Spring 2009 • Vol. 9 #2 • $3.95 Canadian
Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #40609642
YOUR SOURCE FOR HIGH PERFORMANCE SINCE 1964 P.I. TORONTO Head Office 1100 The Queensway Toronto, Ontario M8Z 1P7 416-259-9656 P.I. BARRIE 422 Dunlop St. W. (Hwy 90) Barrie, Ontario L4N 1C2 705-735-1274 P.I. BRAMPTON 12 Rutherford Rd. South Brampton, Ontario L5W 3J2 905-453-9901 P.I. GUELPH 672 Woolwich Street Guelph, Ontario N1H 3Z1 519-821-6740 P.I. HAMILTON 891 Upper James Hamilton, Ontario L9C 3A3 905-574-6940 P.I. LAVAL 3236 Boul. St. Martin Ouest Laval, Quebec H7T 1A1 450-688-4536 P.I. NEWMARKET 180 Davis Drive (Hwy 9) Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 2N4 905-954-1630 P.I. OSHAWA 1487 Simcoe St. North Oshawa, Ontario L1G 4X8 905-725-3533 P.I. PIERREFONDS 4909 Boul. St. Charles Pierrefonds, Quebec H9H 3E4 (514) 626-1866 Call Toll-Free: 1-877-471-6700 www.performanceimprovements.com
45thANNIVERSARY
SPRING 2009
See more of this Roush Performance 2009 P-51B Mustang on page 18.
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Table of of Contents Contents Table Editorial.................................5 Editorial.................................7 1967 Ford Fairlane...............6 Jade 1952 Dodge................8 Meteor Man.......................10 Winter Cruise......................10 A Legend Returns.............. 13 Vicious Viper...................... 12 Two’Fer to Go..................... 14 Good, Better, Best.............. 14 What we saw in Vegas ..... 18 Superchips ........................ 16 Stratford Summer Music ..23 Roush P-51B ....................... 18 Old Coots on the Run........26 Ted Barnes..........................22 Book Review.......................30 Optima...............................24 Norwell’s Deuce.................30 F.J. Smith.............................28 Night before Christmas..... 31 Business Directory.............32 Business Directory.............32 Reluctant Passenger.........34 Reluctant Passenger.........34
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• Performance in Motion • Spring 2009
Performance in Motion Publications 1100 The Queensway Toronto, ON M8Z 1P7 Phone: 416-259-3678 • Fax: 416-259-6433 EDITOR/PUBLISHER Bob McJannett bmcj@sympatico.ca Phone: 416-259-3678 U.S. ADVERTISING Dick Van Cleve PRODUCTION DESIGN Rob McJannett CONTRIBUTORS Phil Adams Thomas Anderson Bernie Macliveson Nick Dunn Bob Keller Bob McJannett Robert Michaelson Jeff Norwell Leonard F. Slye Catherine Turner with Bonnie Staring as the Reluctant Passenger ILLUSTRATIONS Kayvene PROOFREADER Spike “The Machine” LaVigne MOVING? Please let us know! E-mail both your old & new address to: moving@performanceimprovements.com Return undeliverables to: 1100 The Queensway Toronto, ON M8Z 1P7 PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40609642 PER FOR M A NCE IN MOTION is published four times a year: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Circulation is 30,000+ (ISSN 1703-8421) Copyright ©2009 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 our writers, the usual gang of idiots, most of whom have dropped heavy objects on their heads. The information presented is via said head bangers from which there can be no responsibility by the Publishers as to legality, completeness and accuracy. Be good to the environment, 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 express permission of Performance In Motion Publishing. (We’re nice guys, just ask!) • Support your local Speed Shop! • 45 Years of High Performance Performance Improvements • 1964-2009 •
Spring 2009 • Performance in Motion •
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TNT SUPER SERIES May 8 - Dunn Tire Raceway Park www.tntsuperseries.com DREAM MACHINES OPEN HOUSE May 9th, 9am-4pm www.dreammachinesltd.com OSCA 2009 SCHEDULE May 9 - Season Opener! - TMP www.raceosca.com TNT - Cayuga Dragway May 16-17 MUSTANG POKER RUN May 23 • www.mustangrun.ca TNT - Dunn Tire Raceway Park June 5 OSCA - Southern Shootout! June 14 - St. Thomas (SN) non points TNT - Cayuga Dragway June 13-14 PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENTS Customer Appreciation Show and Shine — Brampton - June 21 OSCA - Canada Day - TMP June 27-28 TNT - Dunn Tire Raceway Park July 3-4 Kings and Classics Car Show July 18-19 - Rockton Fairgrounds www.kingsandclassics.com OSCA - The Heat is On! - TMP July 25-26
Spring 2009 • Performance in Motion •
Editor’s Note
W
ell it won’t be long now. The weather is starting to improve. Daylight saving time is here. The Daytona 500 is just a memory, not a good one since my guy didn’t win. And the indoor custom/hot rod car shows are in full swing. By the end of March, if you live near Toronto, you should have been able to attend both the Performance World and Motion car shows. It will be interesting to see what is new and how many folks show up to see the shows. The indoor car shows usually are the spark that reminds the car enthusiasts that all is not lost, the roads will clear up (there is some doubt that they will ever get the potholes filled properly so drive carefully) and we will be able to get our prized possession out on the road again. Now is the time to review all the projects you put to the side last fall. Before you get out on the road again it is time to carefully look over your car. Hopefully you added fuel stabilizer to your tank in the fall so fuel will not be a problem. However before you hit the road you should go through all of the other important functions of your car. Check the master cylinder for fluid, the brake lines for rust or leaks. Pull the brake drums to see just how much is left on the brake shoes and that the drums did not get any surface rust while the car sat through the winter. Do the same for disk brakes, check pads and rotors. Fluid levels in the transmission and rear end should be topped up. When was the last time you checked your steering box for lubricant, do it now. Check tires for proper inflation pressure and look for cracks. A little preventative maintenance now beats a breakdown at the side of the road.
Follow these checks with a complete spring clean up, wax and polish the paint, scrub the interior and treat all the rubber parts to a good dose of tire dressing. Now hop behind the steering wheel and take her for a drive. It is amazing how much better the old car runs when it is sparkling! I look forward to spring every year, somehow I am looking forward to this one, more that in past years, perhaps it was the amount of snow or the bitter cold that we had to deal with or perhaps I just miss the opportunity to get out on the road in an old car. For the last few years I was always able to get out the car between Christmas and New Years and go for a run, no such luck this winter. Be that as it may have faith, spring is on the way. Hope to see you all out on the road, that’s where the fun is.
• Performance in Motion • Spring 2009
Jade Story by: Bob McJannett and Photos by: Paul Sontrop
W
ilber James McBurney is an interesting dude; in fact, his current business is called “Cardude.” You see, about 18 years ago Jim retired from his carpentry business, deciding to throw caution to the wind and take up his car obsession on a full-time basis. Jim comes by his car enthusiasm honestly; his Dad was involved with Stamford Park in Niagara Falls, where the first NASCAR races were run in Canada. Dad passed his interest in cars to young son Jim. Racing at Stamford began around 1948, with the auto racers sharing the track with race horses. Jim helped his dad scrap cars, learning about the inner workings of the automobile. It was during one of these adventures that Jim saw
Spring 2009 • Performance in Motion •
his first Hot Rod. A friend of his dad turned up driving a 36 Ford with no hood sides and a full-deck flathead engine, from then on cars were always in his thoughts. In addition to building cars, Jim was the promoter of a number of Wheel World Car Exhibitions, and is involved running a Tuesday night car cruise in downtown Niagara Falls. Over the years, there have been many different projects; however, recently he completed a Mercury Speedster “Quicksilver HG” for noted Canadian actor Don Francks. The car you see on these pages “Jade” is Jim’s tribute to the full custom car era. In 1997, Jade started life as a 1952 Dodge Convertible, with a total frame off build. The chassis features the origi-
nal frame, modified to accept a 1979 Chrysler third member. In the front end, there are Buick Riviera front disk brakes and a modern rack and pinion steering. Suspension is Air Ride both front and rear. Power is provided by an early 392 Hemi engine donated from a 57 Chrysler C, equipped with dual four-barrel carbs. Everything has been freshened up, and today this engine develops 510 horsepower. With the chassis and drive train completed, it was time to turn to the heart of the project, creating that full radical custom he envisioned. Jim knew just what he wanted; he had done a drawing of his version of a full custom, now it was time to turn that drawing into a metal sculpture.
Out front, the bumper fasteners were welded from the rear and the bumper smoothed. The OE grille was narrowed twelve inches and re-chromed. Front fenders were extended with hand-formed eyebrows, all the hood trim was removed and the hood shaved. The wind shield was chopped three-and-ahalf inches and laid back three inches. The top was sunk into the body four inches. Side trim came originally on a 1953 Buick. Rear fenders were extended with 1959 Mercury Monterey taillights mounted vertically. Hand-formed fender skirts complete the extended fender look. Around the back, a smoothed bumper has been fitted between the extended fenders and
a 79 Lincoln Continental trunk bump molded into Jade’s shaved trunk lid. Everything possible has been smoothed. Door handles have been removed. The interior is upholstered in two-tone leather, while the dash has been formed to accept a three-piece 59 Pontiac instrument cluster. Overall, there have been 123 changes made to that stock Dodge Coronet. Once painted in custom-mixed base clear PPG paint, Jim could stand back to admire his handiwork. I think you will have to agree that in the 90s he has created the essence of a full radical custom from the 60s. Never one to rest on his laurels, Jim is currently finishing up a 1941 Ford Convertible
with a full race flathead engine, as well as a very rare 1915 Ford Model T Bub Wasp Speedster powered with a Frontenac converted fourcylinder engine. Next up will be a 29 Peerless Woody considered to be the only one left in the world. By now, you must realize that Jim is a many faceted fellow, lots of diverse interests. In fact if you are in Niagara Falls and walk by a bar where they are advertising the Wilber James Blues Band, guess who. Not only is he into cars, he is into music. Now that’s what I call a great way to live! For further information email “Cardude” at: wjmcburney@cogeco.ca
• Performance in Motion • Spring 2009
WINTER CRUISE Camarillo Ranch and Museum
Story by: Bob McJannett • Photos by: Bob Keller
If
you are like me, you are already fed up with winter. For a car guy, this time of year seems to go on forever. Oh, I know, we live in Canada, and I understand and enjoy all the benefits our country gives its citizens, and I wouldn’t live anywhere else. I also understand that Canadians number one topic of conversation in winter is the weather. But geez will it never get warm again? I’m still confused about global warming.
One of my American friends, Bob Keller, sent me a disk of his trip to the Camarillo Ranch Museum for a one day show and shine event. Here is a little background. Camarillo Ranch was originally a Mexican land grant of 10,000 acres of prime California land. Today, that has been whittled down to a 4.5-acre heritage site owned by the city of Camarillo, operated by the Camarillo Ranch Foundation.
One of only 500 Packard Caribbean Convertibles produced by the Packard Motor Car Company in 1955.
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Spring 2009 • Performance in Motion •
The gorgeous 6,000-square-foot house on the property, built in 1892, has been fully restored and furnished in period correct pieces. One Sunday a year, the property is opened to car enthusiasts for a great day. Attendance is limited to 100 cars; there is live entertainment, beer sampling stations, and house tours throughout the day. Think of the fantastic California weather and enjoy.
Here is just one of the bands that played throughout the day-long car show.
Overall view of the event. What a great location for a cruise.
1934 Ford three-window coupe and 1932 Ford roadster sitting side by side.
Bob Keller’s 1935 Ford Coupe with turbocharged Chevrolet small block.
Ford Y block engine with headers, Offenhauser valve covers and three two-barrel carbs.
A nicely restored 1940 Mercury Phaeton • Performance in Motion • Spring 2009
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v
ICIOUS IPER
Story and Photos by: Bob McJannett
W
henever we have a car feature that we think is interesting, we ask the owner to tell us all about the car and how he himself got interested in the automotive hobby. We really liked Jim Rajtek’s Viper, He is a man of few words though, so this text will cover only the Viper itself. He did, however, note that he got interested in cars when he hit his head on a car hood, go figure.
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Spring 2009 • Performance in Motion •
Starting with a 2001 Viper, the body was gone over from front to rear to be sure that everything fitted just right. The original mirrors were replaced with a pair from a Prowler. As if the Viper didn’t look tough enough as it came from the factory, they added the aggressive rear wing, now it really looks like it means business.
The original yellow with black stripes paint was replaced by a three-stage house of colour orange/copper finish. This car looks remarkable in the sunshine.
The interior remains as it came from the factory, no changes were necessary. The chassis was treated to a complete set of racing shocks, larger half shafts capable of withstanding the additional horsepower the engine now produces and a set of 4:11 rear gears get it going down the road in great fashion. The Viper is shod with a set of 18” HRE wheels and 275/35 ZR18 tires.
This Viper is no wimp, sound and speed are set to impress. Under the hood is where the real action is, originally these cars came with a 450hp 8.0L V10 engine. In Jim’s Viper, the intake and the block are the only original parts. Crank, rods, pistons, flywheel etc. are all high performance aftermarket pieces. The heads have been extensively worked over as have the throttle bodies. If that wasn’t
enough, there is a complete NOS nitrous system plumbed in. When asked if there was anything else we needed to know, Jim noted that he likes anchovies on his pizza. As we said at the beginning, he is a man of few words.
• Performance in Motion • Spring 2009
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Good, Better, BEST
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Edelbrock Thunder Series AVS EnduraShine Carburetors
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Spring 2009 • Performance in Motion •
Edelbrock Thunder Series AVS
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CTEK US800 Battery Charger
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PIAA Xtreme White Plus • Performance in Motion • Spring 2009
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THE HARDCORE SHOW FOR ENTHUSIASTS
45th Show
2009
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IS ON SALE!
Spring 2009 • Performance in Motion •
SUPERCHIPS
FLASHPAQ NEXT GENERATION COMPUTER PROGRAMMERS Story by: Thomas Anderson
T
he electronic wizards at Superchips have taken their hugely successful line of Flashpaq programmers to the next level. When questioned why they would mess with success, they answered it was simple. Technology is improving so quickly that we just knew we could make a great product even greater. The new design offers customers more bang for their bucks. In this economy, we can offer more features in the same basic package. Today’s five button Flashpaqs will offer more engine applications all in the same programmer. No matter if you have a gas or diesel truck, there is a Flashpaq to fill your needs.
Starting with the programmer itself, it is more user friendly, The size has been reduced to 4-3/4” by 3” and a mere ¾” thick. This smaller configuration allows simple one-handed operation, while the upgraded five-button design makes menu use easier and more efficient. The LCD operating screen now offers a dimmable backlight, making it easily readable. NASA grade calibrations are preloaded to give you maximum performance. The new Flaspaq comes with narrative stepby-step instructions making programming and tuning quick and easy. But what will the consumer get for their hard-earned dollar? The Flashpaq will refine your engine to produce greater increases in torque, horsepower and driveability. It will reset your engine to make maximum use of cold air intake systems and free flowing cat back exhaust. These recalibrations will result in faster 0-60 and ¼ mile times. When you change to non-standard tire and wheel combinations or gear ratios, you can recalibrate speedometer, odometer and shift points to suit. Automatic transmission shift points can be adjusted as can shift firmness. There is even a rev limiter to keep your engine in check just where you want it. Data logging monitors both driving and vehicle performance.
MLS EXHAUST GASKETS for Drag Racing, Oval Track & High-Performance Street • Multi-Layered Steel (MLS) exhaust and header collector gaskets are designed for extreme cylinder pressures produced by high horsepower–high compression turbo-charged, supercharged and nitrous oxide engines. • Manufactured from three stainless steel layers, resists corrosion, will not burn through or push out and maintains maximum fastener torque retention. • Stress formed inner and outer layer embossments act like springs that rebound under exhaust flange clamp load, creating force to seal excessive exhaust pressure produced from cylinder heads. • Withstands different combinations of cylinder head (aluminum) and exhaust header or manifold (steel) materials, will not deteriorate from scrubbing action caused by different expansion rates in aluminum and steel material.
216-688-8300 www.mr-gasket.com
In addition to Ford, GM and Dodge applications there will be new Flashpaq models for both Jeep and Nissan. The new Flashpaq’s are slated for release in mid March of 2009. Watch for them at your nearest Superchips retailer. • Performance in Motion • Spring 2009
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Roush
P-51b 18
Spring 2009 • Performance in Motion •
• Performance in Motion • Spring 2009
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ROUSH PERFORMANCE
continues their homage to the legendary World War II fighter plane with the 2009 P-51B Mustang, the second aviation-themed pony car from the Michiganbased manufacturer. This car, based on the 2009 Ford Mustang chassis, will be limited to just 151 numbered production vehicles in the 2009 model year. Number 104 was sold at the Barrett Jackson Auction for $100,000. for charity. The 2009 P-51B will have 510 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque matching it as the most powerful Roush Mustang ever produced. “The 2009 Roush P-51B is really the closest thing we can do to truly match the performance and styling of the fighter plane,” said Jack Roush. “Just like the airplane, the P-51B Mustang has the power to outrun most anything, can turn like virtually nothing else, and will make those other ‘pilots’ have second thoughts before engaging in a skirmish.”
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If you want to get your hands on one of these limited-edition Ponycars, it may already be too late. “They have all been sold to the dealer base,” said John Clark of Roush Performance. I think the majority have found homes, but there might be the odd one here and there still looking for a permanent garage.” If you’ve still got cash in your pocket and an empty spot in your garage, contact the folks at Roush Performance today.
Spring 2009 • Performance in Motion •
• Performance in Motion • Spring 2009
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Ted Barnes chosen as DragRaceCanada.com’s
2008 Sportsman Driver of the Year! CANFIELD, ONTARIO (February, 2009) - For five years, DragRaceCanada. com has held an online poll to acknowledge top achievements in Canadian drag racing during the past season. In 2008, the honour for Sportsman Driver of the Year went to Canfield, Ontario’s Ted Barnes. Driving a 383-cubic inch small block Chevroletpowered 1972 Datsun 510; Barnes has been drag racing for over 20 years. The team, which has been running under the banner of Performance Improvements Speed Shops, in one of the longest racing relationships in Canada, was honoured to be nominated. “Just to be nominated for this award was an accomplishment for me,” said Ted. “And to win it is absolutely fantastic! This award means a ton because it is determined by the people, the racing community, competitors and fans alike.” Bob McJannett, the patriarch of the Performance Improvements operation, says he’s proud to be a part of Ted Barnes Racing. “Ted and his Dad, Bill provide us with a positive presence at the drag races and any other place they go,” said Bob. “They carry our message with integrity and act as quality ambassadors for our company. They are the kind of operation that we want as our representatives. None better. This award simply reminds us that we made the right decision when deciding who to sponsor.” Barnes started drag racing in the late 1980s at what was then known as Dragway Park in
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Spring 2009 • Performance in Motion •
Cayuga, Ontario. Over the years, he and his dad Bill have become very well known in the racing community. Not only because of their on-track performance but also due to their off-track support of the fans and Canadian racing overall. During his drag racing career, Barnes has earned dozens of event wins, over 500 round wins, four track championships, won an IHRA national event Ironman in Hot Rod class and most recently, was crowned the 2008 Joe’s Transmission TNT Hot Rod Super Series champion. In 2009, Ted is looking to repeat as TNT champion and will compete in all 12 events... in addition to the IHRA national event at Grand Bend Motorplex. See Ted, his dad Bill and the entire Performance Improvements racing operation at the upcoming Motion Custom Car Show March 27-29 in Toronto, Ontario. Both Ted and Bill are quick to mention – none of this would be possible without the continued support from their partners – including Performance Improvements Speed Shops (Toronto), Top Quality Transmission (Hamilton), Scott Conrad Horsepower (Elora), F&M Signs (Stoney Creek), Steel City Spring (Hamilton), Hoosier Tire Canada (St. Catharines), Skyway Lawn Equipment (Hamilton). Keeping things running smooth for the team are PennzoilQuaker State, Crane Cams, Wix Filters and Clevite Engine Parts.
Ted Barnes has raced since 1987 and has been proudly running the Performance Improvements banner since 1992. “This year is Performance Improvements’ 45th anniversary, and we’re celebrating it with our best-ever Midnight Sale on April 3rd,” said Andy McJannett of Performance Improvements. “We will have a number of products selling for 1964 pricing!” You can also see Ted and numerous other special guests at their 45th anniversary Customer Appreciation Show n’ Shine in Brampton, Ontario on Fathers Day, June 21. “There’ll be more great deals in Brampton too!” See Ted and his dad, Bill at various motorsports events across southern Ontario and western New York. For complete info on the Barnes racing team including their 2009 event schedule, visit www.tedbarnes.com.
Book Review:
If
you are looking for a fun thing to do with your car, you could do far worse than to get involved with Autocross. Basically Autocross is a test of man and machine. You drive your car over a preset course, usually in a parking lot, the idea being to run the course as quickly as possible without assassinating any of the course cones. This is a sport that recognizes all levels of skill from novice to expert. Best of all you can participate with virtually anything you own. If you are crazy enough to try to throw your 1959 Cadillac around the course they will likely let you do it. You will however be providing the entertainment that day. Since cars run against the clock, not each other, there is little chance you will damage your vehicle in stock form. However once you get the bug and start adding aggressive tires, modified suspension components etc times will improve however weaker parts could start to come apart. Be Careful. Before you get involved with Autocross you should check out Andrew Howe’s book on the subject. In 144 pages Andrew gives a complete overview of the subject. Taking you through theory, classes and car preparation all in simple to understand English make this an excellent learning tool. No matter if you are just looking for a fun thing to do once in a while or you are prepared to get serious about Autocross this book contains tips and techniques that will help you accomplish your goals. HOW TO AUTOCROSS PUBLISHED BY CARTECH 144 PAGES - SA158 AUTHOR ANDREW HOWE. • Performance in Motion • Spring 2009
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SHAKE IT UP!
Optima Batteries take a lickin’ keep on tickin’ Story by: Robert Michaelson • Photos by: Optima
T
oday’s high-tech vehicles carry an amazing amount of electronics. Simple things like opening doors and trunks are now activated electronically from the key fob that came with the car. Virtually all engine functions are monitored electronically from the onboard computer. In fact, I read recently that some vehicles would be delivered with a microwave oven! Either that is the ultimate
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in onboard technology or the automotive industry is preparing us for the time when we can no longer afford housing and will be living in our cars. No matter which, the one thing that seems to have eluded the car manufacturers is improvement in battery technology. Today’s vehicles still come with conventional lead acid, flat-plate construction. If you are faced with the task
Spring 2009 • Performance in Motion •
of replacing your battery take the time to research the latest in battery tech. You will find there are a number of high-quality replacement options at your fingertips. Here is information on the Optima line of spiral cell replacement batteries. A little history: in 1973, Gates Rubber began development of a sealed battery for commercial and military use. One of their designs
was a spiral wound cell configuration that was felt would revolutionize future battery design. In 1984 Optima was formed to produce these high-quality batteries for both commercial and military applications. By 1992, manufacturing costs were reduced to the point where an Optima was within reach of a true car enthusiast. All of their technical advances soon made them the battery of choice for antique, vintage, hot rod and other specialty vehicles. Today, OPTIMA batteries feature their patented SPIRALCELL and Absorbent Glass-Mat (AGM)Technology, the most advanced form of lead-acid battery technology on the market today, it is designed to be leak-proof, vibration resistant and maintenance-free, while providing consumers with more starting power and longer cycle life in all three of their separate product families. Here are the facts to help you choose the correct model.
Spill-proof and maintenance-free Traditional batteries will spill acid after a rotation of 45˚. OPTIMA batteries can be rotated 180˚ with no acid spill because they’re sealed and maintenance-free.
Selecting the Right Battery A battery is just a battery. Right? Wrong! The sophistication and number of automotive electronics is drastically increasing. Whether it’s original equipment or the toys you’ve added, you’re drawing more power from your battery than ever. OPTIMA is the battery of choice among performance and offroad enthusiasts who want to add more power to their adventures. Thanks to proprietary Spiralcell® technology, these batteries are more than 15 times more vibration resistant, which means they can take a lot of abuse both on and off the road, and provide up to twice the life of a traditional flooded battery. OPTIMA batteries are constructed of 99.99 percent pure lead. The purity of the lead provides lower internal resistance for additional power and quicker recharging, corrosion resistance for longer life and reduced selfdischarge when stored on the shelf. OPTIMA’s tightly coiled Absorbent Glass-Mat (AGM) separators hold electrolyte like a sponge to elimi-
nate acid spilling. Each maintenance-free battery is also completely sealed, preventing corrosion and acid spills. Choosing the right AGM battery to meet your needs is simple. When selecting a battery, engine start performance, or cold cranking amps (CCA), and size obviously matter, but there are other considerations, too. Where and how you use your vehicle and the electronic load that your battery supports should be considered. Energy recovery and cycling performance are also quickly becoming important considerations: in some applications, they are even more important than CCA. RedTop, are the most popular because they deliver high power cranking ability with greater resistance to the biggest causes of battery failure. Commonly used in trucks, SUVs, cars, hot rods, off-road vehicles and other applications where a non-spillable, high-power, long-lasting starting battery is needed.
YellowTop, is nearly the only true dual-purpose battery on the market, commonly used in any application that demands cranking power and heavy cycling. Trucks with winches, cars with high-demand audio systems, commercial trucks and equipment all rely on this battery to provide ultimate starting and deep cycle power. BlueTop, is available as either a starting battery or a deep-cycle battery for marine applications and has all the valuable characteristics of its two brothers. It is designed for those boaters with electric trolling motors, onboard electronics, stereo systems or those who simply need a surestarting, strong cranking, maintenance-free battery. Visit youre nearest authorized OPTIMA dealer to choose the correct model that will keep the wheels turning, the tunes playing and the lights on.
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• Performance in Motion • Spring 2009
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Optima RedTop are the most
YellowTop is nearly the only true
BlueTop is available as either a
popular because they deliver highpower cranking ability with greater resistance to the biggest causes of battery failure. Commonly used in trucks, SUVs, luxury cars, hot rods, off-road vehicles and other applications where a non-spillable, highpower, long-lasting starting battery is needed.
dual-purpose battery on the market, commonly used in any application that demands cranking power and heavy cycling. Trucks with winches, cars with high-demand audio systems, commercial trucks and equipment all rely on this battery to provide ultimate starting and deepcycle power.
starting battery or a deep-cycle battery for marine applications and has all the valuable characteristics of its two brothers. It is designed for those boaters with electric trolling motors, onboard electronics, stereo systems or those who simply need a sure-starting, strong cranking, maintenance-free battery.
Up to 2X longer life when compared to traditional batteries. Damage from heat is the leading cause of battery failure. Even in high heat environments, OPTIMA batteries can outlast traditional batteries by up to two times.
Over 15X more vibration resistance Damage from vibration is a leading cause of battery failure. OPTIMA batteries have over 15 times more vibration resistance than traditional batteries, due to patented Spiralcell Technology.
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More starting power OPTIMA batteries deliver a higher level of power to the starter in the critical first 10 seconds of the vehicle starting power.
Repetitive reserve capacity OPTIMA batteries have the ability to withstand significantly more discharge/recharge cycles and still deliver a high percentage of the original full capacity.
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F.J. SMITH 2010 INDUCTEE
CANADIAN MOTORSPORTS HALL OF FAME Story by: Leonard F. Slye • Photos Courtesy of: F.J. Smith CAYUGA, ONTARIO - It was a day in the summer of 1958, and Don Garlits was making a guest appearance at Kohler Dragway in Cayuga, Ontario. Because Fred was not old enough to have a licence, his dad dropped him off at the gate. Fred was hooked on drag racing. Little did he know that drag racing would eventually become a career. Throughout his high school and university years, he raced as a hobby with a variety of cars....37 Ford Coupe, 55 Chevy and 58 Pontiac to name a few. His 1967 Beaumont that was raced at the Niagara Dragstrip, became internationally known as the
Canadian Chevelle. While teaching at Cayuga Secondary School, Fred continued his involvement with friends who relied heavily on his automotive and drag racing knowledge and his no-nonsense approach. But it was in 1976 that he built a 1967 Camaro which became a NHRA legend. He campaigned the car almost every week-end at NHRA Divisional and National events in Canada and the United States from 1976 to 1983. The car was originally built as a modified car and was known for its innovative 4-link suspension, wheel stands and wicked horsepower. In 1982, after teaching
Affectionately titled “Two and a Half Legends,” here is a photo of Zora ArkusDuntov, Fred Smith and Bill Jenkins at the Super Flow Dyno conference held in Colorado Springs in 1991 where these three were keynote speakers.
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at Cayuga Secondary School for 16 years, Fred resigned from his teaching position and established Smith Performance Specialties as a state-of-the-art high performance engine and chassis fabrication business. In 1986 during a rainout race, Fred approached General Motors personnel about the possibility of their involvement in developing a front-to-rear-wheel drive conversion drag race car. The Big Three automotive manufacturers were now producing front-wheel drive passenger cars. The rest is history. The first car built by Fred became the prototype for all front-wheel conversion race
F.J. campaigned his 1967 Camaro almost every weekend at NHRA Divisional and National events in Canada and the United States from 1976 to 1983.
CMHoF Photo by Nik Milner • www.nikmilner.com cars in the National Hot Rod Association. That achievement, beyond any doubt, saved the Super Stock eliminator from extinction. That first prototype Cutlass Ciera was featured in the Oldsmobile display booth at SEMA in Las Vegas in 1987. In co-operation with Robert Stange of Strange Engineering, a front-end strut was engineered and designed specifically for all Super Stock drag race cars. It was approved by NHRA in 1987, and to this day, it is the only strut allowable in both NHRA and IHRA Super Stockers. The partnership with General Motors
Oldsmobile and later Pontiac enabled Smith Performance to become a Super Stock mini factory. Endless class wins, National event wins, Best Engineered awards and records achieved by their own cars as well as racers of the Smith Performance Super Stockers put “F. J. Smith” in the forefront internationally. These racers contributed hundreds of points towards Oldsmobile winning the Manufacturer’s Cup for numerous years. World Champions such as Jeff Taylor and Anthony Bertozzi raced Smith Performance cars. The shelves in Fred’s office are loaded with 59 “Wally” trophies won by Fred for overall Eliminators, class wins and Best Engineering awards. There have been numerous highlights in the family’s drag racing life. One is definitely the family’s recognition at the Car Craft
All-Star Drag Racing banquet at Indianapolis Hilton in 1992 and the presentation of the first Car Craft Sportsman Chassis Builder of the Year. He eventually won the Car Craft award again in 1993 and the final year of its presentation in 2000 and was nominated every year of the Award’s existence. It is interesting to note that drag race cars built by SPS in the early 1990s still command a high dollar on the market. “Built by F. J. Smith” carries a tremendous status. And some of these race cars still continue to dominate the Super Stock NHRA and IHRA point series. For many years, Fred sat on the Safety Foundation Institute (based in California) chassis committee and played a significant role in the development of the Spec 25-1 for “door slammers.”
That first prototype Cutlass Ciera was featured in the Oldsmobile display booth at SEMA in Las Vegas in 1987. In co-operation with Robert Stange of Strange Engineering, a front-end strut was engineered and designed specifically for all Super Stock drag race cars. It was approved by the NHRA in 1987, and to this day, it is the only strut allowable in both NHRA and IHRA Super Stockers. • Performance in Motion • Spring 2009
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• F.J. Smith • 2010 Canadian Motorsports Hall of Fame Inductee • F.J. Smith and daughter Victoria, also a Super Stock driver, stand beside one of the family race cars.
It is also gratifying when he is told about racers who couldn’t pass “tech” at national and regional races and were advised by both IHRA and NHRA tech inspectors to “ have a look at one of F.J.’s car and do it his way” and then their car would be approved. From his first taste of high-performance race engines, his high-performance smallblock Chevrolet race motors have been tuned and tweaked to perfection. Racers far and wide rely on his engine dynamometer to give them tried and true facts and figures. In 1995, the Can-Am Stock/Super Stock Series was developed, and Fred has continued to play a MAJOR role in its continued success. Because of the significant travelling costs and time constraints, many Stock and Super Stock racers are unable to compete internationally at NHRA and IHRA events. However, this series has allowed these racers to continue their lifelong passion to race with the best Ontario, Quebec, New
Not satisfied with just building top quality race cars, Fred has also built himself this beautiful 1932 Ford Victoria. Handy for those times when they are not at the drag strip, simply hop in and go for a ride.
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York and Michigan can offer. Fred has singlehandedly increased the sponsorship lists from a meagre four or five in 1995 to over 25 major sponsors including Strange Engineering, Edelbrock, Mr. Gasket, MSD, Comp Cams, TCI, Auto Meter and ATI. Fred is a fiercely proud Canadian drag racer and has become a mentor to numerous young drag racers. He does not suffer fools gladly and has little patience for couch potato racers. He is highly respected in the international drag racing community. It is extremely difficult for him to find time at races to attend
to his own race car because he is continually besieged by customers and potential customers with endless questions and precious advice. In their office hangs a photo of Fred with Zora Arkus-Duntov (Corvette legend) and Bill Jenkins (Chevy high-performance small block). It was taken at the Super Flow Dyno conference held in Colorado Springs in 1991 where these three were keynote speakers. It was affectionately titled “Two and a Half Legends.”
Fred was to be inducted into the Canadian Motorsports Hall of Fame at a gala event in February at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Unfortunately, economic concerns forced the CMHoF Board of Directors to reschedule this year’s gala to February 2010. However, family and friends felt this is a lifetime achievement worthy of special note, and held their own celebration at the Coach House at Ruthven Park National Historic Site in Cayuga, Ontario, on Sunday, February 22. All of Fred’s friends and competitors were able to congratulate the man for his achievements. -ed.
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Common Cents
F
ar be it for me to tell you how to spend your hard-earned dough, but this is the time to be smart about automotive accessories and vehicular variables. Don’t just take my word for it; financial experts all over the place are talking about how we should still be stretching every dollar we have until it begs for mercy. It’s kind of fun, actually. Especially when you name each bill after a butthead ex-boyfriend. However, this doesn’t mean that good car-care habits should stop on a dime. Or even a nickel. Savvy automotive enthusiasts understand that upkeep is an essential part of ensuring your car performs as it should – no matter that secure jobs are about as easy to find these days as a mint Carson Top for a 1951 Mercury. As much as it pained this reluctant passenger to do, I spent an afternoon with some certifiable car nuts to get the skinny on affordable ways to get the most out of your ride. It wasn’t pretty – deep-fried foods and Tabasco sauce was involved – but here are their top tips. • Keep it clean Whether it’s to keep salt off those tender fenders or mud out from door seals and trunk hinges, giving your automobile a regular wash every once in a while is always a good idea. The weight of all that crud may be wreaking havoc on your gas mileage. One caveat: if you suspect the grime is the only thing holding certain parts in place, do a test patch first.
• Respect the injector If your classic doesn’t possess the power of fuel injection, move along. For rides that do, send a little love to that underappreciated part by giving it a boost with some fuel injector cleaner every couple of months. For a couple of bucks, it’ll keep your guzzling on the down low, which is where it should be. • Check your fluids This should be as automatic as a shift into overdrive on the open road, but some drivers can get a little lax on the levels. Even if it’s raining cats, dogs and exhaust pipes – check under the hood to see where your ride is at in terms of radiator, tranny, brake and windshield washer fluids. Your car (and passengers) will thank you for it, and it’s a lot cheaper than replacing a rad or engine block.
• Time for a change If you don’t know how to change your vehicle’s oil by now, hang your head in shame. That knowledge alone can save you about $25 every 5,000 km – which adds up to a large chunk of change over the lifespan of your ride. All it takes is a little investment in time, elbow grease and automotive know-how for a driver to keep the love of his life purring to perfection. As for the loves that live outside of the garage, our lists change daily – just to keep things way more interesting. On the bright side, we can chip in by using a coupon or two. 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 Illustration created by Kayvene • website: www.kayvene.typepad.com
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