World Of Wheels - October 2012 Edition

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contents October 2012 • Volume 30• Issue 5

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS

COLUMNS

12

Super Mario

4

First Gear

Auto racing icon Mario Andretti looks back on a career built on skill and luck

Industry information and news

8

Grinding Gears with Jock McCleary

10

Part’s Counter

16

Two Cents

A showcase of parts and accessories

with Scott MacDonald

24

with Scott Cameron

18

Feature Car

Larry Oliver’s 1955 Chevrolet Belair is his pride and joy

31

Audiophile

18

Canadian Charge

The newest in aftermarket automotive audio

Huw Evans gets into the groove at Cooper Tires test facilities

36

How To

26

Driver’s Seat

Autoglym explains the correct product application

The ZL1 Camaro kicks it up more than a few notches

38

Just Trucks

32

Road Trip

News and information for the truck lovers

Taking the long way round to Bowling Green, Kentucky

40

Last Call

Test your knowledge and you could be a winner

Guy’s Garage

32

Road Trip

Bowling Green Kentucky

26 2013 Camaro ZL1 driver’s seat

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02

COMMENTARY

volume 30, number 5 worldofwheelsmagazine.com General manager DAVID HARVEY Director of editorial Craig Ritchie Publication manager Scott MacDonald

Moving Forward

Production manager Rhonda Ridgway Senior graphic designer Brian Roberts Graphic designer Linda Clegg Advertising manager Matt Nicholson Account managers Dave Kraisosky, Ralph Ventriglia Special projects manager Jock McCleary Assistant office manager Donna Allen Distribution manager Alexandria Anchor

And making new friends along the way Welcome to the all-new World of Wheels magazine. Over the last three decades the staff at World of Wheels has been proud to showcase all the new sheet metal being offered by the world’s automakers. We were pleased to know we were there to help you to decide what was the best fit for your family needs or maybe the hottest new ride when middleage decided to strike. However, as information technology and social media quickly became new standards in mass global communications, much of the information once reserved for the pages of popular automotive magazines and newspapers around the globe was re-routed and re-assigned to internet websites in an effort to reach the masses.

Moving the calendar forward, we were encouraged to look beyond those sheet metal boundaries which once helped define our purpose for so many years to alternative automotive options which would still appeal to the auto enthusiast, but on a different level. We realized it was time to appeal to the passion of the automobile.

So with that new mandate in mind, we set forth to rediscover

our own passions and assemble what we believe to be the right content for today’s automotive enthusiast.

As you browse through our glossy pages, some familiar elements still exist, news from around the industry along with Driver’s Seat – a seat-of-thepants test drive of the most desirable performance cars and trucks and motorcycles from North America and around the world. But we haven’t stopped there. We’ve added new features to showcase the pride of a full frame-off restoration or custom modified muscle car from yesteryear or even last year. We’ll take you to places both familiar and unknown in our Road Trip feature and help you choose the right components to achieve the best in sound quality in our Audiophile feature. As an added treat, we will also be interviewing celebrities to discover their hidden passions for the auto, and share with you some of their best-kept secret rides.

We are excited to be bringing you the best the automotive community has to offer – their passion. The passion that the automobile stirs up in everyone

2 | World of wheels | October 2012

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at some point in their lives.

Memories of a special car your father drove when you took that road trip to Florida, or maybe the feelings you felt when you first saw the car of your dreams. It’s a passion that stirs in everyone from time to time yet who’s age cannot be strictly defined.

As each issue unfolds and our content evolves, we know you’ll agree that we made a good decision.

So, we hope you continue to enjoy the exciting and everchanging world of wheels for many years to come. And don’t forget that we are always excited to welcome comments and suggestions for future issues of World of Wheels.

Available by subscription and on newsstands from coast to coast.

World of Wheels is published six times a year (January, March, May, July, September, November) by Metroland West Media Group — a division of Metroland Media Group Ltd. Also publishers of Carguide, Canadian Autoworld,

Boatguide, Boating Business, PORTS Cruising Guides, West of the City, Taste, Shopaholic, Ideal Home, City Parent and Forever Young Information.

Metroland Media Group Ltd. Group Publisher Neil Oliver Director of Production Mark Dills Business manager Sandy Pare Editorial & Sales 447 Speers Rd., Suite 4, Oakville, ON L6K 3S7.

Phone: 905-842-6591 Toll Free: 1-800-693-7986 Fax: 905-842-4432 Editorial: smacdonald@metroland.com Letters are welcome. Editorial contributions must be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope and will be handled with reasonable care. However, the publisher assumes no responsibility for the return or safety of material including artwork, transparencies, and manuscripts.

Circulation & Subscriptions E-mail: aanchor@metrolandwest.com Phone: 905-842-6591 Fax: 905-842-4432 Mail: World of Wheels Circulation Department 4-447 Speers Rd., Oakville ON L6K 3S7 www.worldofwheelsmagazine.com From time to time World of Wheels makes its Subscription list available to reputable companies and organizations whose products and services we believe may be of interest to you. If you do not want your name to be made available, contact our circulation department in any of the four ways listed.

For delivery in Canada GST incl.• 1 year (6 issues) $17.99 2 years (12 issues) $28.99 • 3 years (18 issues) $35.99 USA add $10 year • Foreign add $30 year Make cheque or money order payable to World of Wheels GST Registration #R137752424 Publications Mail Agreement #40069635 Mail Registration #5304083 PAP Registration #09772 General enquiries: dtierney@formulamediagroup.com Advertising: mnicholson@formulamediagroup.com Production: production@formulamediagroup.com No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Publications Assistance Program and the Canada Magazine Fund, toward our mailing and editorial costs.

Return all undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Premier Publications and Shows 4-447 Speers Rd., Oakville ON, L6K 3S7 E-mail: aanchor@metrolandwest.com

Cheers, Scott MacDonald Publication Manager Did you know that we now offer an online service for our subscribers where you can do everything from making payments to changing your address? Just log onto our website worldofwheelsmagazine.com, Click on the subscribe button and follow the links on the left-hand-side.

12-09-24 4:23 PM

G G U L UTZ

N

The Original PINK!

A collection of humourous automotive related images discovered on the wonderful world-wide web. If you have a funny automotive related image and would like to see it posted here please send your image to: smacdonald@metroland.com.

f a stretch! “Smart�is a bit o

How cars are made...

Spy Shots of the New 2013 Cuban Rotenbuggy seen here with a the optional 1 hp. powerplant.

Not all Bikini clad women ca n sell cars.

the PeaMobile!

Ok fellas, take cover!

October 2012 | World of wheels | 3

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ƒirst Gear Chevy revives SS Trademark General Motors FilesNto ation of a “Riviera” ame; Specul Two-Door Buick Ensues General Motors has filed to trademark the ‘Riviera’ name, again raising questions about the possibility of a sporty Buick joining the stable in the near future.

The Riviera is no stranger to Buick’s lineup as GM produced over a million vehicles named Riviera from 1963 to 1999 Originally, Buick began using the “Riviera” nameplate to decipher between some Roadmaster vehicles. Now before you get all riled up, whether it be good or bad, it should be noted that automakers trademark names for vehicles constantly with many never actually making it onto a new model.

Automakers are notorious for trademarking names to protect its history if it’s been used by the company before or simply to block another manufacturer from using it. “I wouldn’t read too much into this,” said Buick spokesman Nick Richard, “We’re constantly protecting vari-

1917

this month in:

Chicago White Sox beat NY Giants, 4 games to 2 in 14th World Series

ous names.”

However, with GM filing to trademark the Riviera name again it only fuels rumors that a sporty coupe could be added to Buick’s lineup in the near future.

The filing plays to a Riviera Buick shown off at the 2007 Shanghai Motor Show, eight years after original production had ceased.

The concept only sported two doors, had an abundance of arching lines, and sat on GM’s Epsilon II platform, the automaker’s most-used underpinning configuration is used in GM’s many front- and all-wheel drive sedans, such as the Chevy Malibu and Buick Regal.

There’s also a possibility if the Riviera really does make it back into Buick’s lineup, it could ride on a rear-wheel drive chassis, possibly the same one used on the upcoming 2013 Cadillac ATS.

1923 NY Yankees first World Series win beating NY Giants, 4 games to 2 (World Series #20)

rear-drive performance sedan The limited-production 2014 Chevrolet SS, due in late 2013, draws inspiration from Super Sport vehicles of GM's past.

General Motors will introduce a rear-wheel drive Chevrolet performance sedan in the U.S. market for the first time in 17 years, at the same time gives its NASCAR race car a makeover.

GM plans to start selling a limited production version of a full-size sedan with a V-8 engine called the Chevrolet SS, which will reach dealerships in late 2013.

The vehicle, drawing inspiration from Super Sport vehicles of GM's past, will double as Chevrolet's next NASCAR Sprint Cup stock car.

1924 Lee A Iacocca (CEO, Chrysler Corp) Born Oct. 15

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By Scott MacDonald

Tesla S

I suspect this is the future. It used to be about choosing between those familiar manufacturers to deliver a certain level of performance and comfort. With that performance we learned to accept certain costs associated and simply chaulk it up to operating costs. We all looked to electrics as our oasis in a sea of black gold. But that oasis turned out to be more of a mirage. Electrics were essentially compact geek mobiles with virtually no range, no infrastructure and long recharge times.

So, the price of crude hit somewhere around $70 a barrel and continued rising and once more we turn to alternatives as the answer. Is there really an answer out there? Until the Tesla S came along, I was skeptical at best.

Presenting the Tesla S, a full size performance luxury sedan from Tesla Motors Inc., best known for their development and execution of the first fully electric roadster.

From the moment you approach the Tesla S, you can sense something different; purposefully sleek lines, shaved door handles with a low aggressive stance. Open the driver’s door and the interior invites you in for a closer look.

A 17-inch touch screen replaces the centre

1928 German dirigible Graf Zeppelin lands in Lakehurst, NJ

stack and controls everything from navigation to communications, to ride and climate control. Hand controls on the steering also give the driver the ability to change the information displayed on the dash.

The passenger compartment is nicely appointed in quality leather as expected and you feel as though the seats wrap your body holding you tightly through the most aggressive corners.

The power comes from a slim-line battery pack mounted within the sub-frame under the floor of the passenger compartment, adding increased rigidity to the frame and the centre of gravity, which also gives the Tesla S sportscar like cornering. And not to be outdone in the corners, the electric motor delivers immediate power and virtually 100% of the available torque through the rear wheels to propel you forward like a jet on takeoff. There are no gears to go through, no lag, no hesitation, just smooth consistent power until you throttle off, and when you lift your foot, the regeneration braking takes over and helps to replenish the battery pack.

1939 LaGuardia Airport opens in NYC

Tesla’s approach is simple; they have set out to build the best car they can, with great characteristics in performance, comfort and styling. It just happens to be electric. Having said that, Tesla admits this is not intended as a family’s only ride. It’s an exceptional daily driver and will do probably 90% of driving you need in and around town, but for any long distance trips, you need to either book a flight or fall back on old faithful – the internal combustion engine.

The suggested maximum range is said to be in the 700 km neighbourhood, but under realistic driving conditions I think you will need a recharge long before that. On the upside though, you can get adapters to provide a quick charge topping you up in about an hour.

I personally think Tesla has done a great job on this new offering. It will no doubt challenge the choices of many Mercedes and BMW drivers.

At time of press, Canadian pricing had not been confirmed. Tesla’s first “store” will be opening in Toronto's Yorkdale Plaza just about the time this magazine goes to press, so keep your eyes open for more on this car, ‘cause you certainly won’t hear it coming.

Visit www.teslamotors.com for all the details.

1951 “I Love Lucy” debuts on CBS TV

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ƒirst Gear

Limited edition COPO Camaros

DETROIT – Chevrolet will build 69 COPO Camaros for 2013, the brand’s first purpose-built Camaro drag-racing specialty car designed to compete with the quickest in NHRA’s Stock Eliminator and Super Stock classes. National records for quarter-mile times in these contests are in the nine second range.

The COPO Camaros are expected to be the quickest Camaros ever offered by Chevrolet.

“The COPO Camaro is going to shake up the sportsman drag racing ranks this summer and give Chevy fans a great new reason to cheer on the Bowtie,” said Jim Campbell, GM U.S. vice president of Performance Vehicles & Motorsports. “COPO builds off the strengths that have made the Camaro the best-selling sports car in America. And while it was developed strictly for the drag strip, the COPO Camaro is infused with the same performance pedigree that every Camaro shares.”

The new COPO Camaros will be built using factory 'body-in-white' body structures pro-

duced at the Oshawa, Ontario plant that manufactures regular-production Camaros. They are the same body-in-white body shells available to all racers under Chevrolet Performance part number 19243374.

Customers will order and complete the transaction for their COPO Camaro at their

preferred Chevrolet dealer with delivery at the General Motors Performance Build Center in Wixom, Mich.

Deliveries will begin early this summer. Racing enthusiasts interested in more information can go to www.gmperformanceparts.com to sign up for COPO Camaro updates.

Harley-Davidson Offers Limited Production Anniversary Models In 2013, Harley-Davidson is celebrating 110 years of classic motorcycles and classic good times.

As a rolling tribute to this milestone, Harley-Davidson will produce a limited run of 110th Anniversary Editions of select 2013 models that continue a tradition of commemorating the history of the motor company. Each 110th Anniversary Edition Harley-Davidson model will be serialized and feature exclusive paint and commemorative fuel tank badges. Production will vary by model and will be strictly limited to ensure exclusivity.

1964 Craig Breedlove sets auto speed record of 846.97 kph in the Spirit of America

1964 St Louis Cardinals beat NY Yankees, 4 games to 3 in 61st World Series

The Harley-Davidson 110th Anniversary celebration will climax in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, August 29 to September 1, 2013. Information on 110th Anniversary events, programs, and other merchandise is available at harleycanada.com .

One highlight of each 110th Anniversary Edition model is the solid bronze fuel tank badge, plated in black nickel and then distressed to highlight the bronze. A bright gold-tone Bar and Shield cloisonné is inserted in the main body of the single wing badge. In addition to the Anniversary tank badge, each model will carry other model-specific Anniversary badging and trim.

1976 Debbie Boone’s “You Light Up My Life,” goes #1 & stays #1 for 10 weeks

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2013 SRT Viper Models Announced

In early September, Chrysler Canada announced pricing for the returning two models of the allnew 2013 SRT Viper.

The returning Dodge Vipers include the SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS models.

Under the hood of both models is the all-aluminum, mid-front 8.4-litre V10 engine that delivers 640 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque – the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports car engine in the world.

Both SRT Viper and SRT Viper GTS models offer new interior and exterior designs incorporating premium materials. New exterior surfaces with aerodynamically functional details are beautifully integrated into the high-tech carbon fibre and aluminum skin, which helps produce a triple-digit weight reduction and a Viper best power-to-weight ratio.

On the inside, designers and engineers strived to rethink all touch points; and upgrade all material appointments and technologies.

Production of the iconic supercar will begin at the Conner Avenue Assembly Plant in Detroit, Michigan – the home for Viper since 1995 – in November 2012.

1983 Black Hawks & Maple Leafs combine for fastest 5 goals (84 seconds)

2013 SRT Viper

• The Canadian manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for the 2013 SRT Viper model is $99,995 (excluding destination) • The SRT Viper offers a blend of extreme performance and deliberate preservation of what has become the iconic DNA of the Viper to deliver a supercar that continues to bring the driver as close as possible to the machine

2013 SRT Viper GTS

• Canadian MSRP for the 2013 SRT Viper GTS model is $119,995 (excluding destination) • The SRT Viper GTS builds on the DNA of the SRT Viper model with more technologically advanced solutions, like two-mode active suspension, to allow this world-class GTS to find new capabilities on the track while also opening up its envelope as a more premium and mature evolution of the classic, extreme performance formula

1985 Shuttle Columbia carries Spacelab into orbit

R8

2013 Audi

The infamous Audi R8 is no doubt one of the world’s most sensible supercars. This sexy, fast, and easy car is reliable enough to be driven on a daily basis yet has the performance stats to impress and the balls to back it up.

Now, along comes the 2013 with a brand new look, added performance and even better fuel economy. And as before, buyers have a choice of two engines, a 4.2-litre direct-injected V8 that makes 430 horsepower, or the 5.2-litre V10 that makes 525 hp. A six-speed manual transmission is offered for those who prefer to shift themselves, but the big news is the S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox which replaces the older R single-clutch automated manual. It might be a difference of one letter, but it makes a world of difference in the driving experience.

The 2013 R8 will be easier to identify from past models, simply from its headlamps. All cars now gain full LED headlamps with accents that mimic the opaque beams of the A8 and A6.

The V10 engine is the highlight of the new R8, hence it being cradled in a carbon fibre bay. Though it hasn’t been massively overhauled, it’s still a raw and powerful engine with a sound all its own.

1989 Wayne Gretsky passes Gordie Howes as NHL’s all time top scorer

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G R I N D I N G

G E A R S

lay the blame

Why blame drivers or the inI’m usually a fairly placid person at ternal combustion engine for this? least until the stupidity of people or Surely this problem should be institutions starts interfering with placed right where it belongs: at the my daily life. feet of the local municipalities and I am a car guy, always have been. their urban Planning Departments?

I enjoy everything about cars. I still think the internal combustion enYou can’t keep adding thousands gine is one of the greatest inventions Jock McCleary of houses to areas and expect the ever. already over-used infrastructure to C O N T R I B U TO R So it gets my back up when evcope. eryone jumps on the bandwagon, blaming the Then again, local municipalities don’t really automobile for everything that’s wrong in today’s make money from roads, do they? Why build a society from pollution to road congestion. Maybe road that is taking up expensive land that can it’s time to take another look at who’s actually to have houses built on it and become a valuable blame. revenue stream?

Take for instance the QEW, a highway just Today is very different than it was 20 years to the west of Toronto. This is a main artery for ago. Fewer and fewer people are working the old commuters going into and out of the city. nine-to-five job. More kids are in daycare and For years, this stretch of highway between need to be picked up and dropped off at differHamilton and Mississauga was a nightmare, dur- ent times. More and more people are traveling ing the ever-increasing rush hour. farther and farther to work. Most go in different Usually, all lanes moved at no more than a directions to work. walking pace for miles. I should know. I had to These and many more factors make it almost use it to travel the 21 km to work each day, a pro- impossible to carpool in today’s world. cess that took anywhere from 45 minutes to an Due to no fault of my own, I’m unable to use hour in each direction - on a good day. part of a highway that was built using my tax dolSo the solution was to add high occupancy ve- lars. This angers me, especially when I regularly hicle (HOV) lanes to the highway. see out-of-country or out-of-province plated cars “Good idea. This will eliminate the congestion using these lanes. and encourage people to car-pool.” Did I hear you The rules governing the use of the HOV lanes say that? are disturbing as well. Two people in a huge Did it solve the problem? Heck, no!

10-cylinder, heavily loaded van or flatbed, spewAfter spending over $390 million of taxpayers’ ing diesel fumes can use this lane, but a single money and commuters’ having to deal with over person in a hybrid car can’t. A 53-seat bus with five years of constant gridlock due to construc- just a driver onboard can use it, but a single motion, things are exactly the same. It still takes me torcycle rider can’t. over 45 minutes to get to work.

Where is the logic in all of this? The province Everything is still at a standstill, apart from the has spent $390 million on a project that has HOV lane. It’s usually empty. achieved absolutely nothing!

There are three lanes of traffic just sitting there The HOV lane project was designed to speed going nowhere with drivers watching enviously up traffic and reassure environmentalists that as the odd car goes by in the HOV lane, usually greenhouse gasses would be reduced. with just an elderly couple in no rush to get to I don’t use this highway at all now. I drive bingo or a bus with a couple of people in it. through suburbia. The distance to work has inPeople don’t drive alone in their cars because creased. I drive through several school zones and they want to. They do it because they have to. line up at several traffic intersections. But my trek The environmentalists are demanding that now takes me 15 minutes less and I’m saving on we start carpooling to reduce greenhouse gases gas as well. and the like.

So much for progress.

There are two kinds of car guys: those who get it with hot rods and those whose eyes glaze over.

A deuce highboy roadster is code for a 1932 Ford with the fenders tossed but the roadster body still high atop the frame just where ol’ Henry put it. It’s a traditional form, the archetypical hot rod, the basic unit of post–World War II, Southern California, returning-serviceman car exuberance. A roadster was light, and the rodders made it lighter still by throwing away all the nonessentials. Then they did their homemade best with the flathead V-8s and looked for opponents on the road or on California’s dry lakes.

That was 60-some years ago, and the form hasn’t really changed all that much.

The classic details of the solid front axel, clean bodylines and stance have all stood the test of time and have become standards by which each deuce is measured. Although not a lot has changed over the years, many builders choose to replace the old flatheads with more modern powerplants.

In the 60’s, a 392 Hemi was the throwdown motor of the day, white walls were narrowing but still mandatory for style, and Indian blankets on the seats were over if not quite forgotten, an artifact of the improvised, let’s-get-this-thing-on-the-road urgency of early rod building.

Are rods about the look and the driving?

For certain, deuces are not about ergonomics. Often to fit in a big motor, the fire wall would have to be set back a few inches making the limits left over space a bit cramped.

No matter, it was all about looking great in the car.

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10

PARTSCOUNTER VN405 Custom Torq Thrust II

The ultimate vintage wheel for your classic car or hot rod. Available in chrome or optional finishes. Visit American Racing wheels for available sizes, offsets and available bolt patterns. www.americanracing.com

Dodge Ram 2009-2013 Chrome LED Headlight Bezels

Installing custom style headlights with LED lights is one of the hottest modifications for cars and trucks, but they can be so expensive! Now you can customize your factory lights and add LEDs at the same time for much less cash and effort, with Marquee Chrome LED Headlight Bezels. www.carid.com

The Bottle Wrench

The manliest bottle opener you’ll ever own.

This is not some cheap plastic replica shaped to look like a wrench, each Bottle Wrench starts out as a 100% metal working man’s wrench and then is hand formed to rip the cap off of your favorite brew.

Like most great ideas, the Bottle Wrench came out of a problem. Being tired of having to use the wife’s wine bottle opener to crack a cold one the decision was made to come up with something tougher, stronger, and manlier. A few hours later the original Bottle Wrench was born and there was much rejoicing. thebottlewrench.com

10 | World of wheels | October 2012

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12-09-20 11:56 AM

super mario

by Pete Bailey

Auto racing icon Mario Andretti is blessed with luck, and he readily admits it. Sure, he honed his driving skills over decades to the point where few other drivers could catch him. But if you want to see just one example of the role luck plays in his life, simply go to YouTube and type in“IndyCar Mario Andretti crash 2003.”

You’ll find a film clip of a spectacular accident involving Andretti long after he retired from the Indy 500 in 1994. He was 63 at the time, and after flipping through the air several times at more than 200 m.p.h., he landed backwards on four wheels and slid to a stop. His only injury was a cut on his chin.

THAT is luck.

12 | WORLD OF WHEELS | OCTOBER 2012

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super mario

Today Andretti, 72, is as busy as he ever was, with personal appearances, his new winery and staying in touch with his family as his highest priorities. Occasionally, he gets a chance to look back on his career, on his successes and on the lucky breaks that have come his way. At this stage, he doesn’t try to understand it, he justs accepts that he has been blessed.

“I’ve only missed two races due to injury,” says the world’s most successful race car driver.

“Many of my friends didn’t make it.

“Why did I dodge so many bullets? I don’t know. You can only be thankful for it.

“I count my blessings every day,” he says. “I try to enjoy my life. I get fulfilment out of my family, and from my wife Dee Ann. We’ve been together 50 years as of last November. The support I received from her has been enormous. I always had peace on the home side. I didn’t get any pressure from her about racing. She never said, ‘What about us?’

“That was golden for me. Pressure at home can destroy you, can take your concentration away. So I try to spend time with my family whenever I can.”

By now, fans of Andretti are familiar with his rags-to-riches life story, born in 1940 in a part of Italy that is now part of Croatia. He and his twin brother Aldo and their parents wound up in a refugee camp after the war, and eventually emigrated to the United States in 1955, wind-

ing up in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, with $125 in their pockets.

Mario and Aldo had been car crazy ever since they could remember, and in 1959 the two teens started fixing up a 1948 Hudson Hornet so they could race in on oval dirt tracks. Aldo was seriously injured in a crash that first season, but Mario carried on, eventually winning 109 major races on major circuits – road courses, paved ovals and dirt tracks.

“I’ll never know why we liked cars so much,” he says. “It’s a mystery, because no one in my family was car crazy. I had an uncle Bruno, my mother’s brother, who was in the air force. He drove a motorcycle, and that inspired me and my brother. I remember when I was young in Montona after the war, a brand new flashy black 1946 Ford whizzed by. I thought, ‘Wow, an American car!’

“So one thing led to another; there was no other passion for me and Aldo.”

The two young drivers, starting with nothing, soon became well known on the local racing circuit. Mario, particularly, had a reputation for being single-minded.

“The one quality you must have as a driver is perseverance. You have to have a positive mind set,” he says. “Never give up as long as you have a chance on paper. I'm a testimony to that. I never said 'I'll just throw the chance away.' I'm the eternal optimist.”

It’s easy to be optimistic when you’re winning. But the real test comes when you have to overcome great obstacles to do what you love.

How did Andretti do it?

“It's very simple. I believe behind every negative, there's a positive. I came from a poor beginning,a displaced person living in a refugee camp. But something positive came out of it. Our dad sacrificed for a principle. He looked to our future and we benefited from it.

"There were injuries, but I pulled out of it.

“For many people, optimism is an abstract,” he adds. “For me it's been a real force in many ways.”

One thing Andretti has had throughout his career is a willingness to take risks.

“You have to risk,” he explains. “You can't hold back in racing. You have to be right at the edge of things. To me, the reward was always been big enough to take the risk.

“I've often said, 'If everything seems under control, you're not driving fast enough.'

"You have to be at the edge of the field where maybe two per cent of the drivers can deal with that. Burning desire and passion is what takes you there.

“And once you start winning, you want to experience that thrill all over again. It's the greatest feeling in the world.”

When asked about advice he would offer to young drivers, Andretti has a surprising an-

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Andretti’s

favourite cars:

swer. He grew up working in his uncle’s garage and learning his racing skills the hard way. But he advises today’s young drives to go to driving schools.

“There are driving schools that are very good. Their instructors have seen it all. They can spot talent, and if they see something special, they'll cultivate it. Talent will never go to waste, but if you don't get that chance to race, to win, you didn't want it badly enough.

“The opportunities are out there,” he adds.

“You can succeed, depending on how badly you want it. Just keep that dream alive. At every opportunity, try to advance toward it.

There's no standard way to do it.”

When asked if he would have done anything differently in his career, Andretti pauses for a moment to weigh his answer.

“Many things,” he says. “But do I have regrets? No, not in any way.”

“As far as spending more time with my family, I don't think I could have. I never spend 10 minutes on the road if I don't have to. I always try to maximize the time with my family. I always had family support in the past, that was essential.

"So should I be content? Yes, I am.”

Andretti is scheduled to make a guest appearance for fans at the Formula One U.S. Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, from November 16 to 18.

The new location promises to be a Mecca for auto racing in America.

"The Circuit of the Americas is a state-ofthe-art facility built just for road racing,” he explains. “It will outshine anything else in the United States. It will compare with the best venues around the world.

“I was invited as an 'ambassador' of racing.

I gladly accepted and I'm proud to be a part of it. It's creating a lot of buzz around the world.

Ticket sales are very brisk. The Circuit is going to host races year-round, and Formula One will be the premier event.”

Andretti's son Marco recently test drove a 2013 Chevy Volt and liked what he saw. “This is the future," he told The Detroit News.

"This car's performance isn't measured by horsepower, but it is so smooth and has so much torque at the bottom that it really accelerates. I am looking forward to this in my racing future."

Does his father think the age of gasoline racing is coming to an end?

"I don't know what the future will bring,” Mario says thoughtfully. “I'm not that excited about (electric racing cars). I'm open to it, though. I'll assess it when it's here.

“But we now have extremely powerful engines that are very fuel efficient. I can't imagine driving quiet engines.

“I'd fall asleep," he says with a laugh.

#1 1969 Indy 500 winning car “What stands out about it? That car was born from the basic Brabham design that was so successful in 1965, ‘66, ‘67. The design, by Eddy Kuzma became monocoque, with a lot of aluminum. Nowadays they use carbon fibre. That was not going to be our main car. We were supposed to use a Lotus 4WD. But the Lotus crashed two days before qualifying. It was a huge crash, and I burned my face. We pulled the Brawner Hawk out, it was fresh from a win. It was a magic car. I won several other races with it that year, it brought me a championship in August, and the Indy 500 as well.

“Two members of my team were very important at that time: Clint Brawner, who had solid experience and a lot of wisdom, and Jim McGee, who was my age, a modern thinker and willing to take chances.” #2 1967 Daytona 500 winner “You can see, it's on record -- I was relatively inexperienced with stock cars. I did a few races. We used this car in my third race at Daytona. It felt right at the time; the balance was good, I had one of the best teams.

All the ingredients were there. The car on race day was fast; something like that just happens by chance. But I was also able to squeeze every bit of speed out of it.” #3 The Lotus 79 that Mario drove in 1978, the year he won the Formula One World Championship.

“I won the Formula One World Championship with that car. Why do I consider it a favourite? I really understood the car. If you can really understand where the sweet spot is, that's the key. I could set it up very well, anywhere I went. And it paid me back."

“What makes a good racing car is something of a mystery. It's not black and white. If it was easier, you'd have it every day.”

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T W O

C E N T S

gremlins on the hoist. Hmmm. “Looks like About two years ago now, my wife there is a leak at the steering valve, and I discussed the pros and cons replace the hoses and it should be surrounding taking on a project car. good to go.” Done!

Our son was now on his own and Christmas comes and goes, and we had time to ourselves. A vintage Santa leaves behind some new corcar that we could work on together vette parts, a cool new tail light kit and restore back to almost new conand some other much needed bits dition would be the ideal thing to help keep our marriage fresh and Scott McDonald and pieces.

C O N T R I B U TO R The weather turns decidedly interesting. Lets face it, after twenwarmer and my son and I decide to ty odd years together, you need to tackle the tail light installation. Instructions were have something new to talk about.

Spring 2010. We searched out the car we simple, come to think of it - too simple. “Splice thought would be a good base to start with and the new harness into the old wires, matching the colours, and you’re done.” Great, we made short brought it home.

I made an appointment to have the car looked work of that install. My son starts up the car to at by a local vette specialist. The moment I test the lights, three were on, and one was out? arrived at the rear of his shop I had a sinking Re-checked the bulbs, all good, put the bulb feeling. He slowly walked over and said, “your back in, turn on the lights, two are bright now rear spring is shot.” Great, I didn’t even have to and two are dim? Out come the bulbs, uninstall get out of the car for that. Turns out, not only the harnesses and followed the instructions was the rear monoleaf all but sprung, the rear one more time. Soldered all the wires this time, trailing arms were on the verge of failure and turned on the lights, all the lights are on, check parts of the frame little more than Swiss cheese. the signals, and “are they suppose to alternate from side to side like that?”

Well, we got all that taken care just in time.

The first of the season, we’re taking the car to As we pulled out the car one Saturday morning to take it for a quick spin, I noticed the rear a local car show, pulsation from the front-end brakes were grinding. Off I went to my mechan- means I have a brake problem. I knew it needed ic and on the hoist she went. “Your rear brakes to be done when I bought the car, so I went and are finished and you need all new brake lines picked up all the parts I thought needed to get it and oh yeah, a master cylinder too.” Great, the done. Just waiting for a good day to do the work.

It was a beautiful summers day, time to tackle parts were ordered and installed. Glad we got the front brakes, the new interior had been inthat taken care of.

A few months later I thought to myself, it’s stalled over the spring, engine’s been detailed a nice day, I’ll drive her to work, I’ll take the and painted, everything looks like were good to tops of and let the wind blow through my hair. go. My wife pulls the car out of the garage - a Ok, so across my scalp is more accurate. Got to taillight is out. Ok, she pulls the car farther out work, put the tops back on. Up rolls the passen- of the garage and there is a puddle where the ger window with ease but the driver’s side raises car used to be. Ok, lets not panic. I drive the car about a half-inch and stops - I notice a burning onto the ramps to have a look, the steering valve smell. I drive the car to a repair shop close to my is leaking again. My patience are now gone!

My wide decides it’s best to leave the car with office. We discover that switch is melted. But, there is an underlying issue, months from now the mechanic to have the front brakes repaired.

I will find out that most of the parts needed to Before we arrive back home we receive a phone allow the drivers window to roll up smoothly call. Turns out that the rotors are permanently are missing. Until then, I’ll have my parts guy attached to the hubs with rivets and there is a order a new switch – he is now on my Christmas whole “process” to follow to do a simple brake job. He mumbles something about “runout”. Secard list.

T’was a beautifuly day, backed out of the car- riously?

You know, so far, in the two years I’ve owned port for a nice Sunday drive with the Mrs. On our way home I noticed the steering was a bit this ‘vette’, I have driven her a total of probably stiff. Took the car to my mechanic again, up one full week. I’m not having any fun yet!

nuts&bolts Common Disc Brake Issues

Brake Disc Run Out Discs do not warp or run out of their own volition. When run out occurs, it is invariably caused by incorrect fitting of the disc, or inconsistencies in the calliper/piston.

When fitting or refitting discs at any time it is vital that the mating surfaces of disc and hub are scrupulously clean. The tiniest speck of rust, swarf, or dirt will cause run out after 3,000 - 4,000k’s.

Similarly securing bolts/nuts should be torqued correctly and equally. Calliper pistons should always be checked for equal performance/movement. Sticking pistons are sure to cause distortion and poor brake performance.

Correct Wheel Nut Torque Brake pedal pulsation may be caused by improper machining of disc rotors, normal wear, rust on the mounting surface or by improper torqueing of wheel nuts.

In reality, most brake pedal pulsation problems can be traced to improper torquing of wheel nuts, which distorts the disc rotor, and causes runout.

Runout of .07 mm or .003 inch may cause DTV (Disc Thickness Variation) after 5,000 to 6,000 kms on later model motor vehicles.

DTV is caused by the disc pads scalloping out the high spots on a rotor with runout, as they continue to rub along the swept surface area of the rotor, while the brakes are in the off position. Once DVT develops brake pedal pulsation will become a problem.

To prevent this always, tighten the wheel nuts in a star pattern, to the correct torque specification.

There are a variety of tools available to assure proper torquing of wheel nuts (always refer to the vehicle manufacturer’s manual for torque specifications).

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'55

special

by Larry Oliver

In 1955 paint options were like choosing your favourite colours from the ice cream bar. This‘55 Bel Air two-door sports coupe is painted in the original General Motors two-tone colours of Coral and Shadow Gray. This combination is quite rare, it wasn't a very popular colour when the cars was produced.

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by Larry Oliver

1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Two-Door Sports Coupe

Photography by Steven Der-Garabedian

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special '55 In 1971 I graduated Mohawk College, got my first job at Dofasco and later that year, got married. That same year is when I noticed a 1955 coral and gray Chevrolet Bel Air two-door sports coupe in a small used car lot on Lake Street in St. Catharines. I stopped in to look at the car and inquire about the price. When I found out that the dealer was asking $3,000 for the car, I soon realized that it was not something I could afford at that time.

I did however purchase a 1955 Chevrolet similar to one I owned in my late teens that unfortunately, didn’t survive as a result of our salty Canadian winters. This car was a Canadian car that had been redone with numerous new body panels but a significant amount of body filler. I kept this car until the spring of 1979.

The year 1979 was an interesting year. In August, a co-worker in our office pointed out that there was a 1955 Chevrolet two-door hardtop for sale in the local Auto Trader. Everyone in the office knew that I was looking for another ’55. I called the number in the paper and set up appointment to view the car that evening. When I drove up to the house on the Hamilton mountain the car was sitting in the driveway. I could not tell what colour the car was from the ad in the Auto Trader, but as it turns out it was a coral and shadow gray two-door Bel Air sport coupe.

After a short conversation with the owner I soon realized that this was the same 1955 Chevrolet that I had looked at and could not afford in 1971. The current owner was selling the car because he did not have a secure place to store it over the winter.

The owners had applied to the city to build a double garage in the backyard but this had been turned down. The car now had been modified some, but fortunately the owners had kept all of the original rims and hubcaps for the car. A deal was struck and I now owned this mostly original 1955 Chevy. After some research I found out that the car had been manufactured in Jamesville Wisconsin, and was later owned by a lady in California. The car then came in to Canada in 1971 to the dealer located on Lake Street in St. Catharines.

From 1979 to 1992 the car, my wife and I regularly attended cruise nights and car shows in the area. During this time I began to replace

the modified and custom parts back to the originals which I acquired with the car. In late 1991 I made the decision that I would attempt to do a modest restoration of the car. The interior needed to be freshened up and the original paint was faded and was starting to bubble in some areas.

I laid out a plan on how I would restore the car, and my wife Lyn and I sat down to work out a budget. Earlier that year a close friend and I started up a car detailing business that I operated out of my garage. I decided to use the majority of the proceeds from this small business to put towards the restoration.

The restoration started in earnest in the fall of 1991. The first thing to be done was to remove the hood and front fenders and then the transmission and engine. Over the winter the engine and transmission were rebuilt.

After attaching the car to a cradle I then invited some close friends (Terry, Bob, Bill and Dave, my nephew Brian, my dad Murray, and my brother Paul) to help roll the car on to its side. Now the real work began.

After removing almost four garbage bags full of undercoating I discovered there was absolutely no rust to be found anywhere. The floor pans, body mounts and frame rails were in pristine condition. The original factory applied primer

coat was still in place on the underside of the body and trunk floor pans. The floor pans and frame rails were painted with an impervious twopart epoxy primer. The frame rails were painted in the original GM semi gloss frame paint.

I then gutted the interior except for the headliner. The seats and door panels were sent to a local upholsterer shop to be recovered. The front suspension components were removed, sandblasted and painted. New front springs and ball joints were also installed. The engine and transmission were placed back into the frame. It was now time to have the car painted.

I choose a local shop in Grimsby, Precision Collision, to prepare the body and shoot the colour. The only repairs that needed to be made to the body were the factory seams and five holes above the trunk lid emblem that were leaded in. Although I could afford now to have the car prepped and painted, it took almost one year to complete the preparation and paint on the car with the shop working on it in their spare time.

Fortunately I had enough other restoration work to do on interior and engine bay parts to keep me busy.

The day finally arrived when the car was painted. I had heard so many horror stories about bad paint finishes with dust and orange peel so I didn’t know what to expect. I was ecstatic with the excellent finish of both the bodywork and paint.

Now excited to put the car back together, the most stressful part was re-attaching all of the stainless steel side trim. With the use of lots of masking tape all of the side trim was eventually re-attached without marking the paint finish.

The car was finally back on the road to celebrate the 20th anniversary of our car club.

Now with an almost finished car, the first major show we attended was sponsored by Classic Chevy Club International from Florida. The show was held near the Buffalo New York airport. Although the car was back on the road but not completely finished I still managed to win a Gold Certificate and a first place in my class at the show.

This 1955 Belair has now been on the road for 16 years since it was restored and I get the same thrill as I did 16 year ago each time I get behind the wheel. I could not have completed this restoration without the help of my friends and family.

I could also not have completed this restoration without the understanding and support of my lovely wife Lyn.

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What things cost in 1955 Hou

se: $22,000 Average income: $4,137 Chevrolet car: $ 1,606-$2,944 Milk: .92¢ /gal Gas: .23¢ /gal Bread: .18¢ Postage stamp: .03¢ ea.

Sirloin chops: .6 9¢ /lb.

Pot Roast: .43¢ /lb.

Eggs, doz.: .61¢ Coffee: .93¢ /lb.

Potatoes: 10 lb. bag: .53¢ Tuna: .25¢/can Oreo cookies: .3 9¢

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22

TIRES

cooper’s

Canadian

Charge

Although long established in the U.S. Cooper Tires, aided by state-ofthe-art facilities and aggressive global expansion, is looking to become a major contender in the Canadian replacement tire market. by Huw Evans Grip. Behind the wheel, you don’t realize how important is until you don’t have any, especially when over-correction forces the car into a spin and you’re turning for what seems like an eternity, praying that when the vehicle finally comes to a rest, you haven’t hit anything.

In Canada, given our varied climate, good grip and traction is essential for safe driving, just ask anybody who’s ended up in a ditch during a snowstorm. But even during warmer conditions, the difference between a tire that delivers the performance you need and one that’s merely adequate can be critical.

Cooper Tires knows this, which is why this Findlay, Ohio-based company is seeking to actively expand its presence in Canada. And among the tires leading the assault are the high performance Zeon RS3-A and RS3-S for passenger cars and Discoverer AT-3 for light trucks (see sidebar). And to find out how they perform, World of Wheels was invited to Cooper’s Technical Center in Pearsall, near San Antonio, Texas to test them.

Zeon RS3-S Cooper’s newest high performance offering, the Zeon RS3-S is designed to provide optimal handling and traction in both dry and we conditions. Today,

in the passenger car market we’ve seen an exponential increase in ultra high performance tires as original equipment (not just on sports and muscle cars but also more mainstream offerings, including bread and butter four-door sedans and crossover utilities). And considering that UHP tires are more expensive to begin with, replacement costs in general, have soared.

As a result, that’s left not only a larger number of vehicles requiring UHP rubber, but also a significant gap in the market for those looking for quality high performance tires that don’t break the bank.

Cooper, which has essentially focused on the replacement market, believes it’s in a very good position to provide Canadian vehicle enthusiasts, with such a product. The RS3-S, Cooper’s newest UHP offering, was designed for optimal dry/ wet handling performance. Currently offered in 25 different sizes and W or Y speed ratings, it features a

large number of lateral and wide circumferential grooves designed to dissipate water as efficiently as possible, along with large shoulder and intermediate tread elements, which, in addition to a solid centre rib, are designed to maximize contact and thus grip and handling in the dry.

All good on paper but until you’ve experienced the tire’s performance firsthand, it’s very difficult to really comprehend just what rubber like this can do. So we found ourselves on wet and dry test tracks, evaluating these tires on a C6 Chevy Corvette. To make matters even more interesting, we ran the car back to back with another, virtually identical Vette, which was shod with one of the RS3-S’s major competitors; BF Goodrich’s popular Sport Comp 2.

Now, in the wet, a Corvette can best be described as a white-knuckle car. Sure, the C6 comes with GM’s StabiliTrak and traction control but it’s still easy to spin out if you’re not paying attention. On the water soaked surface, we noticed both tires felt comparable when fresh and cold. However, as tire and the ambient temperature increased, along with wear, the RS3-S started coming into its own. Understeer was less pronounced and transition was simply smoother, the car proving easier to rotate through the corner, with less wrestling of the steering wheel. The

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BFGs, although feeling very predictable to begin with, started losing their edge, and we found the Vette sliding a lot more towards the end of the session, requiring greater steering input to keep it on its intended path. In a car such as this, where slippery conditions can make things interesting very quickly, the added peace of mind superior wet weather traction brings, is simply incalculable.

In the dry, in the same cars, with fresh skins mounted on them, we discovered that although the BFG delivered stellar at the limit handling, aided by a fairly stiff sidewall and fat contact patch, we found that after several laps, it started losing adhesion relatively quickly.

Through the chicane on the dry test course, with quick, left to right transition the Vette felt a little skittery and even though the car features excellent weight distribution, it had a tendency to plow a bit when entering a corner and then slide a little upon exit. On the Coopers, we felt both at the limit understeer and oversteer were noticeably less and quick steering and throttle inputs yielded a more controllable car. And the thing was; the more laps we ran; much like in the wet sessions, the more confident we felt with the Zeon RS3-S.

Zeon RS3-A In addition, alongside the 3-S, Cooper also had V6 2013 Ford Mustangs, equipped with RS3-As for us to try out. This boot is an all-season high performance, W-rated tire that’s designed to provide high levels of grip under all conditions, whether dry, wet and even a little snow. Voted a Consumer Digest “Best Buy” last year, it embodies similar characteristics to the more focused 3-S, including the solid centre rib, as well as large shoulder and intermediate tread elements, though as an all-season tire, it also sports laterally oriented shoulder

grooves to promote even wear and 3D Micro Gauge sipes designed to provide extra bite under light snow conditions.

In fact, Cooper says that even at 50 percent wear, the RS3-A is still able to deliver premium levels of traction and handling, an impressive feat for any tire, let alone one with performance aspirations.

In a torquey, fairly tail happy and solid axle, rear-drive car like a Mustang, a tire’s ability to provide the right amount of traction and handling, whether accelerating, braking or negotiating corners is absolutely critical (some of us have probably experienced fishtailing, sliding or even spinning in a pony car at least once). In the wet, with the ability to lose grip amplified it’s even more important. Mustangs are cars that generally like to be throttle steered around corners to ensure the quickest lap times and optimum racing line, though just slightly too much gas can make things go sideways. The tires feeling that they were plowing through the water instead of almost riding above it. As a result, we could further explore the Mustang’s limits, which translated to quicker times around the course. Although we didn’t get a chance to test out both tires in the dry due to time constraints, the level of forgiveness exhibited in the RS3-As, on a car that isn’t know for its benign at-thelimit handling goes to show what a difference choosing an appropriate tire for your particular needs and driving scenarios can make.

TRUCK TURNS All Traction, All Terrain All the Time! That was how Cooper labeled its newest product in the light truck market, the Discoverer AT3.

Featuring aspects such as coupled tread elements to promote better handling, a broken centre rib section to provided better soft surface grip, plus aggressively patterned five-rib outer tread elements designed traction under all conditions, it appeared to have the tools needed to get the job done.

What we didn’t anticipate was just how well it performed in the wet alongside one of its chief rivals (and popular OE fitment tire), the BF Goodrich Rugged Trail T/A. The AT3 uses circumferential, Chevron shaped grooves and lateral protectors.

These are design to push out water, mud and also stones, the idea being that the tire’s grip potential is therefore maximized at all times, even when mud plugging.

Thus, when installed on a 2,525 kg (5,567 lb) Chevrolet Tahoe and driven on a wet track, the AT3 was really able to display a significant edge, especially during cornering.

Compared with the BFG’s the AT3’s almost changed the handling characteristics of the big SUV; we noted greatly reduced understeer and traction, when powering out of the corners and even under aggressive braking, grip was notably superior. And for a tire that’s designed to deal with both on and off-road conditions that was impressive to say the least. Off-road, on the dry, performance is equally strong. Even in a Baja truck going at speeds in excess of 160 km/h (100 mph), the AT3 demonstrates a rather remarkable level of grip for such an unassuming piece; able to hold its own against more specialized off-road rubber, over loose gravel, rocks, bumps and ruts.

Cooper Tires 701 Lima Avenue,Findlay, OH 45840, 1-800-854-6288 www.coopertire.com October 2012 | World of wheels | 23

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G U Y S

G A R A G E

winter tires

Keep your money in the bank, and your car out of it.

directional tire. This design also When considering whether to tends to be quieter and provide invest in winter tires there are better fuel mileage. Regardless of several considerations the averroad conditions, winter tires perage buyer faces. Are winter tires form better at low temperatures. worth the investment? What kind should you buy? Do you need rims?

Manufacturer In terms of cost, winter tires Scott Cameron and Design: Cheap tires may not be as expensive as you from unreliable manufacturers C O N T R I B U TO R think since they will allow you may seem attractive at first but I to maximize the use of both your sets of tires. would recommend you buy an established naAlthough all season tires can work in all tionwide brand, a choice which could save you weather, they are designed for adequate win- a lot of money and headaches down the road. ter performance at 100 per cent tread. For If you have irreparable damage to a tire and most of today’s vehicles with wide tire pro- have to find a match, it will be much easier to files, all season tires won’t provide satisfac- do so if the manufacturer is still in business in tory winter performance below 50 per cent a year or two. Vehicles have optimal stability tread, if at all. To get decent performance for and braking when all four tires are identical. the winter, drivers then tend to replace all For AWD vehicles, matched tires are a must. season tires for winter long before they are Also, a name brand-tire may also offer road worn out. A set of winter tires will provide hazard protection. excellent performance in winter weather for their lifetime, save your all seasons for non- Rims: A set of winter rims protects your winter use, and maximize wear on both sets fancy rims from environmental and mechanifor the conditions where they function best. cal damage from winter driving. They also The added safety is priceless. keep both your tires and rims from being Not all snow tires are the same, however, damaged during changeover. A set of winter so your choice will depend on what design rims will also save money at changeover. Payis best for your vehicle and driving habits. If ing to mount the tires on the vehicle is sigyou drive on poorly maintained roads, and do nificantly less than paying for removing tires a lot of stopping and starting, you may want from rims, mounting winter tires, and balancto consider a tire with a blockier, square ap- ing and mounting them on the vehicle. My pearance. These tires are designed to paddle rule is every year it will save you the cost of through the snow and increase pressure by one rim. Lastly, having another set of rims lowering the contact area of the tire. Think of will give you the option of doing the changeyour golf shoes or a track athlete with spikes over yourself. When buying rims, I recom– better for stopping and starting. If you com- mend finding a set of stock OEM rims (used mute on well-travelled roads that are slushy, if possible) or dealers will often have a steel wet, or icy, then you should consider a tire winter rim available. These options give the with a less aggressive tread designed to get best fit for your vehicle. The last option is to your tire down through the slop. These are find an aftermarket rim. This is an economical designed to work like a pump to maintain option but always talk to the supplier ensure contact with the road surface and are often a proper fit.

nuts&bolts Colour Changes

Re-Dyeing your Interior If you have ever needed to have an interior part replaced, you’ll know that most factory replacement interior plastic and vinyl parts are usually cast black. Sometimes you’ll get lucky and be able to order your colour. Or, if you find that missing interior piece at your local auto recycler chances are it’s not the right colour either.

No worries, with a little elbow grease, some knowlege and a bit of patience, you can colour match your part to your interior.

Or if you are so inclined, change out your entire interior for a whole new look.

Here’s how: 1. Assuming your part is detached from your interior, properly clean and degrease your part thoroughly. TSP diluted as per instructions and a scrub brush works well for this.

2. Allow part to thoroughly dry. Re clean with small toothbrush to get into small areas if you missed any.

3. Determine which product line of dyes you will use. Stick with one manufacturer’s line throughout the process.

4. Prepare the surface with an adhesion promotor and follow instructions about recoating.

5. Spray dye onto your piece using long consistent sweeping strokes. Begin and end your spray pattern off the part. NEVER start or stop your spraying directly ON the parts surface. Several coats will be required to complete the colour change.

6. Allow the surface to dry before reinstallation.

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DRIVERS SEAT 2013 Camaro ZL1

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by Scott MacDonald In 2008 General Motors re-introduced the ever popular and newly redesigned Camaro to North American consumers. Like the Mustang maniacs over in the Ford stables, Camaro connoisseurs were eager to get their hands on this new classic. Four years have passed since that introduction and for the most part the Camaro has remained unchanged. Not to take anything away from this car's gorgeous lines, aggressive stance and classic styling and adequate power, but I think the gearheads at GM finally realized that the iconic Camaro lineup was just missing something. Something spectacular, that is.

I

f you were of the opinion that the standard 323 horsepower V6 coupe was the bad boy on the chevy block, hold onto your suspenders Jack. Meet the Camaro ZL1, this is the bad boy’s big brother, and he’s got an attitude.

The 2013 Camaro ZL1 in simplest terms is best described as a supercar. But what exactly does that mean? Well, some define a supercar as exceeding 500 hp, others say it’s a car that performs beyond expectations and does it magnificently. Well, if that’s what it takes to earn that badge of honour, then the ZL1 can wear it proudly. Fact is, if the name is ringing some bells with the older crowd you are on the right track, there is a history to the badging. Back in the 60’s the ZL1 name was derived from the all-aluminum racing engine of the same name.

That engine was installed into only a handful of ’69 Camaros and achieved mythical status among enthusiasts.

From the moment you approach the car, unless you know what to look for, nothing screams supercar. There are no distracting bolt-on body panels, no over the top graphics, just a simple ZL1 badge on the raised hood and stamped onto each wheel to verify its existence. She’s a

true sleeper. Not until you open the hood do you realize that there is a supercharged 580hp 6.2 L V8 engine nicely shoehorned in where the V6 usually resides.

Ever wondered just what 580 ponies feel like? Imagine you’re strapped into a fighter jet, ready for take off, control gives you a thumbs up and you are literally launched to highway speeds in about four seconds. Too bad all that power is wasted on restrictive Canadian roadways eh? Never, the ZL1 will smoke your local quarter mile in just over 12 seconds at a speed of 183 kph. all day long. Top speed is rated at right around 184 mph. Yes, that’s just under 300kph for us Canucks. Guaranteed you’ll have a grin on your face for hours after you park it for the night.

To help put this car’s power into some kind of perspective the standard Camaro with it’s V6 engine produces in the range of 323 respectable horses. The Ford’s Mustang Boss 302 with its 5.0L V-8 generates a whopping 440+ hp and the Camaro’s closest kin the Corvette Z06 fixed roof coupe produces only 505 hp from a 7.0L V-8. It’s only the top of the food chain Corvette that has more grunt.

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streetlegal

Lets face it though, all that power means nothing if you can’t transfer it to the pavement.

So, GM has mated the 6.2L V-8 to a six-speed transmission available in both automatic and he-man versions. To help with the stability and handling, the engineering team has integrated some slick parts and features.

A racing-style front splitter is included helping to create front end down force. And, if you take a closer look, you’ll notice that the vented hood is ducted to aid in the cooling of the brawny powerplant. This Camaro also employs, among other features, front tire deflectors and a slightly larger than stock rear spoiler which creates in the range of 150 pounds. of down force on the rear wheels So you wanna know how it handles? The short answer is “exactly how you’d expect, like a street legal race car." GM’s explanation is the ZL1 features technologically advanced and highly developed chassis and suspension systems. They help it deliver balanced, track-ready handling and braking power to complement its high engine output, and includes third-generation Magnetic Ride Control.

Just because performance was the mandate when developing the new ZL1, it doesn’t mean you are only going to be driving from filling station to filling station. With a highway fuel economy rating of 10.5L/100k, making this car your daily driver was also GM’s secret underlying intention. As luck would have it, this Camaro

"So you wanna know how it handles?

The short answer is “exactly how you’d expect, like a street legal race car”. GM’s explanation is the ZL1 features technologically advanced and highly developed chassis and suspension systems." can easily take you from home to the office and then to the golf course without even breaking a sweat. The trunk has a capacity of 320L which in real terms would equal enough luggage for a family of three – that's two large suitcases, 1 medium suitcase and room to pack a few souvenirs. In my case it equates to two large bags of clothes for my wife, a duffle bag for my stuff and about five pairs of her shoes and a pair of boots, if I pack it just right. In other words, you should expect to be able to fit about 12 bags of groceries with some space to spare.

For the comfort of the passengers, and obviously the main reason you would buy this supercar (tongue in cheek) the ZL1 has options and

upgrades available to satisfy everyone's needs.

A short throw shifter is standard on the manual transmission version for quick shifting, rear parking assist and rear camera system add to the convenience group. The interior features beautifully finished front and rear sculpted leather/ suede front bucket seating with ZL1 embroidery on the headrest and red stitching.

From the left seat point of view, the interior really hasn’t changed much in the past four years, the gauge cluster at the base of the centre stack and most of the interior components remain basically stock but with a matt aluminum finish.

To complete the interior, suede wrapped on the dash and around the steering wheel which by the way includes controls for the premium audio system with Bluetooth capability.

From a safety standpoint, the ZL1 Camaro is fitted with driver and passenger airbags, seat mounted driver and passenger side impact curtain, first and second row overhead airbag, ABS brakes to provide assured stopping power.

Unfortunatly, there are much more details and specs to describe this monster, and I simply don’t have the room to print every little detail.

So, to sum it all up, If you have in the neighbourhood of 59 large eating a hole in your pocket – which by the way is an unheardof price for a supercar these days – have a visit to your local Chevrolet store and put your name on the waiting list. I am pretty confident you’ll be happy you did. For more info visit www.gm.ca.

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Appearance is Everything Visit www.autoglym.com to find out.

CLASSIC CAR SHOWS & EVENTS ONTARIO

13

October 6

HALIBURTON, ON

Fall Fest Cruise Haliburton Village, Head Lake Park, enjoy spectacular fall colours, includes noon hour parade./cruise along Haliburton’s Main St., 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Spectators: free.

Vehicles: $10.

Sponsor: Haliburton Village BIA Haliburton Time Travellers. Info: (705) 457-4031 7

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8

CAYUGA, ON

Cars In The Park Ruthven Park, 243 Hwy 54, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Vehicle admission: $5. Info: (905) 772-0560

BINGEMANS

pre 1980 original and custom vehicles, Canadian Tire, 400 Weber St. N. (dash plaques, trophies, prizes, 50/50, food, music and fun, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Spectators: free Vehicles: $5. Sponsor: Southern Ontario Chapter of Model A Owners of Canada and Canadian Tire. Info: (519) 745-6554

10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m..

Marshall Hall and Heritage Room) 425 Bingemans Centre Dr., Kitchener.

Admission: $5 Per Person. All indoors, with over 200 vendor tables. Featuring Auto Parts and Accessories; plus Auto Related Memorabilia, Gas Station Memorabilia, Advertising Signs, NASCAR Collectibles, and Die Cast Automotive Toys. Vendors with parts are wanted for this Swap Meet.

VENDOR INFORMATION: 8 ft. Dealer tables available at $20.00 each or three tables for $55.00. Tables are supplied. Pre-registration only. Limited vendor space. Vendors email: autoswap@hotmail.com or call 519-426-8875 (please call between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.)

ANCASTER, ON

Ancaster Fairgrounds. HWY 2/53 & HWY 52 Ancaster. From the 403 Exit 55 and it’s 2km South. General Admission only $6.00 per person, Outdoor Vending only $15.00 per spot. Vendors Setup at 6:00am. Spectator Gate opens at 8:00 am. Limited inside tables available. For more info contact Steve Pedder: stevenpedder@gmail.com

Fall Fair Car and Truck Show

November 10

40th anniversary of the Canadian International AutoShow Friday February 15 to Sunday February 24, 2013.

Metro Toronto Convention Centre

TILSONBURG, ON

Automotive Swap Meet Event Centre, 60 Cedar Street, Vendors Setup 6:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Spectators 8:30 am to 2:00 pm. 62000 square feet of inside heated, well lit floor space. Admission $5.00, Free Parking, Snack Bar. Venders $1.00 per foot frontage (no tables supplied). Outdoor vending weather permitting. For more info email: mchesterman@xplornet.ca

Choose our best finishes

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KITCHENER, ON

Octoberfest Car Show

Rodmasters Fall Swap Meet

NORWOOD, ON

pre 1980 and older, door prizes, trophies, dash plaques first 200 vehicles, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Vehicle admission: car and driver free, passengers $10 each.

Info: John Lamey (705) 639-5992, email: blamey@nexicom.net.

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WATERLOO, ON

SEMA Show 2012 (Trade only): LAS VEGAS CONVENTION CENTER, LAS VEGAS, NEVADA, OCT 30 - NOV 2, 2012

for your best finish.

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A revolutionary way to use apps in the car

Pioneer’s revolutionary, game-changing AppRadio is the first car stereo to revolutionize the driver’s smartphone experience by bringing compatible apps to your dash. When connected to a compatible Apple iOS or Android smartphone loaded with Pioneer’s free AppRadio application, the AppRadio in-dash stereo provides the ultimate in-vehicle smartphone experience. Featuring the first ever in-dash, capacitive touchscreen, you can enjoy full on-screen access and control of your contacts, calendar, maps, and more with an intuitive interface, formatted and designed specifically for safer invehicle operation.

Pioneer has teamed up with app providers to offer compatibility with many of today’s most popular in-vehicle apps, while also developing an expanding catalog of AppRadio compatible apps for future features and functions that can be easily and seamlessly added.

AppRadio will even notify you when new compatible apps are released.

Sleek universal device holder A practical and attractive device to integrate your GPS navigator or heavier smartphone cleanly into your vehicle interior, this small device, imported from Italy, uses powerful electronics-safe magnets and rubber support arms to elegantly integrate your navigation device or smartphone into your interior without taking up space on your windshield or cluttering up your dash.

Additionally, by eliminating the typical suction cup GPS holder, the FIXWAWY doesn’t leave tell-tale signs to others of the presence of a GPS system in your car, reducing the chances of having your vehicle broken into. Using the FIXWAY with your device is simple, only requiring the attachment of a small, barely noticeable metal disk onto the back of your device with a patented 3M adhesive. The powerful magnets of the FIXWAY interact solely with the metal clip, so there is no risk at all of the magnets interfering with the electronics in your devices.

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32

ROADTRIP Bowling Green Kentucky

I believe that most vintage cars, trucks or motorcycles find their owners and not the other way around. We can search and search for something specific, have a clear picture in our minds and then one day a diamond in the rough or a incredible survivor will be discovered and those images we carried around in our heads are gone and replaced with renewed excitement.

The Homecoming

by Scott MacDonald

A

s it would turn out, a few years ago my wife and I started looking for a car to restore as a project for the family. Low and behold, didn’t we wind up with a Corvette. We looked and looked, and this car just stood out. She belonged with us.

Two years have passed, and we begin to see the light at the end of the restoration tunnel. Intended as a driver, we took care in our restoration, but knew where to draw the line since we wanted to drive it rather than simply look at it behind a pane of glass.

Since we felt that we were nearing completion I suggested that it might be fitting to take our Corvette on an extended holiday, back to GM’s corvette assembly plant in Bowling Green Kentucky, where along with the assembly plant tour we would also take in the museum – a kind of ‘homecoming’ for the old girl.

Our plan was to spend a couple of days in Gatlinburg

Tennessee to take advantage of the magnificent scenery through the Appalachian Mountains, a third day to continue onto Bowling Green, where we’d spend our last two days and then back home.

We left Hamilton and crossed the border at Fort Erie and followed I-79 south from Erie Pennsylvania to US-19, bypassing Charleston West Virginia and connecting up with I-77 just south Beckley West Virginia. Make a quick note, US-19 crosses the New River Gorge just before you reach Fayetteville, there is an amazing photo opportunity to snap a picture or two of the fifth highest vehicular bridge and the third longest steel-span arch bridge in the world. Travelling south on I-77, we headed west towards Knoxville Tennessee on I-81 at Wytheville Virginia and exited at exit 407 south through Sevierville and Pigeon Forge Tennessee to our base for the next couple of days in Gatlinburg Tenessee.

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Tail of the Dragon

Great Smokey Mountains National Park Gatlinburg, located south of Knoxville Tennessee is the gateway to some of the greatest roads in the USA and borders onto Smokey Mountain National Park, with peaks topping out between 5,000 to 6,000 feet. It’s safe to say exploring these roads, which are open to the public for most of the year, promises breathtaking mountain vistas and an opportunity for incredible photos. And with the abundance of wildlife living in this park, it’s not uncommon to see a bear with a cub or a large buck just off the road.

By using Gatlinburg as a home base you can virtually point your vehicle in any direction and discover some of the greatest roads you’ll ever experience. There is one special road that you must drive before you leave the area, it’s the holy-grail for bikers, sports car clubs and has been used by countless automakers to put their cars through their paces. It’s known to the local residents as The Dragon.

The one common denominator car folk and motorcyclists have is a passion to experience amazing roads. The thrill you get from winding your way through a series of exceptional twists and turns must be experienced first -hand. The most notable or notorious of roads has become somewhat of a right of passage for many motorcyclists and a thrill of a lifetime for car enthusiasts. This road, which winds its way from Knoxville Tennessee to Florida, is officially known as US-129. If that’s not ringing any bells, perhaps the infamous eleven mile section known as The Tail of the Dragon will get it ringing.

To find The Dragon from Gatlinburg, head back towards Pigeon Forge and turn left onto Wears Valley Rd. (US 321) to Townsend. Turn left again onto E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy. and follow until you reach Foothills Parkway. Turn right onto the parkway, that winds its way over some incredible mountaintops providing countless lookout opportunities. Foothills Parkway ends at US-129 where you make a right and travel alongside Chilhowee Lake for a couple of miles. The Tail of the Dragon begins when US129 separates away from the lake. The next eleven miles are impossible to explain. Keep the speed down; State police patrol this stretch all day long. When you reach Deals Gap North Carolina, there will be a gift shop and fuel station which marks the end of the eleven miles.

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Road Trip — Bowling Green Kentucky

Bowling Green Kentucky Heading west from the Knoxville area we picked up I-40 and made our way through Nashville to join up with I-65 north into Bowling Green, Kentucky. Bowling Green would now be our home base where we would have quick access to the National Corvette Museum, the GM Corvette assembly plant and where we could conveniently visit Nashville (apporximately 35 minutes) to visit attractions like the Grand Ole Opry, Music Row and the Country Music Hall of Fame. Depending on the time of year and which part of the week you plan to be in Nashville, various country artists are in town for concerts and make appearances on the Opry stage. Visit: www.grandoleopry.com for listings and for booking tickets.

For anyone with a passion for the all American sports car, a trip to the Corvette assembly plant and National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green is a must. Our goal was to wrap up our road trip with a visit to each. The GM Assembly plant tour must be arranged and booked a minimum of nine days ahead of arrival, and is completed online at http:// www.bowlinggreenassemblyplant.com/. There is a fee of $7.00 per person for the tour.

The first three generations of the Corvette were assembled in St. Louis, Missouri until 1980 when GM decided to move it’s operations to Kentucky. Apparently, the discovery of asbestos in the plant was one of the main reasons for making the move. The St. Louis plant is no longer standing.

Our plant tour began at 11:30 sharp, guided by plant staff. The walking tour takes about an hour and a half to complete. Inside the assembly plant, the tour begins with the assembly process of the car’s interior trim stations. Every so often, your tour guide will stop and describe what you are witnessing and answer any questions the group has. As you follow the tour in this working assembly plant, the various stages of assembly including the marriage of

the Corvette body and chassis are seen for the first time.

This GM line moves at a pace which sees the completion of 80 new 'vettes each day, with a total assembly time of three working days to completely build a Corvette from start to its birth, as the engine is started for the first time and rolls off the line under its own power. If you have never seen a working assembly plant in full operation, this is a golden opportunity to see a great car being assembled with pride. Check the tour calendar before you book as there are dates when the plant is closed for holidays and shut-downs to conduct re-tooling for design changes.

Across the street from the GM assembly plant sits a modern building. Built to house examples of Corvettes from every vintage, the National Corvette Museum also takes visitors on a journey through the car’s heritage and vision as seen from those who have been responsible for the Corvette’s style, performance and development over the years.

One of the most interesting things of this museum is that the displays are ever-changing; members of various Corvette clubs throughout North America have the opportunity to have their own Corvettes displayed. On our visit, one of the first displays was showcasing Buddy Holly’s pristine personal 1967 convertible Corvette. Also on display were a pair of 1981 Corvettes, one of the cars was the last one ever built on the St. Louis line, and the other; the first to come off the line in the new Bowling Green facility - both were in frost beige. I’m not sure if that was deliberate or intended.

The museum is a great place for both adults and children; there is a diner for refreshments and a gift shop for souvenir collectors. All the information you want or need about the NCM is available online at www.corvettemuseum.org This trip encompassed many days driving on some of the country’s best roads. We covered just over 3,500 km, but each element of this trip could be done independent from each other and be still just as enjoyable.

Have fun and drive safe.

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"Built to house donated examples of Corvettes from every vintage, the National Corvette Museum also takes visitors on a journey through the car’s heritage and vision as seen from those who have been responsible for the Corvette’s style, performance and development over the years."

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Take Advantage of the Mild Autumn Weather to Prepare Your Car for the Winter Ahead Did you know: Autoglym is urging motorists to think ahead and protect their vehicles against the coming winter weather with proper cleaning and protection for paint, trim and interior surfaces. Doing so will ensure that daily-driver vehicles are protected against the elements, and those vehicles that go into winter storage will

Preparing for wet and cold wintery weather can prevent costly damage to cars.

Freezing temperatures increase the chances of paintwork damage.

Preparation and vigilance are key to preventing interior stains and damaged leather. be ready to use as soon as the weather clears.

“Thorough preparation of a car for the winter months can reduce the harmful effects of extremely cold temperatures, road salt and increased grime, while also making intermittent cleaning easier,” said Autoglym CEO, Paul Caller. “From the bodywork, exte-

Exterior

Interior

Cold and wet wintery conditions can take their toll on any car, and as temperatures dip below freezing, the chances of paintwork damage increase.

The process: “Wash, Polish, Protect” Clean a car’s exterior bodywork for the winter by washing it with a purpose-formulated pH-neutral car shampoo such as Autoglym’s Bodywork Shampoo Conditioner.

Deep-cleanse paintwork using Autoglym’s Super Resin Polish to ensure tough contaminants are removed and light scratches and swirls are minimized; this treatment will also lay the first level of paint protection and shine.

Follow the polish with an application of Autoglym’s flagship product, High Definition Wax, which contains a combination of waxes, resins and oils that deliver an unrivalled depth of shine and that are exceptionally resistant to environmental contaminants; this treatment lasts up to six months to see your car right through winter.

Constant exposure to winter road salt increases the exposure of plastic bumpers, exterior trim and rubber door and window seals to damaging corrosive agents. A specially formulated treatment – such as Autoglym’s Vinyl & Rubber Care–cleans, conditions and protects rubber and plastic surfaces, and helps prevent rubber door and window seals from sticking in the freeze.

Once protected using these simple steps, a vehicle should require only occasional washing to remove day-to-day dirt for months to come.

36 | World of wheels | October 2012

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rior rubber and plastics to the interior carpets and upholstery, the winter conditions can contribute to an increased rate of damage and degradation. Preparation with quality car care products can help motorists avoid labour-intensive and potentially costly repairs later.”

The harsh Canadian winter subjects car interiors to muddy feet, salt residue and soggy clothing, all of which can quickly make fabrics and carpets damp, dirty and musty. While leather upholstery is on the whole very durable, its essential oils and preservatives can get depleted by evaporation and general wear and tear, and need to be replenished.

Deep clean plastics, carpet and synthetic fabrics with Autoglym’s Interior Shampoo which contains active cleansing ingredients for a thorough deep clean, in addition to removing the soggy odours that can take hold in wetter periods. It is also suitable for use on head liners, vinyl and fabric soft tops.

For leather trim and seats, use the two step approach – clean then condition.

Autoglym’s Leather Cleaner is a pH neutral product that cleans while ensuring the oils are retained in the leather upholstery, keeping it supple. It will remove contaminants without damaging the upholstery itself.

Follow the cleanser with Autoglym Leather Care Balm, a carefully blended emulsion containing natural oils and surface proofing agents, which nourish, moisturise and provide protection for leather against the many marks and stains that come with winter weather.

For stubborn odours, follow your interior clean-up with a light spray of Autoglym’s Odour Eliminator on carpets and fabric trim.

This vibrantly scented product features an advanced control formula which neutralises odours quickly and effectively, leaving behind a fresh smelling interior. Re-apply as needed throughout the winter.

“How To” is a professional do-it-yourself guide.

12-09-24 4:52 PM

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T S JU KS

C U TR

Ram Trucks

Break Guinness Book of World Records

Dresden, Ontario — What do an underwater kiss, ears on a dog and Ram trucks have in common? They are all now featured under the longest world records category in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Canada’s longest-lasting line of pickups was on full display on Saturday, August 25 as it set a new world record. Led by the new 2013 Ram 1500, 273 proud vehicle owners gathered at the Dresden raceway to successfully break the Guinness world record for the “Longest Parade of Ram and Dodge Pickup Trucks” that included new and used models of all shapes and sizes.

“Ram trucks are the second best-selling vehicles in the country and we are proud of our owners for trucking down to the Dresden Ram Rodeo this past weekend to make history as they set a new Guinness world record of the longest parade of Ram and Dodge trucks ever,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO,

Chrysler Canada. “Our Ram trucks deliver value, performance and segment-leading safety and technology making the Ram 1500 the best value in the large pickup segment.”

Organized by the Dresden Agricultural Society, the money generated by the parade will be donated to the Canadian Mental Health Association.

The event was part of the Ram Rodeo, an 11-stop tour that sprawls across southern Ontario, showcasing competitive rodeo skills performed by professional cowboys and cowgirls.

The parade spanned more than two kilometres throughout the Dresden Raceway and surrounding streets.

For Dresden, the world record attempt is a unique draw to the tour stop as this quiet little town is now known to hold two world records. In 2010, Dresden broke the record for the world’s longest tractor parade.

38 | World of wheels | October 2012

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reps for p e s Foo SEMA 2012

Automotive designer and car enthusiast Chip Foose is preparing to build two custom trucks for the 2012 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

Foose is partnering with WD-40 and Source Interlink Media — owners of Motor Trend, Hot Rod, Four Wheeler and many other enthusiast magazines — to create two unique trucks that pay homage to those who love to work on their trucks, old or new.

"This year, we're upping the ante and building two vehicles — one that pays tribute to WD-40 Company's history and one that celebrates some of its newer specialty products that help auto pros like me get the job done right," Foose said. "With the help of some great aftermarket partners and a lot of WD-40-brand products, we'll be able to build two vehicles that honor those who work hard every day."

Both trucks — a 1953 F-100 and a 2012 F-350 Super Duty — will be shown at SEMA and then auctioned for charity at the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale, Ariz. Proceeds from the auction will benefit two SEMA Cares charities: Childhelp, a group that provides services to abused and neglected children; and the Victory Junction Gang Camp, which provides life-changing camping experiences to special-needs and chronically ill children.

Trucks.indd 39

Dodge M80

Chrysler sees new hope for Small Pickups The thought process was always pretty simple: younger buyers could purchase smaller, more affordable pickups, and then when they get older and earn more money, they could step up to larger full-size trucks. And that was the template and strategy for decades.

Then full-size trucks prices dropped with strong competition and huge incentives on the hood, with the result being a compact/midsize truck segment squeezed to a fraction of what it once was. Now, conventional wisdom may be shifting, as some see a potential need for small trucks again, but this time to a different kind of buyer.

The Detroit Free Press is reporting that Chrysler's vice president of product planning, Joe Veltri, is convinced that there's a market for a small, affordable pickup truck, and we agree with him.

Interestingly, Veltri seems to believe the group most likely to want these small pickup trucks will not be young buyers looking for a less expensive, versatile vehicle to fit their varied lifestyles, but more likely to be aging baby boomers looking to downsize in their later stages of life from their full-size truck choices.

Veltri talks quite a bit in the interview about the possibility of a unibody chassis for such a vehicle but insists the final decision has not been made. Over the last 10 years, there has been plenty of speculation about what Chrysler would do with the next-generation Dodge Dakota, with concepts like the Dodge M80 and Dodge Rampage garnering a lot of excitement for the brand.

October 2012 | World of wheels | 39

12-09-24 4:53 PM

Do you know your TAILFINS? LASTCALL

Tail fins were all the rage decades ago. Bigger was better as the trend grew in popularity amongst the three U.S. automakers. We have assembled nine fins for you to identify - if you can. Simply identify the year and make and model of the car that each fin belongs to. Enter your answers to win one of three prize packages courtesy of Autoglym.

1

3

2

5 4

6

7

8

9

How to Enter:

Go to www.worldofwheelsmagazine.com and click on the “Tail Fins Contest image� and follow the prompts.

40 | World of wheels | October 2012

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No purchase necessary. Contest valid from October 1, 2012 to November 30, 2012. There are three (3) prizes available to be won with a total approximate retail value of $82.97CAD. Approximate odds of winning a prize depend on the total number of eligible entries received. The potential winners will be drawn randomly from all correctly completed entry forms and must complete a declaration and release to be declared a winner. Open to all legal residents of Canada (except Quebec), who have reached the age of majority. Limit one (1) entry per email address. For complete contest rules, visit www.worldofwheelsmagazine.com

12-09-24 4:54 PM

Reward yourself.

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For a limited time, when you buy select sets of 4 TOYO Tires receive a rebate of up to $80. Experience great TOYO handling on the drive to the slopes. And with the money you save, you could treat yourself to a day of doing something really special.

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toyotires.ca

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12-09-20 11:59 AM

It’s the family vehicle with room for seven.

Check out what real families are saying at chevrolet.ca

É• #FTU IJHIXBZ GVFM FGÉŞ DJFODZ PG BOZ TFBUFS* É• $BSHP DBSSZJOH ÉŤ FYJCJMJUZ É• 'JWF 4UBS &VSP /$"1 4BGFUZ 3BUJOH â€

â€œâ€Ś the Orlando is a functional people mover that rides and handles beautifully.â€?

– Globe and Mail / Globe Drive – Petrina Gentile

LTZ model shown‥

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O D N ORLA ROLET V E H C 2 201

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*Chevrolet Orlando highway fuel consumption rating of 6.9 L/100 km based on GM testing in accordance with approved Transport Canada test methods. Competitive comparison based on 2011 Natural Resources Canada’s Fuel Consumption Guide. Your actual fuel consumption may vary. †Euro NCAP ratings are part of the European New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP) (www.euroncap.com). 2012 Chevrolet Orlando equipped with the 1.8L petrol engine tested during 2011 calendar year testing. Model shown 2012 Orlando LTZ starting from MRSP $29,735.

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12-05-25 1:21 PM