spring 2009 - Lane Automotive

FEATURES:
The Parts You Need and the Service You Deserve!
The Spotlight ........................ 1
Editors Notes ........................ 2
New Allstar Products ............. 3
New Products ....................... 4-6
Racing News ......................... 7-8
Manufacturers
Spotlight........................ ...... 9
Rodding Journal ................... 10
Lane Happenings....................11
Lane Collectables .................. 12
Lane And Watervliet FD Build A New Fire Jeep
It’s been almost ten
The first phase of the “Fire
years since Lane AutomoJeep” modification involved
tive made the move to our
the installation of Warn
current headquarters here
bumpers, front and rear, and a
in Watervliet, Michigan.
stout Warn winch for yeoman
In that period of time, our
pulling duties. Forward vision
working relationships with
was bolstered with a pair of K-C
the local law enforcement
Daylighters and lateral protecand public safety agencies
tion was provided with a pair
here have been as mutuof Smittybilt side bars. Interior
ally rewarding as they were
appointments were improved
with the Coloma agencies
with Husky Liners front and
when we were at the Red
rear and Covercraft seat covers.
Arrow Highway location.
When these items were inWithin the fire and postalled, the Jeep was returned
lice departments there is
to the fire department for the
always a pool of ready and
next phase of the project which
The Jeep being prepared for overhaul
willing volunteers to help
involves the addition of fire
out anywhere they can
fighting equipment. Included
to assure that our dayin this round of modificato-day business, and our
tions will be installation of a
various events, come off
relatively small 60 gallon water
as smoothly as possible.
tank and pump assembly and
The Watervliet firemen, for
storage for various tools and
example, have manned the
equipment used to fight brush
griddles at several pancake
fires.
and sausage breakfasts
The details of the final phase
Rock Crusher Ready For Action
Winch Installed
held here for happenings
of the Jeep build-up will be
like the Hot Rod Power Tour
determined when everything
and the NSRA Appreciation
is installed and there will be a
Day.
chance to see what will need to
When the Watervliet Fire
be done to the suspension to
Department recently acmaintain proper tire clearance
quired a new Jeep Wrangler
and safe handling. Most likely, a
Rubicon from Brookfield
suspension lift will be installed
Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep of
as will other components deWatervliet, the opportunity
signed to improve handling.
arose for us to return a favor.
Larger, more aggressive tires
The fire department bought
have not been ruled out at this
the Jeep with plans of buildpoint, either.
ing their own rapid brush
The Watervliet fire personnel
fire fighter, a vehicle that
would like to complete the Jeep
Watervliet Fire Department Serving Their Pancake Breakfast
will spend the majority of its
by the beginning of the area’s
At The Lane Automotive Power Tour Stop-Over.
operational time rumbling
brush fire season, typically from
through a less than hospitable off-road environment. Parts
the end of March until the spring rains have “greened” up
gleaned from our massive inventory of rugged, off-road
the land. The completed vehicle will also be prominently
components will fortify the Rubicon for whatever duties it is
displayed at the Lane Automotive Cruise-In and Car Show,
called upon to fulfill.
May 22-23. R&R
SPRING 2009 1
RACING AND RODDING
SPRING 2009
Editor’s Notes
KEEP THAT BRAKE BOOSTER CLEAN!
The first order of business this issue involves the clarification of some of the finer technical aspects of a new hot rod product we introduced in the last issue. A local hot rodder, who just happens to be a retired Bendix Company engineer, called to
offer some expert insight regarding the Hydro Boost unit from Power Brake Service. These types of boosters were initially
developed for diesel powered vehicles because diesel engines cannot provide the vacuum for brakes or other items like
cruise control. The point that this gentleman wanted to make was that in extensive testing of these units, they found that
even the tiniest spec of dirt or contamination could cause the booster to malfunction. For this reason, he strongly advocated using extreme care to keep everything spotless during the installation process, and keeping the system safe through
periodic inspection. R&R
2009 LANE AUTOMOTIVE CRUISE NIGHT/CAR SHOW MAY 22-23, 2009
At this point, we are half way through one of the most severe Michigan
winters we have had to endure in a good many years. Sub-zero temperatures and well over a hundred inches of snow have left most of us asking
ourselves why we live here, year after year. I always respond to that query
with my theory that the memories of all the winter misery are completely
erased when I walk out the door on the first warm spring day.
With the thoughts of spring in mind, let me touch on the topic of our
21st Annual Car Show & Cruise Night celebration. Everything is falling into
place nicely and we plan to repeat everything we did last year, with at least
one new surprise. This means we will kick off the event on Friday night with
our Third Annual Open Header Cruise, live music and lots of food concessions. Saturday will see the car show, with over a thousand vehicles, begin
to unfold early. While the show officially opens at 9:00 am, veterans know that it’s wise to plan on arriving much earlier than
that. (We’ve had some cars here before the sun comes up!) Background noise will be provided by the Third Annual Lane
Automotive/B&M/Hurst/Moroso Dyno Challenge and, at Noon, the 9th Annual Nitro Noisefest.
Regarding the surprise mentioned earlier, we have decided to add our first “Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Engine Challenge”
to the roster of car show attractions. Sponsored by Edelbrock and a host of other speed equipment companies including
MSD, Comp Cams, Trans-Dapt, Holley, Moroso, Speed Pro, Fel-Pro, Hedman, Crane Cams, ARP, Royal Purple and Accel, the
engine challenge’s primary goal is to ignite the hot rodding spark in today’s high school and college generation. We will
round up as many local high school and vocational technical student teams as we can and turn them loose in actual engine
building competition, right in front of car show attendees. This sounds like a lot of fun for everyone.
Please be sure to check our website: www.laneautomotive.com for show and cruise updates. R&R
Editor’s Notes
MORE SUMMER FUN ON TAP WITH PRO-TOURING.COM
Motor State Distributing, Lane Automotive and Allstar Performance
Products will be hosting the “Motor State Challenge” on June 19-21, 2009.
This inaugural Pro-Touring /G-Machine event will mirror the very popular “Run Thru The Hills” event that will take place later in the year. A full
schedule of activities is already confirmed so you won’t want to miss this
happening. Situated in the Southwest Corner of the Great Lake State of
Michigan, participants and spectators will be surrounded by lush, rolling
vineyards and, of course, beautiful Lake Michigan.
Scheduled events will include facility tours, a cruise through the back
roads of Harbor Country and along the winding coast of Lake Michigan,
a cookout dinner at Silver Beach on Lake Michigan, road racing at Gingerman Raceway in South Haven, MI, and a
timed autocross to wrap up the event on Sunday.
The three day event will highlight good times, good friends and some of the meanest Pro-Touring/G-Machines in
the country. This event is the perfect opportunity to safely test a car’s performance on the autocross as well as on the road
course. A great deal of hard work and preparation is involved in building a G-Machine; this will be the chance to show off
what these cars can really do.
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN. We are not handling any of the registration functions here. Visit the Pro-Touring website
listed below for more information and to order tickets. www.pro-touring.com/store. R&R
2
Phone 269.463.Lane • Toll Free 800.772.5266
New Allstar Products
Sprint Car Drag Link Tether ALL10252
Keeps drag link tethered to the chassis if the drag link becomes disconnected. Tethering of
drag link is required by most sanctioning bodies. 24” long x 1” wide, woven nylon.
Door Bar Padding ALL14115
Closed cell padding adds protection from hard surfaces inside a race car. Use to cover door
bars, seat supports or to increase padding in seat for comfort. Sold in 36” x 48” sheets, 3/4”
thick.
Drain Pan With Pump ALL14171
Molded plastic basin and lid slide together to prevent spilling of fluid. A crank handle is
included for manual pump operation. A length of straight hex shaft is also included for use
with an electric drill. 16” square x 7” tall. 14 quart capacity.
Deck Mount Oil Cooler ALL30145
Deck mount oil cooler is 8-1/2” x 15” and has built-in flanges for
mounting to the underside of the deck of most dirt late models and
modifieds. Dual pass design places both -12 fittings at the same end for
easy connections.
Spring Steel Punch ALL23116
Constructed from a solid block of hardened steel for long life, the punch has a strong rebound assembly to prevent sticking. One strike with a 3 to 4 lb. hammer punches a 1/4” hole.
New Allstar Products
QC Axle Tube Support Brackets
Brackets provide an upper and lower mounting location for axle tube strut rod.
Center Support Bracket (ALL68320) attaches to the top of side bell bolts on most quick
change rear ends and is notched for clearance of bell support rib on old style rear ends.
Axle Tube Bracket (ALL68322) clamps around most 3” axle tubes. Strut rod mounting holes are 1/2”.
Electric Tire Prep Stand ALL10565
Electric tire prep stand eases grooving, siping, grinding and even cleaning
of tires. Two-way switch permits clockwise or counterclock wise rotation.
Foot operated pedal controls the rotation of the tire. A 110v accessory outlet
is included for convenient plug-in of siper or groover. Stand will accommodate 5x5 or Wide 5 wheels. The Wheel Mount/Motor Assembly (ALL10566)
and the Cart Only (ALL10567) are also available separately.
Tire Prep Stand ALL10555
Steel tire prep stand is a must when grooving, siping, grinding or even cleaning tires. Bolts together, and the pivoting head eases tire mounting. A locking T-handle secures the head assembly.
Can be used with 5x5 or Wide 5 wheels.
SPRING 2009 3
New Products
GENIII LS-Series Valvetrain Components
Competition Cams has introduced new high performance components for the popular
GM LS-Series engines. Their new Ultra Gold Rockers fit GENIII LS1, -2, -4, -6 and GEN III 4.8,
5.3 and 6.0 liter truck engines. Lightweight rockers are CNC-machined for quality, strength
and consistency. Full radius bodies reduce stress and fit under the stock valve covers without modifications (except for
removal of internal oil baffles). Two ratios are available.
Comp’s Offset 1.7 Shaft Rockers for LS3/L92 Engines (COM1521) are the most effective way to increase horsepower and add strength to the valvetrain at the same
time. The rockers are made of 2024 aluminum and mounted on 8620 hardened
steel shafts. The oiling system is designed to deliver consistent oil flow from the pushrod
COM1521
cup to the shaft bearings and then on to the roller tip.
Finally, a new Comp Cams LS Belt Tensioner w/ Idler Pulley (COM54021) fits all GM LS1, -2, -3, -6
and -7 passenger car engines and is assembled and torqued for easy installation. The system uses
the factory drive belt, but does not require disabling of stock tensioner. By using an electronic
encoder, the engine builder can calculate and display the intake centerline, in degrees of crank rotation, to within one tenth of a degree in about half the time it takes to use a degree wheel. The tensioner
is made of black anodized, billet aluminum
COM54021
E-Force ‘05-09 Mustang 4.6L
Supercharger System
E-Force Supercharger (EDE1580) boosts Mustang’s
output to 466 horsepower and 439 f./lbs. of torque at
only 5 PSI of boost. Using an Eaton Gen IV TVS supercharger, the system provides
instant, reliable power. Features include four lobe, 160 degree twist rotors (same
as Corvette ZR-1) for maximum flow and minimum temperature rise, 15” intake
runners for improved lower end torque, a 110 square inch, air to water intercooler
and a dual core heat exchanger. The supercharger assembly is integrated into the
intake manifold for a seamless design that eliminates gasket leakage.
Pro-Flo XT EFI System
New Products
The Pro-Flo XT intake manifold’s large plenum and long, tapered runners
deliver maximum horsepower and broad torque throughout the RPM range,
setting it apart from the otherwise similar Pro-Flo 2 systems. Each kit includes a
quick-connect, two-piece harness that easily mates to the vehicle’s bulkhead at
the firewall. XT systems include the intake/fuel injector assembly, fuel rails and a
90mm throttle body, ECU, calibration module, Mallory distributor, pre-terminated
EFI harness, fuel pmp and filter, hose, hardware and software. Available for select
GM, Chrysler and Ford engines.
Auto Meter American Muscle Gauges
With advanced hybrid dial technology and Hi-Def LED illumination,
American Muscle gauges offer maximum readability and the latest in street
performance instrumentation. Embossed, spun aluminum dials, surrounded by chrome bezels, present a no-nonsense, rugged look sure to enhance
the dash of any muscle car or hot rod. Available in complete sets of five with oil pressure, fuel level, voltmeter, water temperature and 3-3/8” speedometer, or individually. All include senders and hardware.
Chrysler Ring and Pinion Gears
With 6.1 Liters of Hemi power, the Chrysler 300, Dodge
Challenger, Magnum and Charger need a more aggressive
rear end ratio than the factory provided 3.07 gear set. Richmond Gears offers two new 215mm ring
and pinion sets for these cars, one with a 3.23:1 ratio and the other with a 3.55:1 ratio.
4
Phone 269.463.Lane • Toll Free 800.772.5266
New Products
Big Block Quadrajet Carburetor
Reworked 800 cfm Quadrajet carburetor fits 396 and larger modified
big block Chevy engines. The main well size has been increased and the
carb is balanced to assure top end high RPM flow. A .149” needle and seat
ensures adequate fuel flow. A complete bolt-on unit, it will work best with
dual plane intakes on engines with 8.5-9.5:1 compression ratio and mildly ported or aftermarket heads.
More JET Q-Jet Carburetors
Several other Quadrajet carburetors are now offered by JET. Stage 1 assemblies, intended as factory
stock replacements, are rebuilt from hand-selected cores. The casting plugs are epoxy sealed, all circuits are properly sized and calibrated with correct jets, primary and secondary metering rods. A new
float, choke pull-off and bronze bushed throttle shafts complete the rebuild.
Stage 2 carburetors include all the Stage 1 features plus fully recalibrated idle, off idle, main, accelerator pump and high speed circuits to match engine modifications and to work well with single plane
intakes, headers, high performance ignitions, and mild cam upgrades. Idle quality and instant throttle
response result in maximum torque and horsepower for street and strip, tow vehicles, RV’s, and boats with
modified engines.
Silver Bullet Competition Steering Box
FLAFR1550BU
Weighing only 4.85 lbs., the Silver Bullet Competition Steering
Box is ideal for dragsters, altereds and other race cars with side steer, drag link steering systems. 1.8 turns is all it takes to go from lock
Power Rack & Pinion Pump System
Properly calibrated to not oversteer, the rack uses Mustang II 16-inch
center mounting points and outer ends and is designed for maximum front end weight. The system includes the rack and
pinion, pump with aluminum pulley (V-belt or serpentine style) and fittings for connecting the hose kit of builder’s choice.
Truck Bed Coating Roller Kit
SHETRG300K
Kit includes one gallon of bed coating, a roller pan, chip brush, scuff pad and an
exclusive Textra Loop Roller to create a perfect textured finish.
New Products
Premium Enamel
High solids formula acrylic enamels deliver maximum coverage with ultimate protection, gloss and color retention. 12 oz. spray cans.
Premium Lacquer
A fast drying, premium quality formula for quick coverage, weather resistance and adhesion
the first time. 12 oz. cans. A durable formula that resists intermittent temperatures up to 500
degrees. The durable Ceramic resins give maximum heat dissipation and a high gloss finish
that resists oil and gas and will not blister, flake, crack or peel. 12 oz. cans.
High Heat Paint with Ceramic
A durable ceramic formula that resists intermittent temperatures up to 1200 degrees. Tough, cured
finish resists oil, gas, grease, rust, humidity and solvents. 12 oz. can.
SPRING 2009 5
New Products
Mopar B Suspension Components
Hotchkis has recently introduced several new suspension components
designed exclusively for the Mopar contingent. Using these components, the
Mopar enthusiast can now upgrade handling and ride to match the car’s horsepower output.
Sub-Frame Connectors
Dramatically reduce chassis flex during hard cornering and acceleration by installing connectors which tie the front sub-frame to the rear chassis frame rail. No cutting
or floor pan modifications are necessary and the “tucked-in” design allows excellent
ground clearance.
Sway Bars
Available for 1966-70 B-Bodies, including Dodge Coronet, Coronet R/T, Charger,
Super Bee, Plymouth Belvedere, Satellite, Road Runner and GTX as well as E-Bodies
including 1970-74 Plymouth ‘Cuda and Dodge Challenger, front and rear sway bar kits
are adjustable for balanced handling and control. Bars bolt in and include hardware
and detailed instructions.
Tubular Upper A-Arms HOT1110
Lightweight, tubular upper A-Arms fit B- and E-body Mopars and improve traction and steering response. Brackets are laser cut and help correct excessive caster gain and
reduce bump steer. Arms bolt in for easy installation.
Steering Rod Kit HOT16366
When used with Hotchkis Upper A-Arms, steering rods can improve stability
and reduce bump steer. Installation is a bolt-in proposition.
Strut Rods For Mopar HOT14366
Rigid, 5/8” diameter, high articulation rod ends help positively locate lower A-Arms for
improved steering response. Bolt-in installation.
Leaf Springs
Available for 1966-70 B-Body and 1970-74 E-Body Mopars, rear leaf springs eliminate chassis flex and rear steer while lowering stance approximately 2” for improved stability and
great looks. Springs bolt in for easy installation.
New Products
’09 Dodge Challenger TVS Kit HOT80107-1
Tubular, 1.5” front bar and .625” rear bar combine with 5/8” front drop and 1” rear drop coil
springs to lower stance, quicken steering response and reduce body roll for improved handling and control. Entire kit bolts in for easy installation.
Slant-Edge Valve Covers
Innovative new mold design provides cast aluminum valve covers with spacious
inner clearances for roller rockers and stud girdles. Baffles are removable and rubber grommets are included. Some have Chevrolet and Bowtie emblems. Choose
among ten styles. Sold in pairs.
Pro Form Perfect Launch Handheld Practice Tree
PFM67025C
Take this shirt-pocket sized “Christmas Tree” everywhere and use it to perfect launch skills and reaction times. Features include remote thumb trigger, .4 and .5 second PRO and FULL trees, adjustable
delay box, bump down and rollout. Includes a 9-volt battery.
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Phone 269.463.Lane • Toll Free 800.772.5266
Racing News
IN MEMORIAM...
Larry Payne
After a very lengthy battle with cancer, Larry Payne passed away on Monday January 19, 2009. Larry’s resume reads like that of a decathlon athlete with successes in
every event he participated in. In the sixties, he fielded a series of dragsters dubbed
“Gang Green”, pitting himself against the touring pros of the day, Gordon “Collecting”
Collett, the Ramchargers, and Lou Smith’s “Probe”. A skilled machinist, Larry soon
gained a reputation for producing some of the sport’s most innovative and race tested
performance parts. He built and serviced superchargers for virtually all the top racers
in the Midwest, including Connie Kalitta, and was one of the first to install Teflon stripping on the blower rotors to reduce friction and increase pressure. To solve oil pump
issues with the early 426 Hemis, Larry devised and fabricated a simple modification
that enabled the pump to maintain adequate pressure above 5000 RPM. The solution
was so revolutionary that Larry was soon selling the modified pumps to racing’s top
teams, including Don Garlits and Petty Enterprises.
Larry later teamed with Detroit Dragway owner Gil Kohn to launch a team of eight funny cars to compete weekly at
Kohn’s Michigan tracks. Larry drove one of the nitro-powered Camaros and serviced the fleet’s superchargers. In 1980, a
discussion with John Spitzer, owner of the Green Lantern Lounge, sparked Larry’s interest in the restaurant business, and
before long he had his first bar and restaurant. He was currently the owner of Duggan’s Irish Pub, one of Southeast Michigan’s most popular eateries, especially during August, when the Woodward Dream Cruise is in top gear. Woodward veterans know that Duggan’s is the hangout for those “car crazy” visitors with real fuel in their blood. Larry worked together
with Al Bergler to restore his final “Gang Green” dragster in 2007 and made several appearances with the car, including two
Lane Automotive Car Shows. R&R
Dick Beebe
SPRING 2009 7
Racing News
The racing world mourns the loss of Dick Beebe, who passed away Sunday February 22 after suffering a massive heart attack. Dick was born January 26, 1933 in
Kalamazoo, Michigan. His entire life has been spent in and around racing.
It was Dick’s love of racing that prompted him and his late wife of 47 years, Pat,
to start a weekly paper covering motor sports news in 1965. For 43 years, the MARC
Times Racing News kept race fans in the Midwest up to date on racing news all over
the country. The paper was closed due to the slow economy in 2008, but plans are
in the works to revive the paper. Through the MARC Times, the Beebe family was
able to donate thousands of dollars to families of deceased or injured drivers.
Dick’s involvement in racing began before he even started school. He started as a “gopher” for parts on his father’s motorcycle race team. As time went by, Dick became his father’s right-hand man, even helping him to construct or rebuild several race tracks around the country, as well as promoting and officiating at these tracks. Dick and his father were involved
in the construction of Galesburg Speedway and the Grand Rapids Speedrome 1/4-mile in Michigan in addition to tracks in
Pharr, Macallen, Harlingen and San Benito in Texas.
Dick began lettering race cars at Galesburg Speedway when he was 14 years old, the same year he began flagging races.
He was probably the youngest official starter NASCAR ever had. He continued the lettering trade and ran Beebe Signs until
he was in his 70’s. His three sons, Rick, Tim, and Ted were also 14 when they started flagging.
Dick served the racing public in every capacity - groundskeeper and builder, pit steward, announcer, starter, scorer and
timer, track operator, promoter, photographer and reporter. Dick even tried his hand at motorcycle racing, competing in the
last road race for motorcycles held at Catalina Island, California in 1958. He started 110th in a field of over 900 motorcycles
and finished 10th in his class.
Dick was inducted into the Michigan Motorsports Hall of Fame in 1985, the same year as his father. Pat Beebe was inducted in 1998, and Dick’s son-in-law, Jeff Bloom, was inducted in 2000. He received several awards for excellence in media
for the MARC Times as well as for several other contributions to the sport.
Dick continued to work for the betterment of every aspect of racing in every aspect, right to the end of his life. Always a
strong advocate for driver safety, he formed the American Racing Congress in 1970 to establish safety rules governing most
of the tracks in the United States and Canada.
Dick is survived by his wife of 10 years, Kathie Inwood Beebe of Belmont; children Cathy (John) VanReenen, Linda (Jeff )
Bloom, Rick Beebe, Victoria (Tim) Thornton, Tim (Julie) Beebe, and Ted Beebe, step-mother Maxine Miller of Kalamazoo;
siblings Paul Beebe, Sr., Jay (Marti) Beebe, and Susan (Bernie) Belkoski, 18 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. R&R
Racing News
Lane Automotive
and Hartford Motor Speedway
To Present The Lane 45
To mark our 45th year in business, Lane Automotive, Hartford Motor Speedway, and K&N Filters are teaming up to host a special race to
celebrate this anniversary. The Lane 45, Powered By K&N Filters, is scheduled
for July 31, and will showcase some of the Midwest’s top dirt late model drivers
as they compete for the $4,500 winner’s share of a $20,000+ purse. Lap money
could boost the winner’s share to over $6000. The event will be run under UMP
rules and be co-sanctioned by The American Late Model Series (ALMS) and The
J.R. Hotovy
Northern Allstars Late Model Series (NALMS). Hartford’s UMP Modifieds and Pure
Stocks will also be competing on the “wicked half mile”. To make this event a true
celebration, Hartford Motor Speedway has graciously invited all Lane employees and their families to enjoy this special
night free of charge. Please visit www.laneautomotive.com and www.hartfordmotorspeedway.net for further updates. R&R
Allstar Performance
and Kalamazoo Speedway
To Present The Allstar Showdown
Kalamazoo Speedway will host an awesome racing double header on Memorial Day
weekend, highlighted by the first ever Allstar Performance All-Star Showdown. This
75 lap event will offer 15-18 of the area’s top Outlaw Late Model drivers a $5000
winner’s share. Drivers will have a chance to make the Showdown based on their
feature finishes and qualifying times from the early part of the season. On Saturday
Andy Bozell
night, May 23, all drivers not locked into the race will have a starting spot in the last
chance qualifiers, where two lucky drivers will be added to the star studded field.
There will also be two qualifying races for drivers already locked into Sunday’s All-Star event which will determine starting
positions. Modifieds, Pure Stocks and Cyber Stocks will also be competing in a full show. Sunday evening’s program will
kick off with the first ever Allstar Performance All-Star Showdown at 7pm. This race will be run in three 25 lap segments.
The first two segments will be 25 laps each, with a possible inversion of up to six cars at the conclusion of each race. The
final segment will then be a 25 lap dash for $5000, which promises to be the most intense 25 laps of racing ever on the high
banks at the ‘Zoo. Following the All-Star Showdown will be the ever popular Belle Tire Four Cylinder Enduro Series Veterans
200, the second of six Enduros scheduled for 2009 at Kalamazoo. Make sure and mark May 23 and 24 on your
calendar for an action packed, family-friendly race weekend at Kalamazoo Speedway. R&R
Racing News
The WHO 55 Returns To Merritt Speedway
Lane Automotive and Allstar Performance, in conjunction with K&N Filters,
are proud to announce their support of the Third Annual WHO 55, which will
be held on June 10. This mid-week Dirt Late Model special has attracted strong
fields of over 50 cars in its first two years and looks to improve on that in 2009.
This year’s WHO will utilize UMP rules, which will standardize the field and potentially
attract more racers from both Michigan and surrounding states. The hefty $5500
winner’s check plus lap money makes the WHO 55 Michigan’s highest paying Dirt Late
Model event. Merritt Speedway’s 3/8 mile clay oval is located in Central Lower Michigan, just West of Houghton Lake. More information will be available at www.merrittspeedway.com R&R
Track Owner Rod Ancel And Tim Mc Creadie
Gingerman Raceway Car Show June 20. 2009
On Saturday, June 20, while the Motor State Challenge Pro Touring Event is running on the road course at Gingerman
Raceway, east of South Haven, the track will also be hosting its first annual car show. All cars are welcome. The show will
run from 8 am to 5 pm and will feature great food vendors, music and lots of door prizes. For more information, and to register a car, go to www.gingermanraceway.com and click the Registration button. R&R
8
Phone 269.463.Lane • Toll Free 800.772.5266
Manufacturer Spotlight
It’s all about speed. Speed that comes with performance,
reliability, and durability.
That’s the core of everything done at Aeromotive. They live and breathe performance vehicles.
Power. Performance. Speed. Reliability. Durability. These qualities are built into every product and system that displays
the Aeromotive name. Whether it’s at the track, on the street or in the water Aeromotive will be therewith products engineered, manufactured, and tested to meet the toughest conditions.
Aeromotive combines engineering expertise earned in the aerospace industry with a proven track record of performance, and state-of-the-art manufacturing and test facilities makes it all come together at Aeromotive. They like to think
of their engineering and development as “rocket science brought down to earth.” CNC machines are used to manufacture
Aeromorive’s billet fuel pumps, regulators, and filters which are fabricated and assembled in-house to ensure the consistency and quality control needed for product integrity and reliability. Aeromorive designs it, makes it, and stocks it. You have
their word: Every Aeromotive pump that leaves their facility passes the test.
Aeromotive Stealth Fuel Sysytems
Aeromotive Vacuum Pump AFS31101
3-vane pump has ORB-12 ports and can remove air, blow-by and other contaminants from the crankcase. Pulleys and brackets are available separately to bolt the pump to a number of engines.
Aeromotive High-Flow Filters
High-flow filter can withstand the use of ethanol and methanol fuels and has a reusable stainless steel element. Ideal for the pressure side of EFI and carbureted installations. Filters are available in two sizes: -10AN/Dual-6AN outlets (AFS12333) and -12An/
Dual -8AN outlets (AFS12334). Replacement elements are available.
Aeromotive Billet Fuel Pump Speed Controller AFS16306
Controller allows pulse modulation of the fuel pump to reduce cavitation and
vapor lock. It senses the RPM and uses this information to regulate the pump’s
duty cycle for the most efficient control and performance. Installation kit is
included and contains wiring, override toggle switch and hardware.
Billet A-Y Distribution Blocks
Potential fuel leakage paths, additional fittings and high expense are eliminated with Y-blocks which have
AN style male inlets and outlets as an integral part of the block. Blocks offer more area and provide smooth
transitions for less turbulence and restriction for higher flow. Nine different sizes are available.
SPRING 2009 9
Manufacturer Spotlight
The Aeromotive Stealth fuel system comprises an innovative, baffled fuel tank sump box fitted
with an in-line fuel pump and a built-in stainless steel fuel filter. Available with A1000 (AFS18651)
or Eliminator (AFS18652) fuel pump, the sump assemblies provide cool, clean and quiet fuel delivery and eliminate cavitation and vapor lock. A1000 and Eliminator kits are universal and will fit
just about any fuel tank including early and late model GM and Mopar tanks. Components can be
easily accessed through a cam lock fuel filter cover without dropping or removing the tank.
Rodding Journal
Rodding Journal
A ROAD TRIP TO KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR
I’m generally always up for a road trip, especially when it can yield information and photo opportunities that can be
weaved into a newsletter article. This was the case when friend John Keyser asked if I’d be interested in accompanying him
to the northern suburban Detroit area to pick up his newly re-bodied front engine dragster at Al Bergler’s shop. Accompanying us on this trip were dedicated fellow hot rodders, Joe Hagermann and Dave Crane.
The day dawned crisp and clear, and we were enjoying that short time period right after New Years Day when there was
no snow. The highways were dry and ice-free, making the pulling of a trailer much safer. The trip to Al’s Shelby Township
shop came off without a problem.
To anyone who was deeply into the drag racing scene from the late fifties to the mid-eighties, the name Al Bergler is a familiar one. Because of his consummate craftsmanship, his name was synonymous with many facets of drag racing. Among
the most prominent of skillful renderings were the aluminum dragster bodies and funny car interiors he designed and built
for many of the big names in drag racing. Somehow, Al found the time to also build and race his own impressive drag cars
which included a couple of different variations of American Bantam bodied competition coupes, and, later, several top
notch funny cars.
Al is now “retired”, which is to say he only performs his metal magic for fun these days. He has thoroughly enjoyed himself while restoring several famous dragsters from the Detroit area including “The Probe”, “Gang Green”, his own “More Aggravation” Comp Coupe and, most recently, the “Logghe House Car” belonging to John Logghe. When Al agreed to “skin”
John Keyser’s vintage Mark Williams chassis, it was with the same edict he issues to every project these days...”No pressure.
As long as I can have fun, and get paid, I’ll do it.”
He works out of an efficient, relatively compact shop behind his house, and usually performs his metal bending in front
of an audience made up of several friends who are regulars at the shop. John’s dragster took up a considerable length of
space along one side of the shop and a chassis jig holding another front engine chassis in its grip was on the other side.
Ahead of John’s car was a garage lift with an “in progress” ‘40 Ford convertible overhead and Al’s latest acquisition, the
original “Motown Shaker” Vega funny car residing underneath. The whole scene, complete with a variety of chairs, comprises a kind of “hot rodders’ social club” atmosphere ...one in which everyone soon feels right at home. I spent a couple of
hours just browsing Al’s many scrap books which chronicle the entire history of his drag racing career.
As soon as we had John’s dragster pushed out the door, Al was rolling the “Shaker” Vega out from under the lift and tilting the body up. Still planning everything from a strictly fun standpoint, Al plans to restore the car to its “as raced” condition and to make it a part of the touring “Cacklefest” group comprised of the aforementioned cars he has restored. Longtime funny car racer, Della Woods (Funny Honey), has a period correct, supercharged hemi engine available and Al plans to
acquire it for the restoration.
Check out the photos. One look at John Keyser’s dragster and I think you’ll agree that Al’s metal forming skills are still
first class. This is the shop where it all happens. For this 60+ year old “kid”, the trip took me back to thoughts of Detroit
Dragway and the summers of the early sixties, when I would sit on the porch, tiny transistor radio pressed to my ear, and
listen to Al Pierce’s “See You At The Drags” on CKLW radio every Wednesday night. Al Bergler and company are having fun,
and keeping those memories alive for all of us. R&R
Al (left, in chair) explains the finer points of body forming. Check out the lines on
this expertly crafted body, especially the classic nose.
10
Phone 269.463.Lane • Toll Free 800.772.5266
Bergler shop regulars, Bonneville racer, Bruce Elmer, and Bill McLaughlin, look
over the newly found “Motown Shaker”.
Lane Happenings
Third Annual Open Header Cruise To Kick Off Car Show Weekend
Our Third Annual Open Header Cruise will pick up where we left off last year...and we hope to again increase the number of participants. The route will be the same as last year and the local law enforcement agencies will once again control traffic so the cruise will
not have to stop once it is underway. We’re hoping for 75 cars, and would be really happy if 100 cars showed up! Sign up for the Open
Header Cruise 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 map of the Open Header Cruise Route as well as a a list of the cruise rules. R&R
Plan Now To Attend Our 2009 Car Show
Work is moving right along on the 21st Annual Lane Automotive Car Show and Cruise which will take place May 22-23, 2009. Many
things will remain unchanged, including Saturday’s nitro-fueled Noisefest and the Chassis Dyno Challenge, which have grown to be real
crowd pleasers. This year enjoy the Engine Builder Challenge too.
The 40th Anniversary Circle will highlight the Cars of 1969. We’re on the lookout for Class of ‘69 members including Pontiac Grand Prix
SJ’s, Ford Fairlane Cobras, Mustang Mach 1’s, Dart Swinger 340’s and Charger Daytonas. The year 1969 also marked the swan song of the
Chevy Corvair and we’d like to see some of these as well. R&R
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:
It’s Not Too Late To Join Our 2009 Open Header Cruise !
NAME
ADDRESS
CITY
STATE
HOME PHONE:
WORK PHONE:
ZIP CODE
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:
B&M 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 22 and 23, 2009 (during the Lane Cruise-In and Car
Show). Be sure to go to Laneautomotive.com for info and rules. R&R
NAME
E-MAIL
ADDRESS
CITY
HOME PHONE:
WORK PHONE:
STATE
ZIP CODE
CAR YEAR:
Don’t Miss Out On All The Fun, Sign Up Now
CAR MAKE:
Mail To Lane Automotive,
ATTN: Scott Wahlstrom 8300 Lane Drive, Watervliet, MI 49098
or Register On-Line @ www.laneautomotive.com
CAR MODEL:
CID:
SPRING 2009 11
Lane Happenings
CAR YEAR:
8300 Lane Drive Watervliet, Mi 49098
Phone 269-463-LANE • Toll Free 800-772-5266 • Fax 800-772-2618