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R A L LY ® SERIES 1000
Introducing our new Touring Series recliner. Ideal for your pro-touring car, muscle car, pony car, truck or virtually any vehicle. Side bolsters offer comfort and added support. Our Touring Seat offers attractive white stitching and a stylish diamond-shaped quilted center, making this the perfect seat for your ride.
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CONTENTS CHALLENGER:
Road Test of the Dodge Challenger Scat Pack 392 Widebody ...pg 22
EXHAUST:
Exhaust Buyers Guide ...pg 16
ALSO INSIDE:
Starting Lines-------------------------------- 4 Muscle Car Winter Storage------------26 Road Test: 2019 Camaro ------------------30 1954 Ford Pickup--------------------------34 Nova on Sunday----------------------------38 Parts Store------------------------------------42
Old-School Chev Reg Thompson’s 1964 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu SS ...pg 10
DEC/JAN 2019 MUSCLE CAR Plus MAGAZINE
STARTING LINES
New Mopar and Dodge//SRT Challenger Drag Pak Introduced at SEMA Show
M
opar and Dodge//SRT used the recent 2019 SEMA Show to unveil the fourth-generation version of the factory-built, racetrack-only Mopar Dodge Challenger Drag Pak car. The car is made for grassroots drag racers that compete in sportsman classes in NHRA and NMCA sanctioned events. It builds off of the third-generation Drag Pak and allows racers to buy a complete, race-ready car for the track or a variety of modular kits to install on their own Dodge Challenger drag car. The red, white and blue colour scheme on the Challenger Drag Pak provides a modern yet classic look that features a blue Mopar logo and red “dragpak� badging on the quarter panels above the rear wheels. Construction of the Challenger Drag Pak begins with a standard-width Dodge Challenger Body-in-White unibody that gets an SFI-specification welded roll cage which is rated for quarter-mile runs as fast as 7.50 seconds. New for the fourth generation, the car utilizes a Strange rear axle assembly that uses adjustable coilover shocks, four-link suspension with wishbone and an anti-roll bar. Wheelie bars and a parachute mount are also integrated into the chassis and come standard. Finally, MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
Volume 17, Issue No. 6
December / January 2019 Second Class Mailing Agreement #40050183 Publisher: Dean Washington dean@rpmcanada.ca Associate Publisher: David Symons david@rpmcanada.ca Managing Editor Jordan Allan jordan@rpmcanada.ca Distribution Manager: Brenda Washington brenda@rpmcanada.ca Copy Editor: Gerry Frechette gerryf@rpmcanada.ca Advertising Sales: Elaine Fontaine elaine@rpmcanada.ca Contributing Writers / Photographers: Jordan Allan Gerry Frechette Stefanie Galeano-Zalutko John Gunnell Cam Hutchins Benjamin Yong
the car is powered by the supercharged 354-cubic-inch HEMI V8 engine with a T400 three-speed transmission with a Kwik-Shift manual shifter, lightweight driveshaft, front and rear racing brakes, Racetech seats, Racepak Smartwire fully programmable power distribution centre and a new, exclusive Drag Pak lightweight wheel and tire package. Production of the new Challenger Drag Pak will be limited to 50 serialized units with ordering details and pricing info coming in the future.
2019 SEMA Awards Winners Announced The annual SEMA Awards are given out to the cars, trucks and SUVs that aftermarket manufacturers are investing in and developing products and accessories for. The awards are open to all participating OEMs at the SEMA Show and eligible vehicles must be current or next model year to be considered. After dominating last year, Ford
Muscle Car Plus Magazine is published six times per year by RPM Media Inc. 2460 Kingsway Avenue Port Coquitlam, BC, Canada V3C 1T4 TELEPHONE: (604) 629-9669 FAX: (778) 285-2449 TOLL FREE: 1-888-500-4591 EMAIL: info@rpmcanada.ca WEBSITE: www.rpmcanada.ca
Pick up your copy at your local Performance Shop or at the following participating locations:
had to settle for just the Car of the Year Award handed out to the Mustang, while Chevrolet took its place for Truck of the Year with the Silverado. The 4x4/SUV of the Year was awarded to the Jeep Wrangler for an unprecedented tenth consecutive year. Rounding out the awards are the Audi RS 3 winning Sport Compact Car of the Year and the Polaris RZR taking home Powersports Vehicle of the Year. MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
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Chevrolet Confirms 2020 Stingray Quarter-Mile and 0-60 Times When the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupe was introduced, Chevrolet announced that it would accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than three seconds with the Z51 Performance Package. Since that time, debate has raged on but Chevrolet recently has confirmed that number after some extensive testing that resulted in an official 0-to-60 mph time of just 2.9 seconds and a quarter-mile time of just 11.2 seconds at 121mph
MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
(195 km/h). Even without the Z51 package, the base Stingray can reach 60 mph from a dead stop in just 3.0 seconds flat and retains the 11.2 quarter mile time at a faster 123 mph (198 km/ h). These groundbreaking performance numbers are achieved through a formula of rear weight bias, tire technology, aerodynamics, chassis tuning and the powertrain which consists of the 6.2L LT2 Small Block V8 engine and eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The engine is rated at 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque which makes it the most-powerful entry Corvette ever. The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible are now available to order at certified Chevrolet dealerships nationwide or on Chevrolet.ca.
RingBrothers 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Valkyrja Named Battle of the Builders Winner at SEMA
Builders,” which is scheduled to debut on A+E Networks FYI and HISTORY’s DRIVE block sometime in January. Industry leaders such as RJ DeVera (Meguiar’s), Cam Miller (HS Customs) and Jeremiah Proffitt (Proffitt’s Resurrection Land Cruisers) were the competitions judges and helped narrow down the field of nearly 300 entries to a Top 12 builds overall where the 12 finalists Mike and Jim Ring of RingBrothers were named champions of themselves then became the judges and named RingBrothers the sixth-annual SEMA Battle of the Builders competition during as the eventual winner. SEMA Ignited, which stands as the official SEMA Show afterparty. This marks the second year in a row that a ’69 Camaro was named the winner as this year’s champ beat more than 300 entrants that takes place throughout the week at SEMA. The Top 4 finalists in this year’s competition came down to the Ring The 2019 SEMA Show once again began the week by announcing the 2019 New Product Award Winners which are meant to recognize the most innovative and cuttingedge products at the show that will go on sale in 2020. The products are judged in 16 categories with each one naming a winner and two runners-up selected on a variety of factors such as superiority of innovation, technical achievement, quality, workmanship and consumer appeal. Beginning with the Best New Performance-Racing Product category, Turbosmart took home top prize with its Gen-V eWG60 Power-Gate 60 Electronic with Lingenfelter and Nitrous Express finishing as runners up with their DI High Flow Check Valve and Boost Cooler Ring respectively. Next up, in the Best New Performance-Street Product category, Aeromotive Inc. and its Variable Speed 5.0-gpm Brushless Fuel Pump took home top prize with Tire Stickers and US Gear coming in just behind. The Brothers who were the Hot Rod winners, Randy Borcherding Best New Street Rod/Custom Car Product category saw Dakota with his Truck category-winning 1955 Chevrolet, Louie Shefchik Digital take the win with its TRX-32F X ’32 Ford Retrotech Instruand his ’68 Iso Rivolta who won the Sport Compact category ments, while Modern Driveline was crowned champion of the and Young Guns winner Brad Swaney with his 1971 Chevrolet Best Engineered New Product category with its ’94-’04 Mustang C-10. The four finalists of the competition will be showcased with Hydraulic Clutch Master Cylinder conversion kit. For a complete other builders in a new TV special called “SEMA: Battle of the list of the categories and winners, visit www.sema.org.
SEMA Announces New Product Award Winners
DEC/JAN 2019 MUSCLE CAR Plus MAGAZINE
Style That Moves You Reg Thompson’s 1964 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu SS
I
t must have been an amazing time to be a young adult in Vancouver in the early ‘60s. Detroit was churning out all sorts of cars geared to a younger buyer, and horsepower ratings were rising every year. Always interested in cars and having owned his first when he was 14, Reg Thompson started his life in cars by getting a Model A Roadster Pickup for $75. After cleaning it and rebuilding the carb, he sold it for $180. Good money in the ‘50s. By the time he was driving age, he had a ‘47 Chevy Coupe ready to go racing at the temporary strip at the Airport. The list of cars that followed is pretty impressive, including the illusive Chevy Nomads, two 1956’s and four 1957’s. He also had ‘56 and ‘57 Chevy Hardtops and three 1964 El Caminos. Thompson was trained
Story and photos by Cam Hutchins
as a journeyman mechanic, but started as a pressman with the North Shore News because the pay was better. To feed his drag racing hobby, Thompson was always looking for cool old cars, and was friends with the crew of Mander Motors. A salesman’s demonstrator was available for sale and Thompson bought the threemonth old two-door post with a 327 cu. in. engine and four-speed transmission. Mander Motors in North Vancouver was one of the local dealers that believed in “Win on Sunday, Sell On Monday,” and were active in racing at the old Mission Raceway when it opened in 1965.
To compete with the newly introduced midsized Ford Fairlane, GM bet the house on a new midsize car on a full frame with lots of variety. Unlike the initial release of the Fairlane with a unibody design and only two- and four-door versions with posts, Chevelles would have 11 models including convertibles and wagons. This new Chevelle and the Fairlane rode on a 115-inch wheelbase, the same as the Chevy of 1957 and 4 inches shorter than the 1963 Impala. The Impala had grown 10 inches in length from the 1957 Belair. Before Chevelles were even built, Chevrolet was advertising its new car heavily. The launch of the 1964 Chevelle had many “Ad-men” working overtime to create some fresh slogans for the new car. “Only a car like this could come between a Chevrolet and a Chevy II” or “Style that moves you even when it is standing still.” To prove the car was more than just a pretty face, they stated “We didn’t just make Chevelle beautiful and hope
12 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
for the best” and of course, the classic ad showing a Malibu next to a twisty mountain road and claiming “Chevelle treats mountain like so much dirt” The Chevelle was built with a full frame and coil springs and was more than a foot shorter than the full-sized Impala. Chevy had done its homework on this new contender and came out strong with lots of options and a full range of models except for the absence of a four-door pillarless sedan. Canada even got a low-priced 300 Convertible. Initially, four engines were offered, but two versions of the 327 were made available midway through the ‘64 model year, 250 or 300 horse. Flash forward a number of decades, and this is a tale of wishing he could have kept all the cool cars he had as a youth. Thompson had owned three 1964 El Caminos before, with one of them not passing the first time on the lift, and it was sold immediately. In 2008, Thompson decided to
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go buy a 1964 283 cu. in. four-speed El Camino he saw advertised in the Penticton area after speaking with the owner. He was choked when the owner stated that while away for work, his wife had sold the car to someone else. Frustrated, he was curious when Alyn Edwards told him of a car that he had heard about. Apparently a local, poorly stored and abused Chevelle that its owners thought was super valuable. The owners wanted Alyn’s advice on whether to send it back East to an auction to get the big bucks. Thompson and Edwards went to see the car that was in the Lower Mainland and although it had a brand new era-correct crate motor and new tranny (or fresh rebuild), almost all the SS badging had disappeared along with big parts of the roof.
was now repairing and restoring cars full time. The car was painted some nightmarish 1970’s custom paint with a black base and translucent blue over top and then plastic was scrunched up and rubbed over it to give a special look. Thompson was able to look past this because the car was virtually rust free except for a little surface rust in a very few places.
The extra heavy paint that had been applied proved too much for Thompson’s sand blasting equipment, and the cowl piece between the windshield and the hood had its punched vents almost sealed shut with this thick battleship protectant. It took Sureblast in Port Coquitlam quite a bit to get the job done. His body man Eddy, at Ritchie and Sons in Port Coquitlam, gave him the bad news that the rear body mounts were gone and the inner fenders An offer of “not” big bucks was made and the car was towed to Thomp- needed work. The car was not stripped off of its frame, but otherwise was son’s shop. He had left the printing business decades previously and completely dismantled. Thompson had it painted its correct Goldwood Yellow by Mark Erickson before he left painting to look after the ICBC Collector Car program. No plastic was scrunched up to make for a special paint job.... just a boring old Concours-type spray of paint! The interior and roof were also replaced with the correct “as born with colours” of black and black. Sourcing of the parts was from all over, but a few pieces of the bright work were either repaired or good enough to use as is. The rest of the SS trim was built by hand, by an elderly gentleman in Redwood, California. Other parts were sourced from “True Connections” out of Riverside, California, and some from the Old Car Centre in Langley. During one visit, Thompson saw a handwritten note on the Old Car Centre bulletin board and called a fellow out in Langley and found some very good rare pieces including taillight housings, back up lights and a glove compartment lid. Front discs were not available in 1964, so some later model front discs were added and a dual master cylinder for safety. The 250 and 300-horse 327s got single snorkel air cleaners but this car has the dual snorkel chrome job from a 350-horse 327....just for looks, but the real 300-horse does the job with plenty to spare. 14 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
The radio is the stock pushbutton AM model with front and rear speaker and has been upgraded to also play FM, but looks completely stock. Almost all the options were ticked off on this car except power windows and air conditioning. The factory tach, broken when he got the car, could not be repaired. A new tach was sourced and it cost a lot more than the original optional upgrade charge of $ 48.45. Option Z02 - Push button radio and rear speaker was a whopping $72.10. This makes the L30 - 327 Cu. In. option of only $94.70, seem like a bargain. (Available June 1964, the L74 - 327 Cu. In. - Hi. Perf. was $137.75 and was only ordered on 1,737 Malibus ) The SS package came with bucket seats as well as a console, but bench seats were available and did not get a console. The car rides on era-correct 14-inch wheels with caps and beauty rings, and wears BF Goodrich Radial T/A’s which provide much more grip than the ‘60s bias ply tires on a car weighing 3,300 lbs. The car was bought in the fall of 2008 and with the help of business partner and friend Gary Zabenskie, they were cruising in late summer of 2009. 11,191 Malibu SS convertibles were built for 1964 with just under 15 percent of them being six-cylinder models. The four-speed manual was not available on the six-cylinder models, but a three-speed manual with optional semiautomatic overdrive was available. All the manual transmissions were fully synchromesh on all forward gears. The four-speed had a reverse lockout to avoid unintentional engagement of reverse gear. 1964 models were assembled in six U.S. plants and also in Oshawa, Ontario, and were available in 13 colours and many two-tone options. Goldwood Yellow was only available on the SS cars, convertibles and coupes but not El Caminos, which were assembled alongside the Chevelles at most plants. According to the online source: www.chevellestuff. net , a reported 1,076 Chevelles were built in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Possibly they were built stateside then “knocked down” and reassembled in South Africa, a common practice for American cars in Europe and other countries around the globe. The rarest Chevelle colour in 1964 was the dark green 908 (E) Bahama Green at 4,144 units of all models, while the most common was Ermine White at 69,006. All colours were available on the SS models, but 6,803 Chevelle SS out of the 76,860 built in 1964 were the light yellow colour called “Goldwood Yellow”. Many magazine ads and the sales brochure featured Goldwood Yellow SS Convertibles. The Canada-only Beaumont, a similar car sold at Pontiac dealers, was also advertised in print showing a Goldwood
Yellow convertible with black interior. The colour was popular enough to continue in 1965, but was renamed Crocus Yellow. The Canadian Cars generally had the same colours as the U.S.-built cars, but with some additions such as Skyline Blue and Diplomat Blue Metallic for darker and lighter blues, and adding Sunfire Red Metallic. The SS package could be ordered with either inline sixcylinder or optional V8, and all V8 models got a “V” logo behind the front wheel for 283 cu. in models. 327 cu. in. V8s, introduced mid year, got a “V” logo with crossed flags behind it. Externally, the only difference between the Malibu and the SS was the “Malibu SS” rear fender badge and the “Chrome” trim that ran from front to back high up along the cars sides. The plain Malibu got side trim midway along the side and the rocker brightwork, but it did not continue behind the rear wheel. All Malibu SS got bucket seats with deluxe vinyl trim, and the console was included with the optional two-speed Powerglide automatic or fourspeed manual transmission. A bench seat was available as was an in-dash-mounted tachometer that replaced the in-dash clock. The SS Package got a full complement of gauges to replace the warning lights for voltage, engine temp and oil pressure. Other extra cost options include either Four-Season or Custom De Luxe air conditioning, Soft-Ray tinted glass, power windows, Positraction, seatbelts, padded instrument panel and back-up lights. The Easy power steering lets hydraulic pressure do most of the work, but true road feel is retained at all driving speeds and the low overall steering ratio of 19.1 to 1 gives swift response, according to Chevrolet’s sales literature. Rest assured that your completely aluminized exhaust system will last years with out replacing. This car has been driven lots and even gone down the Oregon Coast and the Sunshine Coast numerous times. The car is the perfect size for packing the generous trunk with suitcases and road tripping across the country, looking for challengers who want to find a dragstrip and feel like a kid again! After a decade of this amazing car, it is time to find and build a 64 El Camino like he intended before he got sidetracked! Hopefully it won’t start with a ‘70s paint job, and keep the scrunched up plastic in the recycling bin, thank you very much!
DEC/JAN 2019 MUSCLE CAR Plus MAGAZINE 15
PRODUCTS: EXHAUSTS
BUYERS’ GUIDE aFe Power MACH Force XP Exhaust System
Description: aFe Power’s MACH Force XP Exhaust System for the Dodge Challenger SRT-8 is constructed from mandrel-bent stainless steel and is MIG-welded. The system utilizes dual high flow mufflers with 3-in. tubing which is able to improve performance across the power band while also producing the true muscle car sound. Additionally, aFe has incorporated a crossover balance tube to equalize and evenly distribute exhaust pulses traveling through the exhaust system. Specifications: Able to produce gains of 10 horsepower and 14 lb-ft of torque. Applications: Available for the 2008-2014 Dodge Challenger SRT-8. Website: www.afepower.com
BBK Mustang Varitune Cat Back Exhaust Description: BBK’s Varitune Cat Back Exhaust for the Foxbody Ford Mustang features a unique internal power valve that enables the fine tuning of sound and power level, and allows you to change from a one- to three-chamber muffler by simply turning a wrench. The large, 2.75-in. mandrel-bent tubing allows for a maximum airflow which helps provide an 8-to-10 decibel range difference. Specifications: Built with large 2-3/4-in. CNC mandrel-bent aluminized tubing for unrestricted exhaust flow. Applications: Available for the 1987-1993 Ford Mustang. Website: www.bbkperformance.com
Borla Cat-Back ATAK Exhaust System for Mustang Description: Borla’s ATAK Cat-Back Performance exhaust system for the 2018-2020 Ford Mustang GT 5.0L is a 3-in. diameter system with exhaust valves and Borla’s Polyphonic Exhaust Harmonizer which utilizes patented units that contain pipes of different diameters and lengths to create multiple exhaust notes. The system will not only provide your car with a better sound, but will provide instant horsepower and torque gains as well. Specifications: Dual-split, rear exit design. Applications: Available for the 2018-2020 Ford Mustang GT 5.0L. Website: www.borla.com
Corsa 2.5-Inch Cat-Back Exhaust System for Corvette Description: Corsa’s 2.5-inch Cat-Back Dual Exhaust System for C4 Corvettes provides horsepower and torque gains as well as an airflow increase. They feature Corsa’s RSC technology that is designed for an aggressive sound under acceleration and a drone-free experience during cruise. Specifications: +14 horsepower gain, +16 lb-ft of torque gain. Applications: For 1986-1991 Chevrolet Corvette C4 5.7L V8 L98. Website: www.corsaperformance.com
DynoMax 2.5-In. Cat-Back Exhaust System with Ultra Flo Mufflers Description: DynoMax’s 2.5-in. Cat-Back Exhaust System with the Ultra Flo mufflers feature a polished finish for a show-quality shine, and a straight-through design to ensure unrestricted exhaust flow and reduce back pressure. The mufflers use an exclusive Continuous Roving Fibreglass Technology to absorb unwanted interior resonance while maintaining a deep performance tone. Specifications: Features stainless steel construction. Applications: Available for the 1987-1993 Ford Mustang 5.0L V8. Website: www.dynomax.com 16 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
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Flowmaster American Thunder Axle-Back Exhaust System Description: Flowmaster’s American Thunder Axle-Back Exhaust System features the new W.A.V.E. Technology (Wireless Active Valve Exhaust) that has two wireless remotes that control the high-quality actuators and exhaust valves included with the specially designed mufflers that incorporate Outlaw muffler technology. The stainless steel system utilizes the factory hanger locations and provides a deep powerful exterior sound. Specifications: Manufactured with large 3-in. mandrel-bent 409S stainless steel tubing. Applications: Available for the 2018-2019 Ford Mustang GT 5.0L without the factory performance exhaust option. Website: www.holley.com
FlowTech Axle-Back Exhaust System for 2016-18 Camaro Description: FlowTech’s Axle-Back, non-muffled exhaust kit for the 2016-2018 Chevrolet Camaro with either the 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder or 3.6L V6 engine options uses a 2.25-in. diameter polished stainless steel construction for strength and durability. The 4-in. polished 304 stainless steel, dual-wall exhaust tips provide a deep, throaty sound that is sometimes lacking from the non-V8 engines, and the system itself utilizes the OEM mounting points. Specifications: Non-muffled design provides an aggressive sound while the tube geometry is designed for a hassle-free installation. Applications: Made for the 2016-2018 Chevrolet Camaro 2.0L/3.6L. Website: www.holley.com
Gibson Axle Back Single Exhaust System Description: Gibson’s Axle Back Single Exhaust system gives your Dodge Charger a deep, powerful exhaust tone, along with improved acceleration and increased horsepower. The Gibson muffler tunes the exhaust by using resonance chambers, directional louvered tuning ports and angular induction to draw exhaust gases into the muffler and expel it at a higher velocity. Specifications: Features a 2.5-in. aluminized mandrel-bent tubing and a 4-in. polished T304 stainless round, double wall, slash cut tip. Applications: Available for the 2010 Dodge Charger. Website: www.gibsonperformance.com
Hedman Block Hugger Street Rod Headers Description: The compact, low profile design of Hedman’s Block Hugger Headers is ideal for factory manifold replacement, or engine swap projects that do not have a header designed specifically for the applications. HTC-coated stainless models are available but they are not recommended during the break-in period of your engine. Specifications: Manufactured from Mild Steel. Applications: Made for Chevrolet applications. Website: www.hedman.com
Hooker Blackheart Foxbody Mustang 3-In. Race Exhaust System Description: The new 3-In. Race Exhaust System for the 1987-1993 Foxbody Mustangs utilizes 304 stainless steel and an X-pipe designed crossover that offers bolt-in compatibility with their engine swap crossmembers, mounts and headers. The header-back system uses the factory mounting points for an easy installation for a stock-like fitment. Specifications: Designed for clearance with OE or aftermarket adjustable rear upper control arms. Applications: Available for the 1987-1993 Ford Mustang. Website: www.holley.com
18 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
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Kooks Cat-Back Exhaust System Description: The Kooks Cat-Back exhaust system features polished dual tips and includes an x-pipe. They have been designed for use with Kooks headers, and feature an OEM inlet for use with a stock exhaust. Made for the GM LSX Series engines, the 3-in. stainless steel system will provide a more aggressive tone and will improve power and throttle response. Specifications: Manufactured from stainless steel. Applications: Available for the 2010-2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS. Website: www.kooksheaders.com
MagnaFlow Street Series Performance Exhaust System Description: MagnaFlow’s Street Series Performance Exhaust System is able to deliver a smooth deep sound while also providing the power you need. The system features a straightthrough flow design for the ultimate in unrestricted horsepower and torque for big power, while still maintaining exhaust efficiency. Specifications: Manufactured from 409 stainless steel construction. All mandrel-bent tubing. Applications: Available for a wide variety of muscle cars. Website: www.magnaflow.com
Performance World Stainless Steel X-Pipes Description: Performance World’s X-pipes are great to add additional horsepower for a few bucks. Manufactured from 304SS and are easily added into any application. Available in 2.25, 2.50 and 3.00 inches. Specifications: Manufactured from 304SS stainless steel. Applications: Available sizes - 2.25, 2.50 & 3.00-in. Overall length - 12-in. Website: www.performance-world.com
Pypes Mopar B-Body Crossmember Back X-Pipe System Description: Pypes’ 2.5-inch Crossmember Back with X-pipe system is designed to deliver enhanced performance and improved fuel efficiency. Fabricated using the highest quality materials, the pipe ensures maximum exhaust gas flow, which can significantly boost horsepower. The mufflers and pipes are able to withstand corrosion, which prolongs their lifespan. Specifications: Fabricated using smooth, seam-coated 16 gauge, mandrel-bent stainless steel. Applications: Made for 1966-1974 Mopar B-Body Applications. Website: www.pypesexhaust.com
Vibrant Performance Round Stainless Steel Tip Description: Vibrant Performance’s 4-inch Round Stainless Steel tip features a double wall, angle cut construction and will give that clean, aggressive look you want out of your muscle car. They have an overall length of 7.75 inches, an outlet diameter of 4 inches, and an inlet diameter of 2.25 inches. Specifications: Manufactured from T304 Stainless Steel. Applications: Universal product. Website: www.vibrantperformance.com
20 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
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ROAD TEST: 2020 DODGE CHALLENGER SCAT PACK 392 WIDEBODY
Big, Fast, Loud Story and photos by Gerry Frechette, additional photos courtesy of FCA Canada
looking at here is the Scat Pack 392 Widebody, and if a model name ever needed explanation, this is the one.
W
‘Scat Pack’ goes back half a century to when the original Challengers were being heavily promoted, and the marketing team came up with this name to describe the Dodge performance cars. Today, it might connote something else to some people, but it is still a cute throwback to a simpler time. ‘392’ is the But, of course, there are non-supercharged Challengers, even displacement of the V8 in cubic inches (6.4 litres for those who mundane ones with V6 and all-wheel drive. But the one we are insist on metric), and it is also the displacement of the legendary first-generation Hemi from the 1950s that powered so many nitro-fueled drag cars in the early days. hen one thinks of Dodge Challengers, one likely thinks of the Hellcat version, with its supercharged Hemi V8 pumping out ungodly horsepower numbers that have led the muscle car segment for the last couple of years.
‘Wide Body’ – well, that is fairly self-explanatory if you look at the photos. The Hellcat needed more rubber on the road to deal with all that horsepower, so Dodge did the time-honoured thing and put 3.5-inch fender flares on it, to legally and esthetically contain the new tires. It’s no surprise that they have now filtered down the line to the top-dog non-supercharged Challenger, because they add a whole ‘nother bad-ass attitude to the car. What the Dodge engineers and product planners also realized earlyon is that the big tires on a ‘high’horsepower car (versus the Hellcat’s ‘insane’ horsepower) would lead to a car that performed well in the corners, too. One thing led to another, and 22 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
the 392 WB has an entirely different suspension set-up, in terms of springs, shock absorbers and overall stiffness. The front springs are 14 percent stiffer than even those on the Hellcat, and the rears are the same as Hellcat’s, as are the anti-roll bars. And, most importantly, the shock absorbers are Bilstein three-mode (Auto, Sport, or Track) adjustable units, all tuned up for the bigger tires and lighter (than Hellcat) front-end weight of the 392 WB. Dodge calls it Adaptive Damping. All of a sudden, there is a Challenger for those looking for high-speed cornering and somewhat nimble handling, as much as a 4,300-pound car can deliver. Make no mistake – the Challenger is a large two-door hardtop based on the Dodge Charger sedan, and doesn’t pretend to be a sports coupe like the performance versions of Mustang and Camaro. Having said that, the 392 WB gets into and through corners with a satisfying degree of alacrity, which we found out on the narrow, very twisty road we drove it on. It turns in smoothly assuming semi-sane speeds, and holds a nice tight line. Exit speed is all you might want, as the 305/35ZR20 Pirelli tires aren’t overpowered, as is very likely with the Hellcat. Indeed, in Dodge’s own testing, the 392 WB is quicker around a track than any Hellcat with the regular body and tires, this with at least 222 horsepower less. Shows you what tires and chassis tuning are worth. Adding to the 392 WB’s qualifications as a trackday car are the upgraded brakes you get with the Widebody package - 15.4-inch Brembos with six piston calipers up front, 13.8-inchers with four
DEC/JAN 2019 MUSCLE CAR Plus MAGAZINE 23
pistons in back. Again, this is serious gear for those who want of half-a-century ago, which was under-rated at 425 official a Challenger that can handle corners all day long. horsepower. The Challenger so-equipped is capable of low-12second quarter-miles, and 0-100 km/h in the four-second range, Under the hood of the Scat Pack 392 (in regular or Widebody which would annihilate the old Hemi cars. trim) is the bigger of the two naturally-aspirated Hemi V8s, with this model being the only one you can get this engine in. You have a choice of a six-speed manual or (optional) eightIt features an iron block with aluminum heads that have actual speed TorqueFlite automatic (love that old name), and unlike hemispheric combustion chambers and 10.9:1 compression the supercharged cars where we think the manual is a bit overratio, and it pumps out 485 horsepower and 475 pounds-feet matched by the power, we’d say go with whichever you please of torque on premium 91 octane. Other than the alloy heads, on the 392. The one we drove had the automatic with paddle that all sounds like the actual specs for the original 426 Hemi shifters, and it complemented the car’s performance attributes
24 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
nicely. Of interest, the engine is equipped with VVT and Fuel range ($59,445 base) have. Optionally available in packages are Saver Technology (cylinder deactivation) only with the automatic, Blind-spot Monitoring (much needed with this body style), Rear and on a car as thirsty as this, every little bit helps. Cross-Path Detection, and Forward Collision Warning. Inside, being a large car, the Challenger has lots of room, at least up front. The seats are wide with little side bolstering compared to the aforementioned rival sport coupes, making the Widebody the muscle car of choice for those who self-identify
And yet, one has to think that the specific customer FCA is seeking (you have to figure some combination of older, male, business-type, already has a Ram pickup) won’t let that bother him. The Challenger Scat Pack 392 Widebody is big, fast, loud, and in your face. It’s also comfortable, well-equipped if all the packages are chosen, and a legitimate long-distance GT car. You can drive it a few hours, run it around a track, and head home in it. Or just throw the golf clubs in the trunk and drive to the club. It’s actually quite a versatile car in that sense - all the visual appeal, the same usable performance, lower cost, and better economy than a Hellcat – plus the rational aspects of comfort and space. The guys who want the last word in handling and cornering will probably say that it is too big and heavy, but for everyone else, this Challenger is a nicely balanced modern muscle car.
using the same term. Lateral and under-thigh support are good, although the construction of the seat could be described as a bit ‘soft.’ We say they are good seats for long trips, okay for track days. The Plus Group option package gets you very attractive upgraded seats with Nappa leather and Alcantara trim. There are also two optional levels of audio systems – Alpine and Harman-Kardon. Getting into the back seat involves some contortion, but once in there, and if the front seats aren’t all the way back, it’s not bad for room for adults. Ditto for the trunk – small opening, but reasonable space. The overall look of the interior is somewhat dated, with some hard plastics. This to be expected, as the Challenger platform dates back over a dozen years to the DaimlerChrysler days. That also accounts for the absence of some of the high-end electronic safety gear that most cars these days in this price DEC/JAN 2019 MUSCLE CAR Plus MAGAZINE 25
FEATURE: WINTER CAR STORAGE
Be Prepared
Story by Stefanie Galeano-Zalutko
As for applying the parking brake once your ride is all settled in for the winter, think again. “For general driving use, it is a good idea to here is a cold, hard truth many have been denying since Labour use the parking brake, but don’t do it when you leave a car in storage long term; if the brake pads make contact with the rotors for an Day. extended period of time, they could fuse together. Instead of risking “Summertime is officially over. Done for. Kaput. Those joyrides in that your emergency brake, purchase a tire chock or two to prevent the dream car you’re so fond of? Well, suddenly they’re half a year away car from moving,” explains Jeff Peek of Hagerty. again, replaced by dull seasonal chores like salting the driveway,” Details Matter teases Gerald Charles, automotive writer for The Engine Block. Next, it’s time to bring out the WeatherTech® Ready-to-Wash SysWe hope you seasoned enough birch, because it’s time to curl up in tem. “It’s never good to leave a car dirty for an extended period of front of the fireplace, warm your bones with a glass of fine brandy, time. Acidic material could be eating away at your paint, while any and ponder the important things in life—like prepping that classic car covers could rub dirt around the clearcoat and make scratches,” says Brian Silvestro, author of How to Properly Store Your Car For car or cool coupe for several months of winter storage. the Winter: EveryFew things are more important than properly tucking a vehicle in for thing You Need winter hibernation. One misstep and owners could be greeted with to Prepare Your rot and rust come spring. Below is a list of helpful information as Prized Possession it pertains to properly and safely storing a vehicle to survive harsh for Long-Term Storweather conditions. After all, temperature-controlled indoor storage age. isn’t an option for everyone. Be sure to use special care on your Location, Location, Location Before bathing a prized ride in wash and wax products, vehicle own- w h e e l s , w h e e l ers should first secure a storage location. Indoors is always preferred, wells, the underlike a rented storage unit—it doesn’t even need to be heated. Some sides of fenders, plastic sheeting beneath the vehicle can help stop hidden moisture and anywhere else that may get espefrom creeping its way up and causing damage underneath. cially filthy. “PrepIf indoor storage isn’t possible, outdoors will do just fine—with special ping your undercarriage is another often-overlooked step in winter considerations and proper planning, of course. Whatever you do, car storage. A Fluid Film brand undercoating kit can go a long way never (ever) opt for a grass or dirt patch. “That’s practically asking in preventing rust and corrosion that the elements bring before they Mother Nature, in all her frigid glory, to corrode everything from even start. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure—bebelow with all that trapped, damp air. Gravel is much, much better. cause an inch of rust under there will bring a mile of headaches,” adds Charles. Pavement or blacktop are better still,” adds Charles.
T
26 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
Turn to trusted names in detailing to protect vehicles against severe winter weather. Hot Wheels Car Care Products, Meguiar’s, Turtle Wax, Adam’s, Chemical Guys, Mother’s, etc.
engine for 10 minutes. This applies only to carburetor cars. The oil coats the fuel tank, lines and carb bowls, and helps avoid corrosion. It will easily burn off when you restart the car,” adds a commenter on the Hagerty forum.
Check Your Fluids As discussed in a previous vehicle maintenance feature for Trucks Plus, there are a number of fluids that are essential for any ride to run smoothly. Simple but critical, be sure to change the oil before winter storage. Old, crummy oil can mean a buildup of dirt and grime, which can cause internal havoc for any engine. Adding an oil stabilizer eliminates heat and friction, ensures the oil is doing what it’s designed to do during winter, and is an example of smart routine vehicle maintenance. Other important tips:
While doing a fluid check, top off that gas tank. It will prevent moisture from accumulating above your fuel and keep seals from drying out. Remember, fuel stays fresh for approximately 30 days, so it’s essential to use fuel stabilizer for long-term storage. In addition to checking the brake and transmission fluid, take special care of the radiator. “Make sure you’re using antifreeze. Some radiators may simply be full of water and cold weather can cause freezing, causing expansion… which causes things to break… which causes expensive nightmares,” says Charles.
Cover Up First, never rely on a plastic tarp—unless you feel like ruining that - “Lubricate important chassis points—if you stop using a car for an expensive paint job. Second, don’t underestimate the value of a extended period of time, parts that are supposed to flex and move will become brittle and start to crumble or crack, especially in the cold,” says Silvestro. “Also, check coolant protectant levels—if you don’t store your car in a climate-controlled garage, be mindful of how much coolant-to-water mixture is currently in your car. Without the right amount, the water can freeze and expand, causing catastrophic damage to your engine,” he adds. - “Cold weather can cause components designed to flex and move to become brittle. Parts such as steering fittings, suspension fittings, and the front and back wheel bearings should receive some fresh grease or lubrication before going into storage,” states WeatherTech®. - “A good friend of mine and ex-Ferrari race mechanic (Le Mans three times) recommends adding half a cup of automatic transmission fluid to the fuel tank before topping up, and then running the
28 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
or maintenance charge mode are preferred. Often called tenders—many of which are made by the Kleenex of the charging world, Battery Tender—they have intelligent circuitry inside to cycle on and off and keep the battery at the right level without overcharging. They’re perfect for winter lay up or any kind of long-term vehicle storage.” Got Mothballs? Varmints are an issue, whether parking in the comforts of indoors or relegated to the cold crosswinds outside. “Mothballs help. If you’re lucky enough to park indoors, set some mousetraps. And plugging openings like the exhaust pipe and air intakes with steel wool can prevent these smug rodents from ever setting up shop,” explains Charles. Those with newer vehicles likely have some soy-based wiring, an premium car cover. Invest in a good one, and don’t fall victim to attraction for rodents to munch on during the winter season. Keep waterproof language. Weather-resistant is the best option. your car from becoming varmint food by using a proper repellent near the exterior. “A breathable fabric is what’s most important. Any small amount of moisture that creeps in (from below, above, or within) will be trapped Speaking of repellent, “The fragrance of dryer sheets is way more beneath a waterproof layer. And it has nowhere to go but gradually pleasing to our noses than the stench of moth balls, and the fresh into your beloved car, which is when the damage really begins. smell actually does a superior job of repelling mice,” according to Covercraft Car Covers are top quality and, equally important, are Jeff Peek of Hagerty. made with a vented fabric that lets your paint job breathe through its winter car storage hibernation,” adds Charles. Cold Feet Finally, pay special attention to those wheels and tires. The recomGet Charged mendation is to always inflate tires to the maximum PSI rating when You have three choices when it comes to battery preservation during winterizing to avoid flat spots. “One way to combat this is to jack your winter: leave it connected, disconnect it, or install battery tenders. vehicle up just a bit, saving you hundreds of dollars on replacements and alleviating pressure on the suspension in the process. Some But there is a split verdict when discussing what to do with a battery people even take their wheels and tires off completely as part of when low temperatures are a factor. “Some prefer to remove their their winter car storage. That will certainly depend on your unique battery for the winter and maintain it on a charger. If this is your plan, parking situation,” he adds. The takeaway: you wouldn’t send the little ones outside to frolic in the freezing cold without proper gear, so don’t leave your baby parked in the yard uncovered and unprepared for the elements. Taking care of that prized ride ensures it will take care of you once favourable weather conditions return.
the Deltran Battery Tender Plus is a valuable and affordable tool,” says Charles. “However, some newer cars require that a battery be in place at all times to preserve the computer’s memory. If this is the case, you’ll want to hook up to a trickle charger, like the popular NOCO Genius. Whatever you decide, it is critical to remember that batteries can freeze and crack. Take proper care and prevent the costly headache.” For David Gluckman, author of Road & Track’s How to Keep Your Car Battery Alive Through a Frigid Winter, “Float, storage, DEC/JAN 2019 MUSCLE CAR Plus MAGAZINE 29
ROAD TEST: 2019 CHEVROLET CAMARO 1LT
Sixth-Gen Facelift
Story and photo by Benjamin Yong, additional photos courtesy of Chevrolet Canada
L
ike with Ford during the introduction of the EcoBoost Mustang, naysayers had a field day when Chevrolet originally announced a turbocharged four-cylinder version of the sixth generation Camaro. Now three years old, it just got a facelift and we took the boosted model out to see if the term ‘muscle car’ is still appropriate. So what’s new for 2019? The front end of our 1LT was definitely meaner looking. The mesh grille, housing slimmer LED dual element headights, extends much deeper into the bumper than before, and the lower central intake connects to the ones in the corners. Our Riverside Blue Metallic tester had the optional 1LE Track Performance Package installed (+$5,195) that gives the complementary twin lamp taillights a really cool colourless smoked appearance to them. The bundle also adds a blacked-out front splitter, hood wrap, subtle trunk spoiler and wide 20-inch alloy wheels, among a whole host of interior and performance upgrades. The cabin has a good blend of raciness and usability, featuring a suede-wrapped flat bottomed steering wheel and shift knob, and a seven-inch touch display — running the latest Chevrolet Info30 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
SS Model Shown.
tainment 3 software — which is curiously angled downwards, The fabric seats provide great support. A high-definition presumably to mitigate glare on a sunny day. backup camera is standard, and really comes in handy given the sliver of a rear window and the blind spot created by the Another unique design choice is the placement of the hazard girthy C-pillar. Surprisingly, trying to crack the window ended light toggle directly ahead of the shifter. More than once I up being a bit of a chore due to oversensitive switches. turned them on whether via an accidental poke or having my Pressing down even a little too hard results in triggering the phone slide and hit the button under braking. Finally, unlike auto-down feature. pretty much any other vehicle I’ve sat in, changing the temperature and fan settings involves twisting the ring around the Circling back to the engine, yes — this Camaro is powered by central two circular air vents. Definitely interesting. a forced-induction four-banger. Would one know it by driving
SS Model Shown. DEC/JAN 2019 MUSCLE CAR Plus MAGAZINE 31
SS Model Shown.
rear stabilizer bars, stiffer dampers and more) and a better cooling system. The car also benefited from a precise-feeling six-speed manual transmission, although some sort of lockout mechanism would be nice to prevent an unintentional shift into reverse instead of first gear. On the road, the Camaro behaves as expected. Cool and composed when driven conservatively, but turn the wheel and quickly push the gas pedal down at the same time and the rear will try to come out and say hello. That said though, even over several consecutive days of rain, there were no sketchy moments behind the wheel.
it? Maybe. Rated at 275 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, the output is certainly there. As with most turbo applications, a tad of lag upon acceleration is discernible. Things pick up in a hurry, though and the 1LT can move. If only the compact motor generated the same sound the V8 in the SS grade makes. In addition, thanks to the aforementioned track pack, the spec Muscle Car Plus drove possessed Brembo brakes, limited slip differential, uprated suspension (larger diameter front and Base price (MSRP): ....................................................$35,660 Layout: ........................................ front engine, rear-wheel drive Engine: ..................................... 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder Transmission: ............................................. Six-speed manual Power: ....................................................... 275 hp @ 5,600 rpm Torque: .................................................... 295 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm Brakes: ..................................................front/rear disc with ABS Fuel Consumption (L/100km, city/hwy): ....................11.9/7.9
32 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
Planning on handing the keys to a youngster? Chevy’s innovative Teen Driver mode is equipped, allowing parents and guardians to set limits on various vehicle functions and receive a generated report card detailing operator behaviour.
Sin-A-Men
Jim Skomski’s 1954 Ford F100
Story and photos by John Gunnell
J
im Skomski is a Ford guy and especially a Ford truck guy. He has four of them, two modern pickups, a well-preserved ’89 Bronco II and his “antique” 1954 Ford F100. Like many collectors, Jim’s memories of the “good old days” underly his Ford passion.
Power comes from a 351-cid Windsor V8.
“My grandfather had a 1954 F100 when I was a kid,” Jim recalled. “I was only 13 or 14 and I had a job up north. I was only 14, but the boss thought I was 16 and he gave me a ’39 Ford truck to use. Back then, in the north country, no one cared what you were driving or if you were a kid. I’d take my grandpa’s truck out at night and go through town once in a while. Rogers was the local cop up there and he saw me going through town. The first time he saw me I was sweating. I just about had to have a booster seat underneath me to drive that truck you know, but he didn’t stop me or anything like that.” A young man had gotten the F100 from his father and wanted to get rid of it. “You can have that pickup if you can get it out of here in 30 days,” the older man told him. The younger man knew he wasn’t going to be able to do it and wanted something he could drive immediately. Skomski was inspired by memories of his grandfather’s truck and the ’39 Ford that he used to make garbage dump runs in. He thought he should get the F100.
T-bird shifter is floor mounted and could use a switch to cable controls. 34 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
Skomski had fixed up a 1971 Pontiac Ventura. “I paid around $300 for a transmission and front clip for the Ventura,” Jim revealed. “That was more than I paid for the whole car.” He traded the Ventura to the young man for the F100. It was already a good deal financially, because the pickup came with many spare parts. “He had over $500 in invoices for parts,” Jim recalled. “So, I got all that one for $300 or $400 max that I had into the Ventura. He wanted the car because I had just finished fixing it.”
It took Skomski about three months to get the F100 done and back together. The job went pretty smoothly, but he didn’t have a lot of the tools at first. When he worked on the rear fenders, there were nuts holding them to the pickup box that kept snapping off. “I wanted to do everything right,” Jim noted. “But all the bolts were spot welded into the fenders and busting off. So, I got my first tool-–a torch. I heated them up and it took them right off. Today, I still have that same torch and I picked up a lot of tools along the way.”
Front end matches body colour.
Skomski had to put new window glass in the truck. There was no seat, so he went to a junkyard and got a new seat and had it upholstered. “There’s certain things I can’t do like seat upholstery,” Jim admitted. “But I made the headliner and all the interior door panels. The first time I did something like that was with a ’46 Ford that I had when I was 16. I sewed it up on my ma’s sewing machine and she thought that was pretty neat.” Skomski put an overhead console in the F100. “It comes down about four inches from the ceiling,” he explained. “Then, I put in a tufted headlining. It’s got foam in the headliner that’s up against hardboard. It’s vinyl and it’s all black with a tufted pattern with
Sin-A-Men is the truck’s nickname. DEC/JAN 2019 MUSCLE CAR Plus MAGAZINE 35
buttons in there. It’s nice and gets a lot of compliments, which makes me feel good. You know how it is. You go to a car show and someone there has the same type of vehicle and you exchange ideas with them and it makes you feel kind of good that way.” The truck has Custom Cab badges, so Jim bought the carpeting for the inside of the cab.
Jim redid the bed floor with oak.
Like his grandfather ’s truck, the built F100 originally had a six-cylinder engine. Under the hood today is a Ford 351 Windsor V8. According to Skomski, the motor had been in a boat that went in the water and it was tight. He was able to loosen it up and it ran well. “I never pulled the engine apart,” he said. “An acquaintance came over one time and I told him the story behind that engine. He works for Kohler in Kohler, Wis., and told me I should pull the engine apart because rust was surely starting in there. Well, that was 30 years ago and I never had a problem with the engine, knock on wood.” “My grandfather’s truck had three-speed stick shift.” Skomski remembered. “This truck also had standard shift because the stub is still on the steering column. Maybe I’ll convert it back, but if I do, I’ll go with a floor shift.” Skomski had transmission line trouble that was probably his own fault for giving it too much to spin the tires. He got it rebuilt.
is good for the F100. It could almost use a C5, but the C4 holds up well. I put a quick-shift in there. Basically, it’s a pin that gives you a quicker 1-2 shift. When people are riding in there and it’s shifting normal it’s pretty stiff. They think there’s something wrong, but I tell them that’s how it’s supposed to be and how I want it.”
“A friend of mine’s son did it for $200,” said Jim. “He was “I’ve got a Thunderbird shifter in there,” Skomski pointed a transmission guy and did it as a favour. It’s a C4 which out. “It’s rigid going to the transmission with a rod going
The truck has ghost flames. 36 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
between the two of them. So, you hit a bump and the engine The Ford has been dubbed “Sin-A-Men” because of its cincan move a little and jam the rod. I’m going to put a cable namon red colour. Its nickname has been burned into the shifter in there. side boards that sit on the box. Five-spoke wheels, fat B.F. Goodrich Radial T/A white-letter tires, a steering column tach, The truck had a pine-floored pickup box when Jim got it. “The Ford running board step plates, a chrome-tipped dual exhaust previous owner had a family and kids and put pine in to save system, shiny tailgate chains, chrome front and rear bumpers money,” he guessed. “I wasn’t after a real top-notch job when and twin outside rearview mirrors are other features of the I redid it, but I put in an oak box like the factory did.” Skomski truck. Another cool feature is the memories Jim gets of his cut his own wooden box floor and made his own pieces for it. grandfather’s 1954 F100 each time he drives his Sin-A-Men It has held up really well so far. sweetheart down the highway.
DEC/JAN 2019 MUSCLE CAR Plus MAGAZINE 37
Nova on Sunday
This 1970s Nova is still in the hands of its original owner Story and photos by John Gunnell
M
elina Mercouri was the star of “Never on Sunday,” a 1960 movie about an American scholar (played by Jules Dassin) who meets a fun-loving prostitute in the Athenian city of Piraeus and tries, without success, to change her lifestyle. Nine years later, the owner of a muscular Chevrolet Nova did a take off on the movie’s title, calling his high-spirited muscle car “Nova on Sunday.” Today the car, which is still in the hands of its original owner, remains as unchanged as Mercouri’s character Ilya did in the film. In fact, it is believed to be the only fully-documented, privately-owned and titled “crate” racing car from the ‘60s to exist today. That’s according to the muscle car experts at Nickey Chicago. “Nova on Sunday” was ordered through the parts department at Witte Chevrolet in August of 1969. It was purchased as a “car in white” body shell only. The car’s body shell was delivered from Fisher Body
A parachute is mounted on the rear to help stop the Nova when it blasts down a drag strip. Div. packed in a crate. The front clip — originally fibreglass — was ordered separately from GM. Since the car never went down an assembly line, it had no vehicle identification number. A VIN and title were issued in January 1970 by the Illinois Secretary of State. The car was then campaigned from 1970-1973 with major sponsorship provided by Performance Auto Parts of Chicago.
There’s nothing fancy about the car’s drag racing cockpit which has a single bucket seat and a rollover bar. 38 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
The “Performance Posse” (representing Performance Auto Parts) was a group of Chevrolet drivers that contracted with the Gold Agency—run by Al Poyer, general manager of U.S. 30 Drag Strip in Merriville, Ind.—to run with a funny car exhibition group. They appeared as part of the Coca-Cola Cavalcade of Stars at U.S. 30 Drag Strip. The Quarter Mile Countdown drag racing calendar printed in Evanston, Ill., featured “Nova on Sunday” in an ad indicating that it ran with an elapsed time of 10.22 sec. in Pro Super Stock competition.
chain. An L-88 spec Crane cam was installed. Twin 660-cfm Holley carbs are perched atop a Weiand tunnel ram intake manifold. On the bottom of the engine is a 7-qt. Moroso oil pan. Other goodies include Cal Custom finned valve covers, a Mallory dual-point ignition system and 2-1/8-in. Hooker exhaust headers. Rounding out the car’s potent drive train are a Muncie M-21 four-speed manual gearbox and a General Motors 12-bolt rear end with 4.30:1 gears. The big-block Nova produces about 850 hp at 7,800 rpm thanks to the work done by Army Engines in Evergreen, Ill.
The bored out 427 big-block Chevy V8 now displaces 440 cu. in. and produces 850-hp at 7,800 rpm.
J & J Auto sprayed the Sherwin Williams lacquer Sherlac White and gold paint job, shooting the gold through actual lace to try to recapture the car’s original 1969 look. The Nova originally had a fibreglass front
This car ran against a number of well-known drag stars such as Tikies Toy, Superstition, High Chaparral, Karen’s Camaro and True Grit. Star drag strip champions running in the same events at U.S. 30 Drag Strip included Roger Lindamood, Dickie Harrell, Don Garlits and Arnie “The Farmer” Beswick. Richard and Cindy Vitiritti are the owners of “Nova on Sunday.” Here’s an old black-and-white picture of the car in action Cindy’s take off on the popular film turned into a long-lasting one. back in the ‘70s. Back then the Lieane Fiberglass fender Richard raced the Nova from 1969 through 1973 in American Hot decals meant a fibreglass clip was used. Rod Assoc. Super Stock competition. A racing group called the Performance Posse was put together. It consisted of four Camaros and clip, but is now all-steel. Richard and Cindy remember how the original two Novas, including the Vitirittis’ car. At first, the Posse performed paint on the fibreglass used to develop cracks and craze marks. only on Wednesday evenings, but before long Sunday venues had When the Nova was displayed at the Muscle Car and Corvette Nato be added because of the group’s great crowd appeal. tionals in St. Charles, Ill., set up next to the car were video monitors After the car was finished drag racing, the Vitirittis sold it. They started showing actual footage of the Nova in action many years ago at searching for it again in the late ‘80s. However, it took them 15 years to U.S. 30 Drag Strip. It is certainly hard to believe that a car driven that find the car and 14 months to restore it to its racing form. The 427-cid hard that many years ago is still surviving in the hands of its original V8 was bored .060 over to 440 cu. in. and fitted with cast iron heads, a owner. Unlike Ilya, the car looks pretty much the same as it did back stock crank, stock pistons, stock rods, stock lifters and a stock timing in the ‘60s.
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PARTS STORE Edelbrock’s Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 1955-1986 Small-Block Chevy
Edelbrock’s new Performer EPS Intake Manifold for 19551986 Chevrolets with 262-400 cubic-inch small-block engines. The manifold utilizes Edelbrock’s Dual-plane, low-rise design
DiabloSport Offering Tuning Options for Charger/ Challenger 3.6L DiabloSport has announced that it is now offering new tuning support and products for the 2015-2019 Dodge Challenger/ Charger with the 3.6L V6 option. Up until now, DiabloSport had only supported the 2015 and 2016 models of these vehicles but has now extended it to cover all the way up to the 2019 model year with its inTune i3 and Trinity 2 Performance programmers. Additionally, all-new PCM Swap products for the V6 Challenger and Charger are now available, which allows DiabloSport to offer innovative and industry-exclusive product offerings for these vehicles.
with a 180-degree firing order which greatly improves torque over a wide RPM range for excellent throttle response. The runner design of the intake manifold is tuned for peak torque at 3,500 rpm on a 350 cubic-inch engine, making it ideal for power from off-idle to 5,500 rpm. Dyno tests with the product showed gains of 5 horsepower and 9 lb-ft of torque over the Edelbrock Performer manifold.
For more information please go to www.diablosport.com
New Single Plane Split Intake Manifold for GM LS3/L92 from Holley
New Front Coil-Over Conversion System for 19651979 F-100 Trucks from QA1
For more information please go to www.edelbrock.com
QA1’s new Front CoilOver Conversion System for 1965-1979 Ford F-100 trucks allows users to get rid of their twin I-beam suspension setup for a completely new front end that has been engineered to make your truck handle much better while also allowing for ride height adjustability. The system is 150 lbs. lighter than stock and allows for a 3- to 7-in. drop. It features a bolt-in, tubular design for ease of installation and for strength, and allows you to find the perfect stance that’s the best fit for your truck.
Holley has expanded its lineup of race-oriented, split-design intake manifolds by releasing two new LS3/L92 versions. First, a carbureted 4150 flange version will provide an option for a high-winding performance intake that is decidedly old school. Second, the EFI version includes fuel rails, mounting hardware and 4150 mounting pattern that allow users to use a variety of throttle body and intake elbow combinations. Black and natural finishes are available for the carbureted and EFI version, both of which were built completely with performance in mind.
For more information please go to www.qa1.net
For more information please go to www.holley.com
42 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
TECH: NEW PRODUCTS
Flex-A-Lite Extruded Core Radiator and Dual Electric Fans for GM A-Body Vehicles with LS Engine Swap
Auto Meter’s 3-3/4-In. Short Sweep Mopar Classic Tachometer
Flex-A-Lite is now offering a direct-fit radiator that is made to bolt into a 1968-1972 Chevelle and other GM A-Body vehicles with an LS engine swap. No cutting or drilling is required for installation and the radiator will mount utilizing the factory location and equipment. The radiator comes with a fully-shrouded dual-fan system that moves 4,600 cfm of airflow and a Variable Speed Controller. It will increase the contact area between the coolant and aluminum tubes for better heat rejection and cooling, and the cooling fins have been designed with louvre patterns to help direct airflow.
Auto Meter’s legendary Tachometers have long been the standard in the muscle car/racing community due to both their appearance and their functionality. The patented air core meter movement, which is wound in-house to exacting standards, can move the needle from 0-10,000 rpm in 333 milliseconds. They feature traditional incandescent lighting to illuminate the perimeter of the dial and they are both 12- and 16-volt compatible which is well suited for nearly every street or race car’s electrical system. There are many different versions of the legendary tach available, including the new 3-3/4-in., 8,000 rpm version with the Mopar classic logo incorporated.
For more information please go to www.flex-a-lite.com
For more information please go to www.autometer.com
44 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
DEC/JAN 2019 MUSCLE CAR Plus MAGAZINE 45
Advertiser Index
Great Canadian Oil Change--------------------------------------24 All Parts Trailer Sales ------------------------------------------- 45 Barry-Hamel ----------------------------------------------------- 43 BowTie Auto Parts ---------------------------------------------- 44 CAM Oils --------------------------------------------------------- 45 Canadian Hot Rods --------------------------------------------- 33 Easy Build ------------------------------------------------------- 40 Formula Distributors ------------------------------------------- 27 G&M Trailers ---------------------------------------------------- 45 Golden Leaf Automotive --------------------------------------- 21 Ididit -------------------------------------------------------------- 37 Jellybean Autocrafters ----------------------------------------- 45 KMS Tools ------------------------------------------------------- 39 LMC Truck ------------------------------------------------------- 48 Lordco Auto Parts ---------------------------------------------- 13 MAG Auctions -----------------------------------------------------7 Meguiar’s ----------------------------------------------------------5 Mopac Auto Supply - ------------------------------------------- 47 Portland Roadster Show --------------------------------------- 19 Procar --------------------------------------------------------------2 Red Line Oil -------------------------------------------------------3 Scott’s Super Trucks ------------------------------------------- 45 Stone’s Speed Shop -------------------------------------------- 45 Summit Racing ------------------------------------------------- 17 Tungsram -------------------------------------------------------- 41 Westar Trailers -------------------------------------------------- 45
BBK Cold Air Intake for 2011-2019 Dodge 6.4L HEMI BBK is now offering a new Cold Air Intake kit for 2011-2019 Dodge Challenger/ Chargers with the 6.4L HEMI engine option. The kit replaces the entire factory HEMI inlet system with large-diameter, chrome-plated tubing and a reusable, high-flow air filter. The BBK airbox is designed to pull in cooler, denser air which provides your vehicle with more horsepower and torque and improves the overall look of your engine bay with its chrome-plated finish. All hardware is included for a completely bolt-on installation. For more information please go to www.bbkperformance.com
WANT TO SEE YOUR VEHICLE IN THE MAGAZINE? Send in a few hi-res photos of your classic car or truck with a short description of around 60-80 words and we may include you in the Reader’s Rides section at the back of Muscle Car Plus.
If interested, please email us at ReadersRides@rpmcanada.ca 46 MUSCLE CAR PLUS MAGAZINE DEC/JAN 2019
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LMC Truck Just like trucks, holidays build lasting memories that tie generations together. Merry Christmas from our truck family to yours. Get your FREE CATALOG at LMCTruck.com
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LMCTruck.com 800.562.8782
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