Performance in Motion Magazine Vol. 11 No. 4

DOC’s 1951 Chevy WAGON

“Tramp”

Canada’s Pinstripe Legend Vol.11 #4

•

FALL 2011

RAISING the BAR

r! e w o P e Mor iter

ev lim r l a i d y Rotar try i u c r i c l a All digit

MSD is raising the performance bar for CD multiple sparking ignition controls! See more on the all new Digital 6AL at www.msdignition.com.

SINGLE CONNECTOR

ROTARY DIAL REV LIMIT *CARB Approval pending

MSDIGNITION.com

For a free catalog call 888-882-8340

Performance in Motion 1100 The Queensway Toronto, ON M8Z 1P7 Phone: 416-259-3678 Fax: 416-259-6433

EDITOR/PUBLISHER Bob McJannett bmcj@sympatico.ca PRODUCTION DESIGN Rob McJannett CONTRIBUTORS Thomas Anderson Mark Ackert Jesper T. Andersen Steve Cole Jim Madigan Frank Malfara Ryan McMartin Leonard F. Slye John “Tramp” Warner with Bonnie Staring as the Reluctant Passenger PROOFREADER Spike “The Machine” LaVigne Are you Moving? Let us know, email us at: moving@

Table of Contents

Editorial....................................................................5 OCC: Battle of the Deltas..........................................6 Book Review............................................................10 Classics in the Park - Barrie.....................................12 “Tramp” Warner - Canadian Pinstripe Legend.......16 Doc’s 1951 Chevy Wagon.........................................26 Oshawa’s AutoFest 2011..........................................34 Timbren SES install................................................38 Winter Storage........................................................40 Product Showcase....................................................42 Directory Ads..........................................................44 Reluctant Passenger: Tales from the Pit..................46

12

performanceimprovements.com PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40609642 • PERFORMANCE IN MOTION is published four times a year: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Circulation is 30,000+ (ISSN 1703-8421) Copyright ©2011 All rights reserved by Performance In Motion Publishing. The fine print: We respect your privacy, and do not sell our mailing list. All opinions are those of the usual gang of idiots, most of whom sniff gas fumes. The information presented is via said gas sniffers, from which there can be no responsibility by the Publishers as to legality, completeness or accuracy. Recycle this magazine - give it to your friends. If you enjoy our magazine, be sure to let us know! This magazine may not be reprinted without permission of Performance In Motion Publishing. (We’re nice guys, just ask) • Thanks for everything Larry! •

16 26

FALL 2011 • PiM • 3

Protect your Vehicle This is a prime example of what NOT to do to your vehicle! All COVERCRAFT fabrics are “breathable” to allow good air circulation under the cover. It assures that any moisture under the cover can easily evaporate, and reduces heat build-up on hot days.

Properly!

COVERCRAFT not only protects BOTH the inside and outside of a vehicle, it also acts as a theft-deterrent by keeping the vehicle out of view to potential thieves.

Covercraft Car Covers are available at all locations of Performance Improvements

Toll Free: 1-877-471-6700

P.I. BARRIE

Silvercreek Pkwy.

12 Rutherford Rd. S 905-453-9901

HWY. 410

Rutherford Rd.

567 Silvercreek Parkway 519-821-6740

Protect your Vehicle

Upper James

Simcoe St. N

HAMILTON P.I.to OSHAWA This is aP.I.prime example of what NOT do to your Mohawk Rd. vehicle! All COVERCRAFT fabrics are “breathable” to allow good air circulation under the cover. It 1487 Simcoe St. N assures891 that any moisture under the905-725-3533 cover can easily Upper James 905-574-6940 evaporate, and reduces heat build-up on hot days.

Taunton Rd.

Lincoln Alexander Pkwy

Woodlawn Rd. W

P.I. PIERREFONDS Boul Pierrefonds

4909 Boul St Charles 514-626-1866

Boul St Jean

Clark Blvd.

Boul St Charles

Dunlop St. W

HWY. 400

422 Dunlop St. W 705-735-1274

P.I. BRAMPTON P.I. GUELPH performanceimprovements.com

Queen St. E

Properly!

HWY40

The Queensway QEW

Islington Ave.

Kipling Ave.

P.I. TORONTO

1100 The Queensway 416-259-9656

COVERCRAFT not only protects BOTH the inside and outside of a vehicle, it also acts as a theft-deterrent by keeping the vehicle out of view to potential thieves.

Covercraft Car Covers are available at all locations of Performance Improvements

Toll Free: 1-877-471-6700

performanceimprovements.com

4 • PiM • FALL 2011

Was this the Last AutoFest?

We

have just returned from the 18th annual Autofest in Oshawa, Ontario. Autofest is the annual show hosted by one of Canada’s oldest car clubs, “The Motor City Car Club,” formed in1959 and have been a positive force in the area, supporting local events and helping wherever they can.

This year’s event saw over 1,500 cars on display, drawing large numbers of spectators and many dollars to the local economy. No matter what your automotive interest, you could probably see examples at this well-attended show. They had a great weekend.

This is no slap-dash affair, the Motor City event steering committee spends the entire year planning and preparing to have another great weekend each year. Things run smoothly and attendees leave happy.

All in all, it’s a positive visit to the area.

The club gives back to a number of area charities. In fact, over the past eighteen years, the club has donated more than $155,000 to local charities involving youth. This year, the chosen charity was the Grandview Children’s Centre, dedicated to helping special needs children in the Durham Region.

More than $110,000 has gone to Grandview over the last few years.

Certainly a worthy cause if there ever was one.

Sadly, this may be the last Autofest. You see Oshawa council has withdrawn financial support, and

Editor’s Note

Editorial

a club of volunteers cannot finance an event of this size from their pockets.

The money council provided was not really a gift. The Ontario Tourist Board and Oshawa Chamber of Commerce did an impact study on last year’s event - The results! Their event brings more than 20,000 visitors who take rooms at the local hotels, buy meals in local restaurants, spend hard to get dollars with local merchants, and who leave the area with a positive feeling. In fact, the study revealed that Autofest injects more than $2,800,000 into the region in a single weekend. Council’s investment comes back to the region almost ten-fold.

I just don’t understand what they are thinking. With the current economy, if we were offered that type of an opportunity, we would jump all over it. Seems like a no brainer to me. If you are from the Oshawa area and agree, perhaps you should tell the Mayor and your council member that you would like them to support Autofest… it’s simply the right thing to do.

FALL 2011 • PiM • 5

Bat t le of t he Deltas

OCC: Battle of the Deltas

Written by: Leonard F. Slye • Photos: Courtesy of OCC

If

you own and love one of the popular General Motors Cobalts you should know about the Ontario Cobalt Club. Here is an organization dedicated to the Cobalt, not only the Cobalt but the whole Delta platform, encompassing the Pontiac G5, Saturn ION, Chevrolet HHR and the Opel Astra, even the Delta 2 platform.

The club was formed in 2005 bringing owners together for fun in the Delta. By 2007, they had an official website up catering to all things Cobalt. Since the website launch, the forums have been busy. Information flows freely to all who belong. They also use their site to promote weekly regional events.

Beginning in 2009, GM Canada joined forces with the OCC to produce a super Delta day, dubbed “The Battle of the Deltas.”

The event is held on the manicured grounds of GM Canada Headquarters in

GM’s Display at the Show 6 • PiM • FALL 2011

Oshawa, this year’s event, held on July 23rd was their largest ever. Loads of Deltas were on hand for a fun filled day and many went home laden with prizes and awards.

The OCC is quick to acknowledge they could not manage an event of this size without the support of GM Canada, the seven vendors who came to display their wares and the 22 sponsors who offered support. Everyone felt the “Battle of the Deltas” was a huge success.

The Ontario Cobalt Club thanks all in attendance and to everyone who made it possible. Visit www.ontariocobaltclub.com for information on this year’s event plus notices about future events.

•

GM displays the new “Volt”

Mike Pildla

Chad Devine

Joe Marrello

Alex Amaral

The NexT GeNeraTioN of

hiGh PerformaNce

STreeT moTor oil FortiFied with zinc/phosphorus anti-wear additive

Formulated to maximize performance and to meet the demands of high performance and modified engines Maximizes horsepower and torque Significantly reduces heat and wear Protects roller and flat tappet valve trains For vehicles under warranty, Royal Purple recommends its high performance API licensed motor oils.

A new bearing surface appears smooth until magnified 1500X.

The bearing is scuffed after using the leading synthetic motor oil.

The bearing is visibly smoother after using Royal Purple HPS.

HPS iS available at PeRfoRmanCe PaRtS RetaileRS..

Combine HPS witH a Royal PuRPle oil filteR foR “tHe ultimate oil CHange ™”

FALL 2011 • PiM • 7

Battle of the Deltas

Matt Edwards

Ashley Beckberger

Nick Mastrella

Nate Vickers

David Vandenheede

Chris Mascarenhas

8 • PiM • FALL 2011

Rhys Girt

Christine Drapak

K&N High Performance Intake Kits • Replaces restrictive factory air filter and intake system • Designed to increase horsepower and acceleration by up to 10% • Works with original equipment

K&N Fuel Injection Performance Kits are available at all locations of Performance Improvements

P.I. TORONTO 1100 The Queensway Toronto, Ontario 416-259-9656

P.I. BRAMPTON 12 Rutherford Rd. S. Brampton, Ontario 905-453-9901

P.I. HAMILTON 891 Upper James Hamilton, Ontario 905-574-6940

P.I. PIERREFONDS 4909 Boul. St. Charles Pierrefonds, Quebec (514) 626-1866

P.I. BARRIE 422 Dunlop St. W. Barrie, Ontario 705-735-1274

P.I. GUELPH 567 Silvercreek Pkwy Guelph, ON N1H 6J2 519-821-6740

P.I. OSHAWA 1487 Simcoe St. North Oshawa, Ontario 905-725-3533

Call Toll-Free: 1-877-471-6700 FALL 2011 • PiM • 9

Book Review

Book Review: How to build Big Inch GM LS series engines

T

oday’s GM performance engine, the LS series power plants, are becoming the go-to engine for those in search of some real horsepower. While it will be a long time before they catch up with the venerable small block, they are becoming the engine of choice for transplants in earlier muscle cars and hot rods. These engines produce copious amounts of horsepower very efficiently, and therefore the LS engines have been installed in many GM cars making them fairly easy to find when you decide this is the route to go.

Yet, even with the horsepower available in stock configuration, the search for more goes on. One of the more popular and affordable ways to move up the horsepower scale is by stroking an LS engine. More cubic inches mean more horsepower and torque!

Stephen Kim’s book details everything you need to do the job and do it correctly. In fourteen chapters, Kim leads you through the birth of the LS series, explains the different stroking options, and explains the complete LS family from the LS1 thru to the LS9 and others. Full explanations of the benefits of the different blocks, crankshafts, heads and virtually all the other engine components are

Author: Stephen Kim Pages: 144 • Illus: 305 color photos Dimensions: 8.5 x 11” Price: $29.95 • Item #: SA203 clearly detailed. Tuning tricks and a source guide for the necessary parts are also included.

Finally, five killer LS engines are dissected. If you are interested in the LS family of performance engines and just what they are capable of, this is the book for you.

•

Visit www.performanceimprovements.com and sign up to get our performance newsletter featuring new products, rebate programs, event listings, exclusive promotions and more!

• We value your privacy and hate spam as much as you. We never sell our mailing or e-mail list. • 10 • PiM • FALL 2011

P.I. TORONTO 416-259-9656

P.I. BRAMPTON 905-453-9901

P.I. HAMILTON 905-574-6940

P.I. PIERREFONDS 514-626-1866

P.I. BARRIE 705-735-1274

P.I. GUELPH 519-821-6740

P.I. OSHAWA 905-725-3533

Call Toll-Free: 1-877-471-6700 FALL 2011 • PiM • 11

Classics in the Park - Barrie

BARRIE

Classics in the Park Written by: Ryan McMartin • Photos: Bob McJannett

T

he Barrie Thunder Classics car club held their annual car show in a new location this year. On July 23, more than 250 vehicles came to Heritage Park in Barrie on the shore of Lake Simcoe for a day of fun and friendship.

12 • PiM • FALL 2011

Aptly titled Classics in the Park, their event could not have had better weather or a better location. The scenery was exquisite, the cars were great and a fun time was had. There were loads of draw prizes and awards to

keep the car owners happy, and the spectators got to see some great classic cars.

Here are just some of the cars that were on hand. We are already looking forward to next year.

•

FALL 2011 • PiM • 13

14 • PiM • FALL 2011

FALL 2011 • PiM • 15

“Tramp” Warner - Canadian Pinstripe Legend

“Tramp” Warner

Canadian Pinstripe Legend

E

ver since he can remember, Tramp has been interested in art, not just any art, but the kind that decorates cars and trucks.

In the beginning, young John Warner was just your usual kid — except he delighted in not tucking in his shirt, pulling up his socks, etc. This is how he got his nickname, his grandfather began to call him Tramp, and it’s stuck ever since.

Fast forward to age

16 • PiM • FALL 2011

fourteen, his shirt-tail was still hanging out, but his interest had turned to art.

Like every young man of the era, Tramp was drawing cars on any surface he could.

Unlike ninety percent of us, he had talent, every car he drew was better than the last one. His art teacher was always pleased with the results.

After public school, he moved over to T.L. Kennedy High School because they had a strong arts program,

sixteen periods of art a week. By the time he reached nineteen, he was fully engaged in the Kustom Kulture, had registered “Tramp” and was creating logos, and painting signs for numerous companies.

He became the go-to guy in Toronto’s west end to have your race car lettered, to provide creative signs for local businesses and car art for anyone who wanted their car to look different.

At twenty-one his

Story & Photos: Bob McJannett interests grew to include pinstriping; he discovered One Shot paint with all its many colours and hues.

He picked up a pinstripe brush for the first time. In those days, you had to go to Buffalo to get brushes, no art stores here were carrying them. Totally self-taught, hours have been spent perfecting the craft. About the same time, he purchased an air brush, this served to add new dimensions to his signs and art.

Tramp is a master of freehand pinstripe designs to accent the car.

To keep the wolf from the door, Tramp joined the fire department (no starving artist for him) and spent 26 years on the crew working on his art evenings and weekends.

Eleven years ago, he decided he had breathed in enough smoke, preferring the intake of One Shot fumes. He retired from the fire department and became a full-time artist. Never one to stand still, Tramp

keeps up with the trends and technology. Currently, he uses all types of equipment to keep at the top of the game.

Today he represents One Shot at trade shows like the SEMA show in Las Vegas, participates in panel jams all over North America, provides custom-created vinyl lettering and logo projects shipped anywhere in the world.

Here is one of the Tramp designed banners he does for the panel jams that he attends.

It’s attention to the details that make his cartoons so interesting.

FALL 2011 • PiM • 17

Here is one of Tramp’s latest projects. “Mean 18’s” — cartoon models of over the road highway haulers. They look great in transport company lobbies, Dens, etc.

Tramp has a huge following in the trucking industry where he redesigns logos adds colour and stripes to those eighteen-wheel road warriors we see on the highways. He has produced DVDs of his art and techniques and published a book “Mild to Wild Pinstripe Designs” that is out of print and bringing big dollars on eBay if you can find one.

Throughout all this, Tramp has been fully supported by his wife Penny, his two kids, Joel and Crystal and currently two of the biggest dogs you are likely

up to 30% more flow!

Compared to a typical 255 at 40 psi, the 340 Stealth Fuel Pump boasts over 30% more flow.

AF11140

Aeromotive’s 340 Stealth In-Tank Fuel Pump is a high-output, compact, lightweight, in-tank, electric fuel pump that fits most popular EFI applications.

Ideal to support forced air power adders such as turbo and supercharged applications.

Aeromotive Fuel Systems are available at all locations of Performance Improvements

Toll Free: 1-877-471-6700

performanceimprovements.com 18 • PiM • FALL 2011

FALL 2011 • PiM • 19

“Tramp” Warner to run into. Penny and Tramp spend their spare time cruising on the back roads of Ontario on their Harleys.

Life is good.

Tramp feels his greatest achievement was being awarded the Pinstripe Legends Lifetime Achievement Award at the Milwaukee World of Wheels show in 2008. The only Canadian to ever be given this award! Those of us who know him feel the best is yet to come. He continues to lead the field with amazing art. To see more, check his web site www.trampsdesigns.com

•

20 • PiM • FALL 2011

If you visit his garage, you are treated to lots of his original art hanging on the walls. The studio walls are covered with all styles of Kustom Kulture art.

The man himself, with his 2008 Milwaukee Pinstripe Legends lifetime achievement award!

- Increase Horsepower & Torque - Improve Fuel Economy with Real Time Feedback (Driving Coach Software) - Maximize Safety with Automatic Defueling & Alert Notifications - Expand Visibility with Multi Gauge Pack

Authorized Bully Dog Dealer

Toll Free 1-877-471-6700 • www.performanceimprovements.com FALL 2011 • PiM • 21

Tramp working the brushes in the One Shot booth at the SEMA show in Las Vegas.

Ideal for those looking for subdued tone with maximum performance, Force II Exhaust Kits are available in Stainless Steel and Aluminized material.

FE817405

Wake up your beast without waking your neighbours.

Flowmaster’s systems will both improve acceleration and passing power, as well as increase fuel mileage!

Flowmaster Exhaust Kits are available at all locations of Performance Improvements

Toll Free: 1-877-471-6700

performanceimprovements.com 22 • PiM • FALL 2011

WHEEL PLAN TM

Antique, Classic and Special Interest Automobile Insurance

Modified, Street Rod and Custom Automobile Insurance

Sold Exclusively by . . .

LANT INSURANCE BROKERS (A Division of Wayfarer Insurance Brokers Limited)

37 Sandiford Dr., Ste. 100, Stouffville, ON L4A 7X5 Tel: (905) 640-4111 • Fax: (905) 640-4450 • www.lant-ins.ca

FALL 2011 • PiM • 23

24 • PiM • FALL 2011

Doc’s WAGON FALL 2011 • PiM • 25

Doc’s 1951 Chevy Wagon

D

on McCartney is a true car builder. Known to his friends as Doc, he could easily be considered a doctor of cars.

Don has been involved with cars for a long time. Over the years, he has built a 1938 Ford Club Coupe, a 1929 Ford Roadster with an old-time flair, and currently, he has his 1951 Chev Convertible, just to name a few.

Doc’s latest project is the rare ‘51 Chevrolet Wagon seen here. The 1951 Chevrolet station wagon was a wood like, all steel body. These wood accented, all-steelbodied station wagons were only produced from 1950 to 1952. They combined the smartness and distinction of a wood-grained exterior finish with the strength and safety 26 • PiM • FALL 2011

of an all steel body. That meant it was quiet, more durable and easier to keep shiny and new looking. With four doors, the 1951 Station Wagons provided easy access for eight passengers.

In two years, Doc took a stock wagon and built it into a great street cruiser. Starting with an original frame, the rear differential was converted to one from a Camaro with TCI rear springs. In the front is a TCI Mustang II suspension kit with dropped spindles. Both power steering and power brakes make the wagon a pleasure to drive.

Under the hood is a well-detailed Chevrolet 350 small-block engine with loads of special details to make it unique.

Doc spent a lot of time making the sheet

Doc’s WAGON Written by: Bob McJannett • Photos by: Jim Madigan

metal perfect. Since he was going to paint it black it had to be straight. The hours of block sanding and prep certainly paid off. You will notice just how straight this body is when you have a chance to see it.

Moving to the inside, all of the original wood interior trim was redone by Doc. Many hours were spent fabricating, sanding and refinishing. You can see just how well the effort paid off. I doubt if the original interior that would have come from Chevrolet could hold a candle to Doc’s efforts. The tan soft touch vinyl interior was created by Tack Upholstery.

Using a Painless Wiring kit, Rick Norton wired the car. The dash is filled with Classic instruments and the steering wheel is a 1951

accessory unit. Tunes come from a GM pickup stereo unit.

Now the fun began. All of the seeming wood trim is the actually carefully painted by a skilled craftsman. Peter Biedermann was called in to exercise his wood graining skills. Once everyone was satisfied, the body went to Davies Custom Corvette where they applied the single stage black paint.

All the little things were attached and everything buttoned up, then it was off to the cruise nights and car shows. Don is enjoying the results of his efforts. When asked the best thing he had done with his wagon, he was quick to answer, “Taking the grand kids to Columbus for the car show.” No one could argue with that!

•

FALL 2011 • PiM • 27

28 • PiM • FALL 2011

A close-up of the detail in the Peter Biedermann’s handpainted wood grain work.

FALL 2011 • PiM • 29

With the back open, you can see some of Doc’s remarkable wood work. Many hours were spent fabricating, sanding and refinishing. You can see just how well his effort paid off. Tack Upholstery created the tan soft touch vinyl interior.

30 • PiM • FALL 2011

Original dash is filled with late model Classic instruments that tell the driver what is happening under the hood.

Gasket is our middle name! *

NEW MLS HEAD GASKETS • Highest grade materials • Cutting-edge production technology • Stress relaxed • Torque retention • Proprietary coating • Exclusive lifetime warranty * For Lifetime Warranty details, visit www.mr-gasket.com

Find your application

www.mr-gasket.com

Well-detailed 350-cubic-inch Chevrolet engine features unique touches like the dual-snorkel vented air filter.

32 • PiM • FALL 2011

Is this the original Impala? How many cars were named after they created a hood ornament?

FALL 2011 • PiM • 33

Oshawa’s AutoFest 2011

AUTOFEST 2011

A

Story & Photos by: Ryan McMartin

utofest, put on by the Motor City Car Club of Oshawa, was a great opportunity to see a very diverse number of specialty vehicles. As always the club outdid themselves putting on a great event. Read our editorial in this issue to see how you can help keep this show around in the future.

34 • PiM • FALL 2011

•

FALL 2011 • PiM • 35

AUTOFEST 2011

36 • PiM • FALL 2011

FALL 2011 • PiM • 37

Timbren SES install

TIMBREN SES INSTALL

Story & Photos by: Ryan McMartin

We’re ready to carry Heavy Loads over the Roughest Roads with a Suspension Enhancement Package for our Project Pickup.

W

e have begun to work on a Project Pickup, something to show off the products we sell in their natural environment, to take to cruise nights and other car events to represent our business.

We have started with a 2002 GMC S15 Sonoma extended cab. It came to us with a Wise Bed Rug, an Extang tonneau and a Pop N Lock tailgate lock. It has the sport suspension (lower than a regular S15) looks good with no suspension problems or vibrations. Plans call for a cold air intake, a cat-back dual exhaust and other performance enhancing modifications.

One of the first changes we will make is the addition of a Timbren Suspen38 • PiM • FALL 2011

sion Enhancement System (SES). Since there will be times when we are carrying a full load in our pickup, we wanted to be able eliminate any sag, sway or body roll that could occur when it is loaded. If the back end of our truck hung down handling would be negatively affected.

We looked at a number of solutions, air shocks, air bags and heavier springs before deciding on the Timbren SES kit. Both of the air operated solutions required running air lines, while the air bags required a compressor installation. Heavier springs would make our truck sit too high when it was unloaded which would be 80% of the time. Best of all Timbren is a Canadian company.

The SES system includes

two Aeon hollow rubber springs plus all necessary mounting hardware. The way they work is to fit between the frame and the rear axle with about a 1” clearance. When the truck is empty, they do not touch and there is no change in ride quality. With the pickup bed loaded, the rubber springs contact the rear axle keeping the vehicle level.

Installation of the SES kit is easy. Most kits can be installed with simple hand tools; there are usually no holes to drill or welding required. Here is what we had to do to fit ours, four simple steps.

•

1. Jack up the rear letting the rear axle hang on the suspension. Be sure to use axle stands and wheel chocks if you’re working at home. We took it to Paul Speirs’ shop, and Nick put it on the hoist.

2. Nick arm wrestled the factory bump stops from the frame. Nothing difficult, just a little brute strength required.

1.

3. Bolt together the Aeon rubber spring and the brackets provided, as shown on the instruction sheet.

4. Mount the assembly to the frame using the existing holes from the OE bump stop.

Clamp the bottom support to the rear axle and you’re done.

When you lower the vehicle be sure to check that the clearance with the truck empty is 1”. With five easy steps you have guaranteed the stability of your ride when loaded. How great is that!

Timbren offers a wide variety of suspension improving products for virtually every type of commercial vehicle. No matter if you need help with a common pickup or some severe service military, agricultural, mining or forestry vehicle, Timbren can help.

2.

4.

One of their other interesting products is an axle – less trailer suspension kit. Simply take their Aeon hollow rubber sprung axle assemblies and bolt them to the frame of the trailer you are building. These offer capacities between 400 and 3,500 lbs. If you need a small trailer check these out!

Canadian ingenuity on display.

To find a Dealer for SES Kits visit: www.timbren.com

Winter Storage

Winter Storage Get prepared before the snow falls Written by: Ryan McMartin

So

you have finally purchased or finished the car or truck of your dreams. The one you have lusted after for years. You have driven throughout the good weather, but as winter approaches, you have to decide what to do with your pride and joy. Well living here in the north, we are faced with snow, sleet, hail, cold weather etc., all detrimental to keeping your vehicle in pristine shape. If possible, those of us with well-loved cars or trucks store them for winter and find a low-cost beater to drive during the rotten weather.

Winter storage is relatively easy if you prepare correctly, here are our six steps 40 • PiM • FALL 2011

that will ensure that your car or truck is ready to return to the road in pristine condition in the spring when the weather improves. This is what we do at the end of the driving season.

1.

Pretend you are taking it to your favourite cruise or car event for the first time. Clean it thoroughly, really thoroughly,

wash both the outside and underneath. Most car washes have bottom blasters to do that for you. Whip out your Mothers three step polish and pre wax and wax all the painted surfaces with high quality car care product. Clean out the interior, whisk out all the stuff that has accumulated over the season. Wipe down tires, rubber seals, vinyl dash and

anything else rubber with Mothers Protectant, this will clean and protect the parts it is applied to throughout the storage period

2.

Change the oil and filter. Lubricate all hinges, linkages and other moving parts with a high quality graphite or other light lubricant. Wipe down door seals with Mothers Protectant

3.

Check and fill all fluid levels. Top up the rear end and transmission, fill the windshield washer reservoir and check the brake fluid. Fill the tires to the recommended pressure plus 5 pounds. Fill the gas tank and add fuel stabilizer.

4.

Check the antifreeze and be sure it is good to -30 Celsius. Add a rust inhibitor to the radiator.

5.

Once in position many people remove the batteries and take them into the house. We are using Optima batteries, sealed gel filled models,

and have been able to leave them in for winter with no problems. By leaving in the battery if there is a dry sunny day during the winter you can take your pride and joy for a ride.

6.

Finally, and most important cover your car with a high quality car cover, we find that Covercraft offer more models than anyone else and have the best fabrics.

Do not use a tarp or other non breathable material, you will do more damage than if you leave it uncovered. The car cover keeps out dirt, and anything else that might land on the paint. A thick breathable car cover protects from handle bars, knocks by snow shovels, driving the snow blower into the quarter panel etc. Best of all it protects your automotive investment.

As long as your

garage is weather tight this should be all that is needed. I do throw a handful of mothballs under the car, since someone once told me that it kept rodents away and I tuck a fresh bar of Irish Spring under the seat to make everything smell sweet.

I usually start the car once a month and if the weather is pristine I can still go for a blast when the roads are dry and the sun is shining. Otherwise it’s just wait for spring. If you follow our lead, in the spring all you will have to do is remove the car cover, run your car duster over the paint surface, fire it and off you go!

•

Product Showcase

Product Showcase HOLLEY Performance Products has announced their new Aluminum Ultra HP™ Carburetors.

Holley HP™ Carburetors have been the standard in racing Carburetors for nearly two decades. So how do you make them better? You make them 38% lighter, increase the fuel capacity by 20% and add 30 other new features!.

The fuel bowls incorporate ten new features including internal baffling to help control fuel slosh; a fuel trough to direct fuel to the jets; and a fuel shelf which minimizes aeration and promotes more consistent metering. The metering blocks and base plates are made from 6061T6 Billet Aluminum for improved durability and true gasket sealing. The metering blocks are fully adjustable and boast a total of six upgrades.

The base plate received ten new enhancements including a dedicated race-only throttle lever; stainless steel adjustable secondary throttle link for your choice of 1:1 or progressive actuation; knurled (hand adjustable) primary and secondary curb idle screws; as well as dual bolt pattern mounting holes. The main body steps it up with an integrated idle bypass valve that allows proper throttle plate adjustment when using radical camshafts without drilling holes in the throttle plates. The air bleeds have been moved outward for a smoother transition of airflow into the venturii and contoured hex head squirter screws have been added for streamlined airflow as well.

They’re available in natural tumblepolished aluminum with Black™ metering blocks and base plate. The Aluminum Ultra HP comes in 600, 650, 750, 850, and True 950 CFM. 42 • PiM • FALL 2011

PLASTIDIP Here is a product with all kinds of uses. It can be sprayed on virtually any surface and will provide a protective layer that can be easily removed if you want to take it off. It simply peels away.

Use it to create unusual paint schemes that you have always wanted to try. Add the clear to the front of your hood before a long trip to protect from stone chips. Apply to accessories for a different look. Plasti Dip offers a low gloss textured finish. Available in red, white, black, and clear. The only roadblock is your imagination.

PAINLESS PERFORMANCE Phantom Key Want to add the cool technology of keyless ignition to your hot rod, muscle car, or 4X4? Here’s your best option for both added security and the new creature comfort from the automotive aftermarket world. The Painless Phantom Key allows for the total replacement of most current ignition switches, install the backlit stainless push button and allow the Phantom Key’s module/relay center do all the work for you. plus it adds options such as a trunk popper channel, door lock and unlock, dome light on and off along with the added security of not having key tumblers for a thief to pick. The key fobs can be programmed to “automatic mode” which will automatically enable the system when it is within 20 feet of the vehicle, or they can be programmed in “manual mode” where the unlock key must be pushed to enable the system.

Phantom key: PW55000 55005 FALL 2011 • PiM • 43

Directory Ads

Standards, Automatics & Differentials

www.lawrencetransmission.com

PIM_AD_final.pdf

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

14/12/2008

8:23:26 PM

Order Online:

www.pispeedshops.com

Reluctant Passenger: Tales from the Pit

F

all’s arrival brings about change in every driver’s household. For some, it’s preparing a ride for winter storage; for others, it’s being captivated by a too-good-tobe-true deal on a coveted vehicle or a parts catalogue and episodes of American Restoration. And the list goes on.

For me, the chilly nights and shorter days bring to mind scary tales from reluctant passengers who’ve travelled the road before me.

Warning: these stories aren’t for the faint of heart, or those who tend to faint at the thought of grease stains on new upholstery.

Jack the Tipper The day was like any other when Jack, a driver with limited garage experience, decided to take care of a pesky car problem 46 • PiM • FALL 2011

on his own driveway.

He didn’t have ramps to lift the ride, but he wouldn’t let that prevent him from attempting that “easy fix.” Despite the warnings printed on the long-since recycled instruction sheet, Jack used a jack to prop up his ride. Thinking he would only be under the ride for a few minutes, Jack was surprised to find himself pinned under his vehicle for a lot longer when the jack slipped and tipped over. How long, you ask? Some say it was twenty minutes and others say two hours, before a passerby heard “a desperate moaning sound” coming from the car. Jack had a personal flat.

The Mystery Machine Fans of Scooby Doo fondly recall the Mystery Machine, the groovy van that took Shaggy and the gang to each new adventure. This mystery machine, however, is

one that’s crammed full of so much stuff that neighbours suspect foul play, or the producers of Hoarders have contacted you or your driver to appear on their show. A former reluctant passenger, now living in a car-free household, had attempted to clear out the contents of such a vehicle back in the ‘70s. “Although it was a bright September day, the back seat area was pitch black,” Edna recalls. “Stuff crunched under my feet like brittle bones, and a funky smell permeated everything.

All I wanted to do was clear off a spot for Dodger, our standard poodle, so she wouldn’t sit on my lap when I had fancy clothes on—but I just couldn’t take being back there. I still get the shakes when I think about it.”

Things That Go Bump in the Night Like those horror movies

Tales Pit from the

where the frightened girl always ventures into the dark basement without turning on a light, an automobile will make odd, unexplainable noises when you’re out in the middle of nowhere.

Is it a run-down ball joint? A wonky track on your Mott the Hoople

cassette?

A seized engine? A madman whose claw is trapped in the gas cap? Some things you just don’t want to stop for, while others you have to. Smart reluctant passengers are prepared ones, with a fully charged cell phone, a flashlight and

a crowbar at the ready.

No wonder our purses are so heavy.

Make the most out of the awesome autumn days ahead, no matter what strange things may fall across your path. Enjoy the ride.

•

About the Author: Bonnie Staring is a comedian,

advertising copywriter and one of those people who enters all kinds of contests. To see what else she’s been ranting about, visit her website: www.bonniestaring.com Photo courtesy of: style-your-garage.com FALL 2011 • PiM • 47

0-415 MPH in 11 Months

At Spectre Performance, racing is in our blood. We have been chasing speed records for nearly three decades, from open road racing to dry lakes, salt flats and more. In 2009 we took our gasoline fueled, Caddy powered streamliner to Bonneville and went 330mph. Fast enough to set a world record, but not fast enough. We went back to the drawing board. More power, more R&D. In August 2010 we went back, the car went 366mph. Still not fast enough. A month later at the FIA Shootout we hurt a piston, ate a few turbos, spent all night on the salt and eventually went 415mph. On gasoline. With an iron block Cadillac. Sucking air through twin Spectre hpR filters. That's right - we run air filters on every run, pulling air from the dirty high-pressure zone a few inches above the salt - and we don't need to change 'em, just knock the salt off and keep running.

If you're going to buy air filters for your street car, race car or tow vehicle, shouldn't you buy the brand tested at 415mph?

www.SpeedBySpectre.com