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FEATURES:The Spotlight .......................1 Editor’s Notes ......................2New Allstar Products ............3New Products .............4,5,6,72013 Lane Car Show .............8

Tech Forum .................................9Rodding Journal .......................102013 Car Show Events ...............11Lane Collectables ......................12

SUMMER 2013

The Parts You Need and the Service You Deserve!

One can often run across many interesting automotive finds while cruising the industrial sections of larger cities. Such was the case a while back when I was passing by a local machine shop. I spotted some steel tubing stacked out by the street with a “For Sale” sign staked nearby and pulled in to check it out.

The owner came out, gave me a price and explained that it was left over from a recent job he had finished and he just wanted the steel out from underfoot. As we talked, I learned that he was working on a hot rod project in the shop.

I followed him back into the large, metal building, and when my eyes became accustomed to the light, a huge, pale yellow car materialized. It was a Chrysler product for sure. Mid 1950’s, but because most of its stainless trim was removed for body work, I could not i.d. the make until I saw the massive “water-fall” chrome grille. It was a DeSoto, and the shop owner told me it was a ‘53. Perched on an engine stand right alongside the car was a DeSoto FireDome Hemi V8 awaiting its reinstal-lation. On top of the engine was a 144 Series B&M supercharger with a Holley carburetor mounted. When is the last time anyone saw a blown DeSoto hemi? The owner could not find a blower manifold so he machined the top off of a four-barrel intake.

As we talked more about the entire project, the owner stated that he had originally answered the ad be-cause he was looking for an early hemi to build for a possible future project. When he actually saw the “donor” car he was amazed at what good shape it was in for its age. It occurred to him that this car already had a hemi and it could just possibly be the future project he envisioned. The seller could have cared less about the car itself, he was just interested in selling the hemi. A deal was struck and everyone was happy.

When I took these photos, the DeSoto was really close to be-ing roadworthy. If this large, pale yellow hardtop pulls along-side you at the stoplight sometime soon, beware. There is a blown hemi lurking beneath that sedate exterior. Massive rear quarters on the DeSoto are surprisingly straight.

1953 DeSoto FireDome! By John McLellan

The beautiful DeSoto “waterfall” grille, prized by customizers for many years.

Here’s a shot where the hemi is actually running on its own run-in stand. The little blower whines nicely.

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Editor’s Notes By John McLellan

It has been a tradition with Racing and Rodding for several years now to insert a centerfold poster of recent car shows. This issue is no exception, and we hope you enjoy it and that it earns a place of prominence in your collection.

Those attending the show had the opportunity to see a massive, 40 foot by 5 foot poster/banner depicting highlights of all 24 previous Lane Automotive car shows, starting with the first Open House celebration in April of 1989. Created by Senior Designer, Matt Hauch, the poster was met with rave reviews by all who saw it.

My part in this creation was sifting through thousands of photos, many undated, from the first ten years of the show. I tried, with about a 98% success rate, to match photos to the correct year sections of the banner. Along the way, I had a chance to reminisce about the “old” days.

Manufacturer reps, huddled under the awning on the front of the Red Arrow store back then, now display under a huge, 60’ x 180’ big top tent. Show cars that filled the old parking lot now completely surround our current building. One food vendor tended to the appetites of show attendees in the early days, this year we had 16! The show has certainly grown, thanks to the superb patronage of customers and friends and the extreme dedication of Lane employees who work very hard to make it all happen.

One final thought on my work on the huge banner: A good number of the photos revealed long familiar faces of show participants who are no longer with us. I endured several personal moments of silence for those folks who had become good friends through the years. In fact, longtime show participant, Louise Joslyn, who, showed her Monte Carlo or her '72 Buick Con-vertible at just about every show we have had, passed away just four days after this year’s show. Louise, her husband Phil, daughter Kim and son-in-law Creight were mainstays of the Chevrolet contingent at our shows. Godspeed Louise.

Ryan Gortney At The Car ShowA little over a year ago we were all shocked and saddened to learn of Ryan Gortney's near fatal

crash in the "Wheelie Wagon" during an exhibition pass at Osceola Dragway. Initial prognostica-tions of partial or total paralysis, impaired speech and the like saddened us even further. Thanks to a website tended to by Ryan's lovely wife, Angie, we were able to follow the progress as Ryan, a very determined young man, overcame one obstacle after another to put himself well on the way to full recovery.

Ryan and his Elkhart Career Center Engine Challenge teams again scored highly in this year's event, copping first and fifth places against some stiff competition. Ryan still gets around many areas in a wheelchair, but he was proudly standing, unassisted, as his teams posed for photos. Ryan is a strong testament to the powers of prayer and strong will.

Remembering The Early Days of the Show

SUMMER 2013 3

Aluminum Frame Race Car Lift ALL11272

Portable lift collapses to a low 3" profile and raises up to 17". Weighing only 68 lbs., lift is easily positioned under race car to raise off the ground simplifying tire changes and chassis tuning. Sturdy 1/8" wall 6061-T6 aluminum lift is tig-welded and supports up to 2,400 Lbs. Complete system includes a 110V AC 3/4HP hydraulic pump with cord and plug, hydraulic cylinders with down assist canisters, 1" bolt on risers for cars with raised frame rails, safety struts to lock raised lift in place, assist handle and 20' of hydraulic quick connect hose to attach pump to lift. The pump provides power up/gravity down operation and can be mounted either horizontally or vertically, typically mounted to trailer or a hand cart. A push-button on the motor starts the unit to raise lift. To lower, a manually operated release valve is used for finger-tip control of lowering speed. Pump is compatible with hydraulic fluid, ATF, 10W30 or 10W40 oil (not included). Assembly is required, all hardware included.

37 Degree Flaring Tool ALL11016This -AN fitting flare tool is essential when working with 37° flared fittings. Tool for use with

soft copper, aluminum and brass tubing will precisely flare from -3AN to -10AN and 3/16" to 5/8".

Spark Plug Index Shims ALL96505Stackable shims index spark plugs at 30° intervals up to 360° properly positioning ground

strap in cylinder head for increased power and clearance between spark plug and piston. Shims are intended for use with 14mm flat seat spark plugs only. Package of 24 shims contains 12 silver 60°, 12 black 90°, detailed instructions and dial chart.

LS Gen IV GM Engine Lift Plate ALL10143Plate is designed specifically for lifting LS Gen IV engines. Installation of plate requires removal

of the intake manifold and valley cover tray to properly secure lift plate to engine block. Plate features three lifting points for various chain positioning which allows engine weight to be balanced or offset. An offset position is especially helpful when angling an engine (with transmission attached) in or out of a vehicle. Constructed of 3/16" thick zinc plated steel.

SB Chevy Header GasketsDurable reinforced steel core and graphite composite gaskets remain soft and pliable to conform to header and head

surfaces providing an excellent, long lasting seal. Sold each.Part No. DescriptionALL87260 ............. 1-5/8" Square Port (Stock)ALL87262 .............. 1-3/4" D-Port (Standard)ALL87264 .............. Spread Port (Staggered Bolt Pattern)ALL87266 .............. Crate Engines (Non LS / Fast Burn)ALL87268 .............. LS Series Engines (Excluding LS7)

Low Drag Rear Hub Seal 5x5 ALL72123Hub seal keeps grease in the hubs and on the wheel bearings with less resistance than standard lip seals.

Fits AFCO and Winters hubs with 2-1/2" I.D. Bearings.

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Allstar ProductsNew Allstar Products

ALL87260

ALL87264

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BatteriesThe combination of extreme power and

outstanding performance makes Odyssey batteries perfect for auto/LTV, marine, commercial, racing and powersports. Odysseys deliver twice the overall power and last three times longer than conventional batteries. Part numbers with MJ are select batteries with a metal casing for high heat applications. All batteries are 12 volt.

Ultimizer ChargersLightweight and portable, Ultimizer 12-volt chargers support the full line of

Odyssey batteries – automotive /LTV, heavy duty/commercial, powersports, and marine. The three-step charge profile ensures fast, complete and safe charge. A continuous trickle charge can keep batteries fully charged during extended peri-ods of non-use. Available in 6, 12 and 25 amp, single bank versions.

Light Duty Winch Accessory KitThe WARN #88915 accessory kit includes; (2) 1/2" (127mm) forged

D-shackle snatch block, rated at 9,000 lbs., (4082 kg) maximum cap- acity tree trunk protector, 1 in. x 8 ft. (25mm x 2.4mm), newly

styled WARN winching gloves to help protect hands and a heavy weight Denier nylon carry bag to stow the accessories.

Medium Duty Winch Accessory Kit WAR88900 WARN’s newest edition is specially designed to get the most out of the WARN winch (10,000

lbs. or less). This accessory kit includes; snatch block rated up to 20,000 lb (9072 kg) max- imum capacity, tree trunk protector 2 in. x 8 ft. to 14,400 lbs., recovery strap 2 in. x 60 ft. (5cm x 9.1m) rated at 14,400 lbs. (8165kg) (2) 3/4" D-shackles (20mm), newly styles WARN winching gloves help protect hands, heavyweight denier carry bag stows contents.

Billet Aluminum Tremec Shifter LeversDirect bolt-on billet aluminum shifter levers are CNC-machined with a unique attrac-

tive window style that complements other Lokar products. Features include a special machined groove for Lokar shift boot attachment, machined 3/8"-16 thread for shift knob, 2-bolt mounting flange fit most factory and aftermarket shifters. Available in standard and midnight black series for Tremec/Borg-Warner, Tremec TKO 500-600 Magnum and billet aluminum TKO 500-600 Magnum shifters.

Deluxe Top Shifter BootsDeluxe top shifter boots and sliding bezels with O-ring are designed to be placed anywhere along the length of

the shifter lever, allowing a portion of the lever to be exposed. The bezel receivers’ groove makes it easy to attach the boot. Sliding bezel works on Lokar’s 5/8" shifter levers. Available in round, or rectangular boot styles, boot rings sold separately.

Nomad Seat with Fixed Headrest Mastercraft Safety Nomad seat with fixed headrest is a budget version of the Rubicon. The Nomad is a true

suspension seat of precision hand-crafted tubular construction with an open-mesh liner, and high resiliency foam for comfort, longevity and durability. Bolts in to most Jeep CJ5 and all CJ7 and YJs. Features include; deep sided seat for containment on the trail, five point restraint slots, federal motor vehicle safety stan-dard tested and rated. Sold in pairs, available in black only.

SUMMER 2013 5

New

ProductsNew Products

Gen 3 Ultra Dominators The original Dominator® took carburetion to another level in 1969

when it was developed for NASCAR® racing. It has been refined over the years and is now receiving its biggest change ever. Introducing the ALL NEW Gen 3 Ultra Dominator! The Gen 3 features a brand new main-body, brand new state-of-the-art calibra-tions, high volume HP fuel bowls and sizes up to 1475 CFM! The new patent pending GEN 3 main-body is 5/16" taller than the previous generation! This new height allows for larger radius air entries, optimized with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software to deliver smoother flow into new fully machined, big bore venturii. They are available in tumble polished aluminum with either Red™ or Black™ anodized billet aluminum metering blocks and booster inserts, and in Hardcore Gray™ hard coat anodized finish with black anodized billet aluminum metering blocks and booster inserts. Each calibration has been dyno and track tested to deliver proven performance!

750 CFM Street Demon CarbThe all new street demon delivers a stable idle, amazingly crisp

throttle response and smooth performance. Features include small, 1-3/8" primary throttle bores with triple stack boosters for superior idle. The Goggle Valve Secondary (GVS) throttle plate provides over twice the air flow of the primary bores for superior performance. 2-stage metering rods and four optional vacuum step-up springs dial-in the secondary air valve control for complete fuel adjustment. Carb is equipped with an electric choke and Ford A/T kick-down lever.

SB Chevy Endurance Series Shaft Rocker Arm Kit Scorpion Endurance Series Shaft Mount Rocker Arms are built for the endur-

ance level of circle track, dirt track, drag racing, and offshore powerboat racing engines. Features include; .562" centerless ground ASTM certified quality steel shafts, .520" centerless ground roller, 4140 heat treated steel stand, 120 gram

7000 series aluminum fully radiused rocker arm bodies, clear 1.650” springs and large roller precision trunnions. Arms are fully assembled with .625" adjuster engagement and .260" underside bearing strap. 100% CNC-machined, anodized finish and black oxide coated steel parts offer maximum corrosion protection.

12-Volt AGM Series Racing Batteries Sealed AGM series 12 volt lightweight performance battery utilizes AGM separator technology. Unique

valve regulated design ensures all cells operate evenly, eliminating on-charge gassing. No maintenance , no acid mess. Low profile design 1/4" bolt-in terminal design for lug style terminals.

Early Corvette and Mustang Selecta-Speed Wiper Kit

Replace the original wiper motor with a new DSE modern 7-speed unit with delay and speed control. Wiper kit includes a low-profile 7-speed

wiper motor with 5 delays, low speed, and high speed, rotary switch, adapter plate, and wiring harness.

1963-67 Corvette Electric Headlight Door Kit DSE122005

Replace the stock electric actuated system on a 1963-67 Corvette with DSE’s electric motor actuator kit that operates headlight doors more reliably and smoothly. Headlight door kit includes two electric actuators, control module, wiring harness, mounting brackets, and hardware.

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Pl-1 Pocket Data Logger KitThe PL-1 is the latest in easy data logging, compatible with

MTS (modular tuning system). For use with LC-1, SSI-4 and MTX gauges or any other Innovate Motorsports devices integrates seamlessly to record all data. Includes a 2GB SD memory card, SD memory card reader, USB to PC cable, 12-volt power cable, MTS patch cable 4-pin to 4-pin for newer devices and a MTS patch cable 2.5mm to 4-pin for LC-1, SSI-4, TC-4 and LMA-3. Logworks 3.0 software required (not included), download available from Innovate’s website.

SB Chevy Single Plane 23° Intake ManifoldThe RHS aluminum intake manifold fits RHS 23° SB Chevy cylinder

heads. Bolt pattern fits SBC originals, Vortec GM heads, and late model perimeter corner vertical bolt style crate engines. Strong torque curve throughout the mid-rpm range. For applications up to 434 c.i.d. Features auxiliary water ports, integral water crossover, dual sided distributor mounting points, and female pipe threads at all corners.

SB Ford 215cc Iron Eagle Cylinder HeadsNew Iron Eagle heads for small block Fords are a true bolt-on performance

upgrade for 289/302/351 engines. Features; 215cc intake runners, streamlined valve guide bosses for improved air flow, 2.02"/1.60" valves, 58cc or 62cc combustion chambers reshaped to improve combustion efficiency for increased horsepower. Available bare or assembled and sold individually.

Maximizer 4 Progressive Nitrous Controller NXS15957

Operates one or two separate stages of nitrous based on time, RPM, MPH, throttle percentage or boost pressure. The Maximizer 4 is the professional racer’s choice used on naturally aspirated, forced air, gasoline or diesel type nitrous systems. The MAXIMIZER 4 monitors the engines Air/Fuel ratio using a wideband O2 module, automatically adjusts the fuel and nitrous solenoids to achieve the targeted ratio when the bottle pressure drops toward the end of the run, provideng a more consistent and safe AFR.

Custom Switch PanelsNX switch panels offer a clean and attractive solution for nitrous operation in the driver’s compartment.

Includes laser engraved switch nameplates for Nitrous, Stage 2 nitrous, bottle heater, bottle opener, purge, electric fans, water methanol, fuel pump, accessory, go-baby-go, and ejector seat.

Ford 5.0 Coyote Plate System NXS20948-10The NX 5.0L Coyote plate system features the phase 3 spray barless technology billet plate with

integrated solenoids that bolts between the throttle body and intake manifold. Kit includes jet-ting for 35, 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150 horsepower, TPS Autolearn switch activates and turns off when lifting off the throttle, extra-long braided stainless feed line, master arming switch, relay and wiring harness, and all necessary installation hardware. Fits 2011-13 Ford GT Mustangs with 5.0L 4-valve Coyote engine.

GM LS 4-Bolt Plate System NXS20933-10The NX LS plate system features a billet plate that installs between the throttle body and

intake manifold. Kit includes jetting for 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350 and 400 horsepower, propower lightning solenoids, 10 lb. bottle with billet aluminum lightning 45 bottle valve, 6AN feed line, braided plate lines, stainless bottle brackets, master arming switch, WOT switch and all necessary installation hardware.

New

ProductsNew Products

Circle Track Fuel Cells RCI fuel cells are manufactured with cross-linked high strength

polyethylene bladder in a bright red steel container. Features include -8AN (standard) or -10AN male pick up assembly hose designed to pick up from right rear corner, -8AN male rollover vent, all circle track cells have a flapper on the lid assembly.

Circle Track Fuel Cell Filler Plate AssemblyCircle track fuel cell cap oval 16-bolt complete cap assembly with -8AN or -10AN male pickup,-8AN

rollover vent check valve, and fill cap.

Fuel Cell Foam RCI7050APrevents fuel sloshing under acceleration, deceleration and cornering. Drop in the circle track or drag

racing cell to keep the fuel located by the fuel pickup. Each stick measures 16"Lx6"Wx3"H. Sold individually.

1 Gallon Drag Race Aluminum Fuel Cell RCI2010ATig welded, aluminum cell has a 12-bolt, heavy duty flush mount cap assembly. Features include -8AN

male fittings, 1 pickup, 1 return and 1 rollover vent, and safety foam. Finished in natural aluminum with welded mounting tabs. Cell measurements: 7"Lx6"Wx8"H.

GM COPO Camaro 2-5/8" GaugesOfficially GM licensed COPO Camaro gauges feature back-lit LED light-

ing, illuminated red pointer and a brightly lit Chevrolet gold and silver Bowtie, trimmed in a dark gray Auto Meter Style bezel. Precision full sweep electric gauges powered by digital stepper motor drives and motorsports sensors found in today’s NASCAR cup cars.

GM COPO 5" Shift-Lite Memory Tachometer ATM880445

Officially GM licensed COPO Camaro 5" Shift-Lite tachometer features a digital stepper motor that swings from 0-10000 RPM in just 333 milliseconds, ensuring instant, accurate response to changes in engine RPM. Adjustable shift-lite with memory recall.

GT Series 2-1/16" GaugesThe new GT series 2-1/16" diameter gauges are designed with a new timeless style dial with carbon

fiber construction and LED illumination through the dial and a black anodized bezel presenting a pristine stealth look.

PRNDL + GaugesThe new PRNDL + series gauges allows the addition of turn signals, high beam, check engine indicators

as well as gear position for most automatic transmissions to any Auto Meter gauge combination. Features include 2-1/16 " diameter, white, beige or black dial face, digital LED illumination through the dial, and aluminum or chrome bezel options.

Visitors to this year’s Lane Automotive Car Show, who were fans of funny car racing forty years ago, no doubt recognized a familiar car among our Noisefest participants. It was the famous Ramchargers ‘73 Dodge Demon funny car, fresh from a perfect restoration by master funny car craftsman, Al Bergler. The car made its very first “cackle” at our show this year. The Ramchargers Demon, with Clare Sanders driving, was definitely a force to be reckoned with, as it won more than its share of match races in addition to campaigning successfully at many national events. Along with the Demon, we were honored to have driver Clare Sanders and original mechanic Ed Schaider on hand for the festivities.

This car is not a clone, but the original car. Owned by Jim and Julie Matuszak of Caro, Michigan, the car spent several years in a warehouse in Pontiac, Michigan before they bought it and began the restoration process. A major obstacle in the restoration - and one still unresolved - was the demand for a huge licensing fee by the current owner of the Ramchargers logo. The resolution is in the hands of the attorneys for both sides.

As cool as it was to see the candy-striped, red and white beauty at our show, that was not the whole story. Displayed right alongside the Demon was Al Ber-gler’s original Vega funny car, the Motown Shaker. Al hauled this car back from Maine a few years back and restored it to perfection. Seems that the owner at that time spotted the replica funny Motown Shaker Vega, built by Kyle Wertzel, and

called Al to tell him that he had the original.

That is still not the WHOLE story. Displayed with the two cars at our show was a huge blow-up of a photo taken in 1973 at Martin US 131 Dragway showing the Ramchargers Demon and the Mo-town Shaker Vega doing smoky burnouts at a match race there.

So, in addition to the original cars, we had the original driv-ers, builders and one of the Ramcharger mechanics on hand. Another chapter written in the fascinating history of drag racing, and it was penned right here!

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2013 Lane Car Show Perspective

SUMMER 2013 9

Tech ForumTech Forum

Pushrod engines are often ridiculed by many in the so-called “elite” automotive media who seem to favor modern overhead cam (OHC) power plants. However, the fact re-mains that in high performance circles where conventional V-8’s are the norm, the pushrod style engine is still king. The pushrod engine is physically smaller compared to its OHC counterpart because the camshaft and relatively simple cam drive are inside the block, making the engine narrower. The OHC Ford 4.6/5.0/5.4L modular engine, for example, is sig-nificantly wider and has a far more complex timing system compared to its predecessor, the Windsor small block.

Taking the brunt of the media’s abuse is the pushrod itself, an uncomplicated length of metal tubing that transfers motion from the camshaft and lifter to activate the rocker arm. Often taken for granted, pushrods have recently come under increased scrutiny since the introduction of the SpinTron, a machine that uses a powerful AC motor and a substitute crankshaft to spin the internal components of a test engine. The SpinTron’s Laser Valve Tracking System (LVTS) camera records component motion. Data is imaged, graphed and examined so that engineers can identify prob-lem areas and develop solutions. Sensors and gauges mea-sure valve train component load. According to Chris Padgitt of Comp Cams, the SpinTron can also measure valve float, valve spring harmonics, pushrod deflection and “lofting”, a condition where valves stay open at high RPM due to a loss of contact between the cam lobes and the lifters.

Prior to the SpinTron, engineers found that valvetrain vibration was caused by component flexing and much of the flex came from the pushrods. Vibration increased with engine speed, creating potentially damaging harmonics. Aggressive cam profiles, extreme valve spring pressures and large diameter, heavy valves further aggravated matters and lofting caused the valves to remain open longer than they should.

Engineers quickly learned that these problems could be reduced or even eliminated by just using a more rigid push-rod. At one time, a 5/16" diameter x .080" wall pushrod was acceptable for many high performance applications, but that is no longer the case. Increasing pushrod rigidity mere-ly involves larger diameter, thicker wall tubing. Of course, larger diameter pushrods increase mass and convincing engine builders to use a heavier pushrod hasn’t been easy, particularly when lightweight valve train components are

the vital to high RPM. However, builders have learned that the mass of the “pushrod side” components (lifters and pushrods) is not quite as critical compared to that of the “valve side” components (valves, springs, retainers and valve locks).

In the past, valve train manufacturer’s traditionally stocked only 5/16" and 3/8" diameter pushrods and larger, 7/16" diameter pushrods were only available by special order. Now Comp Cams, Crane Cams, Manley Performance and Trend Performance have begun stocking 7/16" diameter pushrods in both straight tube and dual taper designs. In pursuit of maximum performance at high RPM, NHRA Pro Stock competitors have begun using 1/2" or 9/16" diameter pushrods. When in question, it’s always best to consult the manufacturer of the camshaft for the proper pushrods to use.

With diameter and wall thickness addressed, length is the next consideration. Naturally, the longer the pushrod is, the more susceptible it may be to flexing and vibration. “FE” Fords, B/RB Chryslers, 400-455 Olds and tall deck, big block Chevrolets all use pushrods well in excess of 9.” All may be candidates for a pushrod upgrade if 5/16" pushrods are currently used in a high performance application. “The pushrod is still viewed as the weak link in the valve train”, according to Comp’s Padgitt. For this reason, manufactur-ers’ are constantly looking for improvement. The ultimate pushrod would not only be very rigid, but lightweight as well. Some valve train manufacturer’s are currently using Metal Matrix Composite (MMC). Similar to the material used in the manufacture of composite driveshafts, MMC has the strength equivalent of 4130 steel, yet is up to 60% lighter. Initial SpinTron testing of MMC pushrods has shown reduced flexing, valve float and valve bounce, but there is work still to be done. Cost has also been a major concern.

The introduction of the Chevrolet Gen. III LS engine in 1997 and the subsequent release of the modern Chrysler Hemi in 2003 has demonstrated that the pushrod engine is here to stay. All of these signs ultimately point to the contin-ued development and improvement of the pushrod engine.

Pushrods: Still Doing The Job After All These Years By Jim Kaekel

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Rodding JournalGeezer Express - The Next Generation By John McLellan

Much has been written lately about the concern for the next generation of hot rodders. Will they pick up the gaunt-let thrown by the current generation, or will the sport we have all loved and nourished die a slow death? If the geezers of the Geezer Express team have anything to say about it, hot rods will flourish well into the next generation.

When the team adopted the new “white” car last season, driver Brian Acton purchased the original black Firebird, pretty much intact, and set about preparing it for use by his 17-year old son, Trever and, in a few years, younger son Kyle. The car was spruced up, the blower was mas-saged by Gary Dyer, and the car was buttoned back up in time for the June ECTA Ohio Mile event in Wilming-ton. The Actons, Brian, wife Dawn and Trever, along with crew chief John Pranger and his wife Debbie, motored to Wilm-ington early on Thursday the 7th in order to arrive in time for an after-noon display at the Wilmington Inn, the team's sponsor.

Friday was tech day and the Express Firebird passed with flying colors. Trever also had some tests to endure, including the timed escape from the car, in full racing gear, includ-ing the HANS device. He managed a fantastic 12-second time, working against the 30-second time limit. The rest of the day was spent going down the proverbial check list of details that always must be attended to before making speed runs.

Saturday dawned cool and sunny with virtually no wind. The car was put in line, Trever was suited up and he was ready for his first pass. In order to be certified, the rookie driver must make a series of gradually increased speed runs. Trever's first pass was right on the 125 mph mark, just where he was supposed to be. The car was put right back into the

staging line for the next pass, a 150 mph blast. Again, Trever was real close at just a hair past the 150 point. Next, a quick break for lunch and cool down (for Trever and the car) and the car was put back in line for the required 175 mph run. Trever handily passed the 175 mark. He was qualified for his license and was given the go ahead to go for 200 mph if he felt ready.

Trever and Brian had decided that it would be best to “sneak” up on the double century mark. With this in mind, Trever made one more pass on Saturday afternoon and

upped his top speed thus far to 178 mph. Since the car was entered as a B/BGasAltered Coupe, and the record in this class was open, every pass Trever made set a record. Thus, when all left the track on Saturday evening, the record stood at 178.

Sunday was again beautiful, with clear skies and warm temps. Trever wasted no time in eclipsing his previous run, tripping the timers with a 183.00 mph pass. Again, the car was put back in line and Trever again pulled to the line and aimed the Firebird at the 200 mph mark. He got closer, at 188 and some change. One pass more and the

car hit another 188.00. At this point, it was determined that the “tune-up” on the Ben Herr built 383 small block Chevy was not set for 200. Trever was perfectly happy, however. He left the Ohio Mile on Sunday June 9th as the official record holder in the class. His name is listed only a few spaces from his Dad’s 200.7 record in the fuel class with the same car. It was definitely a high water mark for the next generation to seek out, not to mention a very suitable lead-in for the following Father's Day weekend. (Photos by Dawn Acton)

The final staging line is just behind the starting line.

Trever is all set for his maiden run down the Ohio Mile, a 9,000 foot former runway.

Brian demonstrates the parachute packing process, an important step.

SUMMER 2013 11

Engine Challenge Winners And The Dyno Challenge Winners

2013 Car Show Events

2013 Car Show Events

Dyno Challenge WinnersThe Dyno Challenge was popular again this year with both Friday and Saturday slots filled. The event is open to stock and

modified cars and trucks and measures the rear wheel horsepower and torque. The Dyno Challenge sign-up fees and the registration fees for all the food concessioners directly benefit the Lane Automotive Relay for Life fund raising drive. Every-one had a good time checking out what their car could pull!

Hot Rodders Of Tomorrow Engine Challenge

The Engine Challenge was won by Team Edelbrock the Elkhart Area Career Center Team 1! The events really showcased the hard work and determination of the teams. Congratulations to all of the teams! You are all winners with the knowledge you have gained.

Rank School Time Sponsor1 Elkhart Area Career Team #1 29:39 Edelbrock2 Glenbrook North HS Team #1 31:17 DEI3 Lakeshore High School 33:01 Derale4 Sequoyah High School 35:12 Allstar5 Elkhart Area Career Team #2 38:04 Autometer6 Dowagiac Union HS 49:49 Fel-Pro7 Glenbrook North HS Team #2 50:12 C-Tek8 Coloma High School 58:24 Be-Cool

Mike Roy - Power Adder Car Class Dyno Challenge Winner540 C.I.D. Turbocharged, 1543 HP, 1094 Ft./Lbs. Torque

Joe Dietrich - Naturally Aspirated Car Class Dyno Challenge Winner511 C.I.D. Hemi, 507 HP, 484 Ft./Lbs. Torque

Elkhart Area Career Team #1 Elkhart Area Career Team #2

Glenbrook North HS Team #1 Dowagiac Union HS

#1 #5

#2 #6

Lakeshore High School Glenbrook North HS Team #2

Sequoyah High School Coloma High School

#3 #7

#4 #8

$19.95

8300 Lane Drive Watervliet, MI 49098Phone Toll Free Fax 800-772-2618

New 2013 Lionel NASCAR Arriving DailyNew 2013 Lionel NASCAR Arriving Daily

LIMITED QUANTITIESLIMITED QUANTITIES

$19.95$9.99$9.99

For those who missed our 25th Annual Lane Automotive Car Show this year, there is still a chance to acquire one of those nifty silver 25th anniversary ‘70 Z/28 Camaros from Green Light. We have limited quantities of the car, available in two versions: standard #WCCGL50956 and as Green Machines with green wheels and base #WCCGL50956G.