRIL 2020

Issue #40

AutoUrge Magazine

info@AutoUrge.com

Advertising:

ron@AutoUrge.com www.AutoUrge.com Printed in the USA Photography:

Director of Photography/Head Photographer: Ryan Ledesma

Ron Tucker Ron@AutoUrge.com 636-442-2616

Contributing Photographers: Robert Ledesma, Karl Lund

Creative:

Taylor Tucker

Designer: Victoria Braswell-Heskett design@AutoUrge.com

Ambassador:

Eric Bischof Eric.AutoUrge@gmail.com 314-384-6869

Copy Editor: Digital Content Producer: Adam Tucker

Correspondents:

Nick Book, Brandon Green, Gene Harris, Dave Whitworth

Follow us to stay up to date with AutoUrge! © 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.

Photo by Ryan Ledesma

Published by: Two Lane Ventures, LLC Publisher: Ron Tucker

mobile electronics

What DO YOU WANT?

his time I would like to ask you a few questions if that would be ok? We obviously won’t be having a conversation but instead, I want you to read this and then take a drive. Take that time to enjoy your car and think about what you love about it as well as what you would like that is not offered in your current vehicle. I, in no means, am going to pitch you on anything in particular from me, but just give you some ideas to ponder in order to make your experience for these spring and summer drives and events a bit more enjoyable. First off, what is it you really enjoy from your vehicle? Is it a high end exotic, a big truck, or a classic? What are some of the things that drew you to it? I for one like a bit of everything just like my music tastes. I love going to shows and seeing the different vehicles and the engineering that went into them. The differences from the classics to modern exotics and how far the automobile has progressed is amazing and all the aftermarket options people choose to express themselves. So what is it for you? And then I want to take your mind down another path. What are some of the things you would like to do to your vehicle? Wheels and tires? A lift or lowering kit for your truck? Lighting or audio upgrades? Better connectivity for your phone? Of course, the list can go on and on and there are literally millions of options on the market today. Who knows, maybe you love your vehicle and have it “complete”. I have never met a

car guy that is officially done, but if so then I commend you. What is the next part? With those questions in mind go have a wonderful drive and enjoy the weather as it turns to car show season. And not to pitch but we have some great advertisers that I work with personally and can vouch for when you do decide to move forward, so check them out. ■ Thank you for reading, Brandon Green/ Owner The Car Audio Shop MECP Master Certified Technician www.thecaraudioshop.co Have a question or topic idea for Mobile Electronics? Email us at submit@AutoUrge.com.

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MAR/APR 2020

Photo: Milhousejp / CC BY-SA

GAR AGE TALK

THE AFTERMARKET

ecently we had a gentleman bring in his wife’s 1965 Mustang Convertible with steering issues. Back in the mid-’80s his father-in-law had removed the stock 289 engine and replaced it with a 5.0 out of a GT. He also installed a rack and pinion steering that was not designed for the car. It had been severely modified and limited the turning radius so much that making a simple right turn was a challenge. The car had sentimental value but was not practical to drive. When he approached me about installing a new aftermarket rack and pinion, I told him I wanted to research it before committing to the project. I found a company that had been producing aftermarket steering systems that had several positive reviews. Once I notified

the owner, and he made the purchase, I was still cautiously optimistic about what we would be receiving. Needless to say, my expectations and my customer’s expectations were greatly exceeded. This system was incredibly simple, with everything lining up properly, and of high quality as well. Minor modifications were to be expected, but in this case, were very minimal. Fit, form, and function of the system were all met, and the customer will be returning in the fall for more upgrades to the car. There are so many companies that produce automotive aftermarket products that it can be overwhelming on which one to choose when looking for that part to make your car just right. Everybody has the latest and greatest

widget on the market that will do exactly what you want. While it is important to do your homework, don’t be afraid to try a new product or system. The aftermarket for automotive products has exploded in the last few years, but there are good, quality products available that will meet your needs. ■ Article by Gene Harris of Jim Miles Garage, LLC For more information, please visit www. jimmilesgarage.com Have a question or topic idea for Garage Talk? Email us at submit@AutoUrge.com

MAR/APR 2020

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Ask the Man That Owns

two!

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MAR/APR 2020

oday it is easy to think of many luxury car brands and models, however, in the “Horseless Carriage” days of the early automobile, the gold standard was a Packard—with stiff competition from Pierce-Arrow and Peerless—aka the “3 Ps”. Packard produced fine luxury cars for over 50 years ending in 1956 and had one of the best ad campaigns with their “Ask a man who owns one” slogan. In the roaring ’20s the Packard was the ultimate car for the wealthy, however being independently owned and not backed by a giant like GM/Cadillac, the great depression was a tough time for Packard as well as others. In 1935 Packard made a bold move to produce a new model called the 120. The new model was an effort to offer a less expensive option/entry-luxury car while still retaining the Packard prestige. The 120 tripled sales and doubled in 1936. By 1939 Packard was still standing as other independently owned manufactures died off, like

the before mentioned Pierce-Arrow. Packard again introduced an even lesser-priced model called the 110 in 1938. These cars and others to follow were offered as two options: more expensive, Senior, trim models and less expensive, Junior, models. During WW2 Packard along with many other automotive manufacturers turned their manufacturing focus towards the war effort. They built marine and aircraft engines for the military. After the war Packard was still healthy and resumed the production of luxurious automobiles, however, they started to make mistakes that would eventually mark the end of the once great luxurious car manufacturer. They continued to dilute their once exclusively luxurious-only line by adding even more new affordable models and new bold designs that some said looked like a bathtub turned upside down. In fact, you could get a cab ride in a Packard model. Continued on next page.

JohnSherman’s1950&1955Packards ByRonTucker | PhotosbyRyanLedesma

MAR/APR 2020

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Aside from the confusing product line offerings, Packard was the first to offer the first automatic transmission called the Ultramatic in 1949. Just one year later, though, Packard was outsold by Cadillac for the very first time. 1951 brought a new look for Packard with a redesign that was less radical and looked more like other cars offered by competing manufacturers. By 1953 Ford and GM battled in a fierce price war and Packard still being an independent began to suffer due to the new-lower prices offered by its competition. To save the company, Packard purchased Studebaker. 1956 was the last year for a true Packard, and in 1958 and after some co-branding failings the Packard name was retired. This month’s feature cars are both owned locally by John Sherman of Ballwin, MO. John is also the Sales Manager at Daniel Schmitt & Co. here in St. Louis. John is in a unique position to be exposed to all types of cars due to his job and he has a soft spot for original – low mileage cars. Let’s start with the Zircon Blue 1955 model called the Patrician (Senior). A fine example of Packard’s luxury offerings. This particular car was sold new to a Packard dealer by the name of DeMotte Garage in Brookville, PA. The owner “Cuffy” had a reputation for being eccentric and never sold this car and kept it for himself until his health began to fail in 1997. His family auctioned off the dealership and all the contents including this car. The car only had 3,795 miles at the time of the auction. A vintage car collector/dealer bought the car at the auction only after trying to buy the car from Cuffy for many years. The car, in fact, still had never been prepped for delivery and had the factory protective paper on the sun visors and the jack and tools unopened in the original boxes. In 2002 the car was sold again to a dealer from Michigan. Then in 2005 the car was brought to a collector car auction and was sold with only 3,895 miles. A gentleman from St. Louis bought the car and was the first to register the car. Upon his passing in 2016, a friend of John’s bought the car and eventually sold it to John with just 6,200 original miles. The second Packard is a Black 1950 Deluxe Eight Sedan (Junior). This car is a fine example of the before mentioned effort to offer a lower cost, Packard. This car sold new for around $2,200-$2,400. At the time, the equivalent Cadillac was priced at $2,800, however, Ford was approximately $1,000 less. Continued on page 10.

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MAR/APR 2020

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This car is yet another example of an all original low mileage car owned by John. This car only has 26,000 miles. It retains most of its paint and the interior is 100% original. Being a Deluxe Eight, it is a higher trim level than the Standard Eight and sold for a base price of $2,600. The car boasts the Ultramatic Transmission, factory radio, heater, fog lights, trunk light, and white wall tires. In an era where so many cars are massed produced and similarlooking, it is refreshing to gaze upon these two examples of Americana. We are also thankful for people like John who preserve these rolling pieces of history for us and future generations to marvel at and enjoy. Lastly, we would like to thank Daniel Schmitt & Co. for allowing us to use their facilities for the photoshoot. ■ Want More? We have even More Photos to see of this month’s Feature at AutoUrge.com! ■

TR ACK T A

new!

SPS

INTRODUCTION:

WHO IS SPS PERFORMANCE GARAGE?

Performance Garage is a division of Solo Performance Specialties, a St. Louis company founded in 1999 that sells a variety of items focused on an amateur track day, autocross and general auto enthusiasts. The Performance Garage was started by myself, Dave Whitworth. I am an ASE Certified Master Technician, SCCA Member, NASA Member, and amateur motorsports participant. I started this garage in order to fill the special needs of the enthusiasts and their vehicles. We focus on suspension, tires, wheel alignment, fluid changes, and other light mechanical work. All work is by appointment only, ensuring that we can focus on your vehicle and not waste your valuable time. We also offer a drop off service. Our pricing is simple, upfront and no surprises or upcharges. For tires, we encourage customers to shop at one of the major online retailers and have the tires shipped to us for expert installation. TireRack.com is our favorite, but we are also installers for Discount Tire Direct, TireBuyer, and TireScanner. Once your tires arrive, rest assured they will be expertly installed with no damage or drama. Unlike regular tire shops, almost ALL of our work is on low profile tires and on expensive wheels. Getting a wheel alignment on your performance or enthusiast car at most shops is an adventure that SPS Performance Garage fully eliminates. Our alignment lift can handle the lowest of cars, and we will set your car to any specs you want using our up-to-date Hunter equipment. If you need help with what specifications to use, Dave can help you with advice based on his 25 years of track, autocross, and race car building experience.

We also offer fluid change and brake bleeding services, along with other light mechanical work and will always work with you to decide if bringing your own parts is best. In the future, look for more articles from us regarding how to choose the best tire, common alignment issues on performance cars and correcting vibrations from tires—to name a few. ■ Article by Dave Whitworth of SPS Performance Garage For more information, please visit www.spsperformancegarage.com.

Photo provided by SPS Performance Garage

Have a question or topic idea for Track Talk? Email us at submit@AutoUrge.com.

COVERAGE FOR THE THINGS YOU CARE FOR • Automobile insurance • Life insurance • Business insurance

Chad Williams Farmers Agency Your Local Agent 4409 Meramec Bottom Rd Ste A, Saint Louis, MO 63129 cwilliams9@farmersagent.com

Call 314-714-4120 today! For Home, Auto, Life and Business. Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states. Life Insurance issued by Farmers New World Life Insurance Company, 3120 139th Ave. SE, Ste. 300, Bellevue, WA 98005.

MAR/APR 2020

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St. Louis Sports Car Council Founded: 2011

Website: www.stlscc.org 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 St. Louis Sports Car Council. What is the history/background of the club/org? In early 2011, the leadership of one of the local British car clubs contacted the other six LBC (as in, “Little British Car”) organizations in town and proposed some form of association. The intent was to improve communications between the clubs and, as part of the process, boost joint participation in activities. After some discussions between the clubs, two members of the St. Louis Triumph Owners Association volunteered to establish and organize the St. Louis Sports Car Council, to include a monthly newsletter or bulletin with joint calendar and a web page. The first issue of the group’s newsletter, The Gateway Relay, debuted in September 2001, with copies distributed electronically to the leadership and members of the five original member clubs: The Gateway Healey Association; Jaguar Association of Greater St. Louis; St. Louis Mini Club; St. Louis Chapter, National Corvette Restorers Society; and SLTOA (ironically, the British club that made the initial proposal for the organization which became the StLSCC never joined). As demonstrated by the membership of the NCRS, early on a decision was made not to limit membership to British car clubs. What automotive make(s)s is the club’s focus? The St. Louis Sports Car Council grew quickly and while a few of the member clubs have come and gone over the past nine years, the basic lineup has remained consistent: St. Louis Chapter, BMW Car Club of America; Gateway Healey Association; Gateway Chapter, Volvo Club of America; MG Club of St. Louis; St. Louis Triumph Owners Association; and the St. Louis Region, Sports Car Club of America. The Council also provides information and event listings to local groups of Morgan, original Mini and Sunbeam Tiger owners. What need does the club/org fill in our area? We fulfill our main purpose of communication. The StLSCC’s member clubs involve a wide range of vehicle types and interests. Through Club submitted photos

the publication of the Relay and periodic email event alerts, the members are presented with regularly updated information on events of interest, including drives, car shows, concours, cruises, autocrosses and rallies. Members can also access the information through the council web page, as can sports and special interest vehicle owners in the region. Finally, if local enthusiasts are interested in a specific marque, they can use the StLSCC web page as a source for links to the member clubs. What are the top benefits of joining? In return for their $20, club members get their address posted on the StLSCC web page (along with an appropriate photo) and the club’s events get listed in the combined calendar, which is posted on the web page and in each issue of the Gateway Relay. Concerning the Relay, member club officers received it electronically for dissemination to membership. In addition, the Relay editor makes an effort to attend as many member club activities as possible in order to take event photos for publication in the Relay. Is there anything you would like to express to AutoUrge readers about your club/org? If you like to get out with other cars and owners to do shows, compete in autocrosses, socialize, engage in drives or run a rally, check our web page at www.stlscc.org. Quote from Club/org President or other representative of the club/org: If not the president, please include title. “We’re a unique organization with a unique mission: to spread the word of sports and specialty/ collectible car events in the greater St. Louis region. In and around that, we provide a venue for member clubs to better publicize their events, thus ginning up additional interest in our common hobby or passion. Call up the St. Louis Sports Car Council web page, check out the event calendar, look at back issues of The Gateway Relay and come on out.” Mark Morgan, Coordinator/Editor. ■ For the full questionnaire and more photos, visit AutoUrge.com. 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.

Drivers Beware! The Perils of

POTHOLES are Upon Us

s the ravages of winter subside and temperatures rise, there is probably a pothole out there with your name on it, cautions the Car Care Council. Record cold temperatures, snow and rainfall in many parts of the country have created the perfect storm for the motorists’ dreaded “perils of potholes period.”

These are indicators that the steering and suspension may have been damaged. The steering and suspension are key safety-related systems. Together, they largely determine your car’s ride and handling. Key components are shocks and/or struts, the steering knuckle, ball joints, the steering rack/box, bearings, seals and hub units and tie rod ends.

Drivers know immediately when they hit a pothole. The heart-stopping, teeth-jarring noise is hard to mistake. However, it’s not always immediately clear if hitting the pothole caused damage to the vehicle, and to what extent.

Pulling in one direction, instead of maintaining a straight path, and uneven tire wear. These symptoms mean there’s an alignment problem. Proper wheel alignment is important for the lifespan of tires and helps ensure safe handling.

Hitting a pothole can damage tires, wheels, steering and suspension, wheel alignment and more. The Car Care Council recommends that motorists who experience any of the following warning signs after hitting a pothole should have a professional technician at their local repair shop inspect the vehicle. Loss of control, swaying when making routine turns, bottoming-out on city streets or bouncing excessively on rough roads.

Low tire pressure, bulges or blisters on the sidewalls, or dents in the rim. These problems will be visible and should be checked out as soon as possible as tires are the critical connection between your car and the

road in all sorts of driving conditions. The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council’s Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.

Hitting a pothole can damage tires, wheels, steering and suspension, wheel alignment and more.

MAR/APR 2020

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Business Directory For our area’s local enthusiasts.

AUTOMOTIVE PERFORMANCE

MOBILE ELECTRONICS

AUTOMOTIVE PHOTOGRAPHY

TRUCK/JEEP ACCESSORIES

AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SERVICES

CAR CARE

VARIOUS AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

“THE STRIP”

Caption Contest

See AutoUrge.com for details! MAR/APR 2020

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