To a certain degree, that was always the premise behind Killer Rides. Not only was there to be the online magazine, but a range of events, some cool merchandise and a couple of things coming up that will be revealed all in good time. But for the most part, Killer Rides is about the Australian Car Scene and everything that makes up that
be able to do a small article on that event. Phone pics are OK, unless you’re still using a Nokia 7210! Likewise, if you own a car that you think should be featured in Killer Rides and have a digital camera or again, a highquality phone, grab some pics and send them in with some basic information. Maybe email a pic of your car first to get approval! It’s all about getting more content to feature from around the country. I’ll be doing the same myself at various shows I visit around the country. The more content we can showcase, the better I reckon! Making these changes to Killer Rides is about giving this magazine a point of difference.
scene – car shows, cruise nights, charity events, build projects, car features and of course the people that make in the industry as well. Sure, there will always be some US content added (how about the Funnycar cover this month? Bet you weren’t expecting that!) but mostly, it’s about what’s happening right here in Australia. As you can imagine, making this happening is a massive undertaking. There are only so many hours in a day that I can spend working, so trying to get to every event and feature every cool car is impossible. So, I’m asking you to help out! Yep, you can be a part of the Killer Rides Car Community! How? If you’re out and about at an event and are capable of grabbing some pics, let me know. We may
So if you have something to share in Killer Rides, send me an email. And, if you are part of a club, and have an event coming up, feel free to send the artwork to me and I’ll add it to our huge event listing in each issue free of charge! It’s all part of the service at Killer Rides!
Enjoy Issue #57. See you on the street,
I’ve always been a fan of the Goodguys Hot Rod Association in the USA and what they do for the greater car community.
Issue number 2 of the Best of Killer Rides is now in stock and ready to send out via Australia Post, or you can pick up direct from us at any event we attend to promote Killer Rides. No matter where we are, we will have copies with us. The magazine was launched at Killer Rides Live #5 inthe Hockey Centre, Unanderra over the weekend of Aug 12/13, or you can simply email me to secure a copy! paul@killerrides.com.au
After more than a quarter of a century in the same building, BL Automotive have made the move to larger premises, offering more space to be able to operate the dyno, build engines and take care of the day-today jobs. Leo and his team haven’t gone far, just one street across to 55 Charles Rd, Fairy Meadow. Their contact number remains the same at (02) 42850300
There’s no denying the Powercruise “No-Prep” Street Outlaw Series being held on the main straight at Sydney Motorsport Park has become one of the most talked about street car drag racing events in the country, with many of the Pro-Street big hitters coming out to take part. So I’ve decided to run a Street Outlaws Top 20 List each month to show who the big movers and shakers are. Gates open to Spectators and Entrants from 5.30pm with racing set to happen between 6.30pm and 10.30pm. Always check the Powercruise website: Powercruise.com and the official Street Outlaws Facebook pagehttps://www.facebook.com/StreetOutlawsAustralia
01. Jason Mansweto – Ford Capri
02. Tom Kacsof - LC Torana
03. Brian Thomas - Chev Camaro
04. Jon Tsingolis - Ford Capri
05. Pat Defrancesco - Ford Capri
06. John Habib - LH Torana
07. John Saad - Ford Capri
08. Shadi Tobaji - Ford Cortina
09. Chris Sheppard - HJ Holden
10. Joe Messina - HJ Holden Ute
11. Tomi Raikko - LJ Torana
12. Matt Butler - VL Commodore
13. Caleb Thomas - Chev Camaro
14. Dominic Perri - RX Mazda
15. Robert Gullotta - Ford Capri
16. Peter Vozzo - Chev Camaro
17. James Caltabiano - Ford Escort
18. Michael “Gup” Gilbert - HQ Holden
19. Ian O’Sullivan - FG Falcon
20. Marcus Eichhorn - Chev Camaro
The rumours had been circulating that Ford was to release a mid-engine supercar to tackle the C8 Corvette head on. And now it’s been confirmed. Pieced together by Multimatic, a Canadian company with close ties to Ford, this is not the first Ford Supercar that have produced, so the rumours always had most people believing. With a price tag that is expected to be around $300K in USD, this wide-body Mustang won’t be for everyone with just 2000 to be manufactured. The supercharged 5.2-litre will make around 800hp and will be mated to an 8-speed auto box with paddle shift. The question does beg though, if released, will there be a right-hand drive version for Aussie Ford fans?
I was saddened by the news that yet another iconic Australian magazine is to cease publication. Australian Street Rodding has been a huge part of the Hot Rod scene since 1977 when Larry O’Toole first published what would become Australia’s longest running Hot Rod magazine. With Larry passing away in 2022, it was left to Larry’s wife Mary, son Alistair and their loyal staff to keep the magazine on the shelves. Sadly, Issue number 400 will be the last, bringing an end to an era. Personally, this one hit me hard as Larry gave me my first start, having my photo shoots featured in ASR for many years. In fact, to this day, I have been continuing to supply the magazine with event coverage and occasional feature cars. ASR will be sadly missed by those in the Hot Rod scene. Our best wishes go out to Mary, Alistair, Wendy, Mary-Anna and the staff at Graffiti Publications for whatever the future holds…
As part of the Adelaide 500 V8 Supercar meet, the American custom car duo from Kindig It Customs will make their first trip to Australia to judge the Kindig Customs Car Show to be held at the Adelaide 500 over the weekend of Nov 23-26. The plan is to assemble 20 of the best custom cars in Australia at the event and for the guys to judge the winner(s). It’s a shame it’s the same weekend as the Killer Rides Hot Rod & Harley Expo, otherwise I’d be heading to Adelaide too!
The list of events under the Killer Rides Banner will grow in 2024 with news that the South Coast Holden Fest and South Coast Ford Fest joining the mix. Open to all model Holdens and Fords respectively, the one-make shows will take place at Vikings Oval, Corrimal Street, Wollongong – just a stones throw from the ever-popular beach-front cruise area. Things will be a little different from a judging point of view, with each Entrant picking their car of the show (which, by the way, can’t be your own!) and from there, we will work out the Top 20 Holdens & Fords on Show who will each receive an amazing, custom-made award. The Holden and Ford that gains the most votes will be crowned the 2024 Holden Fest and Ford Fest Champion! Plans are to include a swap meet, and a range of traders at each show. Entry Forms will be available soon online at killerrides.com.au
There’s no denying that Peter & Michelle Fitzpatrick has been a fan favourite throughout its three different builds. Having won every thing it possibly could at events around the country, it was not surprising to see it named Car of the Decade, ten years ago. At MotorEx this year, the vote was taken once again and yep, for the second time, the FC scooped the pool. Now you need to understand that voting was done by industry people, other car owners and car builders proving that the FC still has the goods! I can’t recall a car that has achieved so much and is still part of the scene.
Got something to say? Send it to paul@pscmag.com.au or message us from the Performance Street Car Facebook page.
Hi Paul,
I can’t believe the argument still happens about the age of the cars in our scene. Personally, I don’t care whether it’s an XY Falcon or a VY Commodore, if its modified and the owner is a genuine car guy or girl, then who cares? Everyone has different tastes. You can imagine how boring the scene if everyone drove Torana’s! I do however take offense by those so-called car enthusiasts that go to events in their near stock late model cars with stock rear wheels and quarter panels covered in rubber. It’s obvious that they are there to cause trouble every chance they get and after they do the damage and leave, we as a group, get targeted. We need to stand together and eliminate these clowns from our scene. We will all be better for it!
Bryce D Via Messenger.G’day Paul, I purchased a copy of the first Best of Killer Rides in print at Cars Under the Stars and have to say, I’m impressed! The quality of the mag itself was great and I hope you continue to print Killer Rides moving forward.
Stuart S Via Email
G’day Stuart, Thanks for picking up a copy of the mag and I’m happy you like what I put together. We’ve now taking delivery of Issue No.2 and will have them for sale online, and at various events coming up. If you liked No.1, you’ll love Issue No.2 Cheers.
G’day Paul, Well, it was definitely worth the wait for Killer Rides Live this year! By far, this is my favourite show of the year and that was backed up with a display I reckon you’ll be hard pressed to top in 2024. To have everything from a Formula one car to a patina bagged Van on show proves you’re on a winner with the event. Can’t wait for next year! Great work to all involved!
Tony B Via Messenger
Thanks Tony, Yes, it was a big weekend and it’s the fullest the Hockey Centre has ever been. Check out the feature in the next Issue of Killer Rides. As for next year, the 30th Anniversary of our first show in the venue, let me get the Hot Rod & Harley Expo out of the way first!
Hi Paul,
I’ve really missed coming to your mid-week meets at Oporto. Making the hour long drive down the coast after work once a month is something we really looked forward to. I understand why you decided to pull the pin, but do you think that you’ll ever bring them back? Here’s hoping…
Stan D Via MessengerG’day Stan, I have been inundated with requests to bring the Mid-week meets back. I had decided that I didn’t want to have the hassles anymore and have resisted the urge to bring them back, but after speaking with a group of people at the recent Killer Rides Live #5 event, I’ve caved in and decided to bring the Killer Rides Mid-Week Meets back for the remainder of the year, kicking off with Septembers meet on 13th. Let’s hope we can get through it OK. See you there…
G’day Bryce, I’m with you on this one mate. There’s room for all genuine car guys and girls to be a part of the scene. As long as they are there for the right reason, then welcome aboard! I was amazed how many of those stockers with rubber clad quarters, were clogging up the cruise route at Summernats 35. How do these cars even get to be entrants in the first place? Is no one looking at the cars? Isn’t there minimum standards to be met? Lets get rid of the trouble makers for sure…
Greg ‘Beach’ Ball has numerous cool cars on the go at Pro-Street Restorations, but for Mopar guys, this Hellcat powered Charger is going to be, well, killer!
CUSTOM LEATHER TRIM
hellcat crate engine
6.2-litre hemi
707 horsepoWer
6-speed tremec
southern chassisWorks Front end
Flaming river poWer steering
PRO-STREET RESTORATIONS - PRO-TOURING CHARGER
WORDS – PAUL BECK PICS – SUPPLIED BY PRO-STREET RESTOS
Like most cars that come from Pro-Street Restorations, this Charger is going to be built by the book to ensure when the time comes for rego, there’s no nasty little surprises for the owner, preventing him from screwing on those all-important plates. That doesn’t mean this Charger is going to be any less spectacular, it just means Greg and the team will make sure that everything they do will get the tick of approval from those holding all the decisions.
DIGITAL DASH - VINTAGE AIR
WHEEL TUBBS - NEW BOOT FLOOR REMOVAL OF INNER GUARDS
CUSTOM CENTRED TRANS TUNNEL
18x7 & 18x10 Billet Wheels
Four-linked 9-inch
hydraBoost Braking system
WilWood Brakes
As we’ve seen from previous Pro-Street Resto builds, the Charger has been taken back to its very bare bones. Every inch of steel is exposed and inspected for any imperfections that will be eliminated before any thoughts of adding colour to the body come into play. Whilst externally, the Charger will retain its factory looks, there will be some sheet metal massaging taking place in the form of wheel tubs, a new boot floor, removal of the inner fenders and the trans tunnel custom fabricated and reinstalled in the centre of the car, not offset which is where the factory placed it. The custom leather interior has yet to be started, but we can tell you that Neil Pepper will be handling the stitchwork and there will be a custom Dakota Digital dash installed, Vintage air-con and electric windows. The underside will feature a Southern Chassisworks A-arm front end replacing the factory torsion bar front along with big Wilwood brakes, Flaming River power steering, and a Hydraboost braking system. The wheels of choice are 18x7 and 18x10 billets that will give the Charger that perfect Pro-Touring look.
The reworked engine bay will soon be home for the most impressive factory engine
Mopar has ever released – the Hellcat. Producing 707hp straight out of the box, this is one crate engine worth every cent…and then some.
The reworked engine bay will soon be home for the most impressive factory engine Mopar has ever released – the Hellcat. Producing 707hp straight out of the box, this is one crate engine worth every cent…and then some. To get the engine into position where it clears the bonnet, the wiper motor has been removed from the firewall, replaced by a worm-drive wiper setup that allows the engine
to sit lower and more rearward than before. Problem solved. The pumped 6.2-litre Hemi is backed by a 6-speed Tremec gearbox, with a four-link located, 35-spline 9-inch diff getting the power to the tyres. Whilst there’s still a bucket load of work to do on this Hellcat Charger, there’s no doubt the Mopar fans out there are awaiting to see this finished and on the street. Hang in there, its on its way…
The wheels of choice are 18x7 and 18x10 billets that will give the Charger that perfect Pro-Touring look.
When you’re surrounded by the World’s toughest street machines, how do you stand out in the crowd?
The Pro Street section at the recent Du Quoin Street Machine Nats was taken to the next level when Bradley Gray and Jamie Pipher both revealed their street legal, over the top Funnycars. As the man behind Blown mafia, Bradley is packing some wild artillery in his arsenal of wild cars. But it was his twin blown Nova Funnycar that dropped jaws when it was pulled from his signature red Blown Mafia transporter. Not to be outdone. Jamie returned fire for the Ford fans when his pulled the covers off his 69 Mustang Funnycar that not only matched his pro street ’70 Torino in colour, it actually uses the blown injected 547-cube Boss engine from that car!
So how did this come about? Surely it’s not a coincidence that both guys rock up to Du Quoin with a secret Funnycar packed away in their transporters? Not a chance. Jamie told me, “Yeah, it was planned, for shock value. I said to Brad in Du Quoin the year before that I was working on getting a Funnycar to drive on the street. He was like, ‘hell yeah!’ Mine was a handful to drive, being blown alcohol plus just being a Funnycar made it very difficult, but I did it and can say I did. I’ve since sold it off. I enjoy my Torino much more than the funny car and have put the driveline back into it.
“Yeah, it was planned, for shock value. I said to Brad in Du Quoin the year before that I was working on getting a Funnycar to drive on the street. He was like, ‘hell yeah!’
When parked side by side, these two monsters became the most photographed cars at the Street Machine Nats. Even without those black belts turning, these cars commanded attention so you can just imagine the hype when they were fired up and idled out of the fairgrounds to the local Pizza Hut for the traditional pre Nats Pro Street shindig! Check out the video of the cars cruising the street! It comes as no surprise to see these that two Funnycars sent the internet into meltdown!
If you had balls big enough to try this in Australia, you’d spend the whole time trying to look over your shoulder for the flashing lights of authority.
Street Trim just sounds weird!) these two cars would still make an impression at the track, but out on the streets in Du Quoin, both guys were elevated to hero status by the street car community around the globe! If you had balls big enough to try this in Australia, you’d spend the whole time trying to look over your shoulder for the flashing lights of authority. In Du Quoin though, the Police gave the thumbs up, smiled and let the good times roll on by. There’s no denying these guys have upped the ante in terms of shear shock value at the Street Machine Nationals. My question is, who is going to better this in 2024?
There’s no denying that the custom car scene is flourishing at the moment. The amount of new cars being unveiled at shows around the country is greater than ever before, and it seems that the interest hikes we are experiencing isn’t stopping those from heading out to shows in masses to check out what’s on offer. Such was the case at this years Sydney event. There was plenty of hype leading up to the show, with social media leading the way showcasing what was going to be on display inside (and outside) the show pavilions at the racecourse. With so much promised, the crowds flocked to the venue from early each morning until the event closed each day. For us at Killer Rides, we returned to the show with a trade stand this year to promote our move back into the printed magazine game. I have to say, setting our stand up on Friday felt like Kathy and I had taken a step back in time – to around 2003 when we travelled the country having stands everywhere promoting Extreme Magazine. The feeling was the same and spending the weekend talking to people on our stand was a great way to spend a couple of days. We were situated on the lower level of the main Pavilion and were surrounded by an amazing
array of cars, bikes and traders. It was the same directly upstairs too where some of the country’s most elite show cars were setup! It was so busy for us, that on the first day, I only got to photograph this pavilion! The rest of the show would have to wait until Sunday as Saturday just got away from us. Sunday was just as busy, and between working our stand and trying to get everything photographed for this feature was always going to be a struggle. But we got there in the end.
Once again, the annual Sydney Hot Rod & Custom Auto Expo lived up to expectations, bringing some of the coolest rides in Australia to Rosehill Hill Racecourse!SYDNEY HOT ROD & CUSTOM AUTO EXPO ROSEHILL RACECOURSE - MAY 2023 WORDS / PICS – PAUL BECK
One car that stood out thanks to the Barbados Green and block colour scheme was the INXILE Torana from Qld owned by Shannon & Karen Christoffel. Powered by a blown injected 434ci small block Chev, the Torana also featured a standout interior and a big set of modular wheels to fill out those SL/R flared guards! The Hot Rod fraternity were well catered for too with Matty Olver’s and Max Ranier’s threewindow coupes leading the way. The ain building also housed several high-end cars from the Deluxe Hot Rod stable, having made the trip up from Victoria. One of their cars, the orange A Pickup taking home Top Hot Rod. The Kustom Shop had their latest creation, a stunning ’32 Ford Roadster owned by Carl & Rachel Bayard that was part of the unveilings. The Roadster has a stance and styling that is timeless. Brett Hewerdine’s blown injected single spinner Ford Tudor absolutely stunned everyone that came across it. The colour, slammed suspension and tough driveline impressed
no end. There were so many cool cars in the main pavilion, it’s no wonder it takes so long to get around to see them all!
Speaking of award winners, Top Showcar went home with Craig McKenzie and his recently rebuilt HR Holden Ute! One of the unveils quickly became the talking point of the show. The 49 Chev Pickup from Image Conversions, dubbed ‘ROAR49, looked amazing , with the main focus being the Mercedes-inspired interior. Every part of the pickup was built to the highest standard and will feature heavily of the scene for a while to come. For me though, one of the most impressive cars on show wasn’t a Hot Rod or typical Street Machine, it was an amazing piece of German engineering. The Aero Porsche wasn’t just built to the highest standard, it was set up on one of the most impressive show stands I’ve seen so far. The single car display was part of a collection that was on display in the betting ring around the cars official (and matching) transporter.
TOP HOT ROD - Jim Wolstercroft - 1929 Ford Pickup
TOP STREET MACHINE - Craig McKenzie - 1967 HR Holden Ute
ELEGANCE AWARD - Ron Goodman - 1960 Porsche 356
TOP CAR OF SHOW - Craig McKenzie - 1967 HR Holden Ute
There were so many cool cars in the main pavilion, it’s no wonder it takes so long to get around to see them all!
Moving into Nostalgia Lane, the building was overflowing with coolness. This year, it was all about cars of yesteryear that have made a lasting impression. Norm Longfield’s T-Bucket still looked as good as new and kept cars like Joe Kurtovic’s injected Hemi Nitro coupe, Andy Colalillo’s rebuilt ’39 Plymouth coupe and Joanne
Fregon’s nostalgia Roadster originally built by her late Dad Roy. Nostalgia Lane was a hive of activity with the crowd weaving their way through a myriad of low-slung customs, period correct race cars, full-tilt custom bikes and Lowriders. It continues to be one of the most popular parts of the Sydney show.
Without doubt, the 2023 Sydney Hot Rod & Custom Auto Expo was a huge success and no sooner had the last trader packed up and left the build, Donna and Andy Minas released the dates for the 2024 event.
Adding a great atmosphere to the static display of cars and bikes were plenty of hands-on industry demonstrations, Air Brush alley, Pin-striping Masters and many vendors and traders showcasing lots of different products and services. Without doubt, the 2023 Sydney Hot Rod & Custom Auto Expo was a huge success and no sooner had the last trader packed up and left the build, Donna and Andy Minas released the dates for the 2024 event. Better keep the 25th and 26th May free and get yourself to Rosehill Racecourse. You won’t be disappointed!
Over the years, we’ve seen so many different build styles of the Holden Torana, that it’s getting increasingly hard to stand out in a crowd! That’s no such problem for Shannon and Karen Christoffel…
One way to gain maximum attention is to cover the exterior in a colour that absolutely glows. Holden’s Barbados Green is one such colour that certainly did its job when the Torana sat indoors at Sydney’s Hot Rod & Custom Auto Expo earlier this year. It was certainly the colour that first drew me in, but once I had the familiar SL/R styled body in view, I knew this Torana deserved a closer look. I wasn’t to be disappointed…
In stark contrast to the body colour, this Torana went to complete opposite to what would normally be found when opening the doors of a traditional, Barbados Green Torana. The custom interior is a standout of this Torana and the brainchild of Shannon Otto from Otto Custom Auto Trim. The material of choice is Scottish Leather that covers the Recaro seats, custom door trims, reworked boot area, dash, steering wheel and even the filler panel between
the Torana’s nose and the radiator support panel. Complimenting the trim colour are highlights in black along with the INXILE logo added strategically. The steering column is a tilt billet item whilst the dash is all contained in the Haltech IC-7 digital information centre.
As amazing as the interior is, it’s the mountain motor up front that most were impressed by.
As amazing as the interior is, it’s the mountain motor up front that most were impressed by. Built by Damien McGrath at MPR Engine, the small block Chev engine obviously relies on a Blower Shop 8/71 pump and low-profile Joe Blo injector hat to make a lot of power, but that top end is useless unless the internals aren’t up to scratch. There’s no issue with the component quality with the Dart Eagle tall deck block sporting a Callies crank swinging blower-spec Oliver rods and JE custom pistons that keep company with a billet Comp roller Cam and lifter combo. The heads are 13-degree CHI items filled with Ferrea valves, Jesel roller rockers, and PSI springs and retainers. The blower and injector hat are connected to the engine via a Fastlane Industries intake with 850cc injectors built in. Backing the engine is a Tremec TKO600 gearbox that sends the considerable power to the 9-inch diff sporting 35-spline axles, a TruTrak alloy centre and Race Products floaters. That’s quite the driveline!
There’s a big set of Simmons wheels filling the real estate under those flared guards. How big? Try 18x8.5 on the front and a whopping 19x11.5-inches where it matters the most. Hiding inside the forged wheels are Wilwood 320mm discs and 4-piston rotors along with Viking 2-way coil-overs on both the Curley’s front end and the rear. As good as the Torana looked on show indoors, I’m sure both Shannon and Karen can’t wait to get it out to an event where that pumped 434-cube small block can show off its muscle, putting plenty of pressure on those huge rear tyres!
Words / Pics - Paul Beck
After Chris Saros’ Dad drove his first ever Mopar, a 318-powered Dodge Truck, he sold his beloved HQ Holden and bought himself a ’74 VJ Charger Sportsman. The one-time Holden fan’s switch to the Pentastar started the family’s love affair with the Aussie-spec Valiant!
It goes without saying that when you’re a young, impressionable kid, what you grow up with really does determine where your life will head. From a very early age, Chris was surrounded by various Chrysler products so it comes as no surprise to see that when the time came for Chris to get his own special ride, the search was on for a complete car to use as a project starter, following in his father’s footsteps. Just when it appeared the supply of good cars was starting to dry up, the perfect car popped up in Sydney and after a quick inspection, Chris rang his cousin to bring his tilt tray and pick the car up, knowing that this was as good as he was going to find. Initially, the plan was to do a quick respray, give the 265 a freshen up, throw on a set of wheels and have it ready to go cruising within 6-months. Not long into the build however, plans changed and Chris knew that if he wanted
his Charger to be the car he’d dreamed about, it was going to take some time. At that time, he didn’t realise that time frame was going to extend to 7 years, but good things take time and as they say, do it right, do it once! With that in mind, the stripped-down body was sent off to 2SUS Custom Resprays where the team shot a couple of coats of Vitamin C colour over the straightened shell and hanging panels. But before the colour was laid onto the panels, the battery was relocated to the boot area, the engine bay was smoothed out with the wiring, relays and other removable items remounted out of sight. After the colour was added, the familiar RT striping and logos were put in place. Completing the exterior makeover are a quartet of black-centred Vertini Drift wheels measuring 20x8.5-inches up front and 20x10-inches where the power gets to the black top.
Oh, that pretty little 410-cube Mopar stroker produces around 500hp!
Whilst the body was being attended to, the engine was being sorted by Chris’ Dad, Tony. With all of the associated parts stockpiled on the bench, Tony got stuck into filling the prepared Mopar LA 360 block with all the good gear. Starting with the stroker Scat forged crank, forged Magnum rods and forged pistons wrapped in Hastings moly rings, the new and improved bottom end has upped the ante in the capacity game to a more impressive 410-cubes. A flattappet hydraulic cam and lifter kit from Competition Cams provides a toughstreet idle providing proof that this is not just a pretty engine visually. Up top, there’s a pair of ported Edelbrock RPM alloy heads that work perfectly
with Air Gap intake from the same company that plays host to a single 750dp Holley Ultra carb. After the MSD ignition system fires the stout small block into life, the gases are shown the door via a pair of custom headers that flow into a dual 2.5-inch exhaust system that’s been ceramic coated. Oh, that pretty little 410-cube Mopar stroker produces around 500hp! That power reaches the blacktop through a suitably built Hughes Street and Strip 727 Torqueflite that employs a B&M 3200rpm converter to handle the idle and a B&M Mega shifter for changing gears. Down the back is a 9-inch Ford diff with an Eaton tru-trac centre, 31-spline billet axles and 4.11-gears.
The VH interior is covered in black leather to the highest level and provides the perfect space for Chris and the family to spend time in cruising.
There’s been plenty of work happening on the underside of the Charger, in behind those oh-so-cool big diametre wheels. The front end retains the factory torsion bars, with CL Valiant lower control arms, and 330mm BA Falcon rotors and calipers. Down the back, that Ford diff is located via leaf springs (with an extra leaf added), with Monroe Sena-trac coilovers, a sway bar and 280mm AU Falcon disc and calipers added to upgrade the suspension and braking. Inside, its pure
muscle car. Lots of black, and lots of gauges! The VH interior is covered in black leather to the highest level and provides the perfect space for Chris and the family to spend time in cruising. Looking past the factory 3-spoke steering wheel, you’ll find a custom carbon-fibre dash facia filled with no less than eight AutoMeter gauges. Chris fabricated the centre console which now houses a Kenwood media head unit that sends out the tunes via Clarion speakers.
Since having the Charger finished, Chris and his family have enjoyed taking the coupe out to many events including the Supernats where it won a Top 10 spot; The Grudge Kings where Chris went home with Best Old School and various other events where it’s collected gold for Best N/A, Best Muscle Car, Sponsors Choice etc – a trend that I am sure will continue. So, what future plans does Chris have for the Charger? There’s a set of mini-tubs, a four-link and coil-overs coming soon along with a bigger set of rear wheels (both in height and width) and there’s a possibility that single carb 410 could be replaced by a blown, injected 426 Hemi. Now wouldn’t that complete the picture! Cars like this don’t happen easily, quickly or without the help of others, and Chris is quick to thank his father Tony for the massive amount of work he put into the Charger. Thanks also to Terry Cartwright at Fat Fabrications, and the team at 2SUS Custom Resprays!
Itgoeswithoutsayingthatwhenyou’reayoung, impressionable kid, what you grow up with reallydoesdeterminewhereyourlifewillhead.
The US Street Machine Nationals returned to Du Quoin Fairgrounds in a show of muscle like no other!
I know when the USA Street Machine Nationals is coming up as my news feed starts getting jammed with “Who is Going to Du Quoin” types of posts as well as a number of Pro-Street inspired threads that not only talk about the Pro-Street Alley in 2023, but those tough as hell pro-streeters of yesteryear – many of which still converge on the Fairgrounds all these years later. Of course, having a mate like Greg ‘Beach’ Ball helps too, as he spends lots of time in the USA going to events, and one he never seems to miss is the Street Machine Nationals. One day, I’ll get there to take in the action myself.
Whilst Pro-Street alley does get a lot of ‘air-time’ on social media there’s much more that makes the Street Machine Nationals a must-do event for a larger group of car owners. The Show and Shine is one such area where every entrant gets to show off their ride to the judges, in hope that they get to take home one of the many awards on offer. In each category such as Old School Muscle, Street Rod, Pro-Street etc, there are Grand Champion awards given out and the winners (amongst the usual car show awards) are grouped together the following year in the Hall of Champions display! The organisers also hand out some cool trophies such as the Oldest Participant, Rockin’ Racecar, Awesome Engine, Wicked Wagon and more!
Like everything in America, you never really know what to expect to turn up to the fairgrounds each year. There’s been all kinds of weird and wonderful cars enter the Street Machine Nationals over the year and last year, that standout car was Wally Elder’s wild Dodge Daytona Pro-Streeter. And whilst Wally did cruise the venue as well as the nearby streets, I can’t help but think that Bradley Grey and Jamie Pipher were out to one-up (or would that be two-up?) Wally and his wild Daytona? How do you one-up a car like Wallys? Good question. The answer is, by cruising the Du Quoin streets in not one, but two street registered Funnycars! That’s how! The sight and sounds of these to drag racing-inspired road going race cars is something to behold. Google it, there’s plenty of pics and video online!
Of course, there’s a lot more to the Street Machine Nationals than just the wild Pro-Street brigade that seem to get all the attention in the media. There was a burnout contest held – not the sort of burnout comp that Aussie’s are used to, but a milder version where the car is static with the front wheels chocked whilst they do their best to smoke the crowd into some sort of frenzy. Whilst the amount of smoke produced kept the US punters happy, I can’t help but think how they would react to an Aussie-style
burnout contest! Another let down is that they have to run full exhaust with mufflers. Land of the free? Not always… There’s also a Dyno Comp too, which unlike the Burnout comp, is more like we are used to. Most horsepower wins! Make sense. One thing we don’t see on our shores at major events like the ‘Nat’s’ is a swap meet and judging by the amount of cool stuff doing the rounds in the US, this would be one very popular place to visit, especially if there’s a certain hardto-get part you’ve been looking for.
All in all, the 2023 Du Quion Street Machine Nationals was a complete success with thousands of killer rides, a bunch of great trade stands and many thousands of power hungry spectators flowing through the Fairground gates. For many of us here in Australia, visiting Du Quoin for the Street Machine Nationals is high on the bucket list. I for one can’t wait to get there! www.streetmachinenationals.net
Words - Paul Beck
Pics - Darren @ Trackside Images
It may have taken 6-years to complete, but Troy now has a street-legal, 8-second street car!
“This car is 100% engineered and legal! In fact, I drive it to the track, run an 8-second pass and drive it home again, “owner/builder Troy told us with a great big smile! Getting that all important tick of approval wasn’t an easy task, but when you want to cruise a highly modified street and strip car like this RX4 coupe, it’s just one of those things you have to do. The list of obstacles in the way of getting number plates screwed onto the Mazda was a long one, but gradually, Troy worked through
them. Having suitable head clearance around the roll cage meant the seats needed to be lowered, and the dash had to have one-inch of the correct density foam added – just in case Troy ‘fell out of the DJ 5-point harness seat belt’! Even little things like having window washers were taken care of. With the Engineer satisfied and all the boxes ticked, Troy can now cruise his certified two-seater, V8 Mazda RX4 coupe without fear of a defect notice being attached to the windscreen!
When Troy exchanged $1600 for the RX4 and dragged it home from the south coast town of Figtree, it wasn’t even close to being a complete car. The bare shell was put on the trailer and taken to President Smash Repairs where the crew performed some minor body mods, such as removing the fuel filler and ¼ vents, smoothing off the rear panel and removing the lower rear reflectors for a much cleaner look. And although the taillights aren’t RX4 items, they are Mazda and once lived in an RX2! The wheel tubs have been taken
to the rails and to combat any clearance issues for the increased engine size, the firewall has been recessed by 3-inches.
Troy also has a couple of different lift-off bonnets too – one with a reverse cowl and one with a more ‘race-inspired’ scoop – both looking just a cool depending on how the car is being used at the time. On race days, Troy bolts on the parachute. With the metal now better than new, it was time for colour and Troy decided to keep the Mazda theme going with Celestial Blue from the 2010 Mazda 3!
“This car is 100% engineered and legal! In fact, I drive it to the track, run an 8-second pass and drive it home again, “
Inside, its more strip than street in its appearance, but everything needed for rego is in place and works how it should. The seats have been swapped out for RCI units with the 10-point cage wrapping around the RX4’s interior. The reworked dash now houses enough AutoMeter gauges to keep Troy informed whether on the street or track. A row of switches and start button also occupy space on the dash and sit behind the Ford Cortina steering wheel. Gear selections are made via the B&M Pro-Ratchet shifter. The blue and black themed interior is the work of Snowys Marine & Upholstery. Troy can forget about taking the Mazda on any overnight trips with no space in the boot for luggage of any kind. There’s just enough room for the alloy fuel cell, mini-tubs and nitrous bottle – which is only installed for race fun!
Speaking of the nitrous setup, its attached to the 434ci small block Chev that now sits snuggly inside the Mazda’s engine bay. Built by United Race Engines in the USA, the engine produces 526hp at the tyres aspirated and 676hp on the bottle, thanks to the aftermarket block being filled with a Scat stroker crank and rod combo, Keith Black pistons and a solid cam and lifter kit from Crow. The AFR227 alloy heads have been fitted with Crow double row springs and larger valves
to breathe much easier. A Quick Fuel 850cfm ‘E85’ spec carby sits on top of the Victor Jnr intake and feeds plenty of the high-octane fuel through the stout small block in either street or race mode. Getting the spent gases out of the engine is left up to a custom exhaust that incorporates a custom pair of 2” headers, and a 3” system that uses no less than 4 mufflers to keep the noise at an acceptable level. Lighting the fire is left up to the MSD Digital 6 ignition system.
The reworked dash now houses enough AutoMeter gauges to keep Troy informed whether on the street or track.
A purpose-built Powerglide pieced together by Active Auto’s in Blacktown backs the nitrous small block and is fronted with a Dominator converter with a 4000rpm stall speed. The power is then sent rearward via a 3-inch tailshaft to the narrowed 9-inch diff that houses 3.9-gears and 35-spline axles. The steering has been upgraded to use a Cortina column adapted to UC Torana rack and pinion. The diff is located via double adjustable Strange shocks and coil-overs with coil-over shocks added to the front as well. On race days, the wheels of choice are 17x4.5” Weld V-series and 15x10” Weld Alumistars. When street duties are in order, they are swapped out for 15x5 and 15x8-inch Pro-Stars. Wilwood discs and calipers are added to each corner. After such a long build period, Troy is more than happy with the tough Mazda he has created. “I like to keep my cars as minimal and simple as possible, so it’s easy to diagnose a problem if any arise,” Troy said. And his tough Pro-Street RX4 is the perfect example of less is more.
Po and his Grudge Kings team continues to bring the heavy hitters to Sydney Dragway for one day of high-horsepower action!
It was all smiles from the organising team come race day for the 2023 Grudge Kings. It was clear blue skies and cool temperatures that greeted the racers, show and shine entrants and spectators that had gathered around the venue to take it what promised to be one hell of a day of racing. Well known for bringing together a great mix of turbocharged, nitrous, supercharged and big cube aspirated racers, the Grudge Kings always provides lots of exciting racing, with huge burnouts, wild wheel stands and, for those lucky enough to get the setup right, low ET’s!
GRUDGE KINGS_SYDNEY DRAGWAY_JULY 1ST, 2023
Words - Paul Beck
Pics - Paul Beck / Grant Stephens
As the show cars were assembling on the eastern hill off the track, the cars were starting to make some passes bringing a big crowd to the viewing areas. Unfortunately, the cold weather kept track temps cool, making it a tricky exercise to get off the line. After giving the Chev a wipe over at the show and shine, I took a break to check out the racing. Car after car struggled to get off the line, something that would get better as the day went on. Interestingly enough, whilst most couldn’t get the traction they needed early on, Pete Lovering bought his Pro-Mod ’55 Chev to the line and at the flash of the green bulb, piloted the ’55 straight down the centre of the track to run a 5-second pass. A feat that he would continue to do well into the day to finish at the top of the Fuel Tech Pro Mod class for 2023!
When the finals rolled around, the Sydney strip had seen some quick times, some wild passes, a few oil downs, plenty of PB’s and of course, some hard-fought racing.
Whilst drivers were doing their best to get some quality laps and low ET’s done in time for racing to start, many people ventured up to the show and shine where it was a feast of cool cars lined up for the spectators to enjoy. The great thing about this show and shine is that after you’ve set up your car and had a look around, you can kick back and enjoy
the racing part of the Grudge Kings too! There was a great mix of cars on show this year, ranging from low-slung American cruisers, to overpowered ProStreeters and everything in between. By mid-afternoon, the judging was complete, the trophies were awarded and most had decided to stay on to watch the remainder of the racing.
As we’ve witnessed at past Grudge Kings events, the race to the finals always brings plenty of action. After a freshen up at Pro-Flo Performance, the GRUMP LJ Torana, with its owner Damien behind the wheel, had an eventful day with a backing off mid-seven second pass already under its belt, hopes were up for lower numbers later in the day. Unfortunately, some oil under the Torana’s tyres sent Damien on a wild ride taking up a lot of the race track, with Damien doing very well to keep it off the walls. Another Torana from the Pro-Flo stable that gained plenty of attention was the massive-cube PWR4LL that was out for testing with Tristan Ockers behind the wheel stopping the clocks a little of 7-seconds. Later in the day, the owner jumped behind the wheel for a lap and start the licensing process. Big wheel stands are common at events like this, and one that has certainly gone viral across the internet was Rob Evan’s show-quality Chrysler by Chrysler coupe. Traction obviously wasn’t an issue for Rob with the big Val sitting hard on the rear bumper
FUELTECH PRO-MOD
Winner – Peter Lovering
Runner-Up – Rob Campisi
TURBOSMART PRO-STREET
Winner – Peter Pisalidis
Runner-Up – Ivan Tesic
GAS RACING PRO ELITE
Winner – Rodney Rehayem_
Runner-Up – Mohamed Ibrahim
MORIZZI CIVIL PRO MODIFIED
Winner – Steven Athans
Runner-Up – Jay Sadek
PIETRO ITALIAN RESTAURANT R275
Winner – Riccardo Pontonio
Runner-Up – Ayhan Cetinay
TODARELLOS FRUIT MARKET OUTLAW
Winner – Lee Docherty
Runner-Up – Sam Sabato
SPEED ADICT CLOTHING SMALL TYRE FIGHTER PRO
Winner – Michael Elkhouri
Runner-Up – Dom Perri
SPEED ADICT CLOTHING SMALL TYRE FIGHTER
Winner – Pat Firriolo
Runner-Up – Phil Penny
HIGHLINE PLUMBING STREET OUTLAW
Winner – Martin Stevenson
Runner-Up – Craig Warren
POWERPLUS RACING FUELS EXTREME BIKE
Winner – Alex Borg
Runner-Up – Brendan Miglionico
When the finals rolled around, the Sydney strip had seen some quick times, some wild passes, a few oil downs, plenty of PB’s and of course, some hard-fought racing. Check the list of winners in each Bracket to see who won what. The final pass bought to an end an eventful Grudge Kings for 2023 - one which will make sure next year’s event will be just as well received!
Built inhouse at Xtreme Muscle Carz, this unique, Pro-Touring Chevelle was one of the standout cars at the 2022 Street Machine Nats in DuQuoin.
Dubbed the Chevelle RR, this is one coupe that is certainly built to the extremes. Starting life as a basic ’70 Malibu, the “RR” was attacked by the talented crew at Xtreme Muscle Carz under the guidance of shop owner Brett Cygan, with the sole purpose of creating a one-off muscle car that showcased the talent that makes up the Xtreme Muscle Carz team. What they ended up with is a one-off build that demanded attention no matter where it was – parked on show, or blasting down the highway!
In a complete break from what is considered normal for a muscle car, the team decided not to follow that trend and coat the body in red, black or blue – instead opting for a striking mix of grey with orange and black accents, a combination that really makes a statement. But before the colour could be added, the ’70-spec body and sheet metal was to go through a number of modifications – some subtle, some not quite so, but all adding up to one of the most eye-catching builds of the model seen so far! Check out the video where it shows the mods made to the body including the fabricated grille, rear wing, front spoiler, and modified front and rear bumpers! The swap from SS (Super Sport) to RR (Road Race) badging complete the external makeover.
What they ended up with is a one-off build that demanded attention no matter where it was – parked on show, or blasting down the highway!
The reworked body sits on a Roadster Shop chassis that makes the Chevelle handle like a pure road-registered race car. With all of the usual top-shelf suspension gear as part of the package, the handling capabilities are now at a level the GM engineers could only ever dream of back in 1970. For the driveline, Brett order a 630hp LS3 from Texas Speed that is mated to a Tremec 6-speed manual, because as well all know, a true muscle car has three pedals, right? The nine-inch diff handles the power output and sends all of the new found power through to the black wheels and 325mm ultra-sticky tyres. Hiding inside the rims are a quartet of Wilwood disc brakes and calipers.
The reworked body sits on a Roadster Shop chassis that makes the Chevelle handle like a pure road-registered race car.
There’s so much going on in the interior, that it takes a while for it all to sink it. Covered in retina-burning bright orange leather, the Chevelle’s interior is now a work of art. From the race-inspired seating to the custom dash facia, metal tube surrounded centre console and unique roll cage, this is one trick interior that would no doubt bring an adrenaline rush when tightened into the drivers (or passengers) multipoint harness seat belt! Since its completion in 2022, the Xtreme Muscle Carz RR Chevelle has been seen at many events and gained plenty of attention, without doubt, bringing plenty of potential customers into the shop to have similar work done on their own rides…
28 BORDER BATTLE
Kiewa Street Albury
www.borderbattle.com.au
28 VICLA VIEW SHOW
Harley Heaven, Sunnyholt Rod
Blacktown 11am-3pm
29 JAMBEROO CAR SHOW
Kevin Walsh Oval, Jamberoo
www.facebook.com/JamberooCar/
NOV
8 KILLER RIDES MID WEEK MEET-UP
Oporto’s Albion Park Rail
17-18 ADELAIDE AUTO EXPO
www.customautoexpo.com.au
25-26 HOT ROD & HARLEY EXPO #2
Illawarra Hockey Centre, Unanderra
www.killerrides.com.au
24-26 SPRINGNATS 30TH ANNIVERSARY
Shepparton Showgrounds
13-15
www.autofest.com.au
DEC 3 LYGON STREET BREAKFAST CRUISE AND TOY RUN
Kingpin Kuztums
www.facebook.com/kingpin.kuztums/
30 KILLER RIDES LAST CRUISE OF 2023
This will be an invitation-only cruise to make sure the dickhead element don’t ruin another event. More information will be forwarded to those we know will do the right thing by us and the greater car community!
WESTERN SYDNEY
SATURDAY
28TH OCTOBER
11am to 3pm
Vicla Display | Food Trucks In-Store Merch Special:
20% off Genuine H-D riding gear and casual clothing [Excluding Clearance Products]
Prizes for best Vicla; Dealer Pick, Aussie Viclas Pick, Lucky Dip
