spring 2014 - Lane Automotive

The Parts You Need and the Service You Deserve!
Saved: One Ford “Model 40” 5-Window Coupe
Anyone who hung around the dirt and paved tracks after
World War II would agree that stock cars of the day were
based on coupes and sedans of the thirties and early forties.
Stripped to the bare essentials, these stock cars were basically bare bones bodies and chassis, augmented by interior
mounted roll bars, and “nerf” bars on front and sides. Hastily
cut down doors, open turrets and radically altered front
and rear stagger “added” to the race car appearance. By far,
the favorite body choices consisted of Ford coupes from
1932 through 1934, primarily because they were originally
equipped with V8’s, flatheads which responded quite
nicely to performance modifications. Once the useful race life
had come to a conclusion, the
remains of these cars took up a
final resting place behind local
auto repair shops, barns and junk
yards. For most, their lives were
over.
This is the story of one that
survived the
stock car wars
and escaped the
scrapper’s torch
to possibly await
restoration at the
hands of a master
metalsmith. Enter
Elkhart, Indiana’s
own Jim Mann,
BEFORE
an expert metal
shaper who possesses the tools, the knowledge and the
patience to tackle such a project, always with astounding
results. He brought the battered and forlorn ‘34 Ford coupe
back to hot rod perfection
No stranger to hot rod and race car fabrication, Jim has
restored countless race cars, including several high profile
Indy roadsters. The old #78 coupe, one of Jim’s latest successes, was a survivor of many hard fought laps at Crown
Point, Indiana. After checking the car out, Jim decided that
the rear half of the five-window body was salvageable, but
the front half was beyond saving. Jim located a ‘34 Ford four
door sedan body which donated its front half to complete
FEATURES:
The Spotlight ........................................... 1
Editor’s Notes .......................................... 2
New Allstar Products ................................ 3
By John McLellan
the body. The difference between the height of the coupe
doors and those of the sedan was overcome with a mild top
chop. As a fifties era hot rod, the coupe has perfect proportions.
Originally, Jim planned to build a “rat rod” but changed
his mind and created a coupe that exhibits 1950’s styling
and accessories. The engine, a 327 small block Chevy, is fitted with a pair of pre-1959 cylinder heads to accommodate
the beautiful and rare Wayne valve covers which have the
earlier, staggered bolt pattern. Jim has had the valve covers
for twenty or so years, but they were originally marketed as
a hot rod accessory in the midfifties. Equally scarce and valuable is the Nicson dual 2-bbl. intake manifold outfitted with two
2-bbl. carburetors topped by a
pair of Stelling & Helling chrome
air cleaners. The hot rod/race
effect is perfect, especially when
we consider the vintage HaliAFTER
brand magnesium
Indy car wheels,
Indy type tires,
and the sprint car
style torsion bars
which locate the
“banjo” style Ford
rear end.
The interior of
the coupe is pretty
spartan, but does
include some neat, historic touches. The old spiral cut-out
style steering wheel came from a boat, as did the steering
box itself. Instead of pointing downward, as it did on the
boat, the Pitman arm points up. Seating is handled by a pair
of early ‘50’s Chevy panel truck buckets and a vintage Jones
mechanical tachometer sits in the dash. Buick finned aluminum brake drums handle stopping and the finishing touch
to the body is the hand formed aluminum roll pan out back,
where the stock ‘34 Ford fuel tank was originally located.
It’s good to know that one of these battered and poorly
treated coupe bodies has been resurrected. Credit that to
Jim Mann and his superb metal working talents.
New Products ..................................4,5,6,7
Aftermarket News.................................... 8
Tech Forum .............................................. 9
Rodding Journal .....................................10
2014 Car Show Events .............................11
Lane Collectables ....................................12
SPRING 2014 1
RACING AND RODDING
SPRING 2014
&EJUPST/PUFT
We Prepare To Celebrate The “Big 5-0” #Z+PIO.D-FMMBO
Original customers of Lane Automotive will
recognize this photo. It was taken inside George
Lane's original speed shop, which occupied half
of his home garage. It was in 1964 and the Detroit
horsepower battle had reached fever pitch. There
were hemis, cammers and Z-motors coming off the
assembly lines and, while all were HOT right off the
showroom floor, everyone who held the keys to
one of these muscle bound monsters wanted HOTTER, then HOTTEST.
That's where Lane Automotive came into play.
George got connected to a ready, reliable source
of speed parts and hauled them back home to
line the shelves of his tiny shop. Every hot rodder
worth his salt can find something to drool over in
this photo, whether it's the "moon" tanks, the dual
quad manifold or the big tube, four bolt flanged
headers overhead.
Hard to believe that was over 50 years ago isn't
it? Hot rodding has grown, drag strips have flourished worldwide, circle track racing has reached
new highs and, in keeping with all this growth,
Lane Automotive has expanded to become one of
the premier speed equipment dealers in the world.
To call attention to the 50th anniversary, Lane
Automotive has commissioned speed equipment
manufacturers across the nation to customize a
brand new Ford Mustang by adding some of their
products to create a one-of-a-kind anniversary
symbol. Remember that the Mustang itself is also
celebrating its golden anniversary, right along with
Lane Automotive. The anniversary car is significantly painted a beautiful, bright gold color and
serves as a reminder of both milestones. The car is
currently on display in the foyer to the Lane showroom and will be making appearances throughout
the country this year.
George looking over his speed shop....
&EJUPST/PUFT
The 50th Anniversary Mustang
US 12 Speed & Custom
Scores Big At Autorama
Congratulations to the crew at US-12 Speed &
Custom for their fine job of recreating one of the
fiercest Ford drag cars of the mid-sixties, the Dick
Brannan 427 Falcon. The beautifully rendered 1964
Falcon tribute car is owned by long-time Lane
customer, Henry Braddock III.
The car took top honors in its class at this year's
Detroit Autorama where it debuted.
Henry Braddock's Brannan Falcon
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New Allstar Products
Dirt Skirtz
Minimize clay build up! Unique material is very flexible and virtually eliminates clay build up so there
is no more need to adjust set up for the added weight of clay. Install on the bottom side of dirt car deck
panels, choose width based on panel to cover, install supplied Velcro strips and attach Dirt Skirtz. To clean
(if necessary) simply un-Velcro and wash.
Pit Cart Chassis ALL10600
Universal kit is a good starting point for building your own custom pit cart. Welding is required and the
kit includes all the necessary components to get you off the ground with a rolling platform. Includes a
pre-welded front cross member, spindles, steering components, 1" x 2" steel frame tubing with main rails
drilled for rear axle, pre-welded rear axle assembly, wheels, tires and a handle.
Direct Fit Radiators
Aluminum direct fit radiators provide increased cooling over original copper radiator. Designed for performance vehicles, features include machined billet aluminum filler necks, fully
welded construction and two rows of large 1" tubes properly spaced for maximum airflow and
cooling on the street even at lower speeds. Built-in automatic transmission coolers have 1/4"
NPT fittings. Original equipment fan shrouds may require modification for installation.
Fuel Cell Cap And Bolt-In Bung Kits
Billet aluminum neck looks good and provides a positive seal. The filler neck
is raised to help prevent dirt and debris from falling into cell causing fuel system
contamination while the large opening helps when refueling. Kit includes mounting
hardware.
New Allstar Products
Canister Style Ignition Coil ALL81234
45,000 high volt, oil filled coil for electronic breakerless ignitions has low primary resistance and 112:1
turn ratio for improved throttle response and more power at higher rpms. Coil fits all standard O.E.M.
brackets or Allstar ALL81236 coil bracket. Black only.
Shock Protectors
Shock Protectors add extra protection from rocks and debris to your shock body. Plastic protector
simply snaps onto your shock body. May need to be cut to length.
Loading Couplers
Loading coupler is a combination u-joint and a non-locking steering coupler which slips over the
splined end of the steering shaft for easier loading and unloading of cars in enclosed trailers through
the use of a remote steering shaft. Coupler has a built-in u-joint that accepts 3/4" steering shaft or tubing.
Clutch Alignment Tools
Splined, high-impact plastic tools are helpful when aligning the clutch disc on the flywheel for
proper insertion of the transmission input shaft.
Leaf Spring U-Bolt ALL68344
Leaf spring u-bolt fits 3" axle tubes, has a 1/2" diameter and is 10" long. Heat treated steel bolt.
SPRING 2014 3
New Products
Rust Dissolver
When applied, removes rust down to the bare metal without harming the integrity of the metal. Use by immersing, brushing or running through a pump system.
Rust dissolver will continue to work until the rust is gone.
Encapsulator
High-solid, single component paint is specially formulated to permanently stop
corrosion. It bonds to bare or rusty metal for form a rock hard yet flexible, non-porous finish that won’t crack, peal, or chip. It works by isolating metal from oxygen
and moisture to keep rust in a suspended state unaffected by road salt, gasoline,
oils, battery acids, hydraulic fluids, solvents, chemicals or corrosives.
Metal Prep TXC46821
Removes contaminants from any metal surface in preparation before using any rust treatment
products. Removes brake fluid, grease, oil, wax, and other contaminates faster and easier than any
other non-chlorinated degreasers. 14 Oz. aerosol spray can.
Poly Wash TXC68692
Poly wash combines deep cleaning detergents with advanced polymer technology to leave a hard, shiny
thermoplastic coating that outlasts Carnauba wax based cleaners for a streak free deep glossy shine.
64 Oz. jug.
Pro Glo TXC99020
Get the best “mirror-like” finish and the hard protection of a synthetic polymer in an easy-to-useliquid polish. Long-lasting protection is safe on clear coat, chrome, aluminum and fiberglass finishes.
16 Oz. bottle.
New Products
SHX Shock Fluid
Utilizes next generation synthetic oil technology to provide consistent,
fade-free shock performance. It utilizes a proprietary additive package
that reduces seal drag, improves air-release during fluid handling and
maintains its viscosity under extreme heat and high loads. Outperforms conventional oils and delivers
outstanding performance in extreme environments like off-road trucks, UTVs, motorcycles, track day cars
and race vehicles. Recommended for all shock absorber applications.
Carb Defender Race Concentrate
The use of Ethanol in modern pump fuel increases the risk of carburetor fuel system corrosion. Ethanol is hygroscopic, so it absorbs moisture, causing corrosion in both the fuel system
and inside the engine. These problems are compounded by long term vehicle storage. Carb
Defender utilizes special corrosion inhibitors to prevent costly repairs and poor performance
caused by Ethanol blended gasoline and the moisture it attracts. 6 oz. treats 60 gallons.
Conventional HR 10W-40
Well suited for a variety of hot rods and vintage vehicles and is appropriate to use in any engine that
calls for a 10W-40 grade motor oil.Sorage protection additives guard against rust and corrosion during
winter storage. This oil is an excellent choice for muscle cars and rotary engines. Good for flat tappet, overhead and roller cam engines. No ZDDP or additives required. Viscosity typical of 10W-40.
accepts:
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New Products
Marine Clean
Cleans and degreases in one application without leaving residues, noxious fumes
or flammable solvents. Removes grease, oil mildew, algae, musty odors, soap films
and wax on vinyl, canvas, nylon, holding tanks, grease traps, auto parts and more.
Use before applying any rust preventive paint or coating.
Prep & Ready
Use Prep & Ready to guarantee the best paint adhesion on any metal and aluminum
surface, including polished aluminum. Etches surface and leaves a zinc phosphate coating
for application of POR-15 rust preventive paint.
POR-15 Super Starter Kit POR45009
Try it first! The super starter kit is an entire 3-step rust-stopping system. You’ll get a 4 oz. can
of POR-15 (12 sq. ft. coverage), half-pint of Marine Clean, half-pint of Prep & Ready, two wooden
handle paint brushes and a pair of special high-dexterity surgical latex gloves. Sold as a kit.
POR-15 Six Pack POR45006
The POR-15 Six Pack contains six 4 oz. cans of black POR-15. Each can covers 12 sq. ft.
Open each can as needed for small rust preventive projects to prevent waste.
POR Patch POR49013
An incredibly strong, permanent seam, hole and channel filler, Patch actually adds strength
to weakened metal. Bonds steel to plastic, wood or concrete. Dries rock hard, remains flexible,
and once dry is totally impervious to fuels and solvents. Will not absorb moisture and swell like
conventional body fillers. Sold in a 4 oz. tube.
Predator Aluminum Transmission BRI70600
Predator Shifter Assembly BRI70630
Specifically designed Predator shifter assembly provides reliable and smooth shifting operation. Built from
strong forged alloy materials and self-lubricating spherical rod ends, and high grade mounting hardware.
RT-1 Transmission Fluid
Specially formulated, multi-viscosity fluid uses a proven additive enhancement
system to increase clutch life, anti-wear and corrosion protection. Properly lubricates
critical bearings, shafts and gears in Brinn transmissions. Excellent resistance to oxidation breakdown caused by heat.
SPRING 2014 5
New Products
The new revolutionary BRINN Predator transmission design features the lowest rotating weight of any transmission on the
market today. The lightweight internal clutch eliminates the need for any external clutch assembly. Gun-drilled input (SAE 10
tooth) and output (6” long spline, 27-tooth) shafts for weight reduction and all critical internal components are cryogenically
treated for maximum strength. The 1.68:1 low gear ratio is perfect for all dirt and asphalt applications. Reverse (ratio 1.78:1)
utilizes existing gear train (no belts or chains). Minimal maintenance required. Use only with approved Brinn RT1 transmission fluid. Light weight at only 45 lbs.
New Products
QuickSilver Shifter 1968-69 Camaro Console
BMM81025
B & M QuickSilver 1968-69 Camaro automatic console shifter is the top of the line high performance
ratchet action shifter without a trigger lockout. Chrome plated bezel adds a custom performance look.
Reverse lockout function meets NHRA and IHRA requirements. Includes a neutral safety switch,
backup light switch, lighted gear indicator, 5' precision B & M shifter cable, plastic chrome knob and
mounting hardware. Fits TH-350/TH-400 automatic transmissions. Will work with reverse pattern valve
bodies.
MegaShifter 1968-69 Camaro Console BMM81035
B & M MegaShifter 1968-69 Camaro automatic console shifter is a classic full ratcheting high performance competition boot, chrome stick and brushed aluminum T-handle shifter with a trigger assembly.
Reverse lockup meets NHRA and IHRA requirements. Includes a neutral safety switch, backup light
switch, lighted gear indicator, 5' precision B & M shifter cable, plastic chrome knob and mounting
hardware. Fits TH-350/TH-400 automatic transmissions. Will work with reverse pattern valve bodies.
GM 8.875" 12-Bolt Truck Differential Cover BMM70504
Cast and machined from A356 T-6 aluminum alloy B & M differential cover provides superior strength
with additional fluid capacity. Built-in bearing cap bolts and additional structural supports help prevent
damaging ring gear walk. Heavy duty cooling fins provide thermal heat draw with maximum cooling for
extended component life. Magnetic fill plug aids in gear oil inspection and drain plug for servicing.
New Products
Hard Lid Tonneau
Extang’s tri-folding hard lid tonneau cover. Installs in seconds!! No tools required.
Fastest installation and removal of any hard tonneau on the market. Tonneau is
completely assembled, no spare parts or tools required. Extang engineered design,
made from aircraft grade aluminum alloy. Great looking, black textured (poly-tex)
paint finish. Easy to use clamping system.
Tri-Fold Tonneau Cover
Extang engineered tri-fold style tonneau cover. Fast, easy, no assembly
required. No tools. Extang engineered with precision. 45º steel corner brackets,
commercial grade rails and I-Beam style Monster Bows provide unparalleled
strength. SafetyKlamps: Extremely strong glass-filled nylon construction, will never
break. Heavy-duty luggage style Hold-Tite fasteners secure the tonneau in the open
position at the cab.
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New Products
GT Pro-Touring/Autocross
The GT Pro-Touring modular design is handcrafted with a special tiered 3-spoke design, elongated lightening slots and genuine black leather or hand rubbed, stained mahogany finger grip rim. Well balanced
15" diameter, CNC machined 6061-T6 aluminum themed with black /silver/black anodized finish give the
professional pro-touring and auto cross competitor a true feel of competition. 2" dish, 3-bolt mounting
pattern. Horn button sold separately.
GT Retro Series
The GT Retro wheel inspired by the muscle cars of the 1960’s-1970’s. It features a 15" diameter stainless
steel construction, brushed finished spokes with polished edges, and original vintage thick black foam
rubber or genuine hardwood walnut stained grip. 4" dish, 3-bolt mounting pattern. Horn button sold
separately.
GT Retro Cobra Style GTP38-4247
The GT Cobra Retro 15" diameter wheel has redefined the 60’s sports car spirit with its
one-piece forged billet aluminum construction, genuine laminated wood grip with nine
rivets sealed in polyurethane clear coat for beautiful gloss finish. 9-bolt mounting pattern.
Horn button sold separately.
GT Retro Banjo Style GTP21-4245
TH GT Banjo style 15.5" diameter wheel is symbolic of the wheels from the 30’s and 40’s. It features
one-piece, billet aluminum construction, black leather top with billet finger grips. 1.75" dish and a 9-bolt
mounting pattern. Horn button sold separately.
GT3 Horn Buttons
Designed for use on all 3-bolt GT steering wheels. Features “sure
lock” O-Ring design that ensures they don’t pop off and are interchangeable with all other brands of 3-bolt steering wheels. Made
from 6061-T6 billet aluminum, and grade 8 hardware. Available in a brilliant polish or black anodized finish.
Designed for use on all 9 bolt wheels. Same great feature as the GT3.
GT3 Quick Release Hubs
The quick release hub is designed with a 23-splined core and billet aluminum casing. Flange release for
tight tolerance and strength. Meets S.F.I 42.1
Installation Kits
Feature a one-piece construction adapter hub with a 3-bolt or 9-bolt mounting pattern that is
interchangeable with any standard 3-bolt or 9-bolt steering wheel or horn button. Complete with
horn wiring leads, mounting bolts complete installation instructions.
413*/(
New Products
GT9 Polished Horn Buttons
Aftermarket News
Aftermarket News
WORKSHOP HERO
At Motor State Distributing we recognize the value
of good tools and their role in making projects easier
and producing good results. A product line we offer -Workshop Hero,™ and its Metal Rescue™ Rust Remover
Bath and Dry Coat™ Rust Preventative -- is designed to do just that. In fact, their tagline is “Less Work More Play.”
We asked their celebrity spokesman Bryan Fuller (Two Guys Garage and Overhaulin’) to share some of his expertise in
metal finishing. Fuller is also a nationally renowned car builder who owns and operates Fuller Hot Rods in Atlanta, Georgia.
His automotive creations have been featured at almost every major car show in the country. Here are Bryan’s responses to
our request for some metal finishing tips for Motor State customers:
MS: As a “metals” guy first and foremost, what are the best tips you would give Motor State customers about metal finishing?
BF: My first step in a project is cleaning and prepping the metal. If the metal part can be put into a Metal Rescue™ bath,
it’s an obvious choice – no work and no nasty acid. I just leave it in the bath, checking every few hours, and removing it once
the corrosion has been removed. After thoroughly cleaning the parts, they need to be protected. Usually, I spray on Dry
Coat™ (also from the Workshop Hero) -- no wiping with oil, no gloves, spray on and walk away! Both products are waterbased, another miracle. I’ve been using Dry Coat™ for a couple of years now and have been very happy. Protect the metal
immediately after cleaning rust off for best results.
MS: What role do form and shape play when working with metal?
BF: Even though form and shape work closely together and are somewhat inseparable, there are some distinct differences and understanding them is important. Form is what you create when you work with the metal in its limit or in one
direction. When you see someone bending metal over his knee he is forming the metal. Shape is working with the metal
beyond its elastic limit, literally shrinking or stretching the molecules in the metal. It’s very simple but can be confusing
and challenging to learn and to master, but understanding the difference and the process of both will help you through any
metal finishing project more successfully. Check out our “Full-Bore Sheetmetal” on Amazon for more tips.
MS: Tell us why learning to scribe a good line is so important?
BF: Properly fitting metal pieces is vital -- the better the fit the better the weld. Taking the time and using the right tools
to obtain exact measurements will pay off many times over. One key step is marking good lines before you make a cut.
Good lines will result in a tighter part, better fit, less distortion and less effort. I sometimes use felt-tip markers or grease
pencils, but the best way to draw accurate lines is with a scribe
and layout dye which I use on cut lines for most of my projects.
Their ease and effectiveness make then key tools in my “metal
working” toolbox.
There is a certain pride and self-validation when you build
things with your hands so as Fuller would say, grab a hammer,
and get out there and build something! We at Motor State
work to offer tools and products to help our customers – products such as Workshop Hero™ ‘s Metal Rescue™ and Dry Coat™
designed to take the “work” out of workshop.
accepts:
1IPOF-BOFt5PMM'SFF
Tech Forum
Roll With The Changes!
By Jim Kaekel
COM350RCB-KIT
COM5412
Steel-jacketed, needle roller cam bearings not only
increase the durability of many high end racing engines,
but add a few horsepower as well. Traditional steel-backed,
lead babbit cam bearings may be fine for most racing applications,
but they are not well suited to the ultra-high valve spring loads common in
maximum endurance racing and can only endure so much load before they
ultimately fail. Although the initial cost can exceed several hundred dollars, primarily due to added machine shop labor,
needle roller cam bearings offer several important benefits that can help offset the expense. A steel billet camshaft is also
required as a conventional, cast flat tappet camshaft is not compatible with the surface hardness of the needle roller bearings.
One of the most important benefits is that the needle bearings can easily handle the extreme loads generated by high pressure,
roller valve springs because of their increased load capacity. Also, because needle roller cam bearings require only splash oiling and
lack oil delivery holes, oil flow through the cam bearings is eliminated, improving flow to the main and rod bearings. This benefit is
two-fold since oil draining from the cam bearings and falling directly onto the rotating assembly is eliminated, reducing oil aeration
and windage losses which cost precious horsepower. Lastly, internal engine friction and oil temperatures are reduced with roller cam
bearings because of their free-rolling design.
Bearing installation is a bit involved and requires several important steps. Consulting with a trusted engine builder and reputable
camshaft grinder prior to performing any machining operations is a necessity since the cam journals must be compatible with the
I.D. of the needle roller cam bearings. A custom ground camshaft, or machining of the cam journals of an existing camshaft, may be
required as well. A cam bearing set must be selected that is compatible with both the engine block and camshaft. Importantly, the
cam bearing I.D. must be larger than the O.D. of the cam lobes so that the camshaft may be installed into the block.
Several suppliers including Comp Cams, Dart and Ford Racing offer the specialized bearings for popular high performance
engines. Comp Cams offers a kit (COM350RCB-KIT) that is engineered for small block Chevy and small block Chrysler 360
applications, while Ford Racing has kits for the small block 302-351W (FRDM6261-C351), 351 SVO (FRDM6261-D351) and big block 429460 (FRDM6261-A460) engines. Dart has roller bearings as well for their own blocks fitted with 55mm camshafts (DRT32220042).
A reputable, high performance engine shop is recommended for the necessary machining operations. The process begins by
precisely align boring the cam bearing bores to the specified dimensions. Any oil grooves that are machined away during the
process must be restored. Some blocks may also require that the inside of the cam tunnel be machined as well to allow bearing
installation.
After all machining operations are completed and the block has been thoroughly cleaned, the bearings may then be installed
using a specialized roller cam bearing installation tool, such as the unit offered by Comp Cams (COM5412). The tool kit allows
bearings to be installed in most engine blocks and includes a draw bar, swivel handle, alignment head and 50mm bearing head.
Additional bearing heads are also available separately for 47.64mm, 55mm and 60mm. The bearings may also be removed and reinstalled as required during engine rebuilds.
Oil Filter Inspection
SPRING 2014 9
Tech Forum
Preventative maintenance is typically a program that applies to the daily driver, however, it should also apply to the
race car. Checking valve lash, changing engine oil, inspecting brakes and suspension components, cleaning fuel filters,
servicing differentials, etc. should all be part of a preventative maintenance program. Periodic oil filter inspections
should be on the list as well.
Typically performed during an oil change or anytime engine condition or performance is in question, oil filter inspection is a great troubleshooting tool as well. Oil filter inspection begins by simply removing the filter from the engine,
placing it in a pan and letting it drain for 10-15 minutes prior to being cut. An Oil Filter Inspection Tool (KRC1201R), offered by KRC Racing, is recommended when performing this task. While it may be tempting to grab a hacksaw, it’s best
to use a specialized tool since it cuts clean, similar to a can opener, without creating metal debris that may be confused
with engine wear. Follow by clamping the tool in a vise and placing the filter so that the outer housing may be cut as the
thumb screw is tightened. Slowly rotate the filter by hand while tightening the thumbscrew until the filter has been cut
all the way through.
Once the housing has been cut completely open, remove the filter element. Continue by using a utility knife to
carefully cut the end caps off of the element so that the “pressure side” of each pleat may be examined for debris. Keep
in mind that all things mechanical wear and there will always be a few tiny pieces of bearing material, silicone sealer, etc.
lodged in the element. Most engine wear found is typically no bigger than a pencil head. If the engine has just been
rebuilt, expect to find a generous amount of assembly lubricant in the filter as well. Again, no cause for concern. On the
other hand, if the pleats contain a generous amount of what appears to be bearing material or other metal fragments,
further investigation may be in order. Removing the oil pan and inspecting the bearings then becomes the next step.
Rodding Journal
Rodding Journal
Geezer 2013 WRAP-UP - Several Records Fall ... By John McLellan
The East Coast Timing Association’s Ohio Mile event in
Wilmington, Ohio finished out its second successful season in September and, as in the first year of the event, the
Geezer Express team made its presence known at all four
events again this year. The Geezer exploits at the April and
June meets have already been chronicled, so the events
that transpired at the July and September ECTA meets will
take center
stage here. In
fact, the July
and September meets
involved different drivers,
different cars
and different
records.
At the July
ECTA event,
Geezer driver,
Brian Acton,
stepped aside
in order to put (Left to right) “Crew Chief John Pranger, Trever Acton and dad, Brian
his oldest son,
Trever, behind
the wheel for a
twofold shot at
becoming the
youngest driver to become a
member of the
ECTA 200 MPH
Club and the
fastest. At age
17, Trever was Father, Brian, and son, Trever, share a good old fist pump.
a few months
younger than 17 year old Victoria Hope, granddaughter of
“Rat Trap” fuel altered pilot, Ron Hope, when she eclipsed
the 200 mile mark in September 2012 at the helm of the
Hope family’s lakester.
The first attempt in June, behind the wheel of the black
Geezer Express Firebird, fell short with the car only reaching a 188.00 best after several attempts. For the July meet,
a bigger gun was called into play. The Geezer Two, a big
block urged Firebird, has run a best of 218 with Brian at the
wheel. Taking a few easy passes on Saturday to familiarize
himself with the white car, Trever posted runs of 178.418 and
199.645, both with quartering winds of 25-30 mph. Trever
reported that the car got pretty loose on the 199 mph run.
There were no more shots at a record before rain shut the
event down for the day
Sunday’s weather saw a continuation of the rain that
affected the entire event. Weather cleared enough to allow
1IPOF-BOFt5PMM'SFF
two more attempts. The first was a 189.633 mph pass, wisely
undertaken to test the car and the track. On the next pass,
Trever let it all hang out and finally achieved what he had
set out to do. He topped 210 mph to become the youngest
member of the 200 MPH Club (at the time of entry) and the
fastest seventeen year old in the country. Yes, the July ECTA
Ohio Mile event was a high water mark for both the Acton
family and
the Geezer
Express team.
The final
ECTA event
of the year
took place in
early September and
the Geezer
Express black
car was once
again called
into play for
another team
member's
shot at entering the 200
MPH club.
Dag Hascall,
and his Grand
Rapids-based
steel supply
company, Hascall Steel, have
been longDag Hascall smiles after posting
time sponsors
a BB/BFC record of 198.06 MPH on the
of the Geezer
ECTA's Ohio Mile.
escapades.
No stranger to high speeds, Dag has had his Ford GT-40
upwards of 170 mph, but not at a sanctioned event. Dag
expressed the desire to use the black Firebird for his runs
at the ECTA’s Ohio Mile. A deal was struck, and Dag joined
the rest of the crew in preparing himself and the car for his
record attempts.
Previously, Dag had established a 135.00 mph best in
his GT-40 as part of his licensing process. Continuing with
licensing, he gradually increased his speed on each run until
it was time for an all-out blast. Everything was looking good
on this pass, but the last chance run netted a speed of just
a bit less than 199.00. Although Dag did not make the 200
Club, he did establish a record in the BB/Blown Fuel Coupe
class.
All in all, it was a productive weekend, with lots of friendship, camaraderie and enjoyment. (Photos by Dawn Acton)
2014 Car Show Events
Seventh Annual Open Header Cruise To Kick Off Car Show Weekend
Our Eighth Annual Open Header Cruise at 5:00 pm on Friday May 24 will pick up where we left off last year... and we hope to again
increase the number of participants. We will be be changing the route this year. We will start in our parking lot, turn left in Watervliet
and head toward Coloma. At the stoplight in Coloma we will turn right to join the old route to the north side of Watervliet and on back
to Lane. We’re hoping for 100 cars, and would be really happy if even more showed up! Sign up for the Open Header Cruise here, on our
web site - www.laneautomotive.com, or call John McLellan at (269) 463-0202. When you visit this web site, you’ll see a general description of the Open Header Cruise as well as a list of the cruise rules.
Plan Now To Attend Our 2014 Car Show
Work is moving right along on the 26th Annual Lane Automotive Car Show and Cruise-In which will take place May 23-24, 2014. Many
things will remain unchanged, including Saturday’s nitro-fueled Noisefest and the Chassis Dyno Challenge which have grown to be real
crowd pleasers. Enjoy the Fourth Annual Hot Rodders Of Tomorrow Engine Builder Challenge, too.
NAME
ADDRESS
CITY
STATE
HOME PHONE:
WORK PHONE:
ZIP CODE
CAR YEAR:
Don’t Miss Out On All The Fun, Sign Up Now
CAR MAKE:
Mail To Lane Automotive,
ATTN: John McLellan 8300 Lane Drive, Watervliet, MI 49098
or Register On-Line @ www.laneautomotive.com
CAR MODEL:
Uncork Those Pipes and Join Our 2014 Open Header Cruise !
NAME
CITY
STATE
HOME PHONE:
WORK PHONE:
ZIP CODE
CAR YEAR:
Don’t Miss Out On All The Fun, Sign Up Now
CAR MAKE:
Mail To Lane Automotive,
ATTN: John McLellan 8300 Lane Drive, Watervliet, MI 49098
or Register On-Line @ www.laneautomotive.com
CAR MODEL:
Lane Automotive Dyno Challenge Registration Form
Time slots are limited so register soon. A $30 entry fee is required and will be donated to Relay For Life. Once registered you will be
notified via email as to your date and time slot. The Dyno Challenge dates are May 24 and 25 (during the Lane Cruise-In and Car Show).
Be sure to go to www.laneautomotive.com for info and rules.
NAME
E-MAIL
ADDRESS
CITY
HOME PHONE:
WORK PHONE:
CAR YEAR:
CAR MAKE:
CAR MODEL:
STATE
ZIP CODE
Don’t Miss Out On All The Fun, Sign Up Now
Mail To Lane Automotive,
ATTN: Scott Wahlstrom 8300 Lane Drive, Watervliet, MI 49098
or Register On-Line @ www.laneautomotive.com
CID:
SPRING 2014 11
2014 Car Show Events
ADDRESS
Huge Diecast Collectables Sale!
New 2014 Lionel NASCAR Arriving Daily
Check Out Our Selection Of Slot Cars
Thousands Of 1/64 Scale Cars On Sale!
8300 Lane Drive Watervliet, MI 49098
Phone-"/&tToll FreetFax 800-772-2618