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From the Desk
Part of me loves tradition. The other part hates when things become predictable.
I get bored easily. If things in my life stay the same day in day out, I struggle with the lack of variety. Anyone that knows me, knows that I like to think outside the box and implement new things into my events and of course the magazine. Keeping Killer Rides fresh and exciting, keeps me motivated and hopefully, keeps you entertained in the process.
That’s exactly the reason why I started to concentrate more on the community side of things in our scene, rather than just becoming another car magazine. Showcasing more of what happens every weekend from the grass roots stuff to the high-profile events and cars help makes Killer Rides unique, especially the way that it is presented in the magazine. Obviously, I love diversity.
It’s true that my main interest remains tough, Pro-Street styled cars, but I also appreciate all cars, bikes and events that are slightly left of centre. Case in point my love of Bullet Nose Studebakers! At the end of the day, I class myself as a hardcore car enthusiast, so anything that’s cool, regardless of the brand, style, running gear or badging gets the big thumbs up from me!
Whilst you will still see traditional photo shoots in Killer Rides, there will be more and more ‘Snap Shots’ added to the pages to show off more cars and bikes, more often. If something grabs my attention at a show and the opportunity arises to grab some pics and video, chances are it will be in a future issue. MotorEx was the perfect event for this. Whilst I was only in Melbourne for the day, I managed to get a heap of content together which will filter through the pages each issue moving forward. The same thing goes for stuff I find on the internet. Sometimes random cars and bikes appear online that grabs my attention and if I feel you guys may be interested in it, I’ll share with you over a couple of pages.
It’s all about adding interesting features and articles into the pages to keep Killer Rides fresh. Hopefully, you agree. If not, shoot me a message. I’d love to know your thoughts.
See you on the Street,
FULLRIVER HC SERIES
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DESIGN
CALAIS
WHAT’S HAPPENING
IT’S ALL IN THE FINER DETAILS!
The Lowrider fraternity are well known for taking their high-end show car builds seriously. Very seriously actually. Check out this Chevy Imapala’s chassis! The detailing is insane with the candy paint and engraving almost too good to put a body over! Even the LSA engine, trans and rear end have been detailed to the highest standard. Have a go at the work on the rocker covers and exhaust! I would hate to think how many hours have gone into getting it this far!
WHAT’S HAPPENING
KILLER RIDES LIVE #6 - JULY UPDATE
With just a few weeks before Killer Rides Live fills the Illawarra Hockey Centre, we are pleased to let you know about some of the cars you’ll see at the show - some new, and some very special cars that are making a comeback to the Hockeyt Centre to be part of the 30th Anniversary celebrations.
Those that have been in the car scene for quite a few years will remember these incredible cars that made an impact at the event many years ago, including two cars that appeared at our very first event in 1994! Those cars, Steve Hodges HG Ute and Steve Bubas’ blown XC Falcon come back 30-years after their first show here. Add to this list the stunning 1960 Studebaker owned by Rhonda Zelukovic and the HQ Monaro of Ben Sargent that was a Summernats Grand Champion winner! Along with these iconic cars of the past, you’ll also see some of the incredible cars and bikes currently on the show circuit. It all happens August 10th and 11th inside the Illawarra Hockey Centre, Waples Rd, Unanderra (Wollongong). Open 9am-5pm Sat and 9am-4pm Sunday. For more info, head over to the website - www.killerrides.com.au
WHAT’S HAPPENING
KILLER Video
Red Bull Soapbox Racing Crashes
Video By Red Bull
WHO’S UP FOR AN EPIC ROAD TRIP?
I was devastated when I had to make the call to cancel the first (then) Performance Street Car Road Trip. With all that was happening in the world at the time, it was always going to be a struggle. But times have changed, and we have our freedom back again. So its back - the Killer Rides Road Trip! You’ve got plenty of time to get holidays sorted, save your pennies for fuel and get your car ready for three days of cruising from Wollongong to Albury with a bunch of likeminded car guys and girls. I’ve scheduled this to take place late October, 2025, with the exact cruise route and dates to be advised soon, so accomodation can be booked and locked in. And if there’s only a dozen cars set to leave Wollongong for the cruise, so be it. We’ll be going anyway. We have to start somewhere right? So, who’s coming along? Send me an email with your details and a pic of the car you’re bringing and then get ready for the coolest car cruise ever - Killer Rides Road Trip!
SIX-PACK TO GO
Here’s something you wouldn’t expect to find in a 50’s Chevy Panel Truck! Thinking you were going to see a big block or maybe an LS-based engine, you can imagine the surprise when you’re greeted by a custom, twin-turbo, fuel injected old-school Chev straight six! Dare to be different!
CHECK OUT OUR
CHANNEL
SUMMERNATS 36 DUMPS MEGA DOLLARS INTO CANBERRA
There’s no denying that Summernats 36 was a massive event. The crowds and number of cars entered easily surpassed previous events. With around 130,000 spectators flowing through the gates during the 2024 event, there was always going to be massive boost to Canberra’s economy and a recent report showed that in excess of $43 million had been injected into Canberra as a result of the five days of Summernats!
GOT SOMETHING IN THE BUILD?
WE WANT TO SEE IT!
Everyone loves to check out new cars in the build, that’s why I have implemented a section at Killer Rides Live so people car see just how much work goes into creating the final masterpiece. Its also one of the most popular sections in the magazine too! So if you’re currently up to your elbows in a new project, send me some pics and info to paul@killerrides.com.au
VALE: LIZZY MUSI 1991-2024
The world of Street Racing is mourning the passing of Lizzy Musi, after succumbing to her battle with aggressive breast cancer in June 27. Lizzy’s Dad, well-known engine guru Pat, broke the news on his Facebook page to fans, saying that Lizzy was surrounded by her family and passed peacefully in her own home. Known around the world to everyone with an interest in drag racing thanks to the Street Outlaws TV show, Lizzy was loved by all and will be sorely missed. Our thoughts go out to her family, friends and fans. Taken way to soon. RIP Lizzy.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Got something to say? Send it to paul@killerride.com.au or message us from the Killer Rides Facebook page.
KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY
Hi Paul,
In reply to Angus’ letter in the new Issue about his grandfather’s HQ Ute, I say do what needs doing, and enjoy it. Forget about spending $100K plus on it, I’m sure your Grandfather would never had expected anyone to do that to his Ute. I’m thinking he would rather see it kept in the family and used. Not stripped down, languishing in the back of the shed, only to be sold off as parts when it gets all too much. Sure, add some wheels or whatever, but remember to enjoy it as much as you can. Just my two cents worth.
Jay L – Narromine, NSW
Hi Jay, Wise words mate. I guess time will tell…
G’day Paul,
OH, WHAT A FEELING!
Thank you for thinking outside the box with the features you put in Killer Rides. That Corolla wagon is automotive porn. Well done Scott Briant! The fact that he took a humble Corolla and stuffed it for of blown V8 makes it a winner for me. He’s certainly done a number on this Toyota and showed that with the right mods, anything can be tough! Let’s see more of these ‘Dare to be Different’ types of builds!
Martin H – St Albans VIC
Hi Martin,
Yep, I too love builds that aren’t what you’d expect to see. When I first spotted Scott’s Corolla back when it run a single carb 355ci Holden, I loved what he had done to it. Now with the blown combo, it’s even more appealing to me. I’m with you – let’s see more of these!
CHEQUE BOOK BUILDS!
Hi Paul,
Great Editorial in Issue 65. It makes you think twice about taking on a high-end street elite style build. It may be ok for those who have six figure salaries or have multi-million-dollar businesses to drop a huge amount of money having someone build a car, but really what for. It appears that some of these owners aren’t really typical Street Machiner’s or Hot Rodders and only own a show car because either their mate has one, and they want something better, or it’s a way of moving some funds around in their business for tax purposes. What satisfaction do they get out of owning these cars? It’s doubtful they would ever drive them and if they win an award, they stand up there collecting the trophy and smiling for the camera’s as if they did all the hard work. Maybe the builders of the cars should be taking those accolades for the work they put into these cars. It seems to me that when these guys splash their money around building cars, the shops they use now set that bench mark for all who want to use their services in the future. For the average guy or girl who want to build a nice car, it’s now out of reach. And that’s a damn shame for our scene… Mal H – Ipswich, QLD
Hi Mal,
I do understand where you are coming from, and I have no doubt that times have changed considerably in regards to building a custom car. The level we used to be able to afford comfortably is now much more expensive. Maybe that’s why we are seeing so many genuine street cars being built. On the other side of the coin, I think we need those high-end builds to keep the scene interesting, especially for shows like Summernats, MotorEx, Showcars Melbourne and even my own Killer Rides Live. Without those over-the-top elite builds, would shows even be needed anymore? People love to dream about owning these types of cars and if that dream is taken away, will the scene improve at all? We all want to get ideas for our own cars and these big dollar builds are often the places we find them. It’s a classic case of “each to their own!”
TRUE TOUGH STREET CAR
G’day Paul,
I have to say the latest cover is sensational! Getting a big Chev to sit on its rear bumper is no easy feat so my hat goes off to Michael Vergis and those that had a hand in that oh-so-tuff ’Impala! The facto that is run’s 8’s, cruises the streets and looks amazing, makes it one of the most impressive streeters I’ve seen. A great choice for the cover! Oh, and well done to Lauren for the awesome photo!
Hi Nathan,
I’ve owned a few big Chevy’s in my time, and I can tell you, this is truly an impressive build. To do everything Michael does with this car, from cruising, drag racing and even the Coota 400, it shows just how capable and reliable this big cube street car really is. And yes, Lauren’s pic was definitely a great choice for the cover!
Nathan B – Kempsey, NSW
COMING ATTRACTIONS
PONY RIDEWild
SMOOTHED ENGINE BAY
TWIN TURBO NELSON RACING
Greg ‘Beach’ Ball spends his life creating tough cars for customers, and now there’s a wild Mustang build happening inhouse for Pro-Street Restorations!
Beachie lives and breathes tough cars. At any one time, the Pro-Street Restorations workshop houses a bunch of cool cars being constructed for customers who want something built from the ground up, ready to pound the pavement the day the car is picked up. And when he’s not getting his hands dirty on the tools, he’s travelling to the USA to take in any number of car shows, museums, shops and events. And whilst the customer cars always get priority, he is still persevering with his own builds including the wild, tubbed, big-blocked XP Coupe that is destined for a life in the US Pro-Street scene once its completed!
347CI WINDSOR
And now, there’s the Pro-Street ’66 Mustang that takes some of Beachies time. Whilst the Mustang is still in the early stages of construction, this will be one wild ride when finished! As it sits now, the body has been taken back to its bare skeleton with all the original panels removed to make sure the frame is perfect before making it whole again. The tubs are now in place as is the sheetmetal 9-inch diff, four-link, coil-overs and watts-link. Up front, the clunky old Mustang front end has been put in the ‘never to use again’ pile, replaced by a Southern Chassisworks independent, coil-over front end which is visible in the newly shaped engine bay. The brakes will be upgraded to big Wilwoods all round, sitting inside
Speaking of the engine bay, the Windsor small block sitting in the bay at the moment is a stripped-down Nelson Racing twin-turbo 347-cuber without all the fruit attached...
As it sits now, the body has been taken back to its bare skeleton with all the original panels removed to make sure the frame is perfect before making it whole again.
Speaking of the engine bay, the Windsor small block sitting in the bay at the moment is a stripped-down Nelson Racing twin-turbo 347-cuber without all the fruit attached, but once everything is bolted back into its rightful place, that engine bay is going to be chock-o-block full of turbo Ford goodness. There’s still a long way to go, but rest assured, when this Mustang is completed, it will be one wild Pony!
RED ALERT
Billy Berches bought this Cortina thinking he was going to go cruising in one of Sydney’s toughest street Fords.
Billy Berches
1975 FORD TD CORTINA
Billy was to get his wish, but before he could do that, he needed to sort out some issues he inherited with his new purchase. Having bought the Cortina some 6-months after initially looking at it, Billy sent the cash and a tilt tray to pick the car up. The transaction was fine, but that’s where the good news ended. Billy’s first drive of his newly acquired Cortina wasn’t quite as much fun as he thought it would be. Amongst other niggling issues, the gearbox was on its final legs. Every time Billy gave that blown engine just a bit of throttle, the gearbox was screaming for forgiveness. Annoyed, but realising how much of the folding stuff he’d already dropped in the Cortina, Billy knew he had to fix what needed to be fixed so he could hit the road.
Having built many car’s prior to buying the Cortina, Billy has built up a bunch of contacts in the scene that were more than capable of getting the Cortina ready to cruise with his mates. The first port of call was to see good mate, Vince at Powershift where he stripped the troublesome C4 before rebuilding it with much tougher internals that could easily deal with the blown Clevo that it was bolted up to. Speaking of which, the engine didn’t escape without getting the once over too. Another mate, “Mick Turbo” was tasked with running an eye over the pumped 393-cube Cleveland, and after making some changes and adding the right tune, Billy was soon ready to fire the new combo up in anger. And angry it was! With the billet BDS 8/71 blower and twin 750 AFD blower carbs feeding the air and fuel into the engine, the rebuilt trans and 3.5-geared 9-inch diff were now having to deal with 750-ponies being pushed through them. Of course, that was no longer an issue…
The underside wasn’t too bad. The steering rack was bent and needed replacing and now works in with the Koni shocks, and King springs to make the Cortinas road manners a lot more respectable. Helping bring the speed down when needed is left up with four wheel discs that are controlled with a Wilwood master cylinder. The wheels of choice are 17x4.5 and 15x8-inch Weld Racing…for now. Billy plans to had a set of similar sized Simmons when he feels the need for a change. The body and paint is just how Billy got the Cortina. The smooth red paint looks like it was poured onto the straight ’75-spec panels with that cool black striping added to great effect, complimenting the wheels. Inside, the front Recaro’s have been trimmed in leather in a familiar Ford pattern, matching the rear bench seat. There’s a full cage with taxi bar added (and painted black to help with the concealment) along with a full AutoMeter dash behind the MOMO steering wheel. The B&M shifter now sits where the factory gear lever and console once sat.
With all the work now completed, Billy can confidently hit the black top and cruise the blown Cortina to events and gettogethers all over Sydney with all his mates in their tough as hell rides! After all was said and done, Billy’s advice to others? “Don’t buy someone elses car! Build your own!”
After all was said and done, Billy’s advice to others?
“Don’t buy someone elses car! Build your own!”
OWNER: BILLY BERCHES
VEHICLE: 1975 TD CORTINA
ENGINE: 393CI CLEVELAND BUILT BY MICK TURBO, AFR HEADS, BILLET BDS 8/71 BLOWER, TWIN AFD 750 BLOWER CARBS, CUSTOM HEADERS.
POWER: 750HP
TRANS: C4 AUTO BUILT BY VINCE AT POWERSHIFT, B&M SHIFTER
REAR END: 9-INCH DIFF, 35-SPLINE AXLES, 3.5-GEARS, TRUE-TRAC, MINI-TUBS
COLOUR: VERY RED
WHEELS: 17X4.5 / 15X8 WELD RACING
THANKS TO: MICK TURBO FOR THE ENGINE BUILD. VINCE AT POWERSHIFT FOR THE TRANS. ROB SARKIS AND JAMIE KADY FOR THE LATE NIGHTS HELPING IN THE SHED. THE TUESDAY NIGHT CREW FOR HANGING OUT IN THE SHED OVER A FEW BEERS. JASON AT ROCKET INDUSTRIES FOR CHASING UP THE PARTS. AND OF COURSE MY FAMILY FOR NOT SEEING ME WHILST DRIVING AROUND PICKING UP PARTS…
IN BLUE Celebrating
Once again, the Combined Ford Clubs of NSW got together to stage the biggest All Ford Day yet!
Words/Pics/Video – Paul Beck
Filling every part of the pit area of Sydney Dragway, the annual NSW All Ford Day actually kicks off on the Saturday with a massive swap meet that sees a bunch of the Ford faithful scouring the grounds for that elusive part or accessory to finish off the latest build. Unfortunately, the wet weather all but put paid the swap meet this year, even though it did dry up later in the day. But come Sunday morning, it’s all about the car show side of the All Ford Day! From very early in the morning, the line-up leading to the entry gates got longer and longer as everyone thought they would beat the rush to get inside Sydney Dragway to find their spot to set up their display for the day. It was sunny, but it was damn cold and very windy, making it very hard for those who liked to display their cars with the bonnet’s up and doors open. Still, it was an impressive display of all things Ford. For just $20 per car, Ford owners could part within the show, with over 1700 cars making their way to Eastern Creek to put on one hell of a show.
Once inside the venue, it was wall to wall heaven for those with blue blood running through their veins. As we’ve come to expect, the array of cars was as varied as they get, with highly modified rides parked beside numbers-matching restos, race cars of all shapes and sizes and everything in between. GT Falcon’s always take up plenty of space with in the show section and are obviously a fan favourite with all models, body styles and colours catered for.
US Muscle cars are also a big feature of the All Ford Day with Mustangs leading the charge for those keen on the Detroit iron. With that said though, there was plenty of US-built cars scattered across the expansive show area with some cool examples on display including a couple of Thunderbolts, some GT Fairlane’s and even one of my alltime favourite US Fords, a 1960 Starliner coupe that looked amazing, even though it was in original form!
Those that can’t leave anything just as Ol’ Henry had instructed, were well catered for too. Big engines, multiple carb set-ups, blower, big wheels and even bigger attitudes were parked up and getting plenty of attention. Billy Berches blown Cortina that graces this month’s cover, was on show with the boys from the OMCC, with other stand outs including Mick Galea’s Capri and the Old Skool Resto’s Mustang (also a former Killer Rides cover car). Add to this some cool small Fords including some wild Escorts and even a race-inspired Sierra and you realise just how broad the range of cars are that attend the NSW All Ford Day.
There was a bunch of traders on offer as well as an abundance of Food options including the Dragway canteen and
GOLD CLASS GOLD CLASS
It may be hard to believe, but Dean Beattie did the majority of work on his VL Calais, in his home garage!
Dean’s VL has been on the scene for many years and is, without doubt, a standout – not just amongst Commodores, but within the greater Street Machining fraternity. Let’s face it, unless you’ve got extremely bad eyesight, this isn’t a car you’ll miss easily. And even if you struggled with the visuals, the sound of that bad-ass blown injected combo will definitely enlighten your senses. Dean is obviously a hands-on kind of guy, handling the all the fabrication himself, including the diff, tubs, exhaust system, tube front k-frame and all the sheet metal in the engine bay. He also handled the majority of the mechanical work too. In fact, the only thing he didn’t do was the wiring, paint and interior trim.
Dean Beattie
VL Calais
There’s no denying the VL Commodore, and especially the Calais version, is a big hit amongst the Commodore loving crew, and it’s not hard to see why. Even with no body kit, the Calais’s shape lends itself well to various stages of modifications. Whether its mild or wild, like Dean’s, chances are it’s going to look tough with the right wheels, right stance and of course, the right colour. Dean has obviously nailed all three of those categories! The big diametre billet wheels, measuring 22x8.5 and 22x13inches, fill the arches perfectly and flow seamlessly with the silver section of the Calais exterior. Add to that the Candy Gold paint covering the rest of the body (that was laid on some 15 years ago!) and you have to agree, this Calais certainly turns heads! Inside, in stark contrast to the flashy exterior, the shapely seats and their surrounds have been expertly recovered in white leather including the custom centre console and dash. It’s the driveline in this VL that is the main talking point for the hardcore car guys. With the bonnet down, the polished injector hat and Blower Shop supercharger are in full view, and at this stage, you’d be forgiven for expecting to find an LS engine bolted to the impressive top end. But with the engine exposed, Dean shows his patriotic side by powering the Calais with a tough as nails, 383-cube Holden V8, built by Pro-Flo Performance! A custom sheet-metal intake connects the engine to the 8/71 pump and EFI hat, with everything detailed like a seasoned show car – even though Dean uses the VL whenever and wherever he can. Backing the engine is a Turbo 400 trans that gets the power to those big tyres out the back via the shortened 9-inch diff.
It’s the driveline in this VL that is the main talking point for the hardcore car guys.
Dean reckons the VL has gone just about as far as he would like. It’s now time to enjoy it while he concentrates on the other projects he has sitting in the back of the garage. Judging by the way the VL turned out, I can’t wait to see the new builds finished!
OWNER: DEAN BEATTIE VEHICLE: VL CALAIS
ENGINE: HOLDEN 383ci STROKER, 8/71 BLOWER, EFI BIG AND UGLY INJECTOR HAT, COME RACING BILLET CRANK, SOLID ROLLER CAM, 3-STAGE DRY SUMP, 4-INTO-1 HEADERS, DUAL 3.5-INCH EXHAUST, E85 FUEL
TRANS: TURBO 400
UNDERSIDE: 35-SPLINE 9-INCH, FOUR-LINK, TUBS, WILWOOD DISCS, COIL-OVERS, TUBE FRONT K-FRAME
COLOUR: CANDY GOLD OVER SILVER
WHEELS: 22X8.5 / 22X13 INTRO
THANKS TO: STITCHED UP CUSTOM TRIM, PROFLO PERFORMACE, PROCOAT FOR THE POWDER COATING, ELITE REFELCTIONS AUTO DETAILING
BRAVE Heart
If you’re a fan of sleek British sports coupes like the Jensen Interceptor, you’re about to be shocked!
Walking into the Melbourne Showgrounds for MotorEx 2024, I was prepared to see some wild and unusual cars, but I wasn’t prepared for what was sitting in amongst the expected Torana’s, Falcon’s, Monaro’s and other makes and models you already know you’ll see in numbers scattered around the venue. Sitting unassumingly in the Street Elite pavilion sat this amazing Jensen Interceptor. Seeing an Interceptor at such an event is rare at best, and that alone made me go in for a closer look. And I’m glad I did.
This is one very special Jensen. Whilst these were fitted with Mopar drivelines from the factory with options of 383ci or 440ci backed by either a 4-speed manual or 3-speed, 727 auto trans. This one however took things a little further, but still keeping in with the Mopar theme. Positioned well back into the Jensen’s spacious engine bay is an Indy Hemi topped with 8-stack Kinsler EFI and sporting no less that 572 cubic inches. Backing the big block is a TCI 6-speed auto, sending the considerable horsepower to all four corners. Yes, you read that right! This is an all-wheel-drive Interceptor! The front independent suspension is all FF Interceptor with twin coil-overs, whilst the rear end used to be bolted into a Chevy Corvette and features fully-adjustable coil-overs for a much better handling package. Brakes are Wilwood discs - 381mm with 6-spot calipers on the nose and 355mm with 4-spot on the rear. The wheels are 20x8 and 20x10 custom billets.
Positioned well back into the Jensen’s spacious engine bay is an Indy Hemi topped with 8-stack Kinsler EFI and sporting no less that 572 cubic inches.
The original FF interior has been retrimmed in red leather in stark contrast to the charcoal paint covering the unique body style. Whilst we didn’t get to meet the owner, I’m sure he spent plenty of time answering questions about probably the most unique custom car entered in MotorEx this year. This car could definitely be the poster boy for Dare to Be Different!
VEHICLE: 1971 JENSEN INTERCEPTOR FF
ENGINE: 572CI INDY HEMI, 8-STACK KINSLER FUEL INJECTION.
TRANS: TCI 6-SPEED AUTO
UNDERSIDE: ALL WHEEL DRIVE, FF INTERCEPTOR IFS, CORVETTE IRS, COIL-OVERS, WILWOOD BRAKES, 6&4 SPOT CALIPERS
COLOUR: CHARCOAL
WHEELS: 120X8 / 20X10 CUSTOM BILLET
HAULIN
CLASS
With a blown big block on board, this Pro-Street HQ Ute was built to haul!
There’s something about a tough HQ Holden that gets the blood pumping. Case in point is Chris Pearson’s black, badarse Ute. Walking around the Street Machine show pavilion at MotorEx revealed lots of cool cars, but when I laid eyes on Chris’ Ute, I was stopped in my tracks. It’s no secret that I’m a Pro-Street kinda-guy, and Chris’ Ute ticked all the boxes for me. From the blown big block, to the smooth panel and paint to the tubs and stunning, custom fit VF HSV interior, this HQ was a burger with the lot!
Chris Pearson HQ Holden Ute
Chris is one busy man. Running a rather large Smash Repairs business and dealing with 40-plus cars each week, it’s wonder he has the time to build something this cool in his spare time. Somehow though, Chris has managed to juggle his corporate obligations whilst getting the Ute build happening. Of course, when spare time is rare, it pays to have a bunch of people you can call on to lend a hand. People like Chris McDonald at McDonald Bros Racing, who, along with his crew, spent lots of time Ute, installing the engine and trans, sorting out the chassis mods such as the tubs and four-link, fabricating the diff, notching the chassis, fabricating the custom
a-arms on the front and making sure the airbag suspension and twin compressors were going to fit exactly how they should. The numerous body mods were handled by Jeremy Clausen Design, and although the Ute appears to be a smooth, factory spec HQ at first glance, a closer inspection will reveal the custom radiator support, ML Mercedes bonnet locks, custom front wheel tubs, flat fire wall, smooth underside of the custom bonnet, deleted fuel filler and smooth off, tubbed load area. When Jeremy was done with the changes, the Ute came back to Chris’ shop –Corporate Autobody, to have the body prepped and coated in the House of Kolor Black Gold.
You’ll be excused for not seeing the sheet metal mods in the engine bay when your view is dominated by the blown big block that Chris sourced from Big Al’s Toy Bos in the USA. Featuring 468 cubes, a Weiand 6/71 blower and Joe Blo’s EFI version of the Big and Ugly hat, the engine makes around 600hp. The engine is ultrareliable as it is and for this build, Chris wasn’t chasing horsepower. He has other builds on the go for that! Backing the engine is a Turbo 400 with a narrowed 9-inch dealing with the power and sending it through the 20x12 FR Simmons and sticky Pirelli P-Zero tyres.
Instead of taking the easy way out and kitting out the factory interior with some more stylish seats and a bunch of AutoMeter gauges jammed into the factory facia, Chris decided to go with some late model fixtures. Manny at The Trim Shop scored the task of retro-fitting a complete VF HSV interior including the dash, console, door trims and steering wheel. The only real deviation from the HSV install is the B&M Shifter grafted into the console. Those stopping by the Ute whilst on show were obviously impressed by the interior makeover! Chris has certainly done a number of his one-time humble Holden hauler. When Chris handed over the cash in exchange for the Ute, he scored himself a clean, original, one-owner Belmont Ute that was roaming around Stawell in country Victoria. I wonder what the original owner would think of his beloved HQ now? Although only recently finished, Chris isn’t slowing down anytime soon, with a couple of more cars being readied for MotorEx 2025. One is a VY Clubby with a Vortech blown 540ci big block Chev and the other being a big-tyre pro-street XE S-Pack Falcon Ute, powered by a blown 545-cube big block Ford! Looks like I’m heading back to MotorEx next year!
OWNER: CHRIS PEARSON
You’ll be excused for not seeing the sheet metal mods in the engine bay when your view is dominated by the blown big block...
VEHICLE: HQ HOLDEN UTE
ENGINE: 468ci BUILT BY BIG AL’S TOYBOX USA, WEIAND 6/71 BLOWER, JOEBLO BAU INJECTOR HAT, HALTECH ELITE 2500 ECU, GM PERFORMANCE ALLOY HEADS
TRANS: TURBO 400, DOMINATOR 2800 CONVERTER
UNDERSIDE: RIDETECH AIR RIDE, VIKING COIL OVERS (FRT), TUBE ARMS, TUBBED, NOTCHED CHASSIS, 4-LINK, WILWOOD DISCS WITH 6-SPOT CALIPERS
COLOUR: HOUSE OF KOLOR BLACK GOLD
WHEELS: 18X7 / 20X12 POLISHED FR SIMMONS
THANKS TO: CORPORATE AUTOBODY, JEREMY CLAUSEN DESIGN, CHRIS AND THE TEAM AT MCDONALD BROS RACING, MANNY AT THE TRIM SHOP, SEBASTIAN AT AMAZING DENTS AND DETAIL. AND OF COURSE, MY BEAUTIFUL WIFE DEMI FOR WHOM I ORIGINALLY BUILT THE UTE FOR.
SWAPPIN’
& Stylin’
The Kingpin Kuztums crew turned the carpark at Sandown Park Hotel into a Car guys heaven with a massive swap meet, collector fair and of course, a show and shine!
It was a chilly start to proceedings, but once the sun was out, the June Hot Rod Collector Swap Meet & Show and Shine, soon heated up, with thousands of enthusiasts converging on the popular Hotel in Noble Park to either find that elusive part, stock up on certain collectables or just get out and about in their favourite weekend ride!
HOT ROD COLLECTOR SWAP MEET & SHOW AND SHINE_SHANDOWN PARK HOTEL_JUNE 17 KINGPIN EVENTS & SOCIAL CLUB WORDS – PAUL BECK PICS – JIMMY TEE PHOTOGRAPHY
The show and shine was strictly open to Pre ’78 vehicles which drew in a wide variety of vehicles including Hot Rods, Customs, Muscle Cars and classics filling the dedicated show area, adding a bonus to those who attended the event solely for the Swap Meet. Speaking of which, more often than not, general swap meets are turning more into Antique Fairs rather than Automotive based events, so Rob and his team have guidelines in place to ensure their events only feature car and bike parts, collectables and vintage pop culture and era specific clothing – everything those into this era consider the norm. Those entering the event made a donation that was handed over to Beyond Blue, who benefitted greatly from the day yet again.
The plan is to hold these events every 4-6 weeks at leading ALH venues across Melbourne in 2024/25.
The plan is to hold these events every 4-6 weeks at leading ALH venues across Melbourne in 2024/25. It’s all about bringing together the greater car community for a relaxing gettogether that gives you a reason to get the car out for a cruise, and if you’re lucky, spend some of your hard-earned on the hard-to-find part or accessory. Keep an eye on the Kingpin Events & Social Club Facebook page for details on their list of upcoming events!
In Style Cruisin’
The first Killer Rides Cruise without Cars attracted quite a few people eager to leave Sydney (and their cars) behind for four days of fun on the high-seas!
The idea to get a bunch of car guys and girls together for a Cruise is nothing new. But when you consider the four-day cruise is aboard an Ocean liner, and not in your car, it takes cruising to a whole new level. For the first Killer Rides Cruise without Cars, we decided upon a four-day cruise out of Sydney on the Carnival Splendor, a trip the Killer Rides crew had taken before, so we knew this would be great for seasoned and first time Cruisers.
As soon as we announced the dates, interest in the Cruise was sparked, and eventually we had around 30 people from Wollongong, Canberra, Sydney and even Melbourne departing Sydney on July 4th for what proved to be a whole lot of fun! Although the weather forecast didn’t look very promising, it did nothing to dampen the spirits of those on board. We had beautiful weather as we cruised out of Sydney Harbour, but that was as good as it was going to get as wet weather seemed to follow us up the coast and back for most of the trip. Still, we all managed
to stay dry regardless. The only downside was that once we reached Moreton Bay, the Captain and his crew declared the seas were too rough to make the short trip to the island and the trip was cancelled. Whilst some people were disappointed, their frowns disappeared when it was announced all passengers were getting some extra onboard credit and a healthy discount on the next cruise. Not a bad result at all! That just meant we had more time to take in the many shows, comedy acts, musical acts and the many other activities that was on offer.
If you’ve never experienced a cruise before, you should join us on the next Killer Rides Cruise without Cars, planned for 2025. Seeing that we never got across to Moreton Bay, we’ll be doing this four-dayer again, in hope that the weather gods are a little kinder to us next time. Everyone that joined us this time around have committed for the next one, and I’ve had messages from around 50 people all vowing to take part next time. Stay tuned for the dates for the 2nd Annual Killer Rides Cruise without Cars, to be announced in the magazine and website very soon…
RAD39
Bob & Leonie Bull show that in the Hot Rod world, there’s more to life that just 32, 33 and 34 Fords!
Building a full-tilt custom car means creating something unique to stand out from the rest. And that’s exactly what Bod and Leonie have done with their stunning ’39 Ford Cabriolet that was part of the Superstars pavilion at MotorEx, having made the cut earlier in the previous year. It’s easy to see why this Hot Rod was chosen to compete with the best cars in the country at MotorEx in Melbourne. Every inch of the build has been painstakingly put together and detailed to the highest possible standard.
1939 Ford Cabriolet
Bob Leonie Bull &
The swooping body is a fibreglass item from Coast-to-Coast Street Rods, based on a ’39 Ford, but refined to another level and style. Featuring a detachable roof, flush fit Hagan taillights and fuel filler door, Vision Concept mirrors and Vintique headlights, the body looks like it has been dipped in House of Kolor candies. The twotone paint scheme is made up with Rad Rides Wild Fire” and “Premium Hidamarl Ivory Pearl” with Candy Apple Red used in the graphics. The colours were laid onto the body by XCLUSIVEFX, including the underside, driveline, chassis and accessories, and engine bay, with the right amount of chrome and polished alloy to make the colours pop even further. Complimenting the eye-catching paint scheme is an interior styled and shaped by Trimcare in a combination of “Keisel Beige” and “Basalt” leather that covers the modified Hyundai seats, custom door trims, roof lining and centre console. Other interior highlights include a Polaris entertainment system with GPS, a reversing camera, Dakota digital instruments, electric windows, Vintage Air heater and ac controls and an electronic shifter with paddles from Retro-Tek Speed.
Building a full-tilt custom car means creating something unique to stand out from the rest. And that’s exactly what Bod and Leonie have done with their stunning ’39 Ford Cabriolet...
The driveline consists of a 350 Chev fitted with Holley Stealth Ram fuel injection, with a stage 2, Turbo 350 auto sending the power back to the 3.7-geared 9-inch diff – all of which features the same high-end detailing as the rest of the build. The custom chassis has been fitted with a Mustang II IRS front end equipped with Shockwave airbags, whilst the 9-inch is located with a stainless four-bar, also with Shockwave airbags. For wheels, Bob fitted up 18x7 and 20x10 Boyd Coddington Junkyard Dig billets for that classic hot rod look!
The build was handled by Rad Rides Rod and Custom Garage in Perth and is built to such a standard that not only did it qualify for the Superstars Finals, but managed to score a spot in the Meguiar’s Super Six as well as 3rd Paint in amongst the best of the best.
OWNER: BOB & LEONIE BULL
VEHICLE: 1939 FORD CABRIOLET
ENGINE: 350 CHEV, EDELBROCK ALLOY HEADS, HOLLEY STEALTH RAM JET FUEL INJECTION
TRANS: TURBO 350 AUTO, STAGE 2 SHIFT KIT, DOMINATOR HI-STALL CONVERTER, RETRO-TEK SPEED ELECTRONIC SHIFTER WITH PADDLES.
REAR END: 9-INCH, 3.7-GEARS, 4-BAR, AIR SUSPENSION
WHEELS: 18X7 / 20X10 BOYD CODDINGTON JUNK YARD DOG
BRAKES: CAMARO DISC FRONT / FALCON DISC REAR
COLOUR: RAD RIDES WILD FIRE / PREMIUM HIDAMARL IVORY PEARL / CANDY RED
THANKS TO: RAD RIDES ROD & CUSTOM GARAGE - PERTH FOR THE BUILD. XCLUSIVEFX FOR THE PAINT. TRIMCARE FOR THE INTERIOR.
EARLY RISERS
Now more than ever, car enthusiasts have ample opportunitiesto get their cars out and about with a bunch of like-minded people.
There’s no denying the Cars and Coffee meets are amongst the most popular car events on the planet right now. They almost always kick off early on Sunday morning and run for a couple of hours before finishing up and allowing you to enjoy the rest of your day. Sydney is blessed with having quite a few of these meets to choose from, and now they have another – this time based at Warragamba west of Sydney.
Most well-known for the Dam, Warragamba is an easy cruise from most parts of Western and Southern Sydney, as evident from the number of cars in attendance for the inaugural event held in July. Despite there being two other similar events on the same day within half hour either side of this one, it still attracted more than 300 cars to the towns centre, filling every available parking spot and then some, creating a cool atmosphere. The first event proved to be a spectacular success, ensuring the following months events will continue the trend.
Australia’s Street Car Community!
SnapShot
SPLIT DECISION
Do you go with a cool older muscle car, or one with all the mod-cons? Why not both?
Ben Goldman’s ’72 Cuda features the best of both worlds. While on the outside it presents like a typical old-school muscle car, but lift the bonnet or stick you head inside the window and it’s a whole new ball game! The whole Pro-Touring theme suits the Cuda perfectly. The exterior styling is timeless and aggressive, and whilst the Mopar engines of that time were brilliant engines, adding latemodel technology does make perfect sense for a car you intend to drive hard and often.
- PAUL BECK
1973 Plymouth Cuda
Ben Goldman
Lifting the bonnet on Ben’s cool Cuda reveals the 6.1-litre Hemi engine, that in standard form, produced 425hp, and it looks right at home in the Cuda’s engine bay. Backed by a 4-speed auto and finishing with a 4.10-geared Posi rear-end, the updated driveline is ideal for a Pro-Touring build. So too, the upgrades made to the underside including the big Baer brakes, Ridetech shockwave air-suspension and 20-inch, 3-piece Forgeline wheels. The Cuda now performs, handles and brakes with the best of them.
Ben has the Cuda on the market at the moment for $110K USD and is based in Miami, Florida.
Inside, there’s a pair of body-hugging bucket seats where a comfy Ben stares at the AutoMeter digital dash sitting behind the black billet steering wheel. There’s room in the custom centre console for a couple of cold ones, kept colder when the Vintage Air system is blowing.
COMING EVENTS
Illawarra
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Michael - 0419 248574
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