Custom Car March by Assignment Media Ltd

MAR 2024

£5.99

Spirit of ‘69

Chris Goodale lifts the wraps on Russo’s Rat – the legendary ‘69 Chevelle now fully restored back to its glory days and ready to race again

PLUS: DC Customs’ sensational high-end bagged ‘52 Ford F-1 WITH SARAH CC MAR 24 Cover.indd 1

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r u o y r o f e c n a r u s n I

The hum of the engine. The open roads. The incredible history. We know that every custom car is built from a vision, and seeing that vision come to life creates a bond like no other. That’s why we provide insurance that can be customised almost as much as your pride and joy.

Policy benefits can include: M Agreed value cover M Laid-up cover M Limited mileage discounts M Club member discounts M Track and rally day cover

Call us today on 0344 728 0348 adrianflux.co.uk Authorised & regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority Trustpilot rating checked on 21st November 2023.

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Contents

is A s p 14 ue ril ’ M on 24 ar sa ch le

Find us on Facebook at mCarMagazine www.facebook.com/Custo

Regulars 2

News & reviews A steel Deuce you can afford? Oh yes…

48 SoCal Diaries Thacker hits the Grand National

60 Events No free weekends ‘til Christmas

64 Next Month Terry Barton’s storied Consul Capri

Features

Fabulous F-1 DC Customs’ show-stopping ‘52 pick-up

18 SEMA As seen through the eyes of Mr Valley Gas

26 Russo’s Rat The rebirth of a bona fide legend

www.customcarmag.co.uk

36 National Finals Sharp end of the season at Santa Pod

56 46 Crew Show Starring some of the south-west’s top rods

58 Wadebridge Wheels 1000+ cool cars brave the rain

SUBSCRIBE! 62 Custom Car subs offer The best value way to get your monthly fix

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News & reviews

Deuce deals

f you’ve ever dreamt of owning a ’32 roadster but knew you could never afford a steel car, maybe it’s time for you to think again. The body pictured here is manufactured and assembled in Europe as an authentic replica of the ’32 Ford roadster, fabricated in steel using modern manufacturing techniques and processes to keep the cost as low as possible. The bodies are supplied with doors ready hung and the boot lid, dash and ﬁrewall installed. Best of all is the price – all of that for £9500. No, that’s not a misprint. Dom Romney is the man behind The Deuce Company, which supplies these bodies in the UK. Also available are boxed repro chassis,

which are supplied ﬁtted with a Model A front crossmember, centre X section and a coilover rear crossmember. This basic chassis is priced at £2100, with options right through to a full rolling chassis available at additional cost. All prices are based on collection from Essex, although shipping is available if required. Multiple package options are on offer, including 3 or 4-piece bonnets, original or ﬁlled grille shells and stainless steel inserts, and 2 or 3-inch chopped windscreens. If you’ve begun to think again, give Dom a call to discuss your needs. www.thedeucecompany.com / 07946 140575

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We’ve been advised, a lot, that there were a number of mistakes in the Events pages in last month’s issue. The Editor’s punishment was to get the drinks in for the rest of us, though something similar may have been what caused the problem in the ﬁ rst place. Either way, making it right should keep him out of our hair for a bit. Apologies all round for any confusion caused.

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Record achievement

The National Motor Museum has reached the £50,000 mark in its Sunbeam 1000hp restoration fund campaign and is now appealing for more support to achieve the next step. The ultimate goal is to hear the engines roar again and raise £300k to restore the World Land Speed record car and take it to Daytona for the centenary of its record-breaking 200mph attempt in 2027. Further information can be found by visiting: nationalmotormuseum.org.uk and typing ’Sunbeam’ into the search bar.

VISIT O

TE & WEBSI SHOP E O N L I N

Strip weekends

Melbourne Raceway has announced the dates of the track’s race meets for this coming season. They are 13-14 April, 11-12 May, 15-16 June, 1314 July, 3-4 August, 31 August-1 September and 5-6 October.

The street is full

Based on the immense success of last year’s Street Weekend, we knew that this year’s staging of the event was going to take things a bit further. That was clariﬁed when all 200 entry spaces were sold almost as soon as they became available. This really is going to be an epic weekend. If you weren’t fortunate enough to secure your place, you can be added to the reserve list by emailing your details to streetweekend@santapod.com

01934 864310

www.speedﬂow.co.uk

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News & reviews

Something for the weekend? implemented to make the event even better. To start with there’s a new venue, Crystal Lakes Leisure in Huntingdon. That means full camping facilities including electric hook-up if needed. Thursday will see a preparty. Traders and food vendors will keep you supplied and fed,

Restorative show The NEC, Birmingham, is the place to be on 22-24 March for the Classic Car and Restoration Show. With more than 1000 cars and 150 clubs on display, there will be plenty to check 2 CUSTOM CARthe MARCH 2023 out, along with 250+ traders offering all manner of wares. Rustic gems, resto projects and pristine classics are all in the mix, together with celebrity talks and an auction. www.necrestorationshow.com

City classic

R&R

The city centre provides the backdrop for the Wakefield Classic and American Car and Bike Show on Sunday 28 April. Bikes, classic cars and all vehicles of interest are welcome, with live music, food and drink vendors and costumers in attendance to support the show. www.wakefieldbid.co.uk

The Rods and Rockers weekend takes place in Dunnington, near York over the weekend of 31 May-2 June. DJs and live music abound, together with a classic and period car and bike show. Other attractions include a hog roast on Saturday night, a rodeo bull and a cheap bar – or bring your own. All this for £30 per person for the weekend with free camping. Day tickets are also available. Facebook: Kays Barn

but note that the venue has a strict no-own-drinks policy. Facebook: Hillbilly Hoedown

Weekend trip Take a break Easter fun day The Motobüro Easter Meester is back by public demand. The date is appropriately 31 March, as that’s Easter Sunday, and unsurprisingly the venue is Motobüro, in Brighouse, West Yorks. It will be the same as before, only turbo’d, with great coffee, great cars, workshop projects and dirty butties. The fun kicks off at 10:30am. www.motoburo.com

Sunday 12 May is the date for this year’s HotRods and KustomKulture Spring Break at Stonham Barns in Suffolk. Staged in association with the Knuckle Busters Car Club, Spring Break is dedicated to all aspects of vintage, hot rod and kustom kulture from the ‘50s and later. Cars and bikes as late as 1973 are permitted in the main show and shine, and there is an additional display for later vehicles of special interest. www.stonhambarns.co.uk

National trucking The 3rd American Truck Nationals UK is on Sunday 9 June. The location is The Rose Inn, Shotley, Suffolk. Lots of attractions are planned, with full details to be announced shortly. Facebook: American Truck Nationals UK

Heave hoe The dates for this year’s Hillbilly Hoedown are 15-19 August, with a few changes being

Tickets are now on sale for The Trip Out on 6-8 September. This groovy weekend happens at Euston Park in Suffolk, with cool DJs and live bands on tap throughout the three days to keep everyone entertained. The Meyer Dancers will be giving it a go-go and a movie / chillout room will give people the chance to unwind, while a skate ramp will get the adrenalin pumping. A Custom / Chopper Bike Show will be held in the marquee, and there will be a huge array of trade stalls to check out. www.thetripout.co.uk

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News & reviews Well dressed

We recently came across an Australianbased company offering a range of cast ali dress-up items for hot rods and muscle cars. Independent Retro Castings offers diff covers for axles from 8-inch Ford (with a clever drain plug location) through to Jag IFS, including dummy quick-change covers, transmission pans valve covers and so much more. All items are available ‘as cast’ or fully polished. The company ships worldwide; while the cost of that is a factor, the currency exchange rate is currently favourable – 1 AUD to 0.52 GBP at the time of writing. www.ircastings.com

Hangin’

Europe’s biggest rockin’ car and bike meeting, Hangar Rockin, takes place at St Stephan’s Airﬁeld in Switzerland on 28-29 June. The event will feature a Hot Rod and Kustom Car Village and Show, 1/8 mile races and plenty of Rockin’ sounds. www.hangarrockin.com

Compact with torque

The compact ratchet screwdriver from Laser Tools features a smooth and robust 60-teeth ratchet mechanism with reverse, lock and forward modes. It’s built to handle a maximum torque load of 30Nm, so can tackle those tough jobs. Priced at £30.34 including VAT, the driver includes a magnetic bit holder that’s compatible with any standard ¼-inch shank screwdriver

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News & reviews Fresh start

Cool ﬁnd

For around half a century, the whereabouts of Uncertain-T has been a mystery. Many thought the radical show car would never again see the light of day. Now, however, it has been tracked down by Beau Boeckmann. Based on a cartoon drawing by a friend, the legendary car was created by Steve Scott over a ﬁve year period. The stylised Model T-based show rod features a canted forward body and fuel injected Buick Nailhead power. Unlike many other show cars of the era, Uncertain-T was driveable and ran at Bakersﬁeld in 1965. Such was the draw of the car, Monogram introduced a model kit of Uncertain-T in 1966. Word is the car has been deliberately kept hidden for 50 years. By the time you read this, it will already have appeared in public at the Grand National Roadster Show in February, and it will resurface at Detroit Autorama in March. It will then go undercover once again and be restored to its former glory by Dave Shuten. How cool a story is that?

Roger Gorringe

Pic: Julian Hunt

Drag racing photojournalist Roger Gorringe passed away in January. For more than 50 years he could be found trackside, covering events both at Santa Pod Raceway and throughout Europe. Roger was oﬃcially inducted into the BDRHoF Hall of Fame last November. His photographic legacy will live on, but his presence will be greatly missed. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends. RIP Roger

Pic: Julian Hunt

At the recent SPRC Drivers’ and Riders Meeting, Ian Marshall announced he will be relinquishing his role of Santa Pod Chief Starter following the National Finals in September. His assistant for many years, David Warren, will be taking on responsibility for the role. It’s not the last racers and spectators will see of Ian, however, as he will still be around concentrating on track prep and other elements. He will also continue to run the Santa Pod Racers Club. We wish Ian all the best in his semi-retirement and thank him for his years of service as Chief Starter.

Grasp those nuts

This adjustable wrench from Laser Tools helps when it comes to rounded-off fasteners. The adjustable wrench features a spring-loaded jaw, serrated teeth and a flexible head for easy access to hard-to-reach fixings. Its simple pull-back action provides a fast and secure grip on fixings ranging from 8mm to 17mm in diameter. www.lasertools.co.uk

Twin beam

Laser Tools’ aluminium pen light integrates a 2W COB lamp with a 2W LED torch and is powered by a rechargeable 750mAh lithium-ion battery. The pen light features a magnetic base and a pocket clip, while the COB lamp gives a good spread of light with the LED offering a more direct torch beam. www.lasertools.co.uk

Seaside festival

Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 June sees the return of the Wheels Festival to the seaside town of Great Yarmouth. An array of cars, bikes and so much more will be on display on the seafront, along with a variety of other attractions. The festival is staged in support of the East Anglian Air Ambulance Charity. www.visitgreatyarmouth.co.uk

When the Fun stops

Despite all their efforts to be able to put it on, the NSRA committee has announced that Fun on the Beach will not take place in 2024. Having been unable to secure a mutually acceptable agreement with the Great Yarmouth Council and Tourist Board, the committee decided that as the funding offered fell signiﬁcantly short of expectations the event would not be ﬁnancially viable and will therefore not be able to take place.. www.nsra.org.uk

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When you have a long-standing reputation for building top-notch show cars and your customer wants a daily driver, there has to be a compromise Words: Dave Biggadyke Pics: Alan Kidd

hen it comes to one-stop custom shops, West Midlands-based DC Customs pretty much ticks all the boxes. Founded in 2007 by Darryn Coleman, the list of services the company offers is extensive and comprehensive. Full and part

restorations, custom fabrication, body and paintwork including detailing and flames, candies and flips, and mechanical upgrades including lowering and air suspension installation are all listed. In a nutshell, DC Customs will undertake everything from an engine swap to a full-on bespoke build.

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Adding go and show 2.

1. The F-1 as delivered to the DC Customs workshop. At least the tyres look to be pretty good

4. The engine and trans mounted between the chassis rails. Note the front coilovers have now been switched for air bags

The dual circuit brake master cylinder and servo is mounted off the chassis underneath the cab ﬂoor

Mounted behind the Ford 9-inch rear axle is the tank for the air ride system

The cab and rear wings were repaired but the running boards, pick-up bed sides and tailgate are all fresh steel

7. With the bodywork fully prepped, the metal was treated to several coats of primer

Prior to the interior going in, every square inch of the cab’s inside bodywork was covered in Dynamat

Check out the socials to view a gallery of previous work the company has turned out, and you can’t help but be impressed with the diversity and quality of its builds. You’ll ﬁnd Volkswagens of all descriptions, hot rods, classics of assorted marques and eras and even a couple of drag cars. Truly diverse and eclectic. The reputation that Darryn and the team at DC Customs have established within the custom and classic fraternities understandably generates repeat business, with customers returning when a fresh project has entered their lives. Such is the case with this bagged ’52 Ford F-1 pick-up, a vehicle I ﬁrst clapped eyes on at the 2022 National Hot Rod, Custom and American Car Show in Peterborough.

7. Then came the colour coats. Darryn was right, the pick-up wouldn’t look anywhere near as good painted black

The TCI Mustang II-based IFS. Note that conventional coilovers were ﬁtted at this stage

Repeat business

The early stages of the bed ﬂoor installation. The battery mounted to the left of the fuel tank is just visible, as is one of the twin air ride pumps on the opposite side

When asked as to how his involvement with the F-1 came about, Darryn explained that he had previously restored a ’68 Mustang for brothers Raj and Jess Bhandal and four or ﬁve years ago they turned up at his doorstep once again, this time with the truck they had just bought. “To be honest, it was a pile of junk,” Darryn quipped. “They just wanted it tidying up as a daily driver and the project just grew from that.” Quite a lot of growth and not that much of a compromise, as it happens,with Darryn recalling there are 2500 hours invested in the build. The brothers gave Darryn pretty much free rein with the build, which suited him down to the ground. The project wasn’t

completed in one hit though, as they own a restaurant in Cannock and when Covid hit, business cashflow simply stopped and the project understandably ground to a halt. The rebuilt pick-up was, however, fully sorted by early 2022. With the bodywork stripped, the first stage of the restoration was media blasting back to bare metal to reveal the true extent of the work ahead. “The cab was pretty good, as was the front-end metalwork. We had to repair the bottom six inches or so of the front and rear wings and, as the originals were beyond salvation, the running boards, pick-up bed and tailgate are all new steel repro items. The engine bay was smoothed and all the bodywork was prepped to show condition. With new running gear to be fitted

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They just wanted it tidying up as a daily driver… Above: Even with the suspension set at ride height, the pick-up still exhibits a great stance. Under the front is a TCI Mustang II crossmember and A-arms, with drilled disc brakes and air bags Right: The aftermarket oak wood kit for the bed floor had to be cut to fit around the 7-inch inner wheel tubs. Note the fuel filler cap towards the rear of the floor

all round, it’s understandable how the project developed into a full-on top spec build.” In readiness for that new rolling stock, the chassis was boxed and strengthened with fresh crossmembers. Fitting the suspension was far from straightforward, with many components having to be modified to suit, but with everything finally fitted as it should be it was all powder coated in Antique Silver.

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Not only is the rear window logo a good advert for DC Customs, it’s also a cool piece of artwork

The aftermarket bench seat is trimmed in brown leather, while the scratch-formed door cards and back panel are covered in contrasting brown and saddle leather and an aftermarket headliner kit sorts out the inside of the roof. The tilt steering column is by Ididit and is topped off with a leather-trimmed wheel. The shifter is from Lokar

Custom made to DC Customs’ specification, the US Mags rims measure 8x18 at the front and 12x20 at the back. Tyres are Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2, 245/40 ZR18 and 325/30 ZR20 respectively

Gauges by Dakota Digital display information such as water and oil temperature, along with which gear has been selected, with a gearbox-mounted sensor feeding the speedo. The retrolook radio is a modern digital unit offering a variety of connectivity options including Bluetooth. While it may look stock, the glove box is custom-made. Inside are the controls for the Air Lift Performance system, along with a USB port

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Tight fit

The choice of engine threw up a few issues, mainly down to limited clearance. Aftermarket headers were sourced, only for one side having to be cut and shut to fit – and even then it only fitted once the chassis had been notched. Then the starter motor wouldn’t slot in as it should, a problem rectified by rotating it from its normal orientation and modifying the gearbox. Nobody ever said this hot rodding lark was easy, eh? The pick-up’s rolling stock upgrades result in the spec now comprising of a Mustang II-based IFS with power steering and Wilwood disc brakes, a Hauser Racing prepared Ford 9-inch rear axle with TCI 4-link location and a fuel-injected V8 with a custom air filter assembly hidden away behind the inner wing. The custom-built fuel tank is similarly concealed, nestling between the rear chassis rails.

Ridetech suspension features on each corner, with air bags on the front and air struts at the rear, all controlled by an Air Lift Performance management system. A Painless Wiring kit feeds current to where it needs to be, with a plug-and-play system sorting out the engine management. “It was as easy to install as it could have been,” Darryn told us. “Although as the loom was a set length, hiding it all to keep things looking neat and tidy proved diﬃcult.” There’s even an electric parking brake in the mix, along with Bluetooth connectivity via an OEM-style head unit with custom JL Audio speakers including custommounted tweeters and discreet mids and sub. An Optima gel battery mounted under the bed ﬂoor provides the power, while the twin pumps for supplying air to the suspension are mounted under the bed on the opposite side. With the bodywork fettled, the underside was covered in durable Raptor coating, then

10 litres of paint were lovingly applied to the outer surfaces. That was after Darryn had convinced the brothers not to go for black, helped by one of them seeing a colour mockup and instantly saying we’ll go for that. As always, the devil’s in the detail and ﬁnishing touches include new glass and seals all round, along with new chrome work and stainless steel trim.

Chevy chaser

Darryn was fortunate enough to hold on to the pick-up for a while after it was ﬁnished, and he hauled it round quite a few shows during that time. “It drives really nice,” he smiled. “I just wish I’d had more time to set it up properly. In saying that, the engine is beautifully smooth and as powerful as you like. The size of the F-1 takes some getting used to though, especially with no exterior mirrors.” The power that Darryn refers to is provided by the Ford Motor Company’s answer

The project developed into a full-on top-spec build

A subtle custom touch is the fitting of onepiece door windows. Darryn revealed the paint is a stock BMW hue, Olive Green Metallic. You really need to see the pick-up in the flesh to appreciate the depth of the finish

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to GM’s LS3 engine. The dual overhead cam V8 was the ﬁrst to feature Ford’s Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing technology, which increases power at the same time as improving fuel economy. This particular powerplant produces 435bhp at 6500rpm and 400lbf.ft of torque at 4250rpm. Yup, plenty powerful then, enough to give many a Chevy a run for its money. This pick-up isn’t just about the horses under the bonnet, though – there’s far more to it than that. The upgraded suspension ensures a comfortable ride and vastly improved road holding, with the Ridetech air ride system ensuring a killer stance when parked up.

The icing on the cake, however, is the finish on the bodywork. All those hours of prep certainly paid off, as the panel gaps are perfect and the mile-deep finish to the paintwork is a true accolade to Darryn and his team. And who would think it’s a standard factory colour, not a custom mix? Inevitably Darryn ultimately had to hand over the truck to Raj and Jess, but at least he got some enjoyment from it first. Circumstances change, however, and the brothers have scarcely used the pick-up since and have taken the decision to list it for sale. Who next will be wily enough to get the power of a Coyote under their right foot? CC

“Thanks to Raj and Jess for commissioning me to build the truck in the ﬁrst place then pretty much leaving me alone to get on with it”

DC Customs To ﬁnd out more about the services offered by DC Customs, and to view an extensive gallery of their work, check them out on the socials. Facebook: DC Customs Instagram: @dccustoms.uk

The tailgate locates using custom latches, the rear lights are stainless steel repro items and the number plate ﬂips underneath the bed ﬂoor when at a show. The 9-inch Ford rear axle features 31-spline Strange shafts, a 3.79 Truetrac limited slip diff, a 1350 slip yoke and Wilwood disc brakes

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Ali radiator is a copy of the pick-up’s original, custom-built by Radtec in Cannock

Lift the bonnet and you’ll ﬁnd a low-mileage 5.0-litre Coyote V8 extracted from a crashed 2017 Ford Mustang. The ali block and heads are topped off with electronic fuel injection and a custom inlet intake tube. The stainless steel headers feed a full DC Customs stainless exhaust system. Transmission is a 6R80 6-speed automatic. The DC Customs team did a great job keeping the engine bay clean and tidy, with barely a wire to be seen

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1950 FORD F1 PICKUP

FOR SALE £29,500

ENQUIRIES : +44 (0)1242 384092 : SALES@CLASSICMOTORHUB.COM : CLASSICMOTORHUB.COM

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MORE PROTECTION

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MULTIPLE ANTI-WEAR CHEMISTRIES (HIGH ZDDP)

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RUST/CORROSION PROTECTION

VISIT US Williams Bros Speed Shop Brook Farm, Bugbrooke Northamptonshire NN12 8LQ

23/01/2024 11:26

Viva

For me, the best part of the day was meeting Pete Brock. I was very lucky to have him sign my phone case, which happened to have a car he designed on it. He was thrilled too!

The big daddy of motor shows is changing. But SEMA’s annual festival of all things custom is still the best excuse you’ll ever find for spending a week in Sin City ■ Words & Pics: Jimmy Hibberd LS motors have a big presence in the hot rod scene. Being supercharged, this one has a bigger presence than ever

Designed by Darryl Starbird, the Orange Hauler is based on a Chevy pickup body. It was built in 1964 and featured in that September’s issue of Car Craft – yes, it’ll be 60 this year

SEMA is a show that I have wanted to do for many years – both on a personal level and with my company, Valley Gas. Of course, a big part of it is about seeing new products and discovering what the top shops in the States are creating. But for me, I was also looking forward to just generally checking it out and seeing what it’s all about. And what is it all about? I’ll let the pictures give you a flavour of the show (though nothing can prepare you for its sheer scale) and in the next few paragraphs I’ll just give you an idea of what a cool mini-break you can make out of it. No point in flying all that way without enjoying a bit of the States, after all! If you get to go yourself, I would suggest flying into Los Angeles and then driving to

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Left: With its beautifully dressed fuel-injected engine, Andy Leach’s 1960 Buick Invicta won the 2023 Battle of the Builders award Below: Not sure whether I like the tribute car, as the Ed Iskenderian built original was such an icon

Below left: There’s always space for late model cars, too, and this Demon looked the part with its crazy paint job Below: This Buick Rivera was a Ridler car; the paint on it was incredible. The panel gaps are some of the best I’ve seenaward

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The low rider scene was well represented, with unbelievable attention to detail on some of the cars on show. Check out the engraving on this engine

Gorgeous bagged GMC truck

The attention to detail on some of the cars at SEMA really is out of this world – this underhood panelling looked amazing

Air bags were deﬁnitely among the big tickets at SEMA this year

Yep, someone built a Grizwold-mobile – and it wasn’t even the only one there!

Vegas. It’s way cheaper and it’s not a bad road trip. We landed at LAX, grabbed our big hire truck and set off, first stopping at La Habra where we found a hotel and grabbed some food, beer and bed. In the morning, we had breakfast at the Pepper Pot. I love this place – it’s like stepping back in time to the early 70s. The food is great and will set you up for the day. Before leaving for Vegas, we popped along to King Richard’s Antiques: four floors of everything from a 50s’ cooker to a Mercury hubcap. Amazing place. Then it was time to leave for Vegas: fuel stops,

sweets, Gatorade and 265 miles in front of us. An easy six hours later, we arrived to the bright lights of the Strip and the general buzz of Saturday night in Vegas. We stayed at Circus Circus, since this was just across the Strip from the Vegas Convention Center where SEMA is held. Bright and early Monday morning, we were set and ready to hit the show… only to find out that nothing much actually happens at SEMA on Monday! So there’s one to bear in mind when you’re planning your trip. Instead, we decided to have a

Love it or hate it, this ’34 was getting a lot of attention with its crazy paint scheme and injected Hemi

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Before you even make it into central hall, the front entrance is full of amazing cars to give you a taste of what’s to come

look around Vegas and its crazy hotels and casinos. They are all incredible, but the Venetian was off the scale – inside it has sunny skies and its own canal and gondolas, complete with singers to serenade you as they punt you around inside the casino itself. We had a small flutter on the roulette wheel, which is probably the only quicker way to rid yourself of £50 than taking your big-block out for a cruise. Then a trip to the Mob Museum (well worth a visit) followed by a steak and a couple of beers, and it was time to hit the hay.

Next morning, we were first in line and ready to go. We worked out a plan of action so as not to miss anything and then we were off. First stop: Central Hall. Which turned out to be a half-hour walk from the entrance doors! The exhibition centre is incredibly big so another top tip is to wear good walking shoes. The Central Hall houses the hot rod stuff, which is what we’d really come for. Kendig It Customs, Count’s Kustoms, Chip Foose, Gas Monkey, Gene Winfield and many more top builders showing their latest

creations… paradise. This hall alone would take all day and more to see: builders, products, celebrities – it’s all here. For the next three days, we visited the rest of the halls. Some of you would not be interested in the hundreds of Chinese companies selling lorry tyres and lights for modern cars, or indeed the EV section. There’s also a hall full of hundreds of 4x4s and camping stuff. Outside there was a drift area, which was pretty cool. By Friday, we had walked around the whole SEMA show, both inside and outside: a total of 27,000 steps a day for four days!

There were some crazy things at SEMA – it’s deﬁnitely one way of standing in the crowd…

Jim Shue’s Hellﬁre was representing the drag racing fraternity on the NHRA stand

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Trick looking F100 with crew cab and no B-pillar

For me, this Apache truck was one of the best at the show. So many custom touches on it you didn’t know where to look

Beautiful interior on this Thunderbird

I was super excited to see Big Red. If you’ve never heard of this legendary Camaro, you badly need to check it out

I’m not sure if SEMA will grow in a hot rod sense; we were told that lots of companies had pulled out, and you could tell that from walking around. China, Vietnam and Korea have a big presence there and some of the smaller US companies can no longer afford to pay the rising costs. For me, an absolute highlight was meeting and having a chat with the legend that is Pete Brock. There were a lot of stand out cars, too – some of the builds were worth well over $250,000 – but there was also some very dodgy work!

Back in LA on Friday, I met up with Kev Elliot – the former editor of this very magazine. It was great to catch up and see what he is up to in his workshop. We also popped in to Kugal Komponents to see some of their amazing builds and products. Then it was back to our little island and its lovely weather. Was it worth it? Yes. The best way to make up your mind is to get it booked and see for yourself – because whatever else you’ve seen in the way of shows, SEMA is on a different level CC

Inspired by a Keith Wiesner cartoon, this is a ’91 Crown Victoria interceptor with ’54 Ford nose and a ’60 DeSoto body rebuilt on to it piece by piece. Metalwork was done by Ian Roussel at Full Custom Garage, who also built the proto in the background

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he return of Russo’s Rat to Santa Pod’s quarter mile at last year’s Festival of Power brought the story of one of the UK’s most legendary drag cars full circle. I use the word ‘legendary’ there very deliberately. An awful lot of things are described as such these days when, frankly, they’re not at all. But Russo’s Rat is – in the sense that many

tales are told of it and it’s well known, and much loved, by those into American muscle cars and UK drag racing history. When the assembly line workers at GM were bolting this Chevelle together in 1969, they looked at the order sheet and into a Le Mans Blue shell dropped a 375bhp L78 Turbo-jet 396, the highest output RPO (Regular Production Order) engine available

at the time. Behind that went a four-speed manual box and a 12-bolt rear end. Further down the line, the additional items that turned the car into an SS were added, meaning a very desirable SS 396 model rolled off the end of the line. A true factory hot rod. The man that ordered that mouthwatering combination was Connecticut’s Frank Russo,

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In 1970, the car was repainted in its now familiar orange fade paint scheme and signwritten with the name Russo’s Rat, along with nods to some of the people that helped out in its construction. Frank, along with his partners in racing, Frank Bondatti and Louie Sauli, raced the car at tracks all over the north east of America – though Dover Drag Strip in Wingdale, New York (www.doverdragstrip.com) claims it as one of its own. The high point of the car’s racing life was two entries into the US Nationals at Indianapolis in 1970 and 1971. At the latter, Frank made it all the way to the finals in SS/E, against some of the heaviest hitters of the day, and was only thwarted by the car’s original 12-bolt axle letting go on the line. A replacement was promptly ordered from his friendly local Chevrolet dealer. And the car’s current custodian, Chris Goodale of Norfolk-based Goodale American Speedshop (www.americanspeedshop. co.uk), still has that axle – though in 2005 he replaced it with a much stronger, directfit Strange S60, which remains in the car to this day.

An Englishman in New York

A Rat’s tale

They say old race cars never die, but these days some of them get treated to quite magnificent restorations. Here’s the long and winding story of Russo’s Rat Words: Mike Pye Pics: Alan Kidd / Julian Hunt (action) and all he wanted to do was go drag racing. Which is precisely what he did, straight after collecting his new car from Dan Ridge Chevrolet in Danbury, Connecticut.

Hard charger

He raced hard, too, as within a year, he had blown the original motor. So he called up his local speed merchants in Greenbrook,

New Jersey, Truppi and Kling, and ordered a stout 427 big block Chevy – essentially a breathed-on L88 – to replace the 396. With Doug Nash internals in the M20 Muncie box, Summers Brothers axles, Moroso 5.13 cogs, Monroe shocks and 10.15x15” M&H slicks on Fenton slots, the car ran to a best time of 10.90 seconds in Super Stock E competition.

Frank’s time with the Chevelle came to an end in the summer of ’73 – thanks to an Englishman, no less. Richard Smith spent much of the ’60s living in New York and, in that time, developed an interest in drag racing. When he returned to the UK, he didn’t take too much persuading to get rather more heavily involved, which led to him buying and importing Russo’s Rat in September of 1973, followed shortly after by the 301 small blockpowered Super Pumpkin E/Gas ’57 Chevy of Billy Casey from Yonkers. That car has quite the story too, and is currently being restored in Scandinavia. With the sale to Richard Smith agreed, Frank and Louie pulled the motor and had it refreshed by Ralph Truppi before sending the car on its merry way across to the UK in September 1973. According to contemporary accounts in National Drag Racer magazine, Richard “first ran in the 13-second bracket and is now in the 12s looking for an 11.” With “lots of assistance from his friend and partner [in racing], Colin Mullan [of Mullan’s Speed Shop fame].” The following year, 1974, now in the ownership of Mustafa Erol, the car did

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The build

These two shots give you some idea of how far Ash Rawson went with the metalwork restoration on this car. His reconstruction work is exemplary

4. The perfectly restored body back on the equally perfectly restored chassis. The modern, 8.50-spec rollcage went in before the shell headed off for final paint

5. Wow! The skill involved in a fade paint job like this should not be underestimated. It’s a truly magnificent piece of work by Roberts Motor Bodies

3. When we say the car was stripped down, we’re not joking. This has been a genuine nut and bolt restoration, from the ground up

6. The work on the interior was no less involved, though the black paint doesn’t have quite the same visual impact

Looking at this shot, you have to remind yourself that this is a race car. Always has been, always will be, even if it did spend a bit of its interim life as a street car

The big block build underway at Engine Data Analysis

At Dave Billadeau’s place, where so much of the work took place, including wiring and all the final assembly work

indeed run in the 11s. But then in 1976, it was registered for use on the road in the UK.

graphics, orange with white SS stripes, black, and even at one point back to the Russo’s Rat livery (as shown when it was featured in Fruit Machine in July 1991). An altercation with a telegraph pole while on a spirited test drive during one of the many sales saw the front end damaged and a ’glass ’68 front bumper fitted, before Chris Goodale stepped into the picture in 1999. “It had a 454 in it when I bought it from another Chris in Surrey, Jaz seats and the rear was all panelled in aluminium,’ he says. ‘I had a mate paint it black for me and replaced the motor with another 454… then a 509, which I blew up with nitrous. I replaced that with another 540 and ran 10.30s with

that in around 2004. Then I blew that up as well, so went back to a pretty basic 454 with LS6 heads and converted it back to a four speed. It ran 11.90s in that spec. “I wanted to turn it back into more of a muscle car then, so I put a bench seat and a rear seat back in it. But then I sold it in 2013 when my wife became pregnant.”

Changing faces

The list of subsequent owners is extensive, with close to 20 former keepers on the log book today. Some used it as a street car, others raced it, others simply abandoned it on the side of the road (yes, really). The list of engines it has had is equally broad, from 327 small blocks to big blocks various, with occasional sniffs of nitrous. It stayed manual for a long time too, but was converted to automatic some time in the ’90s, and the paint went from the trademark orange fade to straight orange, orange with

Buyer’s remorse

Surprisingly, given the car’s known history, Chris remembers nobody wanted to buy it at the time, but eventually someone came along and away it went. Shortly after, Chris experienced buyer’s remorse and so bought it back again a year later.

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“I told Ben [Rushforth] I wanted to be able to run in the high nines. So we did some maths and figured I needed 750 horsepower for a car of this weight”

Being an SS 396, the car came off the production line with a beefed GM 12-bolt axle and 4.11 cogs. That was blown up at the ’71 Indy Nationals, so was replaced with a new GM 12-bolt with aftermarket internals. Knowing that was still a weak link, Chris installed one of Strange Engineering’s bolt-in, Dana 60-style S60s in 2005. It’s still doing its job now

The car then sat in his garage for a couple of years while Chris got his head round what he was going to do with it. Meanwhile, racing his blue Camaro in Nostalgia Super Stock became his focus. But eventually, in 2021, he started on the resurrection of the Rat, beginning with contacting Frank Russo in the States. “It just went from there really,” recalls Chris with a grin. NSS stalwarts Dave Billadeau and Tim Holmes expressed interest in being involved, so it went to Tim’s place ﬁrst to be stripped and assessed for bodywork repairs. However it quickly became evident the body was a lot worse than anyone had thought. The one big thing in its favour was that it had never been

tubbed, as so many old race cars have been over the years. “The car had sat around over here for years, so everywhere where water could collect it was rotten – the rocker panels, the bottoms of the quarters, the scuttle, the tail panel… and it had some crash damage in the front. Surprisingly, the floors and trunk floor were really good, but it needed a lot of work.” The plan had always been to restore it properly, though, so it went from Tim’s to Ash Rawson at APR Bodyworks for the metalwork. If we say the roof, the boot lid, the main part of the firewall and the floors are original, that gives you some indication of how much metal had to be replaced.

Though Chris still has the original Lakewood roll bar Frank ﬁtted in 1969, that wasn’t going to be up to snuff for racing these days. So Dave McCallan at McCallan Automotive added an 8.50 cage before Ash prepped the car for paint.

Fade away

“Ash did an amazing job of the bodywork, but he didn’t want to do the fade paint job so it went to Bryan Whitﬁeld at Roberts Motor Bodies for that. I remember Bryan saying it was the best prepped car he’d ever received,” says Chris. On top of the beautiful canvas Bryan laid down, Craig Ainge added the lettering

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A lot of thought went into getting the rolling stock right. 7.10-15 Moroso Drag Specials sit on 4.5 x 15 Fenton Gyros Chris bought 20 years ago, exactly the combination Frank Russo used.

Crain Ainge is the man when it comes to early ’70s period-style signwriting. Consequently, his work adorns the majority of the Nostalgia Super Stock race cars. In this case, though, he painstakingly recreated the lettering that was done on this car in 1970, using period photos for reference. Likewise, the decals on the car body are as close as Chris could get to those Frank Russo applied over half a century ago… …while some of those on the quarter windows are the actual originals that Frank applied

However, where Frank ran 10.5-inch slicks on 8.5 x 15 Fentons with 3½-inch back spacing, Chris didn’t want to “baseball bat” the brand new wheelarches to fit that combination, so he chose 30.0 / 9.0-15 Hoosier slicks on 8 x 15 US Indy Mags with 4½-inch backspacing, which tucks a good amount of rubber neatly under the stock arches

The car would have had a bench seat originally, but the Jaz seats now in it were fitted over 20 years ago so Chris decided to keep them. Some aged covers were donated to the project by Dave Billadeau, while Crow harnesses tick the requisite safety box.Rollcage to current 8.50-spec was made by Dave McCallan

Scoop is necessary to clear the raised intake and carb combination but Chris has had an original flat hood painted to match. So if he changes to a low rise intake he can put that on, making the car even more like it was when Frank Russo raced it in the States

that brought Russo’s Rat back to life. That and some very carefully reproduced and positioned decals by Chris that he reckons are “95% correct to how the car was when it was first built.” Clearly, a car like this needs a suitable powertrain and for that Chris called up transmission wizard Roger Luty for a built GM Turbo 400 with ATI internals, reverse manual valve body, SFI-spec Ultra-Bell bellhousing and custom PTC torque converter. To give that lot a workout, Chris turned to Ben Rushforth at Engine Data Analysis (EDA). You’ve only got to look at Ben’s Outlaw Anglia Pop to know he gets cars like this, so we’ve no doubt he was delighted to be involved too. “I told Ben I wanted to be able to run in the high nines, so we did some maths and figured I needed 750 horsepower for a car of this weight (3222lb on the scales). The first dyno pull on the 548ci Chevy with Brodix BB-3 Race-Rite heads made 700 – not enough – so a couple of tweaks and a new Bullet custom roller cam saw that rise to a more respectable 749 output.” That should do it.

Left: Sun blue line clocks were restored in the States and work in conjunction with the original SS 396 rev counter in the dash – which buffers will know is redlined at 6000rpm, as opposed to 5000 on the regular factory tachs (though mid-year ’69 this changed to 6500 for SS 396 models). The big rev counter up on the dash has been painted in the style of a Don Garlits tach Far left: The vintage Winters shifter was a must-have for Chris but caused Dave Billadeau a headache when it came to wiring the car, as there was very little space to include the mandatory neutral safety switch

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Media whore

Above: The build sheet came to light somewhere along the way, conﬁrming this was an SS 396 car from the beginning. With the L78 engine option that makes it very desirable to Chevy collectors worldwide. Chris laughs when he says he could have saved himself a lot of grief and just restored it to stock and it would have been more valuable!

Instant nine

And indeed it did. A broken rotor arm in the MSD distributor hindered the car’s ﬁrst pass, but with that ﬁxed it ran a 9.80 on only its second pass at the Festival of Power. Since then, Chris says all he’s done is check the valve lash and make some tweaks to the shocks to improve its launch characteristics. “The whole car just worked instantly, and that’s down to the people who built it.” Best time so far is a 9.77 at 134, though Chris is quick to say that was “on a really good day, with the wind behind me.” Mid-

Here are just some of the pictures and literature Chris has collected over the years that document Russo’s Rat. Some of the coolest images here show its early days in the UK, though his most prized possessions are the entry list for the 1970 NHRA Nationals where the car raced (and in ’71, too) and the January ’74 copy of the Swedish mag Start & Speed, which he stumbled across in the swap meet at the Power Big Meet in Sweden one year. Other features have appeared in National Drag Racer (July and October ’73), Fruit Machine (July 1991), Classic American (August 2013) and Drag Seen Issue 4 (2023). Yeah, the old Rat certainly gets about…

to-low 9.80s at around 132mph are more indicative of the car’s consistent capability. What’s perhaps surprising, given those numbers, is how close to stock the underside of the car is. It’s always run with factory-style suspension, with the exception of the shock absorbers, which Chris has now changed to Afco double adjustables. 200lb front coils are from Landrum Performance Springs and there are adjustable control arms at the rear, but they use the stock location points. There’s also an aftermarket anti-roll bar at the rear, but otherwise

Below: The sheet metal in the boot is original, and that Zolotone-style ﬁnish is typical of race cars of the day. Tank and battery ﬁxings are modern because this is a current race car and needs to pass tech inspection Rear lights are LED repro early Ford (’33-’36) units.

Bryan Whitﬁeld take a bow. Another one. The fade paint job is a perfect recreation of the work Frank Russo had done in 1970. If we’re honest, it’s probably better, and the crowning glory to this magniﬁcent, labour of love restoration

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Left: This car has had more engines in its life than most. It started with a hi-po L78 396, but has had everything from a mild 327 to a nitrous-injected 504 between its ﬂanks over the years. Current occupant is an EDA-built 548 on a Bowtie block with Brodix BB-3 Race-Rite heads with 354cc runners, 118cc combustion chambers and standard height exhaust ports. Other trick bits include a Bullet custom roller cam, Brodix BM-2017 intake, Pro System SV1 single barrel 1250cfm carb, MSD ignition and a lovely set of 20-year-old Hooker headers, though Chris admits they’re probably strangling the motor a little Below: Those that know Chris will know he has a bit of a thing for period tuning and race parts, and the beautiful Pro/Stock valve covers came out of his extensive stash

everything is as GM intended – including the manual steering box, single-piston front brake calipers and drums at the rear. So, after all these years, and everything that’s gone into its passionate restoration, I’m guessing you wouldn’t consider selling it? I asked. “Nah. The car just warranted that sort of effort put into it and it’s turned out really well. If I’d wanted to make money out of it, I’d have restored it back to stock and sold it to the States. It’s a genuine L78 car and they’re

way more valuable stock today than as an old race car.” Any plans to change anything then, or is it just how you want it? “The Brodix intake and Pro System carb are a bit modern for my liking,” admits Chris, “but I just wanted to go fast and they make the power. It might end up getting a more period intake at some point. I’ve got a few to choose from. “And I may build a new motor for it so it’ll go a touch faster…” CC

“Thanks to Dave Billadeau for overseeing the whole project and all his work in the rebuild; Dave McCallan for the rollcage; EDA for the engine; Roger Luty for the transmission; Ash Rawson for the bodywork; Tim Holmes for initial strip down; Craig Ainge for the signwriting; my two long-time associates James Ellis and Adrian Runyard, and all the juicylicious crew.”

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Russo’s history, in pictures This selection of images charts the car’s progress from 1969, the year it was first raced, through its transformation into Russo’s Rat, its move from the United States to England in 1973 and just some of the changes it underwent in the years since. Quite the story, huh?

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                                                                                

                             

                        

-Zero bump steer & anti-dive built in-





Ford Mustang 1964-70. Billet coil over shockabsorbers [adjustable], tubular suspension arms, complete, manual steering rack assembly, forged spindles for suspension, 11” ventilated disc brakes, Ford bolt pattern, 600lb coil springs, coil over bearings, [makes it easier to adjust height]. ................................................ £2954.76 net.

1937-39 Chevy Pickup, tubular suspension arms, 2” dropped spindles, shock thru coil spring, manual stg rack,300lb coil springs, 11” ventilated disc brakes, 23.375” inside to inside-can fit other models ... £2369.23 net. 1947-54 Chevy Pickup, as above except-std spindles, 350lb spring, anti-roll bar- ............................. £2324.96 net.

  

  



1947-53 Chevy pickup ............................ £651.80 net 1956 Ford 1/2 ton pickup ........................ £581.28 net

1957 Chevy car use OE bezel ................. £607.87 net 1965-6 Mustang-use OE bezel ............... £623.14 net

  

  

 



               

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03/11/2023 11:15

STP UK National Finals

■ Words: Mike Pye ■ Pics: Julian Hunt With upwards of 14 car classes running, supported by a full complement of motorcycle classes, the stage was set for a full weekend of action at the STP UK National Finals. Some of these classes had already been concluded at the European Finals two weeks previously (see last month’s issue for the full report), but even so

there was still plenty to play for as teams headed back to Santa Pod. Heavy rain overnight on the Thursday delayed the start of qualifying on the Friday morning and the day came to a premature close due to further unwanted precipitation, but a gargantuan effort by the track crew and racers alike saw all the qualifying rounds on the packed schedule

ticked off by the end of play on Saturday. By that point, the winners in several more of the classes had been confirmed; others had to wait until the finals on Sunday. Either way, it was a spectacular weekend’s racing, with many racers upping the ante further still and setting personal bests – making it a fitting end to what was a truly great 2023 UK drag racing season.

Track Worx Comp Eliminator A field of seven for this class included Steve Lloyd, back in the ex-Williams Bros Impala. Kev Jenkins was by far the fastest in Q1, streaking across the finish line at a blistering 175mph in 7.682 seconds, but on a 7.80 dial in. Dan Williams therefore bagged the top spot with a 10.859 / 117 pass on an 11.25 dial. The lead changed a few times in Q2, first to Spencer Tramm and then to Nic Williams in the supercharged COPO Camaro (8.232 / 166 in a stock car!) It was great also to see Kev Perkins back in the tough Oldsmobile Cutlass, repaired after its unfortunate spill in

2022. A gentle 13.296 / 78 brought the seat up to temperature. Rob Smallworth in the Dirty Dawg ’55 Chevy started to make his presence felt in session three, 7.743 / 175 moving him up to fourth. He improved that to 7.715 / 175 in the next session, while Kev Jenkins and Chris Todd made full use of the track with some wild passes in their very rapid Fords. Nevertheless, the top three remained Williams (N), Williams (D) and Tramm. Things were to stay much the same in round one of eliminations when Tramm beat Todd and Lloyd red lit against Dan Williams. Jenkins did the same against Dan’s brother Nic before Smallworth and

Perkins lined up for a grudge race, the latter taking the win with 8.072 / 166 vs 10.282 / 89. Jenkins threw it all at the next round when he came up against Dan Williams (7.708 / 169 vs 11.427 / 89) but a red light in his lane told the story. The other pairing decided the 2023 championship. Would Tramm make it two class wins this season? Not if Nic Williams had anything to do with it, his 8.354 / 134 pass outclassing the 11.301 / 114 of his team mate to take the 2023 Comp Eliminator title. Then, to cement the win, Nic beat his brother in the final, 8.245 / 150 (8.85 dial) vs 10.706 / 114 (11.21 dial).

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Pro Modified

Bobby Wallace

Bobby Wallace already had the 2023 championship in the bag before the weekend started, but he never lets off. With Andy Robinson out with engine damage, it was down to Jean Dulamon, Kev Slyfield, Jon Webster, Wayne Nicholson, David Smith and Mick Payne, now piloting the ex-Isaac / Tramm Duster, to put up a fight. Jean Dulamon brought a new motor up from the south of France and ripped off a PB 5.954-second run at 238mph first time out for the number one spot, while Slyfield uncorked a 5.988 / 234. Smith joined the fray on Saturday morning for Q2, carding 7.192 / 171, but was outgunned by Webster’s rapid 6.925 / 210 alongside. Both Wallace and Nicholson also into the sixes (6.900 / 172 and 6.614 / 228 respectively). Q4 saw Webster find his form, clocking a double PB 6.039 / 241, while Nicholson was in the fives with a fine 5.969 / 239 blast, moving him up to second. Smith and Slyfield, meanwhile, suffered tyre shake, but the latter held on to third spot. Slyfield pulled it out of the bag in round one of eliminations, beating Wallace 6.172 / 237 to 6.281 / 236. Nicholson left

Webster building boost on the line and Dulamon put Smith on the trailer. In the semis, Dulamon held back on a bye and Nicholson edged out Slyfield, while Webster put in an impressive 5.985

Nic Williams

Wayne Nicholson

/ 244 checkout pass. Then, in the finals, Nicholson went off too soon, handing Dulamon the round win – and he proved he deserved it by producing a storming PB 5.918 / 241 run. Jean Dulamon

Rob Smallworth

Chris Todd

Kev Perkins

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Topspeed Automotive Street Eliminator Andy Bond set out his stall early on the Friday, clocking 7.447 / 199 for the number one spot ahead of a game Victoria Smith in the boosted Buick GS (8.273 / 181) and Al Williamson, back on form in the Howlin’ Hauler Chevy pick-up (8.370 / 167). Session three saw Smith set a new PB (8.034 / 187), Rob Carter move up to second position (7.965 / 173) and Anthony Higgs back out with a strong 8.489 / 183, but no one dislodged champion Bond at the top. In session four, Mark Sheridan showed what he’s capable of with a fine 7.507 / 204, putting him in the number two spot, while Carter improved his

personal best with a strong Andy Bond 7.953 / 173 run. Unfortunately both Als, McSweeney and Williamson, were unable to complete the requisite cruise due to gearbox and belt failures respectively, which put them out of contention. Sunday afternoon saw Elliot Day record a PB 8.468 / 159 while being beaten by 175 vs 7.965 / 182). Meanwhile, Bond Sheridan. Carter upset James Murray and ran a casual 201mph solo. Higgs took out Nick Hale, while Smith went Carter was on fire, carding a PB 7.844 through on an 8.048 solo. / 175 in the semi against Bond, but it In round two, Sheridan beat Smith, but wasn’t enough for Bond’s 7.363 / 187 at the expense of his engine block, and and, with Sheridan out, that left Bond to Carter just sneaked past Higgs (7.946 / solo for the 2023 championship win.

Tony Morris Carburetors Super Gas Dave Cherrett was in the number one spot ahead of the other seven contenders at the end of Q1 (9.933 / 129), with Mark White and Andy Harrison on his tail. At the end of Q2, however, White had edged ahead (9.913 / 132) – while Stuart Doignie defeated Stuart Morrice in a Euro Finals trophy run (9.976 / 142 vs 9.983 / 147). By Q3, Dave Cherrett had moved into pole (9.907 / 128) and Morrice into third, with White the filling in the sandwich. Competition hotted up more in Q4 when Stu Doignie put in a 9.976 / 142 pass.

The season’s winner was decided in round one of eliminations on Sunday when Wayne Hiscock broke out against Stuart Morrice, handing him the win and the 2023 title. White, Doignie and Cherrett all continued, but it was White and Morrice that lined up for the final on Sunday afternoon and Morrice that emerged victorious after White crossed the centre line (9.979 / 129 vs 10.045

BeFastR Super Comp Leah Kellett came into this round as points leader, but was at the bottom of the five-car field at the end of Q1, while Steve Hudson was on pole (8.924 / 143) in this 8.90 index class. By the end of Q2, however, Kellett was in third spot, while Paul Hudson had done the leapfrog into pole (8.905 / 167). The championship was all over by session four, though, when Kellett clinched the title with her number one qualifying run, 8.902 / 174.

/ 131), adding yet another trophy to the Morrice brothers’ shelf. Stuart Morrice

Leah Kellett

Stuart Doignie sent Steve Hudson home in the first round of eliminations, while Paul Hudson ran an 8.934 solo when Arndt Putzmann was a no show and Kellett went through on a bye. In the semis, Kellet took out the remaining Hudson and Doignie just broke the beams to assure his place in the final. That went the way of 2023 class champion Kellett (8.905) when Doignie broke out (8.893 / 154).

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Speed Shop Specialists 1

Valley Gas Speed Shop Unit 21D Colebrook Way, Andover, SP10 3BB 01264 353646 contact@valleygasspeedshop.com valleygasspeedshop.com

Thunder Road Speed Shop Lemons Garage, Cheapside, Horsell, Woking, Surrey GU21 4JQ 01483 763399 alan@thunderroadspeedshop.co.uk www.thunderroadspeedshop.co.uk

Jack Hammer Speed Shop 33a Farnborough Street Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 8AG 01252 377403 miles@jackhammerspeedshop.com www.jackhammerspeedshop.com

Here are some Speed Shops local to you - See our

Flying A Speed Shop Unit 119 Lydney Harbour Ind Est, Harbour Rd, Lydney, GL15 4EJ 07525 193 249 ﬂyingaspeedshop@gmail.com ﬂyingaspeedshop.co.uk

Looking to make your vehicle go faster, look cooler, or look cool while going faster?

Williams Bros Speed Shop Brook Farm, Bugbrooke Northamptonshire, NN12 8LQ 01327 220 777 nwilliams@ocs-group.co.uk www.williamsbrosspeedshop.co.uk Crossroads Speed Shop (Online Store) www.crossroadsspeedshop.company.site Keith Harman Inst. @crossroads_speed_shop

Gunslinger Speed Shop Hailsham, East Sussex 07702 248712 Sjhcustomsuk@outlook.com www.gunslingerspeedshop.co.uk

Millers Speed Shop Saint Lythans, Cardiff, CF5 6BQ 07792 282773 millersspeedshop@yahoo.com www.millersspeedshop.co.uk

Goodale American Speedshop Emneth, Wisbech, Norfolk, PE14 8AN 07951 121389 chris@fgoodale.co.uk www.americanspeedshop.co.uk

Suppliers Guide 1

4 6

9 5

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FROM MINOR SERVICING & REPAIRS TO FULL BLOWN COMPLETE CUSTOM BUILDS & RESTORATIONS.

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05/02/2024 12:59

Peter Nee Super Pro ET Alan Didwell went into the first round of qualifying as points leader and promptly qualified in the number one spot (7.729 / 173 on a 7.70 dial), only to be ousted by Scott Hauser (7.396 / 177 on a 7.37 dial). In Q2, Colin Morrice and Peter Walters staged together to complete the hangover trophy run from the Euro Finals. That went the way of Morrice when Walters was too eager off the lights (8.719 / 152 on an 8.74 dial vs 7.740 / 172 on a 7.74 dial), though he did pick up a perfect ET award as compensation. Billy Gane, Tom Atkinson and AC Bell all ran well in Q2, along with Angel Romero in his RJ Race Cars built 632ci Camaro, though his 7.877 / 175 (7.80 dial) pass only saw him hovering mid-field in the 19-car class. Until round three that is, when his 7.767 / 177 on a 7.64 dial saw the Spaniard jump to third, with only Hauser and Walters running closer to their dial ins.

Sunday’s round one eliminations saw an unexpected bunch of no-shows from Gane, Harry Gibson and Andy Thetford, a bunch of red lights – including from 2023 championship winner Didwell against Morrice – and a couple of break outs, reducing the field to 10 runners. Round two was a tale of the holeshots, with Romero, Joe Kellet and Barry Giles reacting fastest to see off Coulsell, Walters and Russell respectively, while Morrice and Hauser also went through. Round three signalled the end of Romero’s weekend when he red lit against Kellett, while Barry Giles saw off Colin Morrice (7.504 / 169 vs 8.747 / 151) and Hauser went through on a bye. In the next round, it was Giles’ turn to enjoy a bye, while Kellett had to battle hard to overcome Hauser (7.380 / 178 vs 7.463 / 171) for his place in the final.

ModUrStang Pro ET There were a number of championship contenders at the start of the weekend, notably Jessica Bishop, Amy Watkins and Brett Featherstone. But Leigh Morris was in prime position. It was good to see the old Tim Gines Pro Mod Sierra back in action, now in the hands of James Walden. After Q1, the top three in the 36-car class were Warren Watts, Ash Rawson and David Rudd. It was all change at the top by the end of Q2 though, with Featherstone making a hard charge (9.545 / 138 on a 9.54 dial), along with Thomas Watkins and Adrian Portelli in numbers two and three respectively. In session three, Harley-Jay Darby clocked a 8.668 / 157 PB and Rawson snagged the top spot from Featherstone (10.271 / 129 on a 10.27 dial). But then Morris came on strong in session four, leapfrogging half the field into second position. Come the first round of eliminations on Sunday, everything changed again as Featherstone took out Bishop, Ronnie

Joe Kellett

At the crunch, Giles was over eager and lit a cherry, handing the round win to Kellett (8.671 / 100 vs 7.497 / 174) – though Didwell had done enough in the run up to lift the 2023 Super Pro ET crown.

Leigh Morris

Mercer beat Portelli and John Dalrymple removed Amy Watkins from the running. But when Morris beat Mason Griffiths, it was down to a two-horse race. In round two, Parsons, Dalrymple, Cherrett and John Bean all broke out and Morris red lit, opening the door for Featherstone to make his play for the championship. With Stuart Thompson out with engine damage, Alfie Wratten had a solo in round three, Huxley saw off Chris Goodale, Simon Innes went through when Watts fouled and Featherstone continued his charge, leaving Freddie Thompson sitting on the line. Simon Innes

Alan Didwell

Featherstone’s efforts were brought to a halt in the semis, though, when Huxley beat him in a squeaker (9.948 / 125 (9.86 dial) vs 9.543 / 129 (9.51 dial), but Innes’ margin over Wratten was even less (10.681 / 120 (10.68 dial) vs 9.249 / 143 (9.20 dial). That set up the final, which went the way of Innes when Huxley red lit. However, Leigh Morris had done enough to be crowned 2023 Pro ET champion. James Walden

MARCH 2024 CUSTOM CAR 41

NEEDS HEADER 7pp National Finals.indd 41

02/02/2024 19:51

20 Doman Road, Camberley, Surrey, GU15 3DF Mon -Fri 8.00-5.00 Sat 9.00-1.30

Events CAR Ltd_HPH.indd 1 2024 42RTTS CUSTOM MARCH

Custom Car_2024_03_March_Composite Page_FP.indd 42

23/01/2024 11:15

05/02/2024 12:59

Hutchinson & Dibley Sportsman ET It was the usual eclectic mix of runners in this popular Sportsman class and, at the end of Q1, Simon Swarbrick in the small blockpowered Ford Pop came out on top (12.253 / 111 on a 12.21 dial). After a frantic second session, Bill Wilson was the surprise leader in his reserve Dodge Ram (14.807 / 91 on a 14.80 dial), ahead of Stef Pateman, Swarbrick and Kirstie Tramm. Brian Huxley made a huge move in session three, from 25th to second position with a 13.523 / 103 run on a 13.51 dial. Rob Cresswell, George Miller and Jago Stokes also moved up but Wilson held firm. In session four, it was Geoff Cowley’s turn to jump to the top of the ladder, up from 25 with a 15.257 / 89 run on a 15.25 dial, while Matt Halsall, Holley Walters, Gary Lake and Felicity Gibbs also moved up. In the first round of eliminations, Tramm just edged out Walters to keep her championship hopes alive and the field reduced to 13. In round two, Tramm kept her cool against Gibbs as the field was reduced even further to just seven runners – Tramm, Miller, Cresswell, Stokes, Michael

Gary Lake

Kirstie Tramm

Franklin, Richard Palmer and Chris Winn. Tramm got the benefit of the bye through round three, while Palmer, Cresswell and Stokes all progressed to the semis where the championship was to be decided. Palmer beat Stokes but, in the crucial pairing, both Cresswell and Tramm broke out, though Tramm by more – thus blowing her chance of the crown, which instead went to Gary Lake.

Holley Walters

Steve Field

Bob Hawkins vs Phil James

Springbridge Direct Wild Bunch Rob Brown was on commanding form, finishing Friday in pole position and holding that through session two on Saturday morning (8.636 / 154 on an 8.48 dial) to edge closer to a 2023 championship win. After suffering tyre shake first time out, Bob Hawkins had Time Traveller II back under control for a 6.959 / 198, while Steve Field put in a respectable 8.392 /

154 pass. But still Brown held on tight through session four, improving to an 8.605, with Philip James just behind (9.731 / 137 on a 9.54 dial). Sunday morning saw Hawkins uncharacteristically struggling with an engine misfire, James outrunning Field (9.669 / 138 (9.56 dial) vs 8.691 / 146 (8.50 dial) and Brown strolling through on a bye.

Hawkins found his form in the next round, driving round a wayward Brown (7.269 / 184 vs 9.185 / 151) and James went through on a bye. Hawkins kept up the pressure in the final, causing James to try harder than he needed to and break out (6.977 / 192 (6.75 dial) vs 9.476 / 138 (9.50 dial). This Hawkins was the event winner – but James the 2023 Wild Bunch club champion.

MARCH 2024 CUSTOM CAR 43

NEEDS HEADER 7pp National Finals.indd 43

02/02/2024 19:51

VP Lubricants Nostalgia Superstock Don Scott

With Spencer Tramm having already bagged the 2023 title at the Euro Finals, it was perhaps unsurprising to see a reduced race card this weekend, just 11 drivers signing on. Of those, Stuart Thompson came out fighting hardest, 9.830 / 138 on a 9.82 dial. On Saturday morning, it was Pete Wiseman on top form, slotting his Damage Case Challenger into the number one spot (9.903 / 136 on a 9.90 dial) just ahead of Don Scott and Thompson.

Vic Parsons

Positions remained largely the same in session three, though Vic Parsons moved up to fourth spot with a strong 9.763 / 136 pass – only to be pushed back down again in session four, first by Rawson and then Portelli. In round one of eliminations, Paul Smail waved goodbye to Rawson, Chris Goodale saw off an ailing Thompson, Portelli dispatched Tramm, Scott beat Simon Rickwood, Parsons took out Matthew Dowdy and Wiseman went through on a bye.

James Wotton

Round two saw Parsons send Goodale home (9.855 / 124 (9.84 dial) vs 10.086 / 111 (9.90 dial)), Portelli do the same to Wiseman (11.035 / 120 (10.96 dial) vs 9.970 / 135 (9.90 dial)) and Smail go off too soon against Scott. In the semis, Parsons took out Portelli, lining himself up to have a go at Scott in the final. That didn’t go as expected as Scott had transmission problems and broke off the line – only for Parsons to run under his dial in and hand the win back to him.

Adam Lowe

Mark Eltringham

Outlaw Flat 4 Mark Eltringham had a wild ride in the 3.0-litre ‘big block’ Ghia in session two on Saturday (10.474 / 148) but James Wotton came out ahead (9.949 / 145). Adam Lowe improved in session three (10.869 / 119) but so did Wotton (9.822 / 144) to retain the lead, only to then suffer the ignominy of being

pushed back after a mechanical failure on the line in Q4. Would that leave the championship door open? Come Sunday’s eliminations, Lowe continued his winning ways, taking out Darren Shephard, while Andrew Burton saw off Eltringham and Wotton was a no-show, leaving Mark Pascoe an easy solo. The next round was almost a

repeat, this time Lowe removing Burton and Pascoe again running alone, so it was just rewards when the win light came up in Lowe’s lane in the final, 10.935 / 121 vs 12.208 / 110. However, when all was said and done, it was Wotton who emerged the 2023 Outlaw Flat 4 champion.

44 CUSTOM CAR MARCH 2024

NEEDS HEADER 7pp National Finals.indd 44

02/02/2024 19:52

34012

ENGINEERS HEAVY

DUTY STEEL • Sturdy lower shelf • Durable powder WORKBENCHES coated ﬁnish FROM ONLY £ DOUBLE.98 exc.VAT DOUBLE £347.98 FOOTER inc.VAT

BEST

Shown ﬁtted with optional 3 drawer unit ONLY £188.39 INC VAT * WAS £370.80 inc.VAT # WAS £406.80 inc.VAT Dims. Model LxWxH (mm) CWB1500D 1500x650x985 CWB2001P* 2000x650x865 CWB2000D# 2000x650x978

PRICE CUT

DOUBLE.00 exc.VAT 329

SELLER

SUPERSTORES NATIONWIDE

289

5 DRAWER WORKBENCH £394.80 inc.VAT DOUBLE

WAS £406.80 inc.VAT

EXTRA LONG 1700mm WORK TOP

INCLUDES SINGLE LOCKABLE DRAWER exc.VAT £289.98 £299.00 £329.00

Britain’s Tools & Machinery Specialist

inc.VAT £347.98 £358.80 £394.80

CWB1700P

MODULAR GARAGE STORAGE SYSTEMS SAVE UP TO

FROM ONLY DOUBLE .00 £ exc.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER £1437.60 inc.VAT

£286

1198

10 PACKAGES IN THE RANGE

A choice of stainless steel or wooden worktops

Corner units in stock

Customer Pictures

compared to individual prices

✔ CREATE THE PERFECT FITTED GARAGE / WORKSHOP ✔ HEAVY DUTY, PROFESSIONAL PACKAGES ✔ ALL UNITS ALSO AVAILABLE SINGLY FOR CUSTOM BUILD

NEW

1 PRICE CUT DOUBLE.99

HEAVY DUTY & PROFESSIONAL

154exc.VAT

£185.99 inc.VAT DOUBLE

WAS £191.98 inc.VAT

CHESTS/ CABINETS

THE ULTIMATE IN TOOL STORAGE!

FULL DETAILS SEE IN-STORE OR VISIT WEBSITE

SEE WEBSITE FOR PACKAGE DEALS WITH TOOLS

32 PIECE SET

PRICE CUT

DOUBLE.00 exc.VAT 279

Rubber grip side handles

SAVE UP TO

£334.80 inc.VAT DOUBLE

WAS £346.80 inc.VAT

NB Overall length includes handles

TOOL SETS

HUGE CHOICE OF HAND TOOLS

exc. Model Desc. LxWxH (mm) VAT CBB203C 3 Dr step up 667x310x249 £86.99 CBB205C 5 Dr chest 710x315x420 £149.98 1 CBB209C 9 Dr Chest 661x305x418 £154.99 CBB210C 10 Dr Chest 710x315x475 £169.98 CBB215C 5 Dr Cabinet 758x468x815 £259.00 2 CBB217C 7 Dr Cabinet 676x461x958 £279.00

109

£ FROM ONLY .98 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £131.98 FOOTER inc.VAT

£12

NEW

DIY & PROFESSIONAL £FROM ONLY .99 DOUBLE exc.VAT 74 3 £89.99 DOUBLE FOOTER inc.VAT

CHT859 300 PIECE AF/METRIC HOME GARAGE REPAIR KIT

CHT634 MECHANICS TOOL CHEST AND TOOLS PACKAGE

EXTRA LARGE BOTTOM

FROM ONLY .98 4 £239 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £287.98 FOOTER inc.VAT

NOW Model Desc. LxWxH (mm) exc.VAT inc.VAT MECHANICS RANGE 1 CTC600C 6 Dr chest 600x260x340 £89.98 £107.98 CTC900C 9 Dr chest 597x257x380 £89.98 £107.98 CTC500C 5 Dr cabinet 675x335x770 £149.98 £179.98 CTC800C 8 Dr chest/cab set 610x330x1070 £149.98 £179.98 2 CTC700C 7 Dr cabinet 616x330x880 £169.98 £203.98 PROFESSIONAL RANGE 3 CTC103C 3 Dr step up chest 691x310x256 £74.99 £89.99 CTC109 9 Dr chest 662x305x421 £139.98 £167.98 4 CTC105 5 Dr cabinet 685x465x790 £239.98 £287.98 CTC107C 7 Dr cabinet 739x461x953 £259.00 £310.80

MM1 Custom Car 275x200 pg1.indd 1 Mart_3PS.indd 1 Custom Car_2024_03_March_Machine

FROM ONLY

EXC.VAT 42 DOUBLE FOOTER £51.59 inc.VAT

£ DOUBLE .99

WAS £322.80 inc.VAT

£FROM ONLY .98 DOUBLE exc.VAT 89 1 £107.98 DOUBLE FOOTER inc.VAT

Strong

mm 350 12ﬁbreboard

PER SHELF

shelves

169

£ FROM ONLY .98 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £203.98 FOOTER inc.VAT

Easy to assemble, providing valuable working space and plenty of additional storage capacity.

150 9mm ﬁbreboard KG

279

£310.80 inc.VAT

WORKBENCH WITH PEGBOARD

BOLTLESS SHELVING / BENCHES CHOICE OF 5 COLOURS

£ FROM ONLY .00 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £334.80 FOOTER inc.VAT

PRICE CUT

DOUBLE.00 exc.VAT 259

MECHANICS/ PROFESSIONAL quality & value TOOL CHESTS/ •forSuperb DIY & Professional workshops CABINETS

Strong

189

NOW inc.VAT £163.19 £203.98 £286.80 £310.80

FULL EXTENSION ROLLER RUNNERS FOR SMOOTH OPENING ACTION

Simple fast RED, BLUE, GREY, assembly in minutes SILVER & GALVANISED using only a hammer STEEL

£ FROM ONLY .98 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £227.98 FOOTER inc.VAT

30KG

MAX DRAWER LOAD

inc.VAT

PRO394 PROFESSIONAL 90 PIECE TOOL KIT WITH CANTILEVER TOOLBOX

649

DOUBLEEXC.VAT 259.00 FOOTER £203.98 inc.VAT

DRAWERS WAS NOW PRICE CUT £DOUBLE.99 inc.VAT inc.VAT 56exc.VAT £107.98 £104.39 WAS £68.39 inc.VAT DOUBLE £191.98 £179.98 PRO378 WAS £71.98 inc.VAT Model Desc. LxWxH (mm) exc.VAT inc.VAT £191.98 £185.99 PROFESSIONAL CLB600 6 Dr chest 660x305x365 £135.99 £209.99 £203.98 1 CLB900C 9 Dr chest 685x305x474 £169.98 £322.80 £310.80 1/2" DRIVE CLB1005 5 Dr cabinet 685x465x795 £239.00 £346.80 £334.80 SOCKET SET 2 CLB1007C 7 Dr cabinet 740x465x955 £259.00 £322.80

PRO396 222 PIECE TOOL SET WITH 7 DRAWER TOOL CABINET

£ FROM ONLY .00 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £778.80 FOOTER inc.VAT

169

£ FROM ONLY .98

Combines premium quality with ﬁercely competitive pricing & super smooth ball bearing roller drawers

• Extra heavy gauge double wall steel construction

Dims exc. inc. Model WxDxH(mm) VAT VAT 150kg 800x300x1500 £42.99 £51.59 350kg 900x400x1800 £59.98 £71.98

• Dimensions (LxWxH) - 1150 x 560 x 1440 mm • Pegboard back wall with 30 hooks supplied

shelves

CWB-R1B

Available in Red or Galvanised Finish

31/01/2024 12:05 10:03 31/01/2024

34930

TURBO AIR COMPRESSORS FROM ONLY DOUBLE.98 exc.VAT DOUBLE £143.98 FOOTER inc.VAT

119

Superb range ideal for DIY, hobby & semi-professional use

CDP102B

DRILL PRESSES

Range of precision bench & ﬂoor presses for enthusiast, FROM ONLY £ DOUBLE .95 engineering exc.VAT 99inc.VAT & industrial DOUBLE £119.94 FOOTER applications B = Bench mounted F = Floor standing Motor (W) WAS model Speeds exc.VAT inc.VAT inc.VAT CDP5EB 350 / 5 £99.95 £119.94 CDP5RB 350 / 5 £99.95 £119.94 CDP102B 350 / 5 £115.95 £139.14 CDP152B 450 / 12 £209.00 £250.80 CDP452B 550 / 16 £299.00 £406.80 £358.80 CDP352F 550 / 16 £339.00 £406.80 CDP502F 1100 / 12 £699.00 £934.80 £838.80

SUPERSTORES NATIONWIDE

Britain’s Tools & Machinery Specialist 8/260 Model Motor HP CFM Tank ltr exc.VAT 8/260 2 7.5 24 £119.98 11/260 2.5 9.5 24 £129.98 8/550 2 7.5 50 £159.98 11/550 2.5 9.5 50 £179.98 16/550 3 14.5 50 £249.00 16/1050 3 14.5 100 £309.00

exc.VAT £143.98 £155.98 £191.98 £215.98 £298.80 £370.80

INDUSTRIAL AIR XEV16/100 COMPRESSORS

Top quality belt driven air compressors for industrial & commercial users inc; garages, factories, workshops and farms. 10 bar/150psi max working pressure £

FROM ONLY HEADER

AIR. DISP MOTOR AIR †V-Twin *230V MODEL CFM (HP) RCVR EXC.VAT INC.VAT XEV16/100 (OL)†* 14 3 100ltr £589.00 £706.80 XEV16/150 (OL)†* 14 3 150ltr £659.00 £790.80 XEV16/200(OL)†* 14 3 200ltr £719.00 £862.80 XEV16/150(400V)† 14 3 150ltr £699.00 £838.80 XE18/200 (OL)†* 18 4 200ltr £759.00 £910.80 XE36C200† 30 7.5HP 200Ltr £1199.00 £1438.80 XE29/270†* 28 2X3HP 270Ltr £1399.00 £1678.80 XE37/270 (OL)†* 36 2x 4 270ltr £1479.00 £1774.80 SE46C270† 40 10HP 270Ltr £2129.00 £2554.80

DEHUMIDIFIERS £

Model AC7050 AC10050 AC13050

DIESEL/PARAFFIN FROM ONLY HEATERS £ DOUBLE.00

Ideal for fast efﬁcient heating Extra-long run fuel tanks – up to 53 litres Variable heat output with thermostat control

Extraction Rate Motor (ltr/day) exc.VAT inc.VAT 785W 16.8 £239.00 £286.80 1100W 21.6 £279.00 £334.80 1370W 28.8 £319.00 £382.80

Max. Output kW exc.VAT inc.VAT 10.3 £94.99 £113.99 15 £119.98 £143.98 24.9 £159.98 £191.98 36.6 £189.98 £227.98 49.8 £269.00 £322.80 131 £479.00 £574.80

PRICE CUT NOW FROM £ .98

Ammeter Multiposition charge regulator Overload protection on charging cycle

XR80 model XR60 XR80 XR110 XR160 XR210

89exc.VAT

JUMP STARTS

EXTRA LONG 1m LEADS

INTELLIGENT BATTERY CHARGER/ MAINTAINERS Max. exc. WAS Model Volts Charge VAT inc.VAT inc.VAT IBC7 12/24V 7A £39.98 £47.98 IBC15 12V 15A £49.98 £59.98 IBC20 12/24V 20A £66.99 £83.98 £80.39 IBC25 12/24V 25A £84.99 £107.98 £101.99 IBC40 12/24V 40A £104.99 £131.98 £125.99

£FROM ONLY .99 DOUBLE exc.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER £32.39 inc.VAT

WHEEL DOLLY (PAIR)

AWD1

BEST SELLER LOAD RATING: 500KG PER DOLLY

£FROM ONLY .99 exc.VAT DOUBLE £76.79 inc.VAT PER PAIR

£FROM ONLY .98

PGF14

603x370x150mm

SWIVEL, NON MARKING CASTORS

ANGLE GRINDERS FROM ONLY

exc.VAT 29 DOUBLE FOOTER £35.98 inc.VAT

£ DOUBLE .98

£298.80 inc.VAT DOUBLE

* WAS £45.59 inc.VAT # WAS £87.59 inc.VAT

CIG1432

LENGTH UP TO 40’

Model Disc (mm) Motor exc.VAT CAG800B 115 800W £29.98 CON1150* 115 1150W £36.99 CAG2350C# 230 2350W £69.98 CTJ2GLS £

KEEPS THE WEATHER OUT! BRIGHT WHITE INTERIOR

CIS8612

FROM ONLY HEADER

.00 exc.VAT 269 £322.80 inc.VAT

150mm PAD DIA.

CP150

Dual action combines rotary & orbital motions to produce an excellent polished ﬁnish

CTJ1250AB

FROM ONLY

.98 DOUBLE exc.VAT .VAT 109

† WAS £215.98 inc.VAT Model Lifting Cap. exc.VAT inc.VAT CTJ1500QL 1.5T £109.98 £131.98 CTJ1250AC 1.25T £134.99 £161.99 CTJ2500QLGB† 2.5T £169.98 £203.98 CTJ1800AB 1.8T £199.98 £239.98

MM2 Custom Car 275x200 pg2.indd 1 Mart_3PS.indd 2 Custom Car_2024_03_March_Machine

Model 910 JS1100C BEST 4000 SELLER JS12/24

IRD20B

FROM ONLY HEADER

Model IRD20B IRD40B

Max. Output 20kW 40kW

Fully tested to proof load

FROM ONLY £ DOUBLE .98 exc.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER £71.98 inc.VAT

FROM ONLY

exc.VAT 36 DOUBLE

£ DOUBLE .99

FOOTER inc.VAT MICRO £44.39 JUMP STARTS

◆ WAS £63.59 inc.VAT Start Peak Boost Boost 180A 360A 200A 400A 300A 500A 400A 800A

Model JSM180 JSM200 ◆ JSM300 JSM400

CW1D

exc.VAT £36.99 £49.98 £69.98 £99.98

inc.VAT £44.39 £59.98 £83.98 £119.98

CW2D Tank Model Cap. Type CW2D 10Ltrs Bench CW1D 45Ltrs Floor CWM20 22.5Ltrs Floor CW40 75Ltrs Floor

exc.VAT £59.98 £149.98 £189.00 £229.98

inc.VAT £71.98 £179.98 £226.80 £275.98

HOT WASHERS £ FROM ONLY .00 599 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER

145 Bar

SANDBLASTERS

2100 psi

Heavy duty steel construction sandblasters for the quick removal of surface rust, paint, dirt/grease etc.

£718.80 inc.VAT

PRICE CUT NOW FROM

exc.VAT 169.00 £202.80 inc.VAT

WAS £214.80 inc.VAT

INCLUDES SANDBLASTING GUN, DELIVERY HOSE, 4 CERAMIC NOZZLES AND SAFETY HOOD

AMAZING LOW PRICE!

Tank Flow Rate INC. CONTAINER FOR DETERGENT Model Volume Req. exc.VAT inc.VAT CPSB100B* 32 litre 6-25 cfm £169.00 £202.80 Model BAR Press. VOLT exc.VAT inc.VAT CPSB200B# 63 litre 6-25 cfm £209.00 £250.80 Harry 2 145 2100psi 230 £599.00 £718.80 * WAS £214.80 inc.VAT # WAS £274.80 inc.VAT KING 200 150 2175psi 230 £1198.00 £1437.60

2 & 3 TONNE ONLY TROLLEY JACKS £FROM .99 DOUBLE

exc.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER £53.99 inc.VAT

CTJ2250LP

18V ½" IMPACT WRENCHES 3 forward and reverse gears

PRICE CUT £ DOUBLE.98

109exc.VAT

£131.98 inc.VAT DOUBLE

WAS £119.98 inc.VAT

Folding and ﬁxed frames available Robust, rugged construction Overload safety valve

£89.99 inc.VAT DOUBLE

compressor Long life battery Starting Peak Boost Amps exc.VAT inc.VAT 400 900 £96.99 £116.39 500 1100 £96.99 £116.39 700 1500 £164.99 £197.99 1000 2000 £179.98 £215.98

exc.VAT inc.VAT £399.00 £478.80 £799.00 £958.80

1 TONNE FOLDING WORKSHOP CRANE

WAS £95.98 inc.VAT

Provides essential home, garage

PARTS WASHERS

.00 exc.VAT 399 £478.80 inc.VAT

219

74exc.VAT

Inc. hook & loop backing pad and wool polishing bonnet CP185 180mm PAD DIA.

STARTS VEHICLES UP TO 6L

DIESEL INFRARED HEATERS

£ FROM ONLY .98 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £263.98 FOOTER inc.VAT

PRICE CUT £DOUBLE.99

DOUBLE £131.98 FOOTER inc.VAT

HEAVY DUTY LONG REACH JACKS

CFC100

£FROM ONLY .98

exc.VAT DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £83.98 inc.VAT

inc.VAT £35.98 £44.39 £83.98

Model Tonnes exc.VAT inc.VAT *WAS £562.80 CTJ2GLS 2 £269.00 £322.80 inc.VAT CTJ3GLS 3 £349.00 £418.80 #WAS £766.80 CTJ5GLS 5 £459.00 £550.80 inc.VAT CTJ10GLS# 10 £609.00 £730.80

PRO SANDER/ POLISHERS

Max. Model Output exc.VAT inc.VAT DEVIL 2000PTC-B 2kW £29.98 £35.98 Devil 2850 2.8kW £42.99 £51.59 Devil 2800PTC-B 2.8kW £49.98 £59.98

FROM ONLY

WAS £310.80 inc.VAT

Quick lift Non-marking nylon wheels Rubber contact pad - helps protect vehicle undersides

2800PTC-B

and roadside assistance Integral exc.VAT 96inc.VAT work light 910 includes air DOUBLE £116.39 FOOTER

249exc.VAT

ALUMINIUM RACING JACKS

inc.VAT £274.80 £334.80 £394.80 £478.80 £550.80

£ DOUBLE .99

PRICE CUT £ DOUBLE.00

Ideal for use as a garage/workshop Extra tough triple layer cover Heavy duty powder coated steel tubing Ratchet tight tensioning WAS Model size (LxWxH) exc.VAT inc.VAT inc.VAT CIG81212 3.6x3.6x2.5m £249.00 £310.80 £298.80 CIG81015 4.5x3x2.4m £279.00 £334.80 £394.80 CIG81216 4.9x3.7x2.5m £329.00 CIG81020 6.1x3x2.4m £349.00 £418.80 CIG81220 6.1x3.7x2.5m £399.00 £478.80 CIG81224 7.3x3.7x2.5m £499.00 £598.80 £1318.80 CIG1432 9.7x4.3x3.65m £1099.00 CIG1640 12x4.9x4.3m £2599.00 £3478.80 £3118.80

DEVIL 6003 Heat Model Voltage Output exc.VAT inc.VAT Devil 6003 230V 1.5-3kW £69.98 £83.98 Devil 7003* 230V 3kW £76.99 £92.39 Devil 7005# 400V 5kW £98.99 £118.79 Devil 6009 400V 4.5-9kW £124.99 £149.99 Devil 7009 400V 9kW £152.99 £183.59 Devil 6015 400V 5-10-15kW £189.98 £227.98 Devil 7015 400V 15kW £229.98 £275.98 * WAS £83.98 inc.VAT # WAS £117.59 inc.VAT

IBC20

CAT131

£107.98 inc.VAT DOUBLE

Max Amps WAS Charge/ inc. Boost exc.VAT VAT inc.VAT 20/120 £89.98 £112.79 £107.98 38/180 £104.99 £135.59 £125.99 25/200 £149.98 £179.98 35/180 £159.98 £191.98 45/240 £184.99 £227.98 £221.99 60/350 £219.00 £262.80 50/510 £259.00 £310.80

exc.VAT DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £83.98 inc.VAT

FROM ONLY £ DOUBLE .98 EXC.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER £35.98 inc.VAT

FROM ONLY £ DOUBLE .98 DOUBLE exc.VAT FOOTER £47.98 inc.VAT

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NORWICH 282a Heigham St. NR2 4LZ NORTHAMPTON Beckett Retail Park, St James’ Mill Rd NOTTINGHAM 211 Lower Parliament St. PETERBOROUGH 417 Lincoln Rd. Millﬁeld PLYMOUTH 58-64 Embankment Rd. PL4 9HY POOLE 137-139 Bournemouth Rd. Parkstone PORTSMOUTH 277-283 Copnor Rd. Copnor PRESTON 53 Blackpool Rd. PR2 6BU SHEFFIELD 453 London Rd. Heeley. S2 4HJ SIDCUP 13 Blackfen Parade, Blackfen Rd SOUTHAMPTON 516-518 Portswood Rd. SOUTHEND 1139-1141 London Rd. Leigh on Sea STOKE-ON-TRENT 382-396 Waterloo Rd. Hanley SUNDERLAND 13-15 Ryhope Rd. Grangetown SWANSEA 7 Samlet Rd. Llansamlet. SA7 9AG SWINDON 21 Victoria Rd. SN1 3AW TWICKENHAM 83-85 Heath Rd.TW1 4AW WARRINGTON Unit 3, Hawley’s Trade Pk. WIGAN 2 Harrison Street, WN5 9AU WOLVERHAMPTON Parkﬁeld Rd. Bilston WORCESTER 48a Upper Tything. WR1 1JZ

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74th Grand National Roadster Show

SoCal F Diaries

Former Custom Car editor Tony Thacker lives in California these days, and this month he’s been having a Grand old time…

or many years, the tag line for the O’Reilly Grand National Roadster Show presented by Meguiar’s has been ‘The Grand Daddy of Them All.’ And as we approach the 75th edition that saying appears to be a truism. That said, the show just seems to improve with age. This year, rain was forecast for the move-in and move-out days. This can’t help but make the exhibitors nervous, but it didn’t deter anyone. Nine roadsters made the cut for the prestigious America’s Most Beautiful Roadster Award and no less than thirteen cars entered the Al Slonaker Memorial Award, both of presented by ARP. That’s 22 top end builds which you can reckon cost in the region of $20 million between them, give or take a buck or two. A staggering amount of money – but testament to the strength of the hobby and in particular the attraction of the Grand National.

’32 Ford roadster pick-ups are rare at the best of times but rarer still in the AMBR running. This stunning S.Co.T.-blown fl atheadpowered example was built by HS Customs for Gary Holyoak

The original ‘Uncertain T’ was a show stopper in the sixties but then lay hidden away for more than 50 years. It was recently purchased by Galpin Ford

Shades of sixties drag strips from this blown big block powered Deuce Roadster ‘Overkill’, built by Bob ‘Manz’ Masonen of Manz Street Rods

I’m partial to tubs but this is one of those Chip Foose-designed Brookville phantoms built by Reisters Rod Shop and Squeeg’s Kustoms and powered by a 302ci Ford

It was nice to see something diff erent in the shape of this ’37 Cabriolet, designed by Eric Brockmeyer and built for Brent and Stephanie Schieder by Dominator Street Rods

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My personal pick for the Al Slonaker Award was this slick ’72 Chevy Action Line C-10, built by Hot Rods by Dean out of Phoenix, Arizona with supercharged LT4 power Below: Conceived as a tribute to the original ‘California Kid’, this phantom ’34 pickup was built from a Tudor sedan by Bobby Schumacher’s Vintage Fabrication for Bill and Cainya Paul

Below; The name ‘Machiato’ suits this twotone LS3-powered ’67 C-10, built for Ryan Vicklund by NorCal Paint and Body Works of Anderson, California

Above: You don’t see many ’32 Chevy roadsters. This AMBR contender was built by Dan Ambrosio and Kelly Fitzgerald of Ambrosio Concepts for Dale and Lottie Shorts

Brit Geoff Stilwell had his 258mph record holding land speed racer on display alongside the Goodnight, Keith and Williamson Dos Palmas Machine Special. Both looking good

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Jim Butler’s ’32 Roadster was aptly named ‘Tradition’ because it was about as traditional a hot rod as you could want. Chevy 350 powered, it’s a nice driver

Brit Jay Dean of Nostalgia Ranch built this sweet original steel ’27 Track Roadster for, and with, his daughter Kelsey. It’s powered by a traditional Ford fl athead V8

While the display looked dicey, the workmanship in the ‘Crap Shoot’ ’31 Vicky was amazing. Coceived by Steve Fitchie, it was built by Performance Fabrication for Ron, Steve and Sally Rajcic

Dare to be diff erent; Mekenzie Murphy’s GMP Special was as bright as her hair. Designed by Gary Ragle, the 400ci Chevy-powered roadster was built by Johnson’s Hot Rod Shop

This ’55 Ford F-100 was wicked if only because it was powered by a 504ci Jon Kasse ‘Boss 9’. It was built for Ed Ganzinotti by Classic Car Studio

I don’t need to own one but I love and admire lowrider customs and this ’58 Chevy convertible ‘Final Score’, with paint and graphics by Tekni-Kolor Kustoms, was truly amazing

Another ’68 Charger, this one built by Old Anvil Speed Shop and powered by a 556ci Indy Block Gen II Hemi

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Ray’s Classics

San Carlos CA since 1980

California Collector Car Export Sales Specialist

1953 Ford Zephyr MK 1 LHD American spec, excellent rustfree body and undercarriage, original 6cylinder engine/transmission starts and runs good clutch, new master cylinders, wheel cylinders included - not installed, $10,600.

1960 Vauxhall Velox, LHD canadian car, 46,000m, excellent original interior, on the button, great driver $12,250.

1950 Austin A40 devon LHD USA car, small fortune spent on extensive restoration, only a handful of miles since completion $11,250.

1950 FORD ANGLIA, LHD SOLD NEW IN CALIFORNIA, JUST OUT OF 45 YRS STORAGE, ROCK SOLID COMPLETE CAR, ZERO RUST $8250

1964 1/2 F Code Mustang 260CI/Auto, P/S, matching numbers california black plate car, rustfree stripped to bare metal 100% complete $11,750.

1965 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88, Convertible V8/Auto. California Convert, with P/Top, P/Seats, P/S, P/B, Rare A/C Convertible, Fresh paint, all new chrome, Polished stainless trim, new door & trunk rubbers, Car is complete, still requires some putting back together, Runs and Drives $14,250.

1947 Chevy factory built sedan delivery 6CYL/3spd, on the button driver $13,850.

1963 Mercury Comet 2DR Sedan , 6CYL/3SPD, complete new interior, lots of mechanical work completed, on the button running driving, great entry level to american car ownership $13,250.

25 VEHICLES UK REGISTERED READY FOR PURCHASE IN THE SW OF ENGLAND POA Prices include shipping from Oakland CA to UK mainland. Check the website for complete inventory list.

WE CAN LOCATE LOCA THE CAR OF YOUR DREAMS

Vehicle shipping to the UK inspection services available in the Western States

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23/01/2024 11:37

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It’s doesn’t get better than this: Jake’s coupe and Pete Chapouris’ original ‘California Kid.’ The cars debuted on the cover of Rod & Custom in November ’73 and still look stunning

This ’68 Charger Slonaker contender was built by Classic Car Studio for Ed Ganzinotti using a Borla-injected 440 built by ‘Dandy’ Dick Landy

Above: John Lamb’s ’61 Ford Unibody was slick and impossible to fault. Built by The Tin Man’s Garage and John and Jeff Lamb, the truck was powered by a 2003 Ford V10 from Jasiek Motor Rebuilding

Lil Shitter, my own barn-fi nd ’27 roadster on a Deuce chassis, was in the American Hot Rod Foundation booth and attracted ‘sitters’ such as Rodrigo Huelsmann from Brazil

Up for the Slonaker was this beautiful ’57 Chevy Bel Air convertible ‘Inspire’, owned by Cliff ord Mattis of Vacaville, California and built by Lucky 7

Yet another tribute to the ‘California Kid’ was yet another ‘Phantom Phaeton’ 2-door tub, this one built for Beth Meyers of 3DOG Garage by Roy Brizio Street Rods

The lustre seems to have faded from the Tri-Chevy market, but try telling that to Rod and Ronda Pearce. Their ’57 ragtop, built by Graham’s Hot Rod Shop, is powered by a 755hp LT5

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Vintage Hot Rod Supplies Ltd Nationwide Transportation Available

1928 Ford Model A pickup, original all steel, no rust, original mechanics £14,000

This is a 1965 Streamline Travel Car motorhome, 427 Ford V8 with C6 Auto, runs, in the UK and V5 registered, very rare, 30FT long, £36,000

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1932 Ford Model B pick up Original chassis ,dropped I beam 2.5 inch chop, Halibrand rear axle 8 ba Flathead and 39 box £24,000

1930 Model A roadster, very original in green and black , all running and driving and in very good order throughout. £22,000

Tel: 07813135360 Email: sales@vintagehotrodsupplies.com Vintage Hot Rod Supplies, Moorlands Lane, Saltash PL12 4HJ, United Kingdom

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08/01/2024 11:15

Out & About

Rain rain stay away

Graeme Rust decided to bring not just bring his ’47 Alvis Woody but his matching trailer and ATCO bike as well

A blast from the blast – David Lamerton now owns the Cherry Pie C-Cab from the 70s

Adrian Mann had his ’44 Ford Coupe running nicely

’65 Mustang sitting very nicely on banded steels

Event: 46 Bike Crew show

in previous years, which is a great sign. Bikes were set up in the middle of the show area with the cars lined up around the outside. The show ran from 10am until 3pm, when trophies were handed out. The show is becoming a firm staple in the South West calendar and for good reason. It’s very well organised, the guys are friendly and helpful and it all goes to good causes. ‘We raised a grand total of £3917.60 at this year’s show, which I believe is a record,’ committee treasurer Steph told me. ‘£3042.60 from the entry fees and raffle

went to Cornwall Air Ambulance from Entry fee and raffle, £765 from traders’ pitch fees and general donations went to Tanya’s Courage Trust and £110 from our own tea and coffee stall went to the Katheryn and Grace Memory Making Fund. ‘Huge thanks to all of the Crew who spend their time organising the show, as well as other charitable events and meets.’ Check out 46 Crew on Facebook and Instagram for details on future events.

Built in the 90s, this ’33 street rod was another blast from the past

Mick Sutton is slowly repainting his unusual International Pick-Up

Date: 28 August Venue: Wendron Cricket Club, Helston Now in its third year, the 46 Bike Crew once again held their car and bike show on the late summer bank holiday Monday at Wendron Cricket Club in Helston. The previous two days saw torrential downpours, which wasn’t too promising, but come the big day the weather just about held off. The event was advertised as a bike and hot rod show, but it was open to all makes, classic and modified alike. The entrance fee was a modest £5 and 100% of all ticket monies, traders’ pitches and takings from the tea and coffee stall was donated to local charities. The traders included local crafts and businesses; there seemed to be more than

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A bit of everything

Out & About

Unusual Willy’s Jeep pick-up hybrid was interesting from every angle

Michael Fisher had his Dodge A100 for sale at £12,000

Words & Pics: James Webber

Nick Eaton came down from Devon and won Best American with his ’51 Mercury

Event: Wadebridge Wheels Date: July 16

Spartan Bandit based ’27 T Roadster boasted V6 motor and modern rims

Venue: Royal Cornwall Showground Organised by the Rotary Club of Wadebridge, Wadebridge Wheels once again took place in the grounds of the Royal Cornwall Showground. The show is a Mecca for all motoring enthusiasts and caters for everything from vintage and retro to American and modern. Stewards were onsite from 7.30am onwards and exhibitors were encouraged to be parked up early to avoid delays. The gates opened to the public at 10am, with tickets costing £8 per adult and children under 12 free. More than 1100 cars and bikes were entered this year, although a few sources told me they felt this was quiet compared to other years. The weather was forecast for showers, which may have put a few people off, but still a good turnout nonetheless.

Beautiful 60s’ Cadillac was found in a barn in Cornwall. One prop seal later and she was running again

Several clubs had good turnouts this year, too, including Launceston Retro Rides – who had a record 35 cars on display. A few local traders were there as well. All money raised is donated to local charities and this year these included Cornwall Blood Bikes, Children’s Hospice SW, Wadebridge Foodbank, Penhaligon’s Friends and many others. Trophies are sponsored by local companies and this year there were awards for Best in Show, Best Motorcycle, Best Pre-1970, Best Post-1970, Best American and Best Commercial. Around 2100 people came through the gates, which is great for the club and its charities. Keep an eye on wadebridgewheels.co.uk for 2024’s dates when they’re announced.

Tim Stanbury brought his Boss 429 powered Mustang

Everybody loves to see a US cop car over here. Very much unlike in the US…

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BRENTACRE CUSTOM CAR & HOT ROD INSURANCE

NB: We advise you to double check with organisers that the event or show as listed is still going ahead, to avoid any wasted journeys. To submit an event, email alan.kidd@assignment-media.co.uk

FEBRUARY 18 ‘Normous Newark Autojumble Newark Showground, Newark, Notts. www.newarkautojumble.co.uk 20 VW Air-Cooled Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 23-25 Race Retro. Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire. www.raceretro.com 24 All American Cruise In. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 24-25 Straightliners Top Speed Show. Elvington Airfield, York. www.straightliners.events

MARCH 2024 3 NSRA Southern Swap Meet North Weald, Essex. www.nsra.org.uk 3 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 6 Hot Rod Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 9 Dial-In Day Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 13 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk

28-31 Festival of Power Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 29 Wheels Day Newbury Showground, Berkshire www.surreystreetrodders.com 30 All American Cruise In. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 31 Motobüro Easter Meetster. Motobüro, Brighouse, West Yorks. www.motoburo.com

APRIL 2024 1 Kings Lynn Kruisers Easter Bonnet Parade. Wisbech St Mary, Cambridgeshire. www.kingslynnkruisers.co.uk 2 Hayling Hot Rods at the Beach. Hayling Island Seafront, Hampshire. Facebook: Hayling Hotrods at the Beach 3 Hot Rod Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 6 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 7 Straightliners Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk

14 The Fast Show Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk

13-14 Straightliners Race Meet Melbourne Raceway, York. www.straightliners.events

16 Drag & Drift Dakota Raceway, Honiton, Devon. www.straightliners. events

14 ‘Normous Newark Autojumble Newark Showground, Newark, Notts. www.newarkautojumble.co.uk

16-17 Volksworld Plus Sandown Park. Facebook: Volksworld magazine

15 Top Speed Monday Elvington Airfield, Elvington, West Yorkshire. www.straightliners.events

19 VW Air-Cooled Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 22-24 Classic Car and Restoration Show NEC, Birmingham. www.necrestorationshow.com 24 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 25 Top Speed Monday Elvington Airfield, Elvington, West Yorkshire. www.straightliners.events

16 VW Air-Cooled Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 20 Drag & Drift Dakota Raceway, Honiton, Devon. www.straightliners. events 20 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 21 GTI Spring Festival Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk

26-28 Springspeed Nationals Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 27 All American Cruise In. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 28 Classic and American Car Show. Wakefield town centre. www.wakefieldbid.co.uk 28 Gathering of Geezers. Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, Enfield www.whitewebbsmuseum.co.uk

MAY 2024 1 Hot Rod Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 4-6 Nostalgia Nationals Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 5 BHP Show Kent Showground, Detling, Maidstone. bhpshows.com 7 Hayling Hot Rods at the Beach. Hayling Island Seafront, Hampshire. Facebook: Hayling Hotrods at the Beach 10-12 Race the Waves Bridlington. www.backfirepromotions.com 11 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 11-12 Straightliners Race Meet Melbourne Raceway, York. www.straightliners.events 12 Classic Ford Show South of England Showground. Facebook: Classic Ford Show 12 Spring Break Car Show. Stonham Barns, Suffolk www.stonhambarns.co.uk 12 Victory Wheelers Hayling Reunion Funlands Amusement Park, Hayling Island. Facebook: Victory Wheelers 17-19 Doorslammers Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 19 Classic Wheels Rutland Showground, Oakham www.classicwheelsrutland.co.uk

60 CUSTOM CAR MARCH 2024

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19 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Gaydon to Weedon, Northants www.industryandsupply.co.uk

9 American Truck Nationals Rose Inn, Shotley, Suffolk. Facebook: American Truck Nationals UK

20-26 UK and ITA International Speed Week Elvington Airfield, Elvington, West Yorkshire. www. straightliners.events

9 BHP Fuel Fest Westpoint Arena, Exeter, Devon. bhpshows.com

21 VW Air-Cooled Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com

9 ‘Normous Newark Autojumble Newark Showground, Newark, Notts. www.newarkautojumble.co.uk

23-27 The Main Event Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk

14-16 Street Weekend Santa Pod Raceway / Melbourne Raceway. www. santapod.co.uk / straightliners.events

24-27 Run to the Sun Newquay. www.rtts.co.uk

15 The Fast Show Reloaded Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk

24-27 Misfits Vanboree Chillout Husbands Bosworth. Facebook: NSVA National Street Van Association.

15-16 Straightliners Race Meet Melbourne Raceway, York. www.straightliners.events

25 All American Cruise In. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com

16 Bespoke Show West Malling, Kent. bespokeshows@gmail.com

31-2 June Rods and Rockers Dunnington, York. Facebook: Kays Barn

16 Custom and American Show Beaulieu. www.beaulieu.co.uk

31-2 June Vanlife Festival West Mid Showground, Shrewsbury. thevanlifefestival.co.uk

17 Top Speed Monday Elvington Airfield, Elvington, West Yorkshire. www.straightliners.events

31-3 June VanJam Fir Tree Farm, Warmington. www.vanditos.co.uk

18 VW Air-Cooled Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com

JUNE 2024

22 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk

1 North Yorkshire Custom Show Northallerton. Facebook: North Yorkshire Custom Show

22-23 Run What Ya Brung Machrihanish Airport, Campbeltown, Argyll. www.straightliners.events

1-2 Duchy Ford Club Show St Merryn, Padstow. duchyfordclub.co.uk 1-4 NSRA Fun Run www.nsra.org.uk

22-23 Pendine Sands Hot Rod Races Pendine Sands, Carmarthenshire. www.vhra.co.uk

2 Plus 44 Show Hartham Park, Corsham, Wilthsire. www.plusfourfourautomotive.co.uk

28-30 Hangar Rockin St Stephan Airfield, St Stephan, Switzerland. www.hangarrockin.com

4 Hayling Hot Rods at the Beach. Hayling Island Seafront, Hampshire. Facebook: Hayling Hotrods at the Beach

28-30 MPH 1/8th Mile Vintage Sprint RAF Deenethorpe, Corby. www.mphvintagesprint.co.uk

5 Hot Rod Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com

28-30 National Hot Rod and Custom Show Lincolnshire Showground, Lincoln. www.hotrodandcustomshow.co.uk

6 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 6-9 Hot Rods and Hills Penrith, Cumbria. www.parkfootullswater.co.uk 8-9 Players Classic Goodwood, West Sussex. www.players-show.com 7-9 STP Sporstman Nationals Santa Pod. www.santapod.co.uk

JULY 2024 2 Hayling Hot Rods at the Beach. Hayling Island Seafront, Hampshire. Facebook: Hayling Hotrods at the Beach 3 Hot Rod Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 5-7 Dragstalgia Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 6 Drag & Drift Dakota Raceway, Honiton, Devon. www.straightliners. events 11-14 European Street Rod Nationals Ellivouri Sastamala Finland. www.fsra.fi 11-14 Festival of Speed Goodwood Estate, Sussex. www.goodwood.com 13-14 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 13-14 Straightliners Race Meet Melbourne Raceway, York. www.straightliners.events 15 Top Speed Monday Elvington Airfield, Elvington, West Yorkshire. www.straightliners.events 16 VW Air-Cooled Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 19-21 Rock’n’Ribs Festival Wincanton Racecourse, Somerset. www.rocknribsfestival.co.uk 13-14 CTG American Car, Bike and Hot Rod Show. Stonham Barns, Suffolk. www.stonhambarns.co.uk 21 Deuce Day British Motor Museum, Warks. www.deucesofbritain.co.uk 21 Ford Show Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 26-28 Bug Jam Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 26-28 Kings Lynn Kruisers Extravaganza. Walpole St Andrews, Cambs. www.kingslynnkruisers.co.uk

28-30 STP Summer Nationals Santa Pod. www.santapod.co.uk

26-28 Weekend of Wheels Moorgreen, Nottingham. www.coffeencarsuk.club

29 All American Cruise In. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com

27 All American Cruise In. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com

29-30 Wheels Festival. Great Yarmouth. www.visitgreatyarmouth. co.uk

28 Rally of the Giants. Stonor Park, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire www. allamericanautoclub.com

MARCH 2024 CUSTOM CAR 61

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