Performance in Motion Magazine Vol. 15 No. 3

FALL 2015

VOL. 15

NO.3

TWENTY-FIVE CENTS

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Performance in Motion

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PERFORMANCE DIRECTORY

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E V E RYB O DY ’ S AU T O M OT I V E M AGA Z I N E VOL. 15 NO. 3 Published Oddly

Bob McJannett Publisher Rob McJannett Editor Bonnie Staring Reluctant Passenger “Comma” Carol LaVigne Proofreeder

Contributors Mark Bovey Jim Madigan Dave Thomas The Department of Style

FEATURES The Publisher Says............................................Bob McJannett Rob Taylor: Drawing through the Pain......................... Len Sly New Rules of the Road............................. Robert Michaelson Sale Flyer.......................................................................................

E.L.T.A. & Jalopy Jam Up.................................... Dave Thomas The Phaeton Menace..........................................Jim Madigan How to build a Pro-Touring Car...........................Book Review Reluctant Passenger..........................................Bonnie Staring

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Performance in Motion Publications, 87 Advance Road, Toronto, ON M8Z 2S6 • Phone: 416-259-3678 • Fax: 416-259-6433

COVER

The Lead Kings Jamie McDowell caught our eye with his Orange Green-Flamed 1951 Chevy. It sure ain’t no Jalopy, but it made it to the Jam Up! We also pay a visit to London for the E.L.T.A. Summer Bash. Both cover photos were recorded on colour film by Mr. Stanceiseverything hisself Dave Thomas.

MOVING? Please let us know! E-mail both your old & new address to: moving@performanceimprovements.com Canada Post please return undeliverables to: 87 Advance Road, Toronto, ON M8Z 2S6 PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40609642 • PERFORMANCE IN MOTION is published four times a year: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, and Winter.

Circulation is 30,000+ (ISSN 1703-8421) Performance in Motion Copyright ©2015

by Performance In Motion Publishing. 87 Advance Road, Toronto, ON M8Z 2S6 Phone ADams 9-3678 (Phone: 416-259-3678 • Fax: 416-259-6433) Be good to the environment, recycle this magazine – give it to your friends! We respect your privacy, and do not sell our mailing list. All opinions are those of our writers, (the usual gang of idiots) most of whom think gas fumes are acceptable as aftershave.

The information presented is via said gas sniffers from which there can be no responsibility by the Publishers as to legality, completeness and accuracy. 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)

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Performance in Motion

The Publisher Says:

O

ften when I have to find a subject to write about, it is a problem. Sometimes there just doesn’t seem to be anything important or of interest. Well this month that is not true, in fact I have had to decide which one irks me the most. There are three choices: 1. The MOT are ticketing enthusiasts who drive their specialty vehicles a minimum number of km’s each year, for not having antiquated emission devices on their vehicles. It seems like they are targeting mid-70’s vehicles, pickups in particular. If you have one of these, you may want to research what you should have to keep them at bay. Meanwhile, they are ignoring pollution spewing trucks, busses etc?

2. In Ontario, the new fines for distracted driving and other driving offences, but other than the space you have to leave around bicycles, the rest is OK with me. See page 10 for more info.

3. So here is my choice. Ontario is gearing up to put into place the Administrative Monetary Penalty (AMP) system. In fact, by the time you read this, they may have gotten it in place. As is often the case, public consultation about AMP happened well under the radar months ago.

AMP replaces your right to defend yourself in a court when you have received a charge. AMP would, if implemented, replace incourt procedures for resolving disputes, with an online system for traffic tickets and other Provincial Offences Act (POA) charges.

AMP essentially allows an police officer to charge you with an offence and not have to provide any proof whatsoever of any offence having been committed. This will be for minor offences like speeding, red light running, improper turns etc. Then the fun begins.

Should you disagree there is no ability to go to court, there will be an “online dispute system” where you can register your disagreement. (If you don’t have a computer, I guess you are S.O.L.) You are still guilty, but there will be a method to discuss the penalty with an “independent arbiter” not a Judge or a JP. In other words you are, GUILTY BECAUSE YOUR ACCUSER SAYS YOU ARE. Now let’s think about the effect this could have on points and insurance. Scary, eh! We do not have enough room to print the act, so Google, Administrative Monetary Penalty System and read all the information on the government web sites and some of the dissenting views of many legal firms. If you agree it is unfair, write to your MPP and to the Ministry of The Attorney General to tell them: Hon. Madeleine Meilleur Attorney General McMurtry Scott building 11th floor - 720 Bay St Toronto,ON M7A 2S9 Remember, silence means you agree.

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FALL 2015

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Rob TAYLor W

hile enjoying a tour of Steam Whistle brewery (along with a couple of brews, of course) at the historic roundhouse in downtown Toronto, I noticed that they had a number of really interesting drawings of their unusual fleet of vehicles. In talking with Sybil Taylor, Steam Whistle’s Communications Director, she told me of Rob Taylor (no relative) and his art. Sybil had a compelling story of Rob’s art and the difficulties that he has faced. We tracked Rob down and here is his story.

Rob has been drawing as long as he can remember; by the age of 8, he was going to art school, where he learned the basics.

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However, their focus was on still life, nature and people drawings, not what Rob wanted to do. He wanted to do hot rods, motorcycles and airplanes, anything with wheels. Best of all, when he drew a car, people who saw it were excited. This encouragement made him try harder. By age 11, his Dad bought him an airbrush and introduced him to the van craze. Trial and error became his learning curve. In his teens, he was drawing cars for kids at school, plus stuff for rock bands.

A trip to Merritville Speedway, southern Ontario’s third-mile banked clay track, turned him on to Dirt Modifieds. He was soon drawing them and came to the

Drawing through the pain Story by: Len Sly attention of Pete Bicknell. Soon, he was the tire scraper and gofer on the team along with drawing the cars he saw. This led to program and T-shirt artwork. Things were great for a young man infatuated with cars and racing.

His first big job came at age 15. At this early age, he created a poster for Stroh’s Old Milwaukee Beer, then Benson & Hedges called for some work in a sports car series they were involved with. By now in the off season, he was designing paint schemes for race cars.

In those days, there were no computers, just a camera, lots of old car magazines and imagination.

Performance in Motion

Next up was a sign writer he knew offering to teach him how to hand letter with 1 Shot.

That came to a grinding halt when the sign writer discovered Rob was left-handed.

“There is no such thing as a left-handed sign painter; your hand will always go over your work.” he was told. “When my Dad heard that, he went out and bought some brushes and a can of 1 Shot lettering paint and told me to go into the garage and practice on my first car, a ‘51 Ford.” Rob practiced till he mastered painting backwards and things were good, in fact about ‘97-98 he ran into that same sign writer who wanted to know if he could help Rob get all his work done.

FALL 2015

Funny how things work out!

Things began to slow; computers and vinyl plotters were taking away the hand lettering jobs. To keep paying the mortgage, Rob turned to painting prices on dealership windshields, but vinyl soon replaced that too. Then he started designing night clubs, rock bars etc. Anything to keep the money flowing.

In 2004, everything ground to a halt. He was tired all the time, couldn’t walk straight and his balance was off. For the next five years, no doctor could pinpoint the problem.

They thought he was epileptic and had him on 14 different meds. They took his driver’s

licence, and during this battle to regain his health, he dropped from 240lbs to 155.

Finally, one doctor pegged his problems as stage one Parkinson’s and Osteoarthritis.

Meds went from 14 to 3, rigidity and spasms declined to tremors. After this long period of concern and boredom, Rob returned to his art. To accomplish this, one of his friends would tape the pencil or airbrush to his hand to prevent him from dropping it when a tremor came.

With the new meds, long drawing sessions became possible; some days 14 hours straight. He began drawing NASCAR cars, then getting the owners or drivers to sign his

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drawings. Today, he has a large collection of signed drawings. He sent a drawing to Norm Benning, one of the last NASCAR Camping World Truck Series independent Racers, owner driver of the #6 Truck. Norm liked the drawing so much he invited Rob to come and hang out with them at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park when they raced in Canada. This led to Rob becoming a spotter for Norm at the last truck race in Canada.

One day Rob saw Steam Whistle Brewery’s

Steam Machine Van. He loved it and had to draw it. Once completed, he emailed a copy to Greg at Steam Whistle. Well, Greg loved it and had to have it. The rest is history.

Steam Whistle commissioned him to draw all of their specialty fleet, and today, these artworks hang proudly on the walls of the brewery for all those who take a tour to see.

The exposure for Rob has been gratifying.

Almost every day he hears something about his art, thanks to the folks at Steam Whistle.

Contact the Artist: If you would like a drawing of your car, e-mail Rob directly at: drawnbyrobt@gmail.com — He promises to draw anything with wheels. (Rob is the guy without the hat. –Ed.) Airbrushing murals on garages and man caves also available.

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Health-wise, Rob is still going through more specialists. He has begun power walking, working up to 7 km a day when possible. The walk helps clear his mind and reminds him of the road he is traveling towards, improved health. “Art puts a smile on my face, and if my art puts a smile on someone else’s, it’s worth it!”

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Performance in Motion

FALL 2015

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Performance Directory

New Rules of the Road Effective September 1, 2015

O

ntario has introduced a new set of traffic laws in September as part of its efforts to make driving safer in the province. The “Making Ontario Roads Safer Act,” or Bill 31, was approved unanimously in June and came into effect Sept. 1—meaning some new rules for drivers and, in many cases, heavier penalties for breaking them.

Here is a look at five new traffic laws that are most likely to affect your everyday driving.

Distracted driving: If you’re caught looking at your phone, texting or talking on your phone while driving, you will face much bigger fines and more demerit points.

The current fine for distracted driving is approximately $200. Those now found guilty of distracted driving will face up to a $490 fine and three demerit points. Novice drivers will receive a minimum 30-day suspension for the first conviction and longer suspensions for subsequent convictions.

Pedestrian crossovers: Drivers will have to wait until pedestrians have completely crossed the road at pedestrian crossovers and school crossings before proceeding. About half of all fatal traffic accidents involving pedestrians occur at intersections, the Ministry of Transportation said. The new law is an attempt to make roads safer for pedestrians.

This change will take effect in January.

Passing cyclists: Drivers must leave a one-metre distance when passing cyclists or face a $110 fine and two demerit points; $180 fine and two demerit points for failing to leave a one-metre distance when passing cyclists in a community safety zone. Motorists who open the door of their vehicle into the path of a cyclist without checking will face a $365 fine and three demerit points.

The “move over” law: As of Sept. 1, drivers are required to slow down and move into the next lane whenever they see a stopped emergency vehicle with its red and blue lights flashing. This will apply to stopped tow trucks that have amber lights flashing. The fine for breaking these rules will be $490 and three demerit points. Drivers failing to stop for a school bus can be fined up to $2,000 and six demerit points for a first conviction.

Alcohol and drugs: Those caught driving under the influence of drugs will now face the same penalties as drunk drivers, the ministry said. These include between a three and 90-day licence suspension and a week-long vehicle impoundment. More than 45% of drivers killed in Ontario were found that have drugs or alcohol in their systems.

Be careful out there. ~ Robert Michaelson

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Performance in Motion

FALL 2015

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Story & Photos by: Dave Thomas

August

8th and 15th were great weekends to be a classic, hot rod, or kustom car enthusiast in Ontario.

On Aug. 8, the East London Timing Association – E.L.T.A. for short – held their annual summer bash at their HQ in London, Ontario. Open to all, this incredible ‘happening’ gathered the most diverse cars I’ve ever seen at a completely free event.

On one long street, there was an awesome

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Cali-flavoured ‘59 El Camino, parked kitty corner to a drag-ready Austin A40, that was parked a stone’s throw away from an alcohol-powered dirt track dragster. Never mind the slumped low Nash wagon or Plymouth race car-pulling-race car combo up front. All of this was further surrounded by hundreds of cars and even more smiling people.

The hospitality shown by every member of the E.L.T.A has made this event a mustattend for me next year. I had to cut out

a little early for the trek back to Toronto, but next year, I’ll grab a couch to sleep on out west because I’ve at least got to stay and enjoy some of the live music!

The power punch to an epic one two combination of events was Aug. 15’s Jalopy Jam Up hosted by BrandonRoberts, Jay Tyrrell, Jeff Norwell and supported by others including the very people bringing you the magazine in your hands, Performance Improvements.

Performance in Motion

Last year, Mother Nature decided Ontario wasn’t quite ready for the event at full force and put a damper on things, but this year she graced showgoers with a scorcher of a day. The only things shining more than the sun was the chrome on the surplus of traditional-styled hot rods.

Mother’s Worry, the 1930 Ford previously taking up residence in the 87 Advance P.I. showroom, was proudly on display at the show alongside a child-size hot rod that’s

FALL 2015

sure to make any kid the king of the block.

The Candy’s Hot Rod Supply-built car was joined by several traditional hot rods, a large gathering of sleds and kustoms — my favourite being a gold Cadillac with cherry-flaked roof and astro supremes and thin whites — slammed classic trucks, and that unique Austin A40 that was also at the Summer Bash.

From start to finish, cars were coming and going the extremely unique venue, and

I don’t think there was a single face at the Ghost Town without a smile.

Now that this event has had a chance to really show what it’s all about, I think word is going to spread far and wide, and next year’s event will be even better.

While it’s hard to imagine how that would be possible, I really can’t wait to see it happen!

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Dave Thomas blogs extensively about the Ontario automotive enthusiast scene, check out photos and more events at: stanceiseverything.com.

Performance in Motion

FALL 2015

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Story & Photos by: Jim Madigan

L

ou Meehan, a fellow member of the Roadmates Car Club in Mississauga, was searching the web and came across this Colorado 1929 Ford Phaeton, sitting on a previously restored chassis. The owner, Sherwin Stapley of Campbellford, on the Trent River, has a towing business in town, and is an avid collector of antique cars and toys. Among his collection is Mimi Van Doren’s 1958 Lincoln, 1962 Cadillac Sedan Deville 7-window in excellent condition and a large collection of brass-era Model T’s.

Doc McCartney and I brought it home to the Clubhouse. Doc can’t seem to leave this thing alone, giving it a thorough carb cleaning and tune-up. When he realized the fuel tank was full of junk, a jerry can was rigged up for fuel. The front seat had been found at the side of the road and fit perfectly. Art Hagner donated the rear seat out of a minivan, removing some covers allowed it to fit in place as well.

The Phaeton was all set to take a test drive, but Lou has not been around. Well, boys will be boys, and Doc took matters into his own hands. You will notice Doc’s smile, he has not smiled like that since his first, drive-in date in his first car. Also a1929 Ford Phaeton.

Finally Lou got to drive his car for the first time and he put her to the test. He even took Duke Brown on a race around the clubhouse!

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Lou finally got his chance to tear up the Roadmates Club House lawn! Duke Brown doesn’t look like a reluctant passenger here.

For more Jim Madigan photos be sure to visit: jvm.smugmug.com Performance in Motion

_REVIEW

1929 Ford Phaeton got a quick carb clean up and was calling out to be taken for a test drive!

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Art Hagner helped Doc fit some re-purposed minivan seats. Look at that grin on Doc - this is bringing back some good memories!

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This book written by Tommy Lee Bird and Detroit Speed’s Kyle Tucker covers the full range of Pro Touring projects.

Front and rear suspension modifications, fuel system upgrades, brake upgrades, driveline modifications are all covered. There is a section on LS engine swaps and suggested cooling upgrades to ensure your new power levels remain cool.

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HOW TO BUILD A PRO TOURING CAR Authors Tommy Lee Byrd and Kyle Tucker • 144 pages, 441 photos and charts • SA293 • $29.95 FALL 2015

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The

t n a t c Relu enger Pass

Know Your Limits As

new traffic laws come into effect in Ontario, this is a great time for drivers and passengers alike—no matter where they live—to examine their own rules, guidelines and beliefs about all things automotive.

Now I’m not saying that, as a reader of this awesome publication, you can ignore the rules of the road. What I’m referring to are the unique limits set by reluctant passengers throughout the world, which drivers try to twist and stretch into a shape that works for them.

The nods from some of you and the blank stares from others indicates that some detailed examples need to be provided. Here they are: “It’ll only take a few minutes.”

Passenger definition: The task will only take a few minutes, from 5 - 30.

Driver definition: I’ll get it done before midnight.

The limit solution: Have the driver and passenger agree on the maximum amount of time that can be taken to complete the task.

Once the time is up, the vehicle will turn back into a pumpkin or be towed to where professionals can take over.

“I love this car.”

Passenger definition: There’s nothing else that needs to be done except regular service stuff.

Driver definition: I’ve got to amp up this baby’s torque and horsepower... and maybe upgrade the suspension and add some more chrome.

The limit solution: Passengers should have a frank discussion about what your driver has in mind for that ride in the driveway. (You’re best to ask about all of the vehicles, no matter how excited your loved one gets about mufflers and manifolds.) Sometimes all you can do is hope your driver masters the fine art of restraint. You know, like you did during that shoe sale last week. ‘Nuf said.

“Another cruise night? Great!”

Passenger definition: Are you kidding me? That’s the tenth one this month.

Driver definition: Maybe I can meet up with the guy with the older model Mustang to talk about door hinges some more.

The limit solution: This is clearly a case where the attendance of cruise nights, shows and other car-nut

events needs to be discussed, debated and dissected thoroughly. Preferably with a calendar handy. Feel free to suggest a game of rock, paper, scissors or leg-wresting to reach an agreedupon number of events you’ll attend together. Best two out of three wins.

“It was on sale.”

Passenger definition: If the purchase was car-related, it had better be an essential, affordable item.

Driver definition: It was on sale.

The limit solution: This is a slippery slope at the best of times. What drivers and passengers deem to be essential items fall into different categories altogether, such as conversion kits and wiper blades.

You’re best to agree on a maximum spend amount—try writing numbers down on pieces of paper and exchanging them at first. Good luck with that, then head to PI. Negotiating and navigating the road of life can push us all to the limit sometimes, but there’s nothing like having some crazy folks—whether they’re nuts about cars or just plain nuts—to share it with. I’ll leave it to you to decide which category has your name written all over it.

Enjoy the ride.

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About the Author: Bonnie Staring is a comedic triple-threat (writer, performer, coupon user), and she appreciates the road of life a lot more than she might let on. Bonnie has plans to master social media one day, right after she learns how to machine rotors. www.bonniestaring.com

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Performance in Motion

FALL 2015

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