October 2004

This Month
October 2004
- Help Hovander
- Track Days Done for 2004
- Shelby de Mexico
Next Meeting:
Sunday Oct. 19, 6:00pm
Denny’s
(Wilsonville)
Ownership not essential, Enthusiasm is!!
Just as some people only believe that there were Twister Stangs only, there also was Twister Torinos. Ford did some
odd stuff, never rule out what they might have done, they also built a 71 Boss 302 Stang. : I must admit that I
personally had given up on the Shelby Maverick story. I mean, if there were any, how come there didn't seem to be
any hard evidence. I determined last week to find it, if it existed and sent off a flurry of emails to all the "big names"
in Shelby related companies and clubs. The big payoff finally came from Rick Kopec, author of the Shelby Register,
among other things, and a national director of the Shelby American Automobile Club (THE Shelby club-SAAC). As
he mentions in his letter, more info is on the way. I will try to forward the pictures to Stephen to post (in an archive
arrangement perhaps, Stephan?) and will add the articles to the board when they arrive by snail mail. By the way,
the Mr. Velazquez referred to in Rick's letter is the now deceased past president of Shelby de Mexico. One last
thing before I add the text of Rick's letter. Don't be to excited about the Shelby Maverick pictures (other thatn for
their value as proof)...the car looks like a Grabber with a Comet grille. Enjoy the news from Rick;
John: When I first responded to your email I knew I had some info and that we had published an article in the club
magazine about Shelby de Mexico cars. But in re-reading the article we did not include any info or photos on the
Maverick cars. Now the good news: I have three photos of the car on display at the Mexico Automobile Show in
1971. In the letter Eduardo Velazquez sent me, he said approx. 300 of these Maverick conversions were made. I'm
sending you via mail the chapter on Shelby de Mexico Mustangs that is in the Shelby American World Registry. And
I've asked Howard Pardee to send you a photocopy of the article on these cars that was printed in the club magazine back in 1988. These two articles comprise everything we know about these cars. I have no idea where to point
you in Mexico for the information you are looking for. With Eduardo gone, I couldn't even begin to suggest anyone.
Best of luck. --Rick Kopec
That's it for now folks, but at least now the mystery is solved. --John B. (of the maverick website)
pictures and article courtesy http://www.maverick.to/shelby.html
Coupes, Mavericks and Banditos
Coupes, Mavericks and Banditos
For information about
SAAC NW
Ed
or it’s activities, call or email
any officer:
President
Gary Kelley
541 382-0281
Vice President
Dan Patching
541 317-5678
Secretary
Paul Blanchard
503 657-9273
Treasurer
Ann Clack
503 656-3891
[email protected]
Newsletter Editor
Brent Soo Hoo
503 323-5826
[email protected]
Webmaster
Tim Grubb
360 518-1447
[email protected]
MHRC Rep
Ray Clack
503 656-3891
Asst. MHRC Rep.
Paul Blanchard
503 657-9273
SAAC National Rep.
Fred Gehring
503 657-5595
Track Steward
Brent Passmore
[email protected]
Asst. Track Steward
Brian Bogdon
360 425-4017
Picture
it
or
’s
Op
Brent
Soo Hoo
Email: [email protected]
From the Driver’s Seat
Sorry I missed Track Day, out of town on business in San Diego.
I actually got lucky and was in SD for Fleet Week, which included their 3rd annual Historic Races sponsored by Chrysler and
held at the Coronado Island Naval Air Station. They raced on the
runways. I give it a lower rating than our own Portland Historics
as there were fewer of the big name Trans Am cars there (no Dan
Gurney/Swede Savage AAR Cudas, only a couple Boss 302s). I
went over to see their collector car corrals. Hoping to see some
Shelbys and real Cobras. Only one real Cobra, popular Hank
Williams showed up in his original survivor Cobra. I said hello.
Not many Shelby Mustangs, only about 4-6. No real 1967 Shelby
Mustangs at all. Loads of Tigers. 4-5 Panteras. Gotta love it
when the sharks come out. It was hot, loud and of course I loved
it.
SAAC Northwest Express is a
monthly newsletter of Shelby
American Automobile Cub
Northwest, a regional club
formed in 1978 for the
purpose of preserving &
enjoying Shelby and other
Ford/Mercury Performance
cars.
Web page address/emails:
http://www.saacnw.org/
“You can do WHAT?”
2
Word is that we came up a couple cars short at the Oct. 2004 track
day. There was a vote taken of the SAACNW Exec. Board as to
whether or not we should do the Oct. 2004 track day. I voted no.
If we don’t have enough cars, it’s a money losing proposition.
But, I guess I was outvoted. So we lost some money, a couple/
few hundred dollars. So overall, we’re down something like
$1800 for this year’s track events. We have got to seriously think
about this. Again I must ask the question, are three track days
TOO MUCH??? Think about it. Ask your leaders about it. Can
we afford to lose much more money in 2005? I’m not against
track days, I’m anti money losing. Let’s all think about some
alternative money making events.
--Brent
Keith Canutt - Restoration of your early Mustang. Rusty
floor repair or replacement. Suspension upgrades and
rebuilding. Total restoration, modification and upgrades
including 5 speed conversions. “Horse shoe Rustorations”
(503) 598-8675
Edward Neiger - Professional certified welder. Mig, Tig &
Stick. Aluminum, Stainless and mild steel. No job too small.
(503) 481-9164 Lives in Gresham.
Bob Parker - An expert at Photography & has volunteered to
take excellent photos of your car. You cover the cost of film
and processing. Contact him at the next meeting.
Cary Gressinger - Owner of C&G Automotive Inc.. Has
been building quality Cobra Replicas, servicing and restoring
original Cobras for the past 10 years. C&G has just started
to produce their own replicas and chassis utilizing 5.0
Mustang components.
(503) 678-1115
Russ Schulte - This gentleman is a master sheet metal man.
For aluminum work, sheet metal etc. Call Russ.
(541) 451-3655
James Boscole - Structural fiberglassing. You know, let’s
take out the shake. Don’t call me for gel coat issues. Also
graphic design projects and website design.
(503) 625-7650
Mark Folden - Classic Auto & Appraisal. Serving all your
appraisal needs including market, loan, insurance, replacement, and diminished value reports. All appraisal reports are
done in strict compliance with the Uniform Standards of
Professional Appraisal Practice and American Society of
Appraisers.
(360) 807-8324
Jeff Sanders - Manual Transmission specialist. BorgWarner T5 expert, some “Ford” units available outright.
Rebuilding or Updates available. Intimately familiar with
Toploaders, T10’s, Muncie’s ack!! Will do some automatics
as well. (503) 625-2708 or (503) 936-1538
Dennis Turk - ‘65-’67 Mustang 4-piston disc brake caliper
rebuilds. I use custom CNC manufactured 316SS pistons,
new boots & seals, new bleeder valves and new stainless
steel cross-over lines. Will also rebuild ‘64 1/2 - ‘66 disc
brake proportioning valves with stainless steel sleeves.
Call Dennis or Mark (503) 681-3093
Discounts
Note: Businesses require phoning
ahead and proof of membership in
SAAC NW to get a discount. Take
your club membership card with you
when visiting these vendors.
Tom Jones Motorcars
Contact: Tom Jones, 2820 W. Highland Ave., Redmond, OR 97756. (541)
548-0633. Email:
[email protected] 10% discount on custom & mustang parts.
Hillyer’s Mid-City Ford
Contact: Dennis or Craig, 3000
Newberg Hwy W, Woodburn, OR
97XXX. (503) 981-4747. 10% discount
on parts only.
Schnell Automotive & Supply
Contact: Tim Schnell. 1506 NE
Lombard, Portland, OR 97211. (503)
285-3567 or (503) 285-2951. Discount
varies on all services and parts. Also
full machine shop.
C&G Automotive, Inc.
Contact: Cary Gressinger. 22015
Airport Rd., Aurora, OR 97002. (503)
678-1115. 15% discount on parts and
service.
R&S Classic Mustang Supply
Contact: Ray Mason. 250 Queen SE,
Albany, OR 97XXX. (541) 926-5383.
10% discount on parts and service.
Engine Parts Distributing, Inc.
Contact: Pete Agalzoff. 6635 N.
Baltimore, Portland, OR 97203. (800)
289-3373 or (503) 289-3373. 20%
discount on engine kits and jobber
Rose City Mustang LTD.
Contact: Bill Kubeck.
521 NE 74th Ave., Portland, OR 97213.
(503) 243-1938. 10% discount on all
parts new & used excluding special
order items.
15
Landmark Ford
Contact: Art Fitch
12000 SW 66th Ave., Tigard, OR 97223
(503) 639-1131. Discount varies on
FRPP and parts.
The true story of Shelby de Mexico by Eduardo Velazquez (Cont. from p. 13)
Galaxie to a Continental Mark II, which included oval opera windows in the sides of the roof,
tire hump on the trunk lid and a special grille and ornaments. This conversion was so successful
that I later discovered several coach builders in the United States had copied it. It also brought
me the anger of Ford Sales Manager Mr. Royal Kelly, who accused me of making ´bastard
Continentals´. He ordered me to cease production and in 1973 we did. Nevertheless, the image
of the Galaxie in Mexico benefited immensely by our car´s change in looks and increased
prestige, and the main benefactor was Ford Motor Company, S.A.
My favorite car of them all is the 1969 Shelby de Mexico GT350. I currently own three. One
has a Cobra 289 racing engine which I bought from Shelby American; one has the 377 cubicinch experimental racing engine which I kept from the racing car, and the third has a 302
engine which has been built up with all the special parts we installed back in those days. They
all have special suspensions and are the light body versions made in Mexico by Ford. They
weigh less than a standard Mustang and because of this they handle exceptionally well.
I have had some fast cars in my life and some luxurious cars. I consider myself a good driver
but I doubt if Carroll would agree with that opinion. After having dinner with him at his house
one evening in 1969, Scott Carpenter loaned me his 427 Cobra and I lent him my 1969 GT350
Shelby de Mexico. I had wanted Scott´s opinion on how the GT350 drove. We were to meet
again the next day for lunch. When I arrived I could not find the words to explain how I had
smashed the rear fender of Scott´s Cobra while backing up to park it. Even if I could have
found the words I doubt if anyone would have believed me.
But the past is the past. To this day, my generous friend Carroll Shelby continues to lend me
cars when I visit the Los Angeles area. I usually get the fastest Shelby Charger turbo he has and
it comes with his advice to ´drive the car, have fun, and don´t let the car drive you.´ I take his
advice and have, on occasion, been stopped by the Los Angeles police but I am always able to
explain my way out of any trouble. Maybe that´s because they see Carroll´s name on the
registration. I have not visited Carroll´s house lately, but from what I hear it looks like an annex
of the Swedish Embassy in Los Angeles. Some things, they never change.
September Meeting Minutes
Minutes of the SAAC NW meeting 19 September 2004
President’s Report
President Gary Kelley brought the meeting to order at 6:00 P.M. Gary asked the club
Secretary Paul Blanchard to read the minutes of the 15 August 2004 meeting. After
the minutes were read Gary mentioned that we had some members present at
tonight’s meeting that aren’t normally accustomed to attending, Jack and Jan Walls
and Brian Martin. Gary wanted to thank everyone that showed up for the car show at
the Swap Meet in Redmond. Gary mentioned that tonight is the night we accept
nominations for new officers, any current member that has an interest in running for
an office, please submit your name for addition to our list.
Secretary’s Report
Paul Blanchard read the minutes and then asked if there were any additions or corrections to the August meeting minutes as read. There weren’t any, the minutes stand
as read.
Vice President’s Report
Dan Patching thanked everyone who attended the Tom Jones barbecue after the
Swap Meet in Redmond, was a good turnout of about 25 or 30 cars. They had an
opportunity to tour Tom’s shop saw Tom’s Pantera and some project Trans-Am cars.
Hopefully, weather permitting, more cars can attend next year. Dan said that he is
planning on attending the Wild Horse Casino show in Pendleton on Saturday October
9th and then attending the Mary Hill Loops Hill Climb on Sunday October 10th. Dan
invited anyone that has an interest in going to Pendleton to join in on the fun!
Treasurer’s Report
Ann Clack received a notice in the mail asking us to renew our domain name for five
years, Dan Patching made the motion that we renew for five years, seconded by
Brian Bogdon. A vote was taken motion passed.
Ann gave the beginning and ending monthly balance. Brian Bogdon gave us a listing
showing a breakdown of Track Day expenses. Ann gave us a listing of our expenses
as well as income. Our balance is reconciled with the September Bank Statement.
See article/photo credits on centerfold page
14
3
The true story of Shelby de Mexico by Eduardo Velazquez (Cont. from p. 12)
September Meeting Minutes -cont. from pg.3
National SAAC Rep
Fred Gehring talked about a scam taking place with regard to an oversees individual
who is trying to leverage a $3,000 down payment via Western Union for the sale of
an original concourse Cobra he has for sale on E-bay. Fred brought in photos and a
copy of the E-bay bid listing for members to view.
Fred said that it was only on for 3 hours before E-bay pulled the listing, all members
are advised to not send cash via Western Union, ever.
Fred mentioned that Dr. Mark Hovander is looking for NOS parts to put his 1965
Shelby GT-350 back together for a 100 point restoration. Fred sent a wish list around
from Mark for all members to peruse to see if they have any NOS parts available to
help out with the restoration of his 1965 Shelby.
Newsletter Editor
Brent asked about the 1968 Shelby GT-350 convertible that was at our September
track day, would like to get in touch with him to write an article for our newsletter.
Brian Bogdon had the information for Brent. Dave Lennartz rode with the driver of the
car, which in years past was a class winner at the Mustang meet in Belview Washington, said that the experience of riding in a top down convertible with a great exhaust
note was quite an experience.
SAAC NW Webmaster
Tim Grubb said that he is working on our home page, said that there are still some
items that are getting lost, he has no idea where the information is going is still working on streamlining the process for the membership form.
MHRC Report
Paul Blanchard as alternate rep gave the report for Ray Clack who was at the stage
production of Miss Saigon at the time of the MHRC meeting. Big Don Van Dinter
gave the PRS report, said that we are still looking for a primary sponsor, the art work
is also being worked on. Don also commented on the passing of Hugh Wedekind
who was a long time MHRC member and a friend to many in Shelby American Northwest. Hugh and his wife Lael were the ones that put on the all Ford Show in
Hillsboro, one that was attended every year by members of Shelby American. A
4
gious racing event in Mexico (prior to the Mexico City Grand Prix). This race was of particular
difficulty because of the narrow, winding roads between Mexico City and Cuernavaca. We took
First Place. We also placed first at the Valle de Bravo-Bosencheve Road Race, the Leon
Guanajuato track, the Guadalajara circuit and the Acapulco Road Race. Our driver was Juan
Emilio ´Oso´ Proal and our chief mechanic and engineer was Alfredo ´The Wizard´ Tame Badia.
Carroll Shelby and Siffrein ´Zeb´ Vass honored us by attending several races. Zeb, who was the
comptroller of the Ford Division in Detroit, was appointed in 1967 by Henry Ford II to be
President of Ford Motor Company, S.A. - Mexico. Zeb attended most of our races after that,
including the one that was the farthest away from Mexico City - Acapulco. We celebrated after
every victory - and there were lots of celebrations! Besides campaigning the 1969 ´Libre´ car in
1970, we prepared and raced a 1970 stock 351 cubic-inch L.P.O. Mustang. This car finished 1st
18 times in 23 races held in Mexico that year. The most notable wins were at the Monterrey race
track, the Veracruz Circuit, the Guadalajara Circuit, the Valle de Bravo and Mexico Cuernavaca
Road Races and the Mexico City Race Track. This car was driven by Guillermo ´Memo´ Rojas
and the chief mechanic, responsible for its reliability record, was Manuel San Emeterio. By this
time Zeb Vass was President of Ford in Mexico and he had become one of my dearest and
closest friends. I think I will always remember and appreciate the fact that it was Carroll Shelby
who first introduced us. Zeb was an inspiration as important to me as Carroll, both in business as
well as outside of it. He was a very serious and scientific man in business, and much to my
delight and amusement, was a very serious girl chaser. When he saw one that filled his eyes with
a lust for life he would say, ´I deal from strength.´
I would also like to acknowledge the help, advice and good will given to me by Phil Remington
and Al Dowd who, even though working 18-hour days in Shelby´s racing program, always
found the time to help us by supplying drawings, parts and advice. Their assistance helped make
our cars finish, and races are won at the finish line. 1 would also like to acknowledge the assistance given to me by my good friend Lew Spencer, a man I very much admire as Carroll´s loyal
friend and right hand.
By the end of 1971 my involvement in automotive activities with Carroll Shelby ended, since
Carroll had stopped manufacturing cars and parts. Also, the philosophy of the Big Three
automakers in the U.S. had changed and they had decided to get out of racing (publicly, at least).
This course of action changed racing very much in Mexico and we decided that this would be a
good time for us to get out of the ebbing racing scene. We took a 180-degree turn and concentrated on luxury automobiles. Our most successful model was the conversion of a 1972 Ford
13
The true story of Shelby de Mexico by Eduardo Velazquez (Cont. from p. 11)
The concept of ´Win on Sunday - Sell on Monday´ was not lost on us. We started selling
Shelby and Cobra parts in 1965 and we began racing a Shelby-equipped Mustang at that same
time. Our first race car was the 1965 Mustang notchback that had been specially prepared at
Hi-Performance Motors in Los Angeles. In the second half of the 1966 season we won the
Mexico-Toluca Road Race and two events at the Mexico City Race Track. Our victories in
1967 and 1968 included several events at Guadalajara, Leon, Acapulco and Veracruz. Our
driver was Carlos ´C.S.´ Sales who also won the Mexican Rally Championship two years in a
row as well as the Costa Rica-Mexico Rally. Our chief engineer was Leopoldo Sales and he
was able to coax 350 horsepower out of our 289 cubic-inch race engines.
In 1967 we also campaigned a 1967 GT350 Shelby de Mexico on the drag strip. Modifications
to this car included a complete fiberglass front end and hood, fiberglass rear deck lid and
quarter panels. The engine was prepared by Shelby Racing, Inc. and employed a Paxton supercharger. This car won practically every drag race it was entered in. In fact, sometimes we were
forced not to race the car in order to encourage the competition. When they saw us show up
they packed up and went home. This car had a 390 H.P. 302 engine and was driven by Enrique
Estrop and was maintained by him in his excellent shop, Refaccionaria Enrique, S.A.
By the end of 1968 we had gained enough racing experience to build a more drastic, faster and
lighter race car. To this end we took one of the first 1969 Mustang notchbacks produced in
Mexico and reproduced most of the body skin in thin glass. The hood, fenders, doors, rear
quarter panels, deck lid and tail were all fiberglass. We designed the roll bar as an integral
chassis member which helped to stiffen the entire car. It went from the front to the rear and we
had to extend the roof at the back corners to cover the sections of the roll bar which dropped
down to meet the frame. This change made the car better looking and distinguished it as a
totally unique Mustang. Weight was taken out of every part.
With the help of Carroll Shelby, I was able to buy an experimental 377 cubic-inch engine made
by Ford for racing. It was kept very hush-hush. This engine was dimensionally the size of a 302
but it was much lighter. It incorporated Gurney-Weslake aluminum heads and Weber carburetors; it produced 450 horsepower and would run all day at 7000 RPM. The brakes had special
ducting to cool them and the entire engine compartment had ducting for the hot air to escape.
This car was capable of 270 KPH.
During that time there was a special, all-out racing class, ´Libre´, which permitted every possible modification to a production car. We built this particular GT350 race car for this purpose
and with it we totally dominated high speed road racing in Mexico. We won the most presti-
12
September Meeting Minutes -cont. from pg.4
motion was made by big Don Van Dinter and seconded by Mike Itel that we establish
a Hugh Wedekind memorial award for the best Ford at the Portland Roadster Show.
The award would be presented by Lael Wedekind & his grand daughter at the show.
A roll call vote was taken, the motion passed unanimously. Marlene Miller sent an email to Lael asking for her acceptance of the award, she agreed, was honored to be
able to participate in a memorial to Hugh. President Doug Saunders is putting together criteria for the Portland Roadster Show Hall of Fame, in terms of what qualifications need to be met to qualify for a cars inclusion into the Hall of Fame.
Gary Kelley said that he was sorry to hear of the passing of Hugh Wedekind, felt that
a sympathy card would be in order from the club.
Track Steward’s Report
Brent Passmore talked about the just completed Track Day. Brent said that we received short notice from PIR that we were going to be in the Pro Pits due to construction taking place at the South of the track. Consequently we didn’t have the headsets
set up like we normally do, and the first two sessions we had some anti-freeze and oil
down on the track, time was taken for clean up. With the late start we worked through
lunch to help all of the participants get their promised 4 sessions. Brent read a list of
names of members that helped at the track day, expressed his appreciation for all
who helped. Fred Gehring made the Suggestion that we give the Seble’s, Paul and
Ted an honorary membership to SAAC NW for all of their help at our track days. An
honorary membership would give them a monthly newsletter so that they would be
informed of our track days and all of the planning meetings for the track day as well.
Fred made a motion to grant Paul and Ted an honorary membership, seconded by
Brian Bogdon, a vote was taken, motion passed.
There were some concerns expressed with regard to passing and cars starting out
onto the track, more discussion to follow, we will have procedure established for the
October 4th Track Day.
Old Business
Fred Gehring said that his wife Gayle sent a letter to Sandy Bauer of the Portland
Historics, with want needs and wishes about the Car Corral being held in the infield.
She mentioned that we weren’t happy about being land locked with no ability to cross
the track with our cars while the races were underway. Vintage drivers weren’t able to
visit us between races, that was an important item in the past for the drivers of vin-
5
September Meeting Minutes -cont. from pg.5
The true story of Shelby de Mexico by Eduardo Velazquez (Cont. from p. 10)
tage cars to be able to interact with car corral club members. There was concern on
With so many different personalities, the trip was as entertaining as it was successful. Most of
the part of many club participants that the parade laps were too slow, many of the
the daylight hours were taken up by skindiving and exploring coral reefs. We dove on the
vintage cars are able to safely go much faster, important so that the big block cars
sunken Spanish Galeon ´Matancero´ and found a number of gold crosses, one medal, a gold
don’t overheat. Another criticism centered around the Auto Cross, for older cars the
coin and a few other lesser items. We ate fish we caught and in the afternoons and evenings we
gates were too close together not allowing the vintage cars enough room for turning, it divided into groups, some of which were serious and scientific and others which were unscienwas suggested that they have two classes for the Auto Cross, one for vintage cars and tific but nonetheless serious.
one for modern cars. Another criticism is our club choice award for the last couple of
years has been mis-spelled, it says Shelby America instead of Shelby American Car
Female tourists and local girls quickly became aware of our group. Everyone wondered how
Club.
Carroll could maintain his pace of diving and swimming all day and dancing all night. A couple
Fred brought flyers for the Mary Hill, hill climb coming up soon. Brian Bogdon talked
of the newest guests did some first-hand physical investigating in this area. Their results and
about the SEMA show coming up in Las Vegas Nevada November 2nd through the 5th.
findings went unpublished but their smiles gave them away. Their skimpy bikinis proved not to
Brian mentioned that Ford Motor Co. will be the featured manufacturer again this year. be offensive to the eyes, either.
Brent Soo Hoo, to a round of applause, told us that his Shelby is in the paint shop!
Dan Jones talked about the Cruise-In at the park in Lake Oswego, Dan said that he
The visits to the ruins were interesting and educational. Our group received an extensive tour of
was there along with Fred and Gayle Gehring and Brian Martin. Mustang Wranglers
the ruins and of the Sacred Cenote (Natural Well). While visiting a cenote in the middle of the
made an appearance all parked together along with Dennis Turk of our club. Fred said jungle we saw a manatee which was such an unexpected surprise that no one thought to take a
that Bob Ames brought his 1964 250 LM Ferarri Spyder to the show, there was an
picture of it. Thus ended eight of the most interesting and fun-filled days of my life. Carroll had
Auburn boat tailed Speedster present as well. A lot of nice concourse quality cars in
a natural talent for mixing and entertaining a variety of people and the outcome was most
attendance, a show for club participation next year.
enjoyable as well as rewarding.
Brian Bogdon commented on the All British Field Meet held at PIR over the Labor Day
weekend another awesome show.
The following years, 1967, 1968 and 1969, I became involved in a number of projects with
Carroll. We converted the ordinary Mustang notchback, which was the only model produced in
New Business
Mexico, into the special GT350 Shelby de Mexico. We added Koni shock absorbers, stiffer
springs, aluminum wheels, performance tires, exhaust headers, fiberglass hood and trunk deck
Gary Kelley opened the floor for nominations for officers for 2005.
lid with spoiler, ´65 Thunderbird taillights and GT350 rocker panel stripes. Engines were
modified with high performance cam and lifters, aluminum hi-rise intake manifold with Holley
President
Vice President
carburetor and a Cobra aluminum air cleaner. Interiors received tachometer, Shelby steering
1. Dan Jones
1. Ken Walker
wheel and GT350 dash emblems. The cars were built in a variety of colors were instantly
2. Dave Lennartz
2. Dan Patching
successful in Mexico. In 1967 we produced 169 cars. Production in 1968 was 203 units and 306
3. Don Knapp
units were built in 1969.
Secretary
1. Paul Blanchard
Treasurer
1. Ann Clack
2. Dave Lennartz
6
In 1972, the similarity of the notchback and fastback bodies allowed us to convert notchbacks
into fastbacks by using a fiberglass section which wrapped around the rear window and swept
back to the rear deck lid and rear fender edges. A special tray was used behind the rear seat
which conformed to the contours of this new body piece. This car was called the GT351 because it was powered by Ford´s 351 4V engine.
11
The true story of Shelby de Mexico by Eduardo Velazquez (Cont. from p. 9)
advice on how to best market the products.
After this conversation he said he would like to invite me to dinner at his house that evening. I
arrived at 7 o´clock and was met two beautiful Swedish senoritas who were living there. They
were students at UCLA and they kept house for Carroll and on occasion, prepared dinner. I
could not believe my eyes, but we finally sat down at the table to eat - by candle light - starting
off with a couple of Carroll´s Margaritas, followed by Swedish home-cooking mixed with
chili, wine, some whiskey and topped off with Drambuie and coffee.
During dinner Carroll told me that he wanted to fly to Cozumel Island with some friends to
skin dive the reefs of Palancar and visit the pyramids of Chichen Itza and Tulum. I responded
that it sounded like an excellent idea and that I would be honored to be his host while he was
in Mexico. His list of friends included Aurora VII Astronaut Scott Carpenter and his wife,
Rene; Andreas Rechnitzer, Oceanographic Chief for North American Aviation; Chuck Nicklin
of the Diving Locker in San Diego; Ralph Iseman of Human Research Worldwide; Charles
Aquadro of Marineland in Hawaii; Taylor Prior, head of oceanography for the U.S. Government; Peter Gimbel of New York, best known for the photographs he took of the sunken ship,
the Andrea Doria; Barry Galloway, Shelby American´s comptroller and financial wizard who
was to coordinate everything. The date was set for March 3rd and the guests were to fly to
Mexico City in Carroll´s private DC-3. There, everybody was to meet Shelby who would be
arriving from Paris that evening.
Thanks to the President of Mexico, Adolfo Lopez Mateos, and my father, Agustin Velazquez
Chavez, we were able to use the President´s house in Cozumel which was equipped with
superb facilities which included a complete cooking staff. Don Pablo Bush Romero, a Ford
dealership owner and President of the Acquatic Exploration Club of Mexico, also joined us as
Guest of Honor. By now, Carroll´s ´little party´ had evolved into nothing short of a full fledged
expedition.
The party was joined by Southern California sports car racer and Volkswagen dealer Johnnie
Von Neumann who arrived in his Lear Jet with former racer Warren Rose, a friend and neighbor of Carroll´s. Rose ran a strong second to Carroll in a competition of chasing girls. Warren
was the one whose company did all of the castings for Shelby´s wheels in his Buena Park
foundry. At that time he owned a 427 Cobra which, to this day he regrets ever having to sell
due to divorce. What he does not regret, however, is finishing second to Carroll for the affections of a lady Carroll sometimes regrets having won.
10
SAACNW 2004 Events Calendar
SAAC NW Event Calendar for 2004 (A starting point, more events to be added as we go - editor)
Date(s)
Event
Participation Level—
Club
Individual
10/23-24/04 SAAC-NorCal Fall Classic @ Thunderhill (Willows, CA)
11/20-21/2004 NW Performance and Custom Show (Portland Expo Center, OR)
12/11/04
SAAC-NW Christmas Banquet (Heidi’s Restaurant, Gresham, OR)
X
X
X
CLASSIFIED AD:
64 1/2 Mustang Convertible, "D" Code Engine, Power Top, Prairie Bronze, Excellent Condition..$19,500 Call (503) 452-2976 John Clarenbach (Eugene, OR)
September Meeting Minutes -cont. from pg.6
National SAAC Rep
1. Fred Gehring
Newsletter editor
1. Brent Soo Hoo
The Track Steward positions are held by Brent Passmore and Brian Bogdon as per
prior agreement from active voting club members to help our Track Days run more
smoothly.
In Closing
There were a lot of neat raffle prizes given away including several Bobble Head dolls
of Ford Nascar drivers brought in by Ken Walker.
Dave Lennartz brought in a framed and mounted magazine article on his car it was
very nicely done. It was mounted on a durable wood board, Dave was wondering if
there was anyone locally that did this type of work since it was done for him by a
company in Florida. Several suggestions were given, including club member James
Boscole.
Meeting adjourned.
Respectfully submitted: Paul R. Blanchard, Secretary
7
Help needed with parts for Mark
Hovander’s 1965 Shelby 5S284
Restoration
NOS interior rearview mirror
article courtesy of http://www.maverick.to/np-foreignmav4.shtml
NOS or excellent condition original ashtray
Glove box door liner
Exterior:
Talbot Jr. Mirror (not W. Berlin)
NOS Emergency Brake handle
The true story of Shelby de Mexico
by Eduardo Velazquez
Engine Compartment:
42mm chokes for Weber 48-IDA’s
I first was involved with Carroll Shelby in February of 1965. I was then an automobile parts
distributor in Mexico and I knew of the high quality and improved performance that Shelby´s
NOS 1965 lower grill molding
Cobra parts could provide for a Mustang. In Mexico, Mustangs had begun to be manufactured
Hipo 289 Main Bearing Caps
by Ford´s Mexican operation, Ford Motor Company, S.A.. Because of import restrictions only
Ford rubber weather stripping, except rear
3/65 dated Mustang Radiator – California, 4- the base notchback model was produced - but there were still many parts that could be sold for
window WS
speed
these cars, including special tires, shock absorbers and suspension components; engine parts
Quarter panel rubber drain plugs
like camshafts, pistons, manifolds and carburetors; and tachometers and steering wheels for the
Original PCV tube/PCV valve
cockpit.
Chassis/Suspension:
715 carb studs/nuts
NOS Emergency Brake Cables to rear end
I started dealing with Shelby American´s Parts Manager, Timothy Foraker. Tim had the task of
Oil pressure sending unit
selling and distributing Shelby and Cobra parts to Ford dealers in the U.S.A. and it was his
NOS Front lower control arms
responsibility to see that everything went smoothly. Since I was applying for the distributorship
If you have any of these parts or
for all of Mexico, the proposition was attractive to him. After one year of distributing Cobra
Fuel/Brake/Electrical:
may have a lead, I would really
parts I became the largest single customer for Shelby American´s parts and accessories. My
SW 240A fuel pump
appreciate your help! Thanks
company was able to remain so throughout 1966, 1967, 1968 and 1969. In January of 1966, in
Rebuild kit for SW 240A fuel pump
order to have a special Mustang for demonstration, racing and sales promotion, I took a 1965
Mark Hovander
Mustang Hi-Performance notchback to Carroll Shelby and Lew Spencer´s Hi-Performance
R-model fuel pressure gauge
University Vision Clinic
Motors in Los Angeles where the car was equipped with every possible special racing part that
Worn out/used original 24F Autolite battery NOT 4115 University Way N.E.
could be installed. Tim Foraker again helped me with the parts selection for this car. I left the
Seattle, WA 98105
reverse post, mid 1960’s or ???
car in Shelby American´s hands and when 1 returned one month later I had the privilege of
Work: 206-633-2000
meeting Mr. Carroll Shelby.
FAX: 206-633-4857
Interior:
Email: [email protected]
Nice sun visors, color?
I met with Carroll in his office. The very first thing I took note of was his beautiful secretary
who invited me to wait for him in the outer office. Although 1 was especially eager to meet him,
Nice pair of front seats with original upholstery,
the wait was worth its while, with such an attractive woman to look at. I recall that her name
color?
was Linda. Linda soon showed me into Carroll´s office and I was taken aback by its earthiness
NOS 4 speed shifter ball
and simplicity. It was an extension of Carroll´s personality and intelligence. We became friends
immediately and we had a long conversation. Carroll was very interested in learning how we
Original Tach/Oil pressure pod
distributed parts to the Ford dealers in Mexico; what our terms were, our shipping policies, how
NOS kick panels, any color or nice originals
we approached the individual parts managers to convince them of the value of carrying the
products and even what the most popular parts were. Carroll also provided me with valuable
NOS side seat shields
NOS 1965 Grill
8
9
Collectible/performance cars owned—please indicate year, model, color, and special features.
SAAC Northwest
SAAC Northwest (Shelby American Automobile Club Northwest Region) is a regional club
formed in 1978 for the purpose of preserving and enjoying Shelby and other Ford and Mercury
performance cars.
Club meetings are scheduled for the 3rd Sunday of each month, 6 p.m. Denny’s Restaurant
of Wilsonville, OR. From I-5 take Exit 283 Turn east; turn right on SW Parkway. Guests and
visitors are always welcome!
Dues are $20 per year (pro-rated quarterly for new members joining throughout the year).
Bring your dues to the next meeting, or mail to, Treasurer, SAAC Northwest, P.O. Box 242,
Oregon City, OR 97045 (Make Checks payable to “SAAC Northwest”, please)
Membership benefits include a monthly newsletter, eligibility to run during the SAAC Northwest track days, club discounts from numerous parts suppliers , and opportunities to participate in
car shows and other club activities like tours, picnics, car corrals, etc.
Please note: To take advantage of member rates at Track Events, you must be a member at
least two weeks before the event!
For more information about SAAC NW or its activities, call
any officer.
2004 SAAC Northwest Officers
President:
Vice-President:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
SAAC National Rep.:
Newsletter Editor:
Webmaster
Open Track Steward
Asst. Open Track Steward
MHRC Representative:
Asst. MHRC Rep:
Gary Kelley
Dan Patching
Paul Blanchard
Ann Clack
Fred Gehring
Brent Soo Hoo
Tim Grubb
Brent Passmore
Brian Bogdon
Ray Clack
Paul Blanchard
(541) 382-0281
(541) 317-5678
(503) 657-9273
(503) 656-3891
(503) 657-5595
(503) 323-5826
(360) 518-1447
(360) 636-7885
(360) 425-4017
(503) 656-3891
(503) 657-9273
SAAC NORTHWEST MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION AND INTEREST SURVEY
First and Last Name
Date
Spouse or Significant Other
Amount Paid
VIN/Serial Number:
1.______________________________________________________________________________________________
2.______________________________________________________________________________________________
3.______________________________________________________________________________________________
More: _________________________________________________________________________________________
Are you a member of the national Shelby American Auto Club? Circle one: YES / NO
What sort of events/tours are you interested in? Please specify.
What club events/tours did you participate in during 2003? Top 3 favorites?
What non-club events/tours did you participate in during 2003? Top 3 favorites?
What sort of items would you like to see in the newsletter? Please specify.
Are you interested in any long distance trips like SAAC National Convention, Mustang Celebration, Mustang Roundup, Hot August Nights, or similar events? Please specify.
Would you rather drive your car on tours/club events or show it in judged shows? Or both?
Are you interested in an 8-week wide spectrum technical “Ford” night or weekend class put on
by a reputable local speed shop? Would you be willing to pay a nominal fee to enroll in such a
class? How much would seem fair to pay? $80 or $160? What items would you expect to be
covered in such a class?
Address
City
Home Phone
State
Zip
Internet Address-
OWNERSHIP NOT ESSENTIAL~ENTHUSIASM IS
Shelby de Mexico History Picture
(Left to Right from top row)
1 - 1969 Shelby De Mexico GT350 Coupe AF07JU20068 (photo by Donald Farr/Tom
Corcoran/Mustang Monthly)
2 - 1970 Shelby De Mexico 351 Coupe - Shown in competition at Monterey, Mexico
was the 1970 351 Shelby de Mexico driven by Memo Rojas. Memo and his mechanic
would drive the car to the races, install race tires, tune it, race, and then drive back
home again! (Photo/Caption - Bob McClurg/E. Velazquez scrapbook)
3 - Although the first production Shelby de Mexico’s weren’t built until 1967, this car (a
1965 coupe prepared by Lew Spencer and Carroll Shelby’s High Performance Motors)
can technically be considered to be the first Shelby de Mexico. This car was driven to a
class win at the Mexico Toluca Road Race by driver Juan Emilio Proal. (Photo/CaptionBob McClurg/E. Velazquez scrapbook)
4 - 1972 Shelby de Mexico GT-351 Coupe - very little of the Shelby performance remained.
5 - 1967 Shelby de Mexico Coupe - When the first Shelby de Mexico was debuted in
1967, it bore a strange resemblance to another Shelby creation known as “Little Red.”
In truth that first Shelby de Mexico was constructed in L.A. at Shelby American as the
Mexican export prototype, and was built right alongside that now long-departed, historical red coupe. (Photo/Caption - Bob McClurg/E. Velazquez scrapbook)
6 - Shelby de Mexico display booth - Mexico Automobile Show in 1971. Long lost
photos from Rick Kopec and SAAC Archives.
7 - The father of Shelby de Mexico - Eduardo Velazquez
8 - 1971 Shelby de Mexico Maverick - Mexico Automobile Show in 1971. Long lost
photos from Rick Kopec and SAAC Archives. Proof that the Shelby de Mexico Maverick existed!
9 - Checkered skirt and 1971 Shelby de Mexico Maverick! Ole! - from same long lost
Kopec/SAAC photoset.
10 - 1969 Shelby de Mexico GT350 Coupe AF07JP26606 (photo by Tom Corcoran/
Mustang Monthly)
Article and Photo Sources:
http://www.maverick.to/shelby.html
http://www.maverick.to/np-foreignmav3.shtml
http://www.maverick.to/np-foreignmav4.shtml
http://www.hammar.dyndns.org/~mexmust/articles/i910252.htm
http://www.hammar.dyndns.org/~mexmust/articles/m88an79.htm
http://www.hammar.dyndns.org/~mexmust/articles/m900180.htm
http://www.darkhorseracing.net/mexican_71.htm