NOV 2023
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Recouperation
How a tired Graffiti clone went home to be reborn as a 5-window fit to be driven every day CC Cover Nov 23.indd 1
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Contents
D is ece s 26 ue mb O on er ct s ’2 ob al 3 er e
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50
Where’s ‘Enry?
We promised you Ian Dawes’ Henry J on our previous issue’s Next Month page. The story is already written, and it’s Mike Pye at his brilliant best, but with so many shows to fit in this month we simply didn’t have enough space to do Ian justice. Apologies to Ian, and Mike, and all of you looking forward to the story – rest assured you won’t have to wait long.
Regulars 2
42
22
News & reviews Festive fayre for budding rodders
30 Readers’ Rods
An oval-racer’s modified 105e Anglia
60 Auto Focus The drag strip that lives on in car meets
62 Events
2023 lives on… and 2024 gets underway
64 Next Month
Best-in-Britain winning ‘37 Chevy pickup
8
30
Features 8
Hot Rod Hayride 3000 acres of heaven in Bisley
12 Ex-Graffiti ‘32 5-window built by Valley Gas. Twice
22 Supernats
12
www.customcarmag.co.uk
A little controversy, a lot of great cars
36 KLK Extravaganza A proper old-school custom car show
42 Well I’ll be burgered The coolest ever way to sell burgers
50 Dragstalgia The must-do event, as must-do as ever
SUBSCRIBE! 48 Custom Car subs offer
The best value way to get your monthly fix
NOVEMBER 2023 CUSTOM CAR 1
CC Contents Nov.indd 1
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News & reviews
Flying ahead
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e hate to mention the dreaded C word so early in the year, but the truth is the festive period will be upon us before we know it. Should you have a little hot rodder in your life, the burning question is what should you ask the fat man with the white beard and wearing a red suit to drop down the chimney for them? Well, how about something sort of practical that makes light of transporting their tired bodies around a rod run or the pits at a drag race meet? Not convinced. Well, chuck in the fact it makes a great parts
hauler for those parts you buy at a swap meet and does that sway your mind? Lee Blythe is the man behind Coventrybased Kustom Kartz, and essentially, he builds custom Radio Flyer carts, made to order to the customer’s spec and colour choice. That somewhat simplifies what Lee offers, however. The hand-built chassis are made from 25mm x 25mm x 3mm fully seam welded box section steel, with the rolling stock featuring 4-link rear suspension, wheel and steering bearings, and racing go kart wheels with
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treaded or slick tyres. The pull handle is 1 metre long, the stained wood sides are handmade, and as standard the tubs are finished in either red, yellow, blue, black or white but can be custom painted at extra cost. The logos are laser cut and additional sign writing can be added. Prices for a standard kart start at £450 and, as each takes approximately 2 weeks to manufacture, should you want one under your Christmas tree you need to get your order in pretty quick to avoid disappointment. Facebook: Lee Blythe Kustom Kartz
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2 CUSTOM CAR NOVEMBER 2023 CC_News & Reviews_ November.indd 2
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Pic: Julian Hunt
The heat was on Amongst the likes of Top Fuel Dragster, Top Methanol, Nitro Funny Car, Pro Modified and so many other race classes, there were other true stars of the Euro Finals at Santa Pod held over the first weekend in September. Less sexy and appealing admittedly, but just as much a part of the event as the race cars. The unseasonal heatwave meant that Ian Marshall and the startline and track crew, along with the fire and ambulance marshals, put in long shifts on each of the 5 days. Whilst spectators and race crews took refuge from the sun in whatever way they could, these guys stood their ground, some wearing extensive protective clothing, in sweltering temperatures with no shade at all to take advantage of. Then, when the racing was over they carried on working to ensure the track was ready for the following day. To round off the weekend they spent 5 hours tirelessly working to clear water and dry the track after the torrential rain hit around 2 pm on Sunday. Their efforts resulted in a couple of hours more track time to ensure the meeting ran to a conclusion, albeit well into the evening. Top job guys and gals, we salute you all.
VISIT O
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Belcher’s web Belcher Engineering’s new website focuses on the company’s extensive automotive brand of service and dress-up / accessory products. Although the parts listings are already extensive, the website is still in its infancy with more items to be added over the coming months. Whether you need a stock Model A speedo drive gear, a track rod end for a Chevy C10 pick-up, or a chrome TH350 transmission pan, you may find that Belcher Engineering stocks just what you need. The website also highlights the services the company offers, along with a for sale page. www.belchers.uk
Orange turns green
UR
Pic: Julian Hunt)
During the Greenlight Nationals at Santa Pod in August, Simon Barlow ran the Orange Pop Racing Fordson to a best of 7.2611 / 190.48 in Greenlight Pro on Saturday. Sunday morning saw an improvement to 7.1834 / 192.97. That sixsecond pass is getting ever closer. Top job guys.
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News & reviews
Something for the weekend?
Yorkshire sales
2 CUSTOM CAR MARCH 2023
All-day sunset
If you’re reading this within a few days of the issue hitting the newsstands, you’ll be in time to head along to the 9th staging of Hayling Sunset. Organised by Victory Wheelers, it takes place at Funland Amusement Park, Hayling Island PO11 0AG on Sunday 1 October kicking off at 10.00 am. Hayling Sunset is billed as a chilled-out day for all things custom, rod, rat, muscle, chopped and bobbed. Sounds like a perfect day for rounding off the season to us.
The NSRA Northern Swap Meet returns to Melbourne Raceway on Sunday 29 October. Entry access for traders is from 7:30 am, with the public being allowed in from 9:00 am. Admission prices are £4 for NSRA members (membership cards must be shown) and £6 for non-members. Anyone interested in a trade pitch should contact Andy via email at nsra.trade@nsra.org.uk or by calling 07810 770256. The address to head for on the day is Melbourne Raceway, Ash Lane, York YD42 4SS. www.nsra.org.uk
November. The show brings together a vast array of displays by classic car and motorcycle clubs, with a large number of exhibits being of particular interest to Custom Car readers. Along with the vehicles on show, there is an autojumble area, live Silverstone Auctions, talks from motoring celebrities and experts, and even the opportunity to enjoy a drive out in a unique classic supporting the HERO-ERA or Sporting Bears charities. Single-day adult admission tickets are priced from £33.50, with weekend pass prices starting at £56.00. www.necclassicmotorshow.com
Gala induction The British Drag Racing Hall of Fame’s 2023 Gala Awards Dinner takes place on Saturday 18 November. The occasion reverted to its usual midNovember weekend after taking place a week earlier last year. The location, however, remains unchanged: Oatlands Park Hotel at Weybridge, Surrey, whose elegant, four-star luxury has served the Hall of Fame so well since 2017. The highlight of the evening will be the induction of this year’s four new Hall of Fame Members. Other notable presentations will include the Stuart Bradbury Junior Drag Racing Awards to the season’s winning Junior Dragster and Dragbike racers. www.britishdragracinghof.co.uk
Classical arrangements The Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show takes place at the NEC, Birmingham on 10-12
Ken Barrow Ken Barrow sadly passed away on 21 July. Founder of the Leicester Street Cruisers, Ken built a number of hot rods over the years including a Ford 8 but will probably be best remembered for his widened and channelled Model Y which ran a small block Chevy topped off with a dummy blower. He also ran a successful wedding hire car business utilising a trio of cars that he built himself based on Matchbox models. Ken was a real character and a very clever man. He was uncle to ‘hot rod legend’ Lee Cox, and mentor to me, Melv Jarvis. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends. RIP Ken.
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News & reviews German finalists
Time travel
Congratulations to a couple of British race teams who reached their respective class finals at the NitrOlympx staged at Hockenheimring over the last weekend in August. The ultimate laurels didn’t go the way of the Brits, but that didn’t overshadow their achievements in reaching the finals. A big shout out for Mark Coulsell in Ball Breaker running in Super Pro ET and Leah Kellett in Dolly Daydream running in Super Comp.
(from an NSRA UK Facebook posting by Angi Findlater) Many years ago Tim Baggaley parked my daughter, Miki Thompson, in front of her namesake tyre and she subsequently got a mention in Custom Car. Some 27 years later at the Supernats we recreated the photo with the same car, same wheels, same Mickey Thompsons. Tim Baggaley’s pic was taken at either the NSRA Supernats or NASC Nats in 1996. I remember him coming up to us and asking if the baby was Miki Thompson. When we said yes, he ran off with her to take the photo in front of Steve Porter’s Cresta. I hasten to add we knew Tim quite well at the time as he used to come to Smoke City Wheelers club nights. When Steve dug out his Cresta again after many years tucked away he said, “Do you know it’s still got the same wheels and tyres that were on it when Tim did that article?” Too good an opportunity to miss!
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News & reviews Mutual Alliance The Historic and Classic Vehicles Alliance is a not-for-profit trade organisation representing small and medium-sized enterprises within the historic and classic vehicle sector. It seeks to improve awareness of the sector’s economic and social benefits and to ensure those responsible for policy and regulation are challenged and held accountable. The Alliance has recently highlighted the proposed government independent review of the DVLA, and is actively representing its membership by directly engaging with MPs, policymakers and stakeholders. The aim is to ensure existing and proposed regulations are fit for purpose while offering impartial consultation and expertise. We can only applaud the HCVA for all it is doing, and recommend readers find out more by visiting its website at www.hcva.co.uk.
The year ahead With many rodders having to book time off work in advance to attend events it makes sense for organisers to publish dates as soon as possible. Rest assured, as soon as we get confirmation of any such dates we will inform readers at the earliest opportunity. So, those of you who already have a 2024 calendar can make a note of the following: Race the Waves, Bridlington – 11-12 May; National Hot Rod, Custom & American Car Show, Lincoln - 28-30 June; Deuce Day, British Motor Museum – 24 July: Hot Rods in The Borders, Jedburgh – 16-18 August.
cast
The latest happenings at the home of UK drag racing – Santa Pod We are so excited about our Flame & Thunder event here on Saturday 28 October. Where else would you see Drag Racing, Stunt Shows, Jet Cars, JCB Dancing Diggers and Monster Trucks all in one day? Feel the force and power of the FireForce 3 and 5 Jet Cars as they fly down the track at 270 – 300 mph, or we have our brand-new Spiderman Jet Dragster that is just as mighty. There will be plenty of other drag demos that will light up the quarter mile, and make you shake in your seat. Also in the mix will be the Oklahoma Willy Jet Bus, a 1958 VW pick-up, which is complete with a Rolls Royce Viper 535 jet engine from a fighter jet. On the other side of the track, we have plenty for the family to watch, with jaw-dropping stunt shows from our massive monster trucks with their crushing and daring skills. Plus, we are delighted to welcome back our stunt masters, Lee Bowers and Terry Grant,
as they pull out some amazing and scary edge-of-the-seat crazy stunts. If you want to see more mindblowing action, then you will love the JCB Dancing Diggers, who will put on a show like no other. Also off the track we have all the fun of the fair, plus inflatables, Mad Dom, Circus skills and magic, Action Wheels to test the kids’ skills, plus a spook-tacular monster disco for the under 12s. Then as the darkness falls, and the FireForce Jet Car crosses the finish line, you will witness a spectacular fireworks display to finish off the evening with a bang! Get your tickets online now at santapodtickets.com, or by phoning the Box Office on 01234 782828.
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Unit 2, Viking Business Park, Queens Farm Rd, Lower Shorne, Kent DA12 3HU Tel: 01474 824007 www.burnhamautos.com
6 CUSTOM CAR NOVEMBER 2023 CC_News & Reviews_ November.indd 6
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CUSTOMCAR
T S E B & T S E G IG B ’S THE UK BIRMINGHA , C E N | R E B M E V O N 2 -1 10
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*Saving offered on advanced tickets available online until midnight Thursday 9 November 2023. To benefit from £2 discount the code must be entered at time of booking.
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Makin’ Hay ■ Words & Pics: Mike Pye
Hard to believe, but this year saw the 15th running of the Hot Rod Hayride. There have been some changes to the format over the years, and to the location, and to the clubs that underpin it, but last year saw a very welcome return. And boy, did it come back with a bang. Everyone saying it was as good as any of the previous Hayrides, and hadn’t lost any
Back to Bisley for a hot rod weekend like no other. There really is nothing quite like the Hot Rod Hayride
of its soul along the way, thanks to the massive efforts put in by Jerry Chatabox and the Detonators car club. Nevertheless, we all went home with the knowledge that its return could be a one off. But news started to leak out toward the end of the year and, in January, tickets went on sale for the 2023 event. And if it didn’t sell out within a matter of days, it surely came close.
and the venue at Bisley Shooting Ground near Woking, Surrey is over 3000 acres, so that’s roughly an acre per person, which feels just about right to us. Showing the eagerness with which the Hayride is anticipated, we started seeing posts online about people leaving for the event early doors on Thursday morning and, while the unfortunate / annoying
From what we’re told, capacity is 3000
If you’re not a fan of ’57 Chevys, look again at a le ’57 Nomad. This ’un, wearing Rumblers colours, prestigious Cartier Sty Fresh from his win in the i was as sweet as they get, just lowered over his chopped Merc’, Ter h wit od dwo Goo at e et Lux Ford to the Hayride chrome reverse. It didn’t need anything else ’35 us geo gor his t ugh Smith bro
We tend to leave bikes to the moto rcycle mags but, given the amount of effort Carl Parker went to to get his just finished Triumph chop to the show, and how damn cool it is, it deserved an honourable mention
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‘If it didn’t sell out within a matter of days, it surely came close’
We don’t think we’ve ever seen so many ’49-’51 Mercurys in one place. Here’s just two of the less familiar ones to us
clash with the Mopar Euronats at Santa Pod meant I had to leave early on the Saturday, I suspect I was the only one that did. Bisley is just such a great place to hang out, and it doesn’t get any better than on Hayride weekends. The format remained largely the same as last year, with a great line up of DJs and rockin’ bands, traders, a flea market and the Demon Drome wall of death, but added
to that an increased range of food vendors, even more beers to sample, the Bisley Pavilion back in action as the late night (10pm-2am) bar / dancing / burlesque show venue and the return of both the dirt oval track racing on the Saturday and, bringing the event to an entertaining close, the Soapbox Derby. The weather couldn’t compete with last year’s effort, but there was still plenty
of sun and the occasional downpour did nothing to dampen spirits. As anyone who attended will concur, the 15th Hot Rod Hayride was an absolute blast. Will there be a 16th Hayride in 2024? My feeling is yes, but nothing is confirmed yet, so keep your ears to the ground and jump when the announcement is made. It really is the best traditional hot rod weekender of the year.
Bisley Pavilion makes a great backdrop for pictures, but even better to see it back in action for the latenight entertainment
Andy Saunders brought Deja, his Delahaye tribute act built from a 1950 Riley four door saloon, out to play and it looked stunning in the sun
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show field is pre-’66, so The only stipulation for entry to the , headed up in this show on mix tic eclec the quite there was y CC featured iousl prev , erful wond es’ Jam shot by Richard ’41 Ford custom
Jon Golding does it again, this unde rstated ’32 3-window being one of two new cars out of Home Grown Hot Rods at this year’ s Hayride
Another one over from the continent, this mild custom ’59 Buick was the size of an aircraft carrier, but carried it well
h, e Frith, son of Carl Frit Now in the hands of Pac has definitely an sed ’32 t net Bar rv the ex-Me found the right home
Meanwhile, in the vintage caravan corner, it could easily have been the mid-1950s
A new one on us, the ’flake in the paint on this mild custom ’61 Olds Dynamic 88 convertible really popped in the sun
‘Will there be a 16th Hayride in 2024?’
Detonators Dust Up Big thanks to Dave Mcanulty for the pics
This year saw a return to Tongham Motor Club in nearby Four Marks for an opportunity to thrash your hot rod round a dirt oval track and beat one of your mates, or just stand and watch the spectacle, waiting for the cloud of red dust that invariably swamps spectators when the track is dry. As there was both rain and sunshine this year, visitors were treated to both a wet dousing of mud and a dry one – the best of both worlds if you will. Race format was two cars and three pursuit laps, starting 180 degrees apart. It’s more for fun than anything else, with the 21 racers choosing their opponents, though the second session ran in a knockout format with stalwarts, Russ de Barr and Nick Blanche, declared overall winner and runner-up respectively. Adding to the entertainment were the BriSCA Heritage Stock Cars who ran in two separate sessions, and thanks must go to Clive ‘CJ’ Prew at Stromberg 97 for generously sponsoring the racing and donating a couple of carbs to the cause.
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Recouperation Sometimes the only way to move forward is to take a car back to its roots Words: Dave Biggadyke Pics: Alan Kidd
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The Graffiti-influenced coupe that Anthony bought.
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hen it comes to modified cars, Anthony Bushell was ahead of the game in his formative years. He cut his teeth on a DAX Cobra when he was still a teenager. “It was pretty hanging,” Anthony recalled. “But I fixed it up and it served my needs for a while.” Hanging or not, that’s a pretty formidable starter car and very few teenagers can lay claim to owning such a cool ride at that tender age. Things then got a touch bizarre though. “After the Cobra I had the SierraStang.” Perplexed and intrigued, I naturally probed Anthony to find out exactly what he was talking about. “Essentially it was a replica Eleanor Mustang body grafted onto a Ford Sierra floorplan.” That clears that up then, and the chances are it looked a lot better than you may first think. Returning to normality, if that is an appropriate adjective for a hot rod, Anthony then bought a Deuce coupe. That was in 2016 and it was quite a distinctive 5-window as it happens, being a clone in the style of Milner’s coupe in American Graffiti. Anthony bought the car from Phil Forth, who had originally had it built at Valley Gas Speed Shop circa 2004. Apart from the Graffiti look, Phil had been specific on a couple of aspects relating to the car. First up it had to return reasonable gas mileage as he planned to drive it a lot and that criteria resulted in higher ratio gears in the rear axle than would normally be fitted. Then, as Phil enjoys his weekends away, the car had to be capable of towing, hence it had a marginally increased altitude at the rear. True to his word Phil drove the car thousands of miles over the years, with the
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It was clone in the style of Milner’s coupe in American Graffiti Pic: DB
Under the ownership of Phil Forth, the coupe seen sporting its Perspex bonnet at the Steel City Cruisers show in 2011.
The first transformation was when Anthony removed the rear wings.
By the time the car arrived at Valley Gas it was also devoid of the front cycle fenders and the rear nerf bar.
coupe being instantly recognisable thanks to the transparent bonnet top he added.
Ford 9-inch rear axle with Strange shafts, bearings and studs, along with a disc brake conversion and Panhard rod – it was just that they needed spicing up a bit to be more in tune with Anthony’s needs. Knowing of the car’s lineage, Anthony contacted Jimmy Hibberd at Valley Gas to discuss the changes he had in mind. That chat resulted in the coupe returning to its place of birth and then being stripped down to a bare chassis. The rails were C-notched at the rear to facilitate the planned lower ride height, and fresh gears were fitted to the rear axle for improved acceleration. At the front, the axle was switched to a chrome I-beam for added bling, along with a fresh steering box arrangement for improved driveability. The engine was cleaned up and painted, and a new stainless steel exhaust system was fabricated complete with cut outs for
Minimalistic
Whilst he now had the hot rod he lusted after, the problem was as he started to drive it Anthony found the car didn’t really do it as far as he was concerned. As is often the case with a car that doesn’t tick all the boxes, the driving of it became less and less enjoyable and more and more minimal. “I just didn’t use it all really and I knew I had to do something about that.” While there was nothing wrong with the ingredients themselves – Rodline ‘glass 5-window body, American Stamping rails boxed with tubular crossmembers, dropped I-beam front axle with a transverse leaf spring, hairpins and a disc brake kit, and a ladder bar located, Hauser Racing prepped,
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Picking up the pieces
The rolling stock was stripped to a bare chassis in readiness for the modifications that were planned.
The Perspex bonnet had served its time so a replacement was formed from sheet steel.
With the suspension upgrades completed the rails were painted black and the team at Valley Gas rebuilt the rolling chassis.
The team at the paint shop tweaked the fit of the doors…
…before separating the body from the chassis. Note the C-notched rear rails.
A yellow car never featured in his plans
This is the blown ’57 Chevy pick-up that now vies for Anthony’s attention.
those times when Anthony really needed to make an entrance. Or exit come to that. Less exciting, but equally as important, fresh headlights were fitted, along with new door and boot lid handles.
Seeing red
Attention then turned to the bodywork. The car had never been painted and, unsurprisingly considering the mileage the coupe had clocked up, the gel coat finish was beginning to show its age. That aside, Anthony was trying to move away from the Graffiti look anyway so a yellow car never featured in his plans. With a distinctly more
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With the body prepped it was treated to a few coats of primer.
The body and chassis reunited eady to head back to Anthony’s garage.
The fuel tank is housed within the boot, and a metal bubble has now been added in the floor for increased diff clearance.
Similarly, a steel trans tunnel shrouds the gearbox inside the car.
Ultimately back at Valley Gas it was found that water ingress had done the engine no favours so it was stripped for a rebuild and treated to a healthier cam at the same time.
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Below: Standard hot rod fodder at the front end; I beam, transverse leaf spring and hairpins.
Dash panel houses a complement of Ford script AutoMeter gauges, whilst a polished Speedway column is topped off with a wheel from the same source. The three pedals beneath the dash hint at the Tremec ‘box and connect to a Kugel clutch and brake master cylinder assembly.
Dash panel houses a complement of Ford script AutoMeter gauges, whilst a polished Speedway column is topped off with a wheel from the same source. The three pedals beneath the dash hint at the Tremec ‘box and connect to a Kugel clutch and brake master cylinder assembly.
The rebuilt small block Chevy now displaces 355 cubes and is fitted with a livelier cam. Fuelling issues resulted in Anthony ditching the Barry Grant Road Demon carb in favour of a 600cfm Edelbrock. Gearbox is a Tremec TKO 5-speed manual.
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appealing shade of red firmly in mind, the car was shipped off to Gavin at Reef Paint Shop in Trowbridge. However, with the car freshly painted Anthony’s situation changed resulting in the rebuild being put on hold for a year or two. With his life back on track, the coupe returned to the Valley Gas workshop to be finished off. That work involved wiring using a Ron Francis kit and a dashboard refresh among other jobs. The engine also required major attention this time round and that resulted in it producing a few extra horses – which suits Anthony fine, especially with a manual ‘box adding to the fun factor. That just left the interior to sort. The coupe’s first incarnation had seen Phil Forth tackle the trimming himself, and while that was fine for his needs Anthony wanted to up the ante a bit. The fresh paint deserved the company of a fresh interior after all. Valley
Gas fabricated new door cars and then called upon the services of Matt Ellison at Herbert and Ellison in Stockbridge, and what a fine job he made of the stitchwork.
Pulling power
The car was completed and back on the road in 2021, just in time for Covid to hit. Understandably Anthony didn’t clock up many miles that year, but he’s made up for that of late. The only niggly teething issue was resolved by a change of carburettor, with Anthony telling us: “It ran sweet right out the box and has made such a difference.” That comment prompted me to ask how the car drove in general. “When I first bought the coupe it was like I was fighting it all the time. It wandered all over the place. Now though it goes straight and steers just where I want it to. The ride is nice and smooth and
with the engine upgrades and the change of gearing it pulls away just as I wanted it to.” Inevitably the next question was if Anthony had any future plans for the car. “Well, much as it’s now just as I want it to be and I really enjoy driving it, I may not own it for that much longer. A friend of mine is keen to buy the coupe and it would sort of make sense to let it go and then invest some of the money in my blown ’57 Chevy pick-up.” So, will this fresh-looking 5-window coupe be getting its third owner? Only time will tell, but our guess is that if it does there won’t be any radical changes on the horizon. At least not for the time being CC
Thanks
Jimmy and the team at Valley Gas Speed Shop, Gavin Alcock formerly of Reef Paint Shop, and my dad Gary.
The engine required major attention and that resulted in it producing a few extra horses – which suits Anthony fine
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Pic: Steve Baines
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Super tonic ■ Words & Pics: Dave Biggadyke
The 32nd staging of the Hot Rod Supernationals was always going to be a tough act. What could the NSRA do to follow last year’s awesome 50th anniversary event? Not wanting to shy away from the challenge, the committee stepped up to the plate and mixed things up a bit. The entertainment marquee fell by the wayside, replaced with a festival-style outdoor stage. A brave move indeed but, as the weather pretty much played ball, it was a move that appeared to work. The entertainment itself is best described as Marmite. At least there was the option of Baldy’s Bar for those who weren’t keen on the acts performing on the main stage. After a quiet Friday daytime, Saturday’s cruise proved as popular as ever and was very well supported. Similarly, the IVA talk
by Trevor Gardiner on Saturday afternoon was well received. Unfortunately, I missed that as I was still out enjoying the cruise, but speaking to people who did attend everyone was unanimous in that it was extremely enlightening. Organisation-wise, the scan-and-go entry system for new arrivals was a great success with no gripes about queuing to be heard. Personally, I feel the issuing of show numbers needs addressing as many vehicle owners were oblivious to the need for one for their car to be included in the judging. I must also mention the so-called beer glass deposit at the bar. I’m all for reducing plastic usage, and while I applaud the idea there was a great deal of confusion surrounding it. Had the situation been clearly explained, people would have been far more appreciative and accepting.
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These are only minor issues though. The weekend was highly enjoyable from Thursday through to Sunday. The vibe was there and, although not rammed, the show field took some getting around on Sunday. The atmosphere was relaxed, and the company was great. What more could you ask for? Top job committee and helpers, it was just the tonic we all needed. As this was the last Supernats for outgoing NSRA chairman John Proctor, it’s only right to give him the last word. ‘Overall this year the event was well attended, with
lots of members taking advantage of the full day on Thursday. Quicker access to the site saw a steady flow of attendees with not too much queueing. ‘The weather was kind and we had tweaks this year with an open-air stage and a varied mix of bands and DJs. There was a relaxed feel and we had our American guests Lucky Burton and Piero de Luca, along with a great presence from all over Europe and brothers Neil and Dave Roper over from New Zealand. ‘A great cruise on Saturday saw loads of hot rods and customs set out to two
destinations this year and it was a great success. Sunday saw our largest ever public attendance, and although there were slight problems with prize giving it was a very successful 32nd Supernationals. ‘I hope everyone had a very enjoyable long weekend. A number of new faces will be on the committee next year, so I will be back again in a new capacity as a paying participant. It will be nice to catch up with some of the many friends I’ve made while being on the committee. See you all next year for the 33rd Supernationals.’
Steve Young’s Hemi-powered ’33 Ford received a hefty roof chop at Buckland Automotive earlier this year, with louvred bonnet sides and a rear pan being added at the same time. The coupe was selected as both Traders’ and Lucky’s Hot Rods / Mad Fabricators’ Picks
Hailing from Sweden, this ‘48 Chrysler Windsor convertible runs an LT1 engine with 700R4 transmission, Volvo rear axle, Saab rack and pinion steering and all-round hydraulic suspension
things down of late, Ian Burton has scaleding some really wellduc pro n bee has and models in steel detailed hand-crafted
Can you spot the common denominator? The answer is one of the people in this shot. Yup, all these hot rods were built by Dave Rothwell, along with at least half a dozen more.
Not sure if it was the lines laid down by Loony Pinstriping on Friday that clinched the deal, but Mick Hewitt’s ‘56 Chevy pick-up bagged the Shuttleworth Pick trophy
nders’ Riley I’d seen Deja, Andy Sau This was the first time disappoint. The n’t did it and , esh fl Motors RMB, in the rk is sublime Delahaye-esque bodywo
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Ray’s Classics
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California Collector Car Export Sales Specialist 1963 FORD RANCHERO FACTORY V8/4SPD P/S, GT RALLY WHEELS, ON THE BUTTON $9,850
1971 PONTIAC LE MANS SPORT, 350ci/AUTO, P/S,P/B GOOD SOLID CAR, ON THE BUTTON DRIVER $9,850.
1964 THAMES 400E LHD CALIFORNIA VAN SINCE, NO ENGINE/TRANS VERY STRAIGHT AND RUSTFREE, EXTREMELY SUNBLEACHED OR TERRIFIC PATINA HOWEVER YOU SEE IT $5300.
1947 CHEVY STYLEMASTER SEDAN DELIVERY, 6CYL/3SPD, VERY STRAIGHT BODY NICELY DONE BLACK VINYL INTERIOR, JUST OUT OF LONG TERM LOCAL STORAGE, STARTS & RUNS, NO BRAKES AT PRESENT $14,250
1956 CHEVY 3100 BIG WINDOW 6CYL/3SPD SAME LONG TERM OWNERSHIP, ON THE BUTTON DRIVER $12,250
1967 FORD MUSTANG 289/AUTO, P/S, A/C, CALIFORNIA CAR $4K IN NEW RESTORATION PARTS INCLUDED. STARTS AND RUNS $11,750
1965 HARLEY DAVIDSON SERVICAR, ELECTRIC START, ORIGINAL METAL SHIN GUARDS AND MOTOROLA TWO WAY RADIO, ON THE BUTTON, STREETS OF SAN FRANCISCO SURVIVOR, $15,800.
1963 MERCURY COMET 2DR SEDAN 6CYL/3SPD, REBUILT ENGINE. BRAKES, REAREND, NEW INTERIOR, RUSTFREE CAR $13,800
25 VEHICLES UK REGISTERED READY FOR PURCHASE IN THE SW OF ENGLAND POA Prices include shipping from Oakland CA to UK mainland. Check the website for complete inventory list.
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bers SS clone. 1970 Chevelle is a matching num features a full Imported to the UK in 2010, the car olt rear axle 12-b a with along ior inter SS nal origi n ensio susp and upgraded
On the road
The nice people of the A602’s organised Saturday’s cruise, which left the show field at noon. The first leg was a 17-mile jaunt through the countryside to a friendly village pub… well, that was what the paperwork said. Thanks to sat navs, most people made it to the destination, with some inevitably clocking up a few extra miles Zoe Hincliffe prepares to set the wheels in motion, slow motion, in the slow drags staged on Saturday afternoon
Horse power paddock The Cricketers public house in Weston offers a large paddock directly behind the beer garden which coped with the number of vehicles on the cruise with relative ease. Once parked up, it was time to grab a drink and maybe something to eat, then relax in the sunshine
Ginner giving the evil eye to the devil’s head aerial topper on this ’55 Chevy…
…and then extolling the virtues of the Bel Air side trim from the same year
Green credentials
The next stage of the cruise was a journey of just over seven miles to Stotfold to take in a classic show known as Cars on the Green. This was optional, with some cruisers heading directly back to Old Warden instead. Those who did visit Stotfold were treated to all manner of classics, with the green being almost full to bursting point
Jerry Denning’s gorgeous ’32 roadster, as featured in the March ’18 issue. Engine is a 365ci V8 from a ’58 Cadillac, while the rear axle is a Winters quickchange
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Having spent several years putting this stunning ’32 coupe together themselves, right down to the paint and interior, the emotions on the faces of Chris and Ali Taylor were plain to see when they collected the Participants’ Choice trophy. After all, there is no greater accolade than one voted for by your peers. Top job guys, you are well-deserving winners
Hall of Fame Soon after 3pm on Sunday, the crowd began gathering in readiness for prizegiving. Prior to that though came the presentations to the latest NSRA Hall of Fame inductees
He hasn’t turned his back on the real thing, though, and his latest ride, this ’50 Chevy pickup, is spot on The first inductee was Revenge, drive The latest member to be inducted is Tim n into the arena by the current owner Gerr in recognition of his dedication and y Gaughan. Horsfall, Sitting alongside him was Nick Butle assistance to the NSRA for half a century r who built the iconic C cab almost 50 years ago
The induction for Supplier / Organisation went to Saturn Industries and was gratefully accepted by company founder Mike Cobell
Lucky Burton accepted the induc tion of an individual to the Hall of Fame on behalf of the late Pat Ganahl
Fresh from being featured in our August issue, Steve’s Burnham Autos-built ‘55 Cadillac appeared larger than life on the show field at Old Warden. A subtle roof chop and super-rare Sabre accessory alloys are just a couple of the car’s features
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The winners
Bob and April Sheppard were presented with an NSRA Special Award in recognition of their dedication and hard work over many years
A happy Maverick Leyton collecting the award for Best Tot Rod
Andy Saunders steps forward to present another of his awards to Rob for his ’53 Chevy Bel Air
Gary Chester pulls into the arena in his gorgeous ’55 Chevy to collect a well-deserved Top Ten trophy
This is the Consul Capri that Kev Rooney built many years ago. It was featured in Street Machine in ‘99, then CC in ’02. Terry Barton bought it around a year ago and has completed a full restoration, with the car now running a 2-litre Sierra engine with automatic trans. The Capri took an Andy Saunders award and the trophy for UK Kustoms Pick
Another Top Ten winner, another Dave Rothwell-built car – Chris Hay’s Maserati V8-powered ’34 Standard
A Hanomag is a rare sight anywhere, yet there were two of them at this year’s Supernats – both built by Dave Rothwell. Harvey Rothwell collected the Top Ten award presented to this 1940 Type 13
Here’s something you don’t come across every day. Richard Woolmer is the proud owner of this ‘46 Armstrong Siddeley Lancaster, his tender years netting him the NSRA Under 29’s award. The car was also placed in the Top Ten
Chevy Vortec LS1 motor with FiTech fuel injection, GM 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission, Ford 9-inch rear axle, Mustang II IFS and air bags all round are just part of the spec of Mark Belcher’s ’38 Chevy coupe, another recent CC feature car and another Top Ten winner
On the back of its win at the National Hot Rod Show, Mark Barrett’s ’37 Chevy pick-up took a Top Ten placing at Old Warden. A full feature is on the cards, so watch this space
The team that pulled it all together, along with a couple of American guests for good measure. We tip our hats to them all
The winners’ line-up in front of the Old Warden Mansion House – an impressive group and a worthy finale to another memorable event
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S D O R ’ S R E D A RE post to Custom Car, alan.kidd@assignment-media.co.uk, or Email photos and details of your car to details – and when t DE14 9PR. Please include your contact Tren on on Burt 2, 863 Pox PO Ltd, ia Assignment Med file size you have available sending digital pictures, use the largest
E’s are good…
W
ith its American styling and a new 997 OHV engine, the 105e Anglia was quite a car for its time. Unlike the 100e and sit-up-and-beg Pops, the 105e had fins, a distinctive grille and a slanting rear screen. Later on, many a retro Ford builder and beginner hot rodder have found its back axle to be a decent replacement. Over the years, many warmed up, hot rodded and drag racing variations have been created on the 105e theme – and more recently, it has gained popularity with a younger audience after starring in the Harry Potter movie franchise. This model here is owned by Andy Boswartick, a former driving instructor turned sign writer whose work features heavily on oval racers. He’s a man who says his favourite vehicle is, ‘realistically,’ a Mk2 RS droop-snoot, but that if money was no object he’d have a ’32 Highboy.
Words and Pics: James Webber
One day, maybe. For now, let’s focus on his 105e. It’s a home-built vehicle that gets driven regularly, and it’s powered by an engine conversion that’s definitely not one you see every day. Andy takes up the story… ‘I bought the Anglia for a project in 2009, when the imminent closure of our local short oval was announced. It was biog standard; I got it from a friend who had acquired it for the transferable registration. ‘Although very crispy around the edges, it was a fairly solid shell and a good basis for what I had in mind – a low budget road car with nods towards my short oval interests. I drove it the 400 miles home and straight into the garage, and the stripdown began. ‘There were a few ground rules set by Lisa, my wife, before I started. She said it still had to look classic, both inside and out. ‘The shell required many repair panels, which I fabricated. It needed upper and lower wing sections, a lower nearside door skin,
front crossmember and floor sections, and I opted for steel trailer arches reminiscent of the old hot rods I loved watching as a child at Newton Abbot.
Done different
‘I fitted an Escort front crossmember and suspension, converted it to coil overs, put it on homemade compression struts and lowered the rear on 1” blocks. The wheels were initially 8” and 9” Minilights but after a while, I had the original Anglia rims banded to 7 and 8”. I was bored of seeing the same rims on every classic Ford!’ Being different is definitely a bit of a theme here, and so too is changing stuff. As Andy explains. ‘Engine wise, first came a tuned 1300, then a 1600 crossflow. But then I decided I wanted something that would drive nicely in traffic but still make me smile on the open road.
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‘That’s when another friend told me about a rather sad incident his son had had. After spending a few weeks doing up his MX5, he managed to plant it through the armco on a roundabout on his very first outing, writing the car off within 30 minutes of getting it on the road. ‘I bought the whole car, took off what I needed and sold what I could that was left.’ That was four years ago. And a car that had always been kind of a minor project was about to turn into kind of a major one. ‘I cut out the bulkhead, dropped in the twin cam and box and rebuilt the car around it.’ says Andy, which makes it sound like the work of an afternoon. ‘I fabricated the mounts, pedal box, tunnel and a bulkhead, and after much head scratching I spliced in the MX5 loom and fuse box.’ Not sounding quite so much of an easy job now, then, and sure enough by the time he was able to get it on the rollers another two years had come and gone. So now the Anglia is running a 1.8-litre Mazda VVT engine with a four-branch
The cabin has a motorsport vibe to it but without being over the top. Andy’s wife Lisa said it had to stay classic in its looks, which it does even though it’s now home to a pair of MX5 seats and a half rollcage. The rear bench is original 105e, as is the steering wheel, and the upper dash is pretty much unchanged despite all the bits and bobs that have been added
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Standard 1.8 DOHC engine from a 2003 MX5 runs a Ramair filter, stand-alone ECU and four-branch manifold into a home-made 2” exhaust. When Andy finally managed to make a date with a rolling road so he could get it properly set up, the read-out said it was making 159.6bhp and 132lbf.ft of torque
manifold into a home-made stainless 2” exhaust. And what did the rollers say? With the engine properly set up, and running a Ramair filter and stand-alone ECU, it was putting out 159.6bhp and 132lbf.ft of torque. The standard Mazda gearbox is still bolted to the back of the 1.8, with a custom pedal box using MX5 parts and clutch master cylinder and a custom prop turning the Anglia axle. At the time of writing, Andy was soon to be fitting a Blackline slipper (much needed, he says) with a 1:3.89 ring and pinion. The suspension continues to use coilovers, with a Rally Design 2.25” kit running 200lb springs on Escort struts and Gaz gold inserts. At the back, standard rear springs are mated to a Milton bolt-on Gaz damper kit.
Braking up front is by Escort discs and M16 calipers, with Corsair 8” drums at the back and the MX5 handbrake lever and cables pulling on them when it’s time for bed. The wheels are 7x13” up front and 8x13” at the back, with 175/50 and 185/50 Nankang tyres keeping the Anglia stuck to the ground.
Upsetting hatches
‘It drives nice now,’ comments Andy, ‘pulling from 30 in 5th and plodding around town, and it will give 40mpg on a sensible run. But it will upset a few hot hatches when necessary, too!’ Happily, one person it didn’t upset was Lisa. Things were definitely moving away from the classic build she wanted, especially
as the MX5’s leather seats somehow found their way into the cabin and the seatbelts ended up mounted on a half rollcage. But the standard rear seat remains – aa does the steering wheel, which Andy says was at her insistence. You don’t want to built something like this only for it to look like a shed, right enough. And last year Andy decided it was time to do something about a body that had spent a couple of years buried under parts in his garage. ‘It had suffered a lot while it was off the road. So I sent the car to Matt Rogers, at MJR Classics in Newquay, and with a firm budget I let him work his magic on the tired body.
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‘He did a superb job. I always highly recommend him now.’ The Anglia recommends him itself too – as well as being a self-propelled tribute to the dedication Andy showed in turning a crispy low-budget project car into a very well sorted resto-mod with a healthy dose of down-home motorsport attitude. ‘I’m a sucker for old skool oval racing,’ he says. ‘That’s why my favourite mod is probably the trailer arches. ‘Looking back, if I could I’d have built the car on a spit in a larger workshop – it would have been quicker and involved less rolling around on the floor! But it would still have ended up as the same car – though I’m going to be sorting the rear suspension a bit next to improve traction.’
Short oval racing is about as honest as it gets, and a cleverly tweaked postwar family car like this is the perfect antidote to a world of stance mingers cruising the streets of the housing schemes that keep being built on the land where the tracks once stood. And hear this from Andy: ‘Including the initial cost of the donor car, the conversion cost me just under £1000!’ It’s not about big money, it’s about the real world. And like all the best cars, the real world is where Andy and his 105e firmly belong.
Andy and his son Liam are keen oval racers and try to keep their hand in when they can. But with more and more tracks closing, it’s becoming difficult. Luckily, St Day in Cornwall has managed to fight off redevelopment and is open for at least this year, and possibly next as well. There is a big petition doing the rounds on the socials, so if you have five minutes it would be worthwhile signing it, because as a cheap fun day out it’s a great alternative to the run of the mill tourist attractions. A big thanks to owner Crispin for allowing us to use the venue for the photoshoot.
175/50 and 185/50 Nankang tyres wrap around original Anglia wheels, which Andy had banded to 7 and 8” because he was bored of every classic Ford having the same rims
Thanks ‘Matt at MJR Classics, family and friends for getting stuck in when needed and my wife Lisa for pushing me to get it finished a couple of times when the project stalled’
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Extravagance ■ Words & Pics: Dave Biggadyke
Back in 1976 a group of young Norfolk residents got together and decided to host a weekend rod run. Amazingly, unlike so many other similar events of that era, almost half a century later the Kings Lynn Kruisers weekend is still on the event calendar. Nowadays it’s
known as the KLK Vehicle Extravaganza and the faces have changed, with maybe the exception of Dave Newman, but essentially, it’s the same event. After numerous changes of location over the years, it now takes place at the Community Centre in Walpole St Andrew, Norfolk. The venue provides a social club
for evening entertainment, and as it’s not licensed participants are free to take in their own alcohol, which helps keep the cost down. This old-school weekend harks back to years gone by, with plenty of chilling out enjoying the company of good friends. Saturday’s cruise went to Jacks Restaurant
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at Woodlakes Leisure Park, near Kings Lynn, which offered great food in a picturesque rural setting. Later on it was party time, with a strict eye on the clock as an early night was needed to be fresh and alert for the following day of course! And what a day that turned out to be. In recent years the Sunday show has been
It’s been a while since we came across the hand-sculpted ’32 roadster Tim Hammond built for his daughter Diane. Dubbed The Hamster, the roadster is powered by Corvette LT1 fuelinjected V8, and Tim collected the Best in Show award.
the unfortunate victim of adverse weather, all the way down to it being cancelled altogether on one sad occasion. Thankfully that was not the case this year. The sun tried its hardest to shine, the rain stayed away and exhibitors and visitors came along in droves. I’m hard
pressed to recall the show field ever looking so full. The eclectic mix of vehicles provided something for all tastes, with trade and autojumble stands offering plenty to rummage through. Top job guys – this was an Extravaganza to remember!
Away from the Bowtie brigade, classic Yank iron was well represented by this ’56 Buick Special, ’56 Pontiac Starchief and ’53 Buick Special.
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ded ’65 Thames was first rod Jim Andrews’ 6-wheel ed end ext an s ture fea p 40 years ago. The pick-u unted Rover V8. cab, tilt bed and a mid-mo
A space in the KLK members’ cars lineup was occupied by Terry Tibbs’ Devils Lake Highway Patrol liveried ’51 Chevy.
Okay, it’s not a rod or custom but this ’76 Sunbeam Rapier pillarless coupe is one coollooking car.
is capable Wobbly Bob’s chopped Bedford CF ks to its midof running 8-second quarters than V8. mounted blown big block Mopar
What’s not to like about this ’62 Corvair 95 van? Roomy, practical and you wouldn’t be afraid to park it anywhere. Pete Rowland’s latest acquisition, a ’53 F100 pick-up. It’s always good to see a Ford in a Ford. Loving the paint colour too.
The NSRA Pick trophy went the way of Len Mariner for his Zetec-powered Ford Pop, as did the Wisbech Engineering award.
Top Ten winning Another Bedford CF, this one the as. Judging by Thom Amy and h Smit r van of Pete be powered by well may it grille the badge on the a small block Ford.
One of the rarest cars at the show was the ’36 Auburn Cord 810 owned by Alan Hansell, with the car being a well-deserved Top Ten winner.
Each year host club members vote for the KLK member vehicle of their choice and this time round the award went to Andy Bliss for his gorgeous ‘63 Ford Galaxie.
38 CUSTOM CAR NOVEMBER 2023
3pp KLK Extravaganza_Event Report_3pgs.indd 38
18/09/2023 16:00
34012
65
ENGINEERS HEAVY
DUTY STEEL • Sturdy lower shelf • Durable powder WORKBENCHES coated finish FROM ONLY £ DOUBLE.98 exc.VAT DOUBLE £347.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
BEST
Shown fitted with optional 3 drawer unit ONLY £188.39 INC VAT * WAS £370.80 inc.VAT # WAS £406.80 inc.VAT Dims. Model LxWxH (mm) CWB1500D 1500x650x985 CWB2001P* 2000x650x865 CWB2000D# 2000x650x978
PRICE CUT
DOUBLE.00 exc.VAT 329
£
SELLER
SUPERSTORES NATIONWIDE
289
5 DRAWER WORKBENCH £394.80 inc.VAT DOUBLE
WAS £406.80 inc.VAT
EXTRA LONG 1700mm WORK TOP
INCLUDES SINGLE LOCKABLE DRAWER exc.VAT £289.98 £299.00 £329.00
Britain’s Tools & Machinery Specialist
inc.VAT £347.98 £358.80 £394.80
CWB1700P
MODULAR GARAGE STORAGE SYSTEMS SAVE UP TO
FROM ONLY DOUBLE .00 £ exc.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER £1437.60 inc.VAT
£286
1198
10 PACKAGES IN THE RANGE
A choice of stainless steel or wooden worktops
Corner units in stock
Customer Pictures
compared to individual prices
✔ CREATE THE PERFECT FITTED GARAGE / WORKSHOP ✔ HEAVY DUTY, PROFESSIONAL PACKAGES ✔ ALL UNITS ALSO AVAILABLE SINGLY FOR CUSTOM BUILD
NEW
1 PRICE CUT DOUBLE.99
HEAVY DUTY & PROFESSIONAL
154exc.VAT
£
£185.99 inc.VAT DOUBLE
WAS £191.98 inc.VAT
CHESTS/ CABINETS
THE ULTIMATE IN TOOL STORAGE!
FULL DETAILS SEE IN-STORE OR VISIT WEBSITE
2
SEE WEBSITE FOR PACKAGE DEALS WITH TOOLS
32 PIECE SET
PRICE CUT
DOUBLE.00 exc.VAT 279
Rubber grip side handles
SAVE UP TO
£334.80 inc.VAT DOUBLE
WAS £346.80 inc.VAT
NB Overall length includes handles
TOOL SETS
HUGE CHOICE OF HAND TOOLS
exc. Model Desc. LxWxH (mm) VAT CBB203C 3 Dr step up 667x310x249 £86.99 CBB205C 5 Dr chest 710x315x420 £149.98 1 CBB209C 9 Dr Chest 661x305x418 £154.99 CBB210C 10 Dr Chest 710x315x475 £169.98 CBB215C 5 Dr Cabinet 758x468x815 £259.00 2 CBB217C 7 Dr Cabinet 676x461x958 £279.00
109
£ FROM ONLY .98 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £131.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
£12
NEW
DIY & PROFESSIONAL £FROM ONLY .99 DOUBLE exc.VAT 74 3 £89.99 DOUBLE FOOTER inc.VAT
CHT859 300 PIECE AF/METRIC HOME GARAGE REPAIR KIT
CHT634 MECHANICS TOOL CHEST AND TOOLS PACKAGE
EXTRA LARGE BOTTOM
FROM ONLY .98 4 £239 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £287.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
NOW Model Desc. LxWxH (mm) exc.VAT inc.VAT MECHANICS RANGE 1 CTC600C 6 Dr chest 600x260x340 £89.98 £107.98 CTC900C 9 Dr chest 597x257x380 £89.98 £107.98 CTC500C 5 Dr cabinet 675x335x770 £149.98 £179.98 CTC800C 8 Dr chest/cab set 610x330x1070 £149.98 £179.98 2 CTC700C 7 Dr cabinet 616x330x880 £169.98 £203.98 PROFESSIONAL RANGE 3 CTC103C 3 Dr step up chest 691x310x256 £74.99 £89.99 CTC109 9 Dr chest 662x305x421 £139.98 £167.98 4 CTC105 5 Dr cabinet 685x465x790 £239.98 £287.98 CTC107C 7 Dr cabinet 739x461x953 £259.00 £310.80
MM1 Custom Car 275x200 pg1.indd 1 Custom Car_2023_11_November_Machine Mart_3PS.indd 1
FROM ONLY
EXC.VAT 42 DOUBLE FOOTER £51.59 inc.VAT
£ DOUBLE .99
WAS £322.80 inc.VAT
£FROM ONLY .98 DOUBLE exc.VAT 89 1 £107.98 DOUBLE FOOTER inc.VAT
Strong
mm 350 12fibreboard
PER SHELF
PER SHELF
shelves
2
169
£ FROM ONLY .98 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £203.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
Easy to assemble, providing valuable working space and plenty of additional storage capacity.
150 9mm fibreboard KG
279
£310.80 inc.VAT
WORKBENCH WITH PEGBOARD
BOLTLESS SHELVING / BENCHES CHOICE OF 5 COLOURS
£ FROM ONLY .00 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £334.80 FOOTER inc.VAT
PRICE CUT
DOUBLE.00 exc.VAT 259
£
2
MECHANICS/ PROFESSIONAL quality & value TOOL CHESTS/ •forSuperb DIY & Professional workshops CABINETS
Strong
189
NOW inc.VAT £163.19 £203.98 £286.80 £310.80
FULL EXTENSION ROLLER RUNNERS FOR SMOOTH OPENING ACTION
Simple fast RED, BLUE, GREY, assembly in minutes SILVER & GALVANISED using only a hammer STEEL
£ FROM ONLY .98 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £227.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
30KG
MAX DRAWER LOAD
inc.VAT
PRO394 PROFESSIONAL 90 PIECE TOOL KIT WITH CANTILEVER TOOLBOX
649
DOUBLEEXC.VAT 259.00 FOOTER £203.98 inc.VAT
DRAWERS WAS NOW PRICE CUT £DOUBLE.99 inc.VAT inc.VAT 56exc.VAT £107.98 £104.39 WAS £68.39 inc.VAT DOUBLE £191.98 £179.98 PRO378 WAS £71.98 inc.VAT Model Desc. LxWxH (mm) exc.VAT inc.VAT £191.98 £185.99 PROFESSIONAL CLB600 6 Dr chest 660x305x365 £135.99 £209.99 £203.98 1 CLB900C 9 Dr chest 685x305x474 £169.98 £322.80 £310.80 1/2" DRIVE CLB1005 5 Dr cabinet 685x465x795 £239.00 £346.80 £334.80 SOCKET SET 2 CLB1007C 7 Dr cabinet 740x465x955 £259.00 £322.80
PRO396 222 PIECE TOOL SET WITH 7 DRAWER TOOL CABINET
£ FROM ONLY .00 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £778.80 FOOTER inc.VAT
169
£ FROM ONLY .98
Combines premium quality with fiercely competitive pricing & super smooth ball bearing roller drawers
• Extra heavy gauge double wall steel construction
£
1
KG
Dims exc. inc. Model WxDxH(mm) VAT VAT 150kg 800x300x1500 £42.99 £51.59 350kg 900x400x1800 £59.98 £71.98
• Dimensions (LxWxH) - 1150 x 560 x 1440 mm • Pegboard back wall with 30 hooks supplied
shelves
CWB-R1B
Available in Red or Galvanised Finish
13/09/2023 12:26 13:14 14/09/2023
34066LH
65
TURBO AIR COMPRESSORS FROM ONLY DOUBLE.98 exc.VAT DOUBLE £143.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
119
£
Superb range ideal for DIY, hobby & semi-professional use
SUPERSTORES NATIONWIDE
Britain’s Tools & Machinery Specialist 26
8/260 Model Motor HP CFM Tank ltr exc.VAT 8/260 2 7.5 24 £119.98 11/260 2.5 9.5 24 £129.98 8/550 2 7.5 50 £159.98 11/550 2.5 9.5 50 £179.98 16/550 3 14.5 50 £249.00 16/1050 3 14.5 100 £309.00
exc.VAT £143.98 £155.98 £191.98 £215.98 £298.80 £370.80
WORKSHOP AIR TOOLS
£
JUMP STARTS
FROM ONLY
69
EXTRA LONG 1m LEADS
PGF14
ANGLE GRINDERS
STARTS VEHICLES UP TO 6L
29
AIR. DISP MOTOR AIR †V-Twin *230V MODEL CFM (HP) RCVR EXC.VAT INC.VAT XEV16/100 (OL)†* 14 3 100ltr £589.00 £706.80 XEV16/150 (OL)†* 14 3 150ltr £659.00 £790.80 XEV16/200(OL)†* 14 3 200ltr £719.00 £862.80 XEV16/150(400V)† 14 3 150ltr £699.00 £838.80 XE18/200 (OL)†* 18 4 200ltr £759.00 £910.80 XE36C200† 30 7.5HP 200Ltr £1199.00 £1438.80 XE29/270†* 28 2X3HP 270Ltr £1399.00 £1678.80 XE37/270 (OL)†* 36 2x 4 270ltr £1479.00 £1774.80 SE46C270† 40 10HP 270Ltr £2129.00 £2554.80
FROM ONLY HEADER
exc.VAT 269 £322.80 inc.VAT
.00
charge regulator Overload protection on charging cycle
CAR RAMPS
AXLE STANDS
DOUBLE £334.80 FOOTER inc.VAT
Model BC125 BC190 BC210C FROM ONLY £ DOUBLE .98 WBC180 exc.VAT 39inc.VAT Model Capacity exc.VAT inc.VAT £47.98 WBC240 DOUBLE PER CR2 2000kg £39.98 £47.98 PER PAIR WBC400 CRW25 2500kg £47.99 £57.59 BC520P
FROM ONLY £ DOUBLE .99 exc.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER £21.59 inc.VAT
17
Max Amps WAS Charge/ inc. Boost exc.VAT VAT inc.VAT 20/120 £89.98 £112.79 £107.98 38/180 £104.99 £135.59 £125.99 25/200 £149.98 £179.98 35/180 £159.98 £191.98 45/240 £184.99 £227.98 £221.99 60/350 £219.00 £262.80 50/510 £259.00 £310.80
WHEEL DOLLY (PAIR)
DIAGNOSTICS Max Min/Max Tons Height exc.VAT 2 235-360mm £17.99 3 325-490mm £31.99 3 300-430mm £29.98 6 400-615mm £48.99 3 295-395mm £59.98
AWD1
PRICE CUT NOW ONLY £ .98
*Aluminium
79exc.VAT
inc.VAT £21.59 £38.39 £35.98 £58.79 £71.98
£95.98.19 inc.VAT DOUBLE
WAS £103.19 inc.VAT
LOAD RATING: 500KG PER £FROM ONLY .99 DOLLY exc.VAT DOUBLE
63
£76.79 inc.VAT PER PAIR
GARAGES/WORKSHOPS PRICE CUT £ DOUBLE.00
249exc.VAT
£298.80 inc.VAT DOUBLE
WAS £310.80 inc.VAT
TAP & DIE SETS FROM ONLY
24
£ DOUBLE .99
exc.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER £29.99 inc.VAT
High quality tungsten steel Supplied in metal storage case (except 16pce)
ALSO MECHANICS SEAT ONLY £45.59
Model Tiger1800B Tiger2600B Tiger3000B PLS195B PLS220 PLS265B PLS360
FROM ONLY £ DOUBLE .98 DOUBLE exc.VAT FOOTER £47.98 inc.VAT
Pressure Engine Bar/PSI HP exc.VAT inc.VAT 110/1595 3 £279.00 £334.80 180/2610 4 £379.00 £454.80 200/2900 6.5 £399.00 £478.80 182/2640 5.5 £499.00 £598.80 230/3335 9 £679.00 £814.80 225/3263 13 £769.00 £922.80 248/3600 13 £998.00 £1197.60 £
39
FROM ONLY HEADER
.99 exc.VAT 112 10 TONNE £135.59 inc.VAT
BODY REPAIR KIT
IBC20
FAST SNAP CONNECTOR
BC210C
• Lift cars safely and quickly • Tough angled steel construction
Ratchet action for quick height adjustment Sold in pairs
WAS £112.79 inc.VAT
FROM ONLY
DOUBLE.00 exc.VAT 279
£
exc.VAT 37 DOUBLE FOOTER £45.59 inc.VAT
Model Description exc.VAT inc.VAT inc.VAT CMC36 Car creeper £37.99 £45.59 £35.98 CMC45 With adjustable headrest £54.99 £65.99 £44.39 CMC60 Car creeper reclining £59.98 £83.98 seat & mechanics seat £49.98
Model Tonnes exc.VAT inc.VAT *WAS £562.80 CTJ2GLS 2 £269.00 £322.80 inc.VAT CTJ3GLS 3 £349.00 £418.80 #WAS £766.80 CTJ5GLS 5 £459.00 £550.80 inc.VAT CTJ10GLS# 10 £609.00 £730.80
CAN DRAW OWN WATER
£ DOUBLE .99
• Oil resistant vinyl covered padded backs & headrests • Swivel castors for easy manoeuvrability
HEAVY BATTERY CHARGERS DUTY /ENGINE STARTERS PRICE CUT LONG Ammeter NOW FROM REACH Multi£ .98 89exc.VAT JACKS position £107.98 inc.VAT DOUBLE
CTJ2GLS £
Honda & Diesel engine models in stock
FROM ONLY
CAR CREEPERS
FROM ONLY £ DOUBLE .98 exc.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER £35.98 inc.VAT
Model Disc (mm) Motor exc.VAT CAG800B 115 800W £29.98 CON1150* 115 1150W £36.99 CAG2350C# 230 2350W £69.98
.00 exc.VAT 589 £706.80 inc.VAT
Model CAX2TFB CAX3TPB CAX-3TBC CAX-6TBC CAX3TAB*
compressor Long life battery Starting Peak Model Boost Amps exc.VAT inc.VAT 910 400 900 £96.99 £116.39 JS1100C 500 1100 £96.99 £116.39 700 1500 £164.99 £197.99 BEST 4000 1000 2000 £179.98 £215.98 SELLER JS12/24
* WAS £45.59 inc.VAT # WAS £87.59 inc.VAT
FROM ONLY HEADER
HEAVY DUTY PETROL POWER WASHERS PLS265B
Provides essential home, garage
and roadside assistance Integral exc.VAT 96inc.VAT work light 910 includes air DOUBLE £116.39 FOOTER
BEST SELLER
£FROM ONLY .98 exc.VAT DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £83.98 inc.VAT
Range of precision bench & floor presses for enthusiast, FROM ONLY £ DOUBLE .95 engineering exc.VAT 99inc.VAT & industrial DOUBLE £119.94 FOOTER applications B = Bench mounted F = Floor standing Motor (W) WAS model Speeds exc.VAT inc.VAT inc.VAT CDP5EB 350 / 5 £99.95 £119.94 CDP5RB 350 / 5 £99.95 £119.94 CDP102B 350 / 5 £115.95 £139.14 CDP152B 450 / 12 £209.00 £250.80 CDP452B 550 / 16 £299.00 £406.80 £358.80 CDP352F 550 / 16 £339.00 £406.80 CDP502F 1100 / 12 £699.00 £934.80 £838.80
£ DOUBLE .99
CAT131
INDUSTRIAL AIR XEV16/100 COMPRESSORS
Top quality belt driven air compressors for industrial & commercial users inc; garages, factories, workshops and farms. 10 bar/150psi max working pressure
£FROM ONLY .99 DOUBLE exc.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER £32.39 inc.VAT
CDP102B
DRILL PRESSES
603x370x150mm
SWIVEL, NON MARKING CASTORS
Max. exc. WAS Model Volts Charge VAT inc.VAT inc.VAT IBC7 12/24V 7A £39.98 £47.98 IBC15 12V 15A £49.98 £59.98 IBC20 12/24V 20A £66.99 £83.98 £80.39 IBC25 12/24V 25A £84.99 £107.98 £101.99 IBC40 12/24V 40A £104.99 £131.98 £125.99 FROM ONLY £ DOUBLE .99 exc.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER £44.39 inc.VAT
MICRO JUMP STARTS
◆ WAS £63.59 inc.VAT Start Peak Boost Boost 180A 360A 200A 400A 300A 500A 400A 800A
Model JSM180 JSM200 ◆ JSM300 JSM400
2100 psi
Heavy duty steel construction sandblasters for the quick removal of surface rust, paint, dirt/grease etc.
12V TYRE INFLATORS
49
£FROM ONLY .98 exc.VAT DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £59.98 inc.VAT
12V
CORDLESS PADDED SEAT
36
145 Bar
SANDBLASTERS
CTC150LI
INTELLIGENT BATTERY CHARGER/ MAINTAINERS
MECHANICS UTILITY SEAT exc.VAT £36.99 £49.98 £69.98 £99.98
inc.VAT £44.39 £59.98 £83.98 £119.98
BALL BEARING DRAWERS
PRICE CUT £DOUBLE.98
79exc.VAT
SWIVEL CASTORS
£95.98 inc.VAT DOUBLE
WAS £101.99 inc.VAT
CMUS3
HOT WASHERS PARTS WASHERS £ FROM ONLY .00 599 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £718.80 FOOTER inc.VAT FROM ONLY £ DOUBLE .98 exc.VAT 59 DOUBLE FOOTER £71.98 inc.VAT
PRICE CUT NOW FROM
exc.VAT 169.00
£
£202.80 inc.VAT
Ideal for use as a garage/workshop Extra tough triple layer cover Heavy duty powder coated steel tubing Ratchet tight tensioning WAS Model size (LxWxH) exc.VAT inc.VAT inc.VAT CIG81212 3.6x3.6x2.5m £249.00 £310.80 £298.80 CIG81015 4.5x3x2.4m £279.00 £334.80 £394.80 CIG81216 4.9x3.7x2.5m £329.00 CIG81020 6.1x3x2.4m £349.00 £418.80 CIG81220 6.1x3.7x2.5m £399.00 £478.80 CIG81224 7.3x3.7x2.5m £499.00 £598.80 £1318.80 CIG1432 9.7x4.3x3.65m £1099.00 CIG1640 12x4.9x4.3m £2599.00 £3478.80 £3118.80
SANDBLASTING GUN, * WAS £74.39 inc.VAT AMAZING DELIVERY HOSE, 4 Type exc.VAT inc.VAT LOW PRICE! CERAMIC NOZZLES CHT203 16pce Metric £24.99 £29.99 AND SAFETY HOOD CHT302 24pce UNC/UNF/NPT £23.99 £28.79 CHT303 28pce Metric £29.98 £35.98 Tank Flow Rate INC. CONTAINER FOR DETERGENT CHT304 33pce Metric/UNF/BSP £37.99 £45.59 Model Volume Req. exc.VAT inc.VAT CHT527 32pce Metric £57.99 £69.59 CPSB100B* 32 litre 6-25 cfm £169.00 £202.80 Model BAR Press. VOLT exc.VAT inc.VAT CHT775 52pce Metric/UNF/BSP* £59.98 £71.98 CPSB200B# 63 litre 6-25 cfm £209.00 £250.80 Harry 2 145 2100psi 230 £599.00 £718.80 CHT776 76pce Metric £79.98 £95.98 * WAS £214.80 inc.VAT # WAS £274.80 inc.VAT KING 200 150 2175psi 230 £1198.00 £1437.60
ALUMINIUM RACING JACKS
PRO SANDER/ POLISHERS
WAS £214.80 inc.VAT
INCLUDES
150mm PAD DIA.
Quick lift Non-marking nylon wheels Rubber contact pad - helps protect vehicle undersides
69
CFC100
£FROM ONLY .98
exc.VAT DOUBLE DOUBLE FOOTER £83.98 inc.VAT
CP150
Dual action combines rotary & orbital motions to produce an excellent polished finish
CTJ1250AB
FROM ONLY
.98 DOUBLE exc.VAT .VAT 109
DOUBLE £131.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
219
† WAS £215.98 inc.VAT Model Lifting Cap. exc.VAT inc.VAT CTJ1500QL 1.5T £109.98 £131.98 CTJ1250AC 1.25T £134.99 £161.99 CTJ2500QLGB† 2.5T £169.98 £203.98 CTJ1800AB 1.8T £199.98 £239.98
MM2 Custom Car 275x200 pg2.indd 1 Custom Car_2023_11_November_Machine Mart_3PS.indd 2
CTJ2250LP
1 TONNE FOLDING WORKSHOP CRANE
£89.99 inc.VAT DOUBLE
WAS £95.98 inc.VAT
Fully tested to proof load
CW2D Tank Model Cap. Type CW2D 10Ltrs Bench CW1D 45Ltrs Floor CWM20 22.5Ltrs Floor CW40 75Ltrs Floor
exc.VAT £59.98 £149.98 £189.00 £229.98
inc.VAT £71.98 £179.98 £226.80 £275.98
18V ½" IMPACT WRENCHES 3 forward and reverse gears
PRICE CUT £ DOUBLE.98
109exc.VAT
£131.98 inc.VAT DOUBLE
WAS £119.98 inc.VAT
Folding and fixed frames available Robust, rugged construction Overload safety valve
74exc.VAT
Inc. hook & loop backing pad and wool polishing bonnet CP185 180mm PAD DIA.
44
exc.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER £53.99 inc.VAT
£ FROM ONLY .98 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £263.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
PRICE CUT £DOUBLE.99 £
2 & 3 TONNE ONLY TROLLEY JACKS £FROM .99 DOUBLE
CW1D
JACKS ALSO IN STOCK UP TO 5 TONNE
BEST SELLER
Model Type Tonne exc.VAT inc.VAT CTJ2L Long 2 £44.99 £53.99 CTJ2000LPB DIY Low Profile 2 £46.99 £56.39 CTJ2250LP* Low Profile 2.25 £52.99 £63.59 CTJ3000GB Pro Garage 3 £109.98 £131.98 CTJ3000QLB Quick Lift 3 £119.98 £143.98 CTJ2QLP Low Quick Lift 2 £159.98 £191.98 * CTJ2250LP has a 2.25 tonne capacity, has a low entry of only 80mm and includes 2 sockets
BRUSHLESS 450NM
2 2AH X
* WAS £131.98 inc.VAT CIR18LIC • WAS £147.59 inc.VAT Model Desc Batteries exc.VAT inc.VAT CCIW160* Cordless 2X 2AH £99.98 £119.98 LI-ION CIR18LIC• Cordless, 2X 2AH £119.95 £143.94 Brushless LI-ION
13/09/2023 12:26 13:15 14/09/2023
34066RH
PAY Monthly
EASY TO USE WEBSITE
NOW OVER
Spread the cost over 12, 24, 36, 48 or 60 months Any mix of products over £300 5 MIN 17.9% APR APPLICATION! HYDRAULIC FROM ONLY PRESSES £ DOUBLE.98
21,000
PROFESSIONAL QUALITY Built for tough daily use in automotive/ industrial workshops
section on:
0844 880 1265
BRITAIN’S NO. 1 FOR WELDING
1 TONNE
169exc.VAT SPRING DOUBLE £203.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
CSA4B
• IN-STORE • ONLINE • PHONE
machinemart.co.uk
STRUT
PAGE
CATALOGUE OUT NOW!
PRODUCTS ONLINE! For 15,000 hard to find items vist the
492
FREE
MIG GAS/NO GAS WELDERS
COMPRESSOR
Hydraulically powered, foot control operated device Adjustable spring retainers Springs up to 400mm diameter & 520mm in length
“Excellent machine and exactly as described. Easy to set up and comes with everything you need to start welding straight out of the box”
135TE
Professional
type torches DOUBLE.98 exc.VAT 289 Easy to set 239.00 FOOTER £347.98 inc.VAT
£
up & use
See www.machinemart.co.uk
BEST
SELLER * Available with/without 7 pce pin, bracket & pressing plate kit safety screen # Economy model Model Tonne exc.VAT inc.VAT CSA4B# 4 £169.98 £203.98 10 £289.00 £346.80 CSA10BB* CSA12F# 12 £379.00 £454.80 CSA20FBT 20 £499.00 £598.80
BEST
SELLER
189
£ FROM ONLY .98 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £227.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
ENGINE STANDS FROM ONLY
exc.VAT 72 DOUBLE FOOTER £87.59 inc.VAT
£ DOUBLE .99
Rotates through 360˚
MIG145
Fully tested to proof load
exc. WAS Model Capacity VAT inc.VAT CES340 340kg £72.99 CES450 450kg £82.99 £101.99 CES560 560kg £104.99 CES680F 680kg £139.98
239
£ FROM ONLY .00 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £286.80 FOOTER inc.VAT
SOCKET SETS Top quality chrome PRO360 vanadium steel. 18 Sockets 8-32mm Reversible ratchet Comfort grip handle ONLY £ DOUBLE .98 exc.VAT DOUBLE FOOTER £35.98 inc.VAT
29
LIFETIME GUARANTEE
inc.VAT £87.59 £99.59 £125.99 £167.98
130AMPS
PETROL GENERATORS
1/2" TORQUE WRENCH - CHT141
219 DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £263.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
£ FROM ONLY .98
CHT141
CHECK FRAME TYPE WHEN ORDERING
Honda engine models available
WAS Model KVA HP exc.VAT inc.VAT inc.VAT PG2500A 2.2 5.6 £219.00 £270.00 £262.80 PG3800A 3 5.6 £269.00 £346.80 £322.80 PG3800ADV 3 5.6 £299.00 £370.80 £358.80 PG6500ADVES 5.5 9.7 £539.00 £646.80 CEW520
CORDED IMPACT WRENCHES
Inc 17, 19, Ideal for FROM ONLY 21, 22mm £ DOUBLE .99 Sockets garage EXC.VAT 56 DOUBLE mechanics £68.39 & Case FOOTER inc.VAT Model Power Torque exc.VAT inc.VAT CEW520 1/2" 520W 320Nm £56.99 £68.39 CEW1000 1/2" 1000W 450Nm £72.99 £87.59
139
£ FROM ONLY .98
DOUBLEexc.VAT DOUBLE £167.98 FOOTER inc.VAT
MMA200A
BENCH BUFFERS/ POLISHERS
INC. ELECTRODE HOLDER, EARTH CLAMP, & BRUSH/HAMMER
For a brilliant shine *WAS £209.99 inc.VAT Model Dia. exc.VAT inc.VAT PRICE CUT CBB150 150mm £79.98 £95.98 NOW FROM £ .98 CBB200 200mm £94.99 £113.99 79exc.VAT CHDB500 150mm £126.99 £152.39 £95.98 inc.VAT DOUBLE CBB250* 250mm £169.95 £203.94 WAS £99.59 inc.VAT PG3800A
inc.VAT £215.98 £286.80 £298.80 £334.80 £347.98 £310.80 £586.80
• Compact & lightweight • Efficient inverter technology • Variable output
ONLY
exc.VAT 29 DOUBLE FOOTER £35.98 inc.VAT
Min/Max exc. Amps VAT 40/100 £179.98 35/135 £239.00 24-90 £249.00 40/180 £279.00 30-130 £289.98 30-150 £259.00 50/240 £489.00
MMA & ARC/TIG INVERTER WELDERS
AT165
5" Extension bar 1/2" 3/8" adaptor 28-210 Nm £ DOUBLE .98
Model MIG106 MIG145 PRO90 MIG196 135TE Turbo* 151EN * WAS £356.39 inc.VAT MIG240
135TE
HUGE RANGE OF RATCHETS, SPANNERS AND SOCKET SETS
CES680F
*Folds for storage
35/135 AMPS
SSC1000G
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Chris Carr, his van and the chain of diners he owns all date from the same year Words: Graham Scott Pics: Alice Fairhead
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R
emember 1976? Oh, you don’t. Well, to be fair, nor does Chris Carr, since that was the year he was born. It was also the year the first Zaks American diner opened in Norfolk. And it was the year this Chevy van rolled off a production line in the USA. The fates of all three have been intertwined ever since. But actually there’s another date that is perhaps more important. In 1942 the county of Norfolk became known as ‘Little America’, due to the influx of 50,000 American servicemen, many of them in the USAAF Eighth Air Force. They brought with them things wartime Brits had either never seen or had forgotten about: peanut butter, donuts, racial segregation, jitterbug, Coca-Cola, nylons, STDs and chewing gum among them. Spread over 17 air bases in just Norfolk alone, this was a cultural invasion, albeit a fairly friendly one. By the end of the war they left behind some of that culture, although they also carried some back with them – it took two cruise ships to transport the 40,000 women who chose to leave for the USA! By 1976 some of the Yankee culture had become entrenched in Norfolk culture, everything from burgers to cars. A year after the Americans had finished yet another war, this time in Vietnam, Americana was here to stay in East Anglia. Of course it’s entirely possible this was two-way and there are small communities in Ohio or Iowa where they still have a fondness for crabs and warm beer and where the term ‘Broads’ does not refer to women. But back in Norfolk we find local musician Harvey Platt – a man who had ‘experience of the American war machine in South East Asia’ – opening the ‘Original Zaks Caravan’, serving chargrilled burgers to his own recipe and cooked to order. Fast-forward the better part of half a century and the burgers at Zaks restaurants are still made by the same local company to the exact same recipe.
But also back in Norfolk in 1976 there was a screaming baby we’re going to take a momentary and passing interest in. Mostly because we can then fast-forward the better part of half a century and talk to the coowner of the Zaks restaurants, Chris Carr. Over 40 years of time helped Zaks move from a caravan in a field to several American diners. It changed hands, private, then corporation, then in 2020 Chris and his business partner bought the business, helped by Chris having worked at the restaurants for years in his past. Chris and partner have made the restaurants a success and they’ve made them perhaps a bit more in their own image. And that means Yankee wheels. There are several, including a modern Ford Ranger decked out to look like a Sherriff’s pick-up, a ’78 GMC Sierra and a Chevy Step Van. And Irene.
Good Day Irene
We’d been chatting about this 1976 Chevy G20 van for only a few moments before Chris fidgeted and said: ‘The van is called Irene by the way.’ Clearly, saying ‘the van’ or ‘it’ was no longer acceptable. From then on it was Irene all the way. But he’s not looking over my shoulder right now, so ‘it’ came off the line, as mentioned, in 1976 but it never made it to a dealership. This is the third-gen model, in which the engine moved from the rear to the front for the first time. This major redesign allowed more room inside – which, given this was the time of the US space programme, inevitably led to the marketing team calling it ‘The Space Vehicle’. Starting in 1971, this was in production for a quarter of a century, with GMC and Chevrolet mixing and matching parts along the way. One outcome is that spares are still relatively easy to find, even over in the UK, and are readily available from the US. That’s for the regular parts but, like we said, this one didn’t go to a dealership.
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The paintwork dates from 1976 and shows plenty of patina – which has been lovingly sealed in beneath several layers of clear lacquer to keep it from developing beyond patinated and into tatty
Instead it went to the specialist coachbuilders Recreational Vans Incorporated. RVI, operating out of Torrance in California, breathed their magic on the stock vehicle, including the paintjob that you still see here.
thing I love about custom vans is that there’s no etiquette. There’s nobody saying you have to do this or can’t do that. Irene has been added to over the years, and we’ve done what we want.’
‘I’ve had offers to sell her but she is the one. I’m committed to Irene until the day I die’ Our screen goes fuzzy and when the image clears it’s 2016 and the van is in the UK, owned by a famous car builder. Then he sold it. Then he tried to buy it back but no dice, it was now the property of Chris Carr.
No etiquette
He wasn’t happy. But Chris Carr is pleased, very pleased indeed. ‘You know,’ he says, ‘the
Externally that means much is original. There’s also the original 5.7-litre V8 under the bonnet, still churning out the power and torque as it always has done. Perhaps these days everyone is slightly more aware of that V8 thanks to the Thrush side pipes. Chris recommended we didn’t go for a drive if I was trying to interview him as I wouldn’t be able to hear much apart from the exhaust.
The engine runs through the three on the tree Powerglide auto box, allowing Irene to cruise at her (oh it’s happened) sweet spot of 60mph. At that point she’s sucking juice at about 15mpg but obviously more liberal use of the right foot drops that to single figures. However Chris is happy with the balance since with tax exemption and low classic car insurance he reckons running costs are pretty good value. So the exterior, powertrain, all the mechanicals, they’re standard, well maintained, and so far that’s pretty normal. Then you look inside. Which obviously you already have done in the photos, so I’ll try and catch you up. The interior. It’s not quite as Chevy or RVI envisioned. It’s about as similar to stock as a McDonald’s is to a Zaks Freakin’ Frickle Burger. Take a seat in the rotating captain’s chair at the front and feast your eyes. Humans have cones in the back of their eyeballs that can detect long wavelengths,
We were going to say ‘you don’t need to like the colour red to admire the interior Chris has created,’ or something dopey like that. But mainly you just need to like red
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but most animals can’t. And long wavelengths mean we can see the colour red. Which is handy in this particular case. If this was a magazine read mostly by dolphins the interior would look grey and I’d have to spend a thousand words trying to describe the colour red to them. I’ve checked the database, and there are no dolphin subscribers although some on that list do appear to be from other parts of the ape family. But that’s not a problem because they can see red too. Anywhere, where were we? So, very red, mostly in corduroy and velvet, covering pretty much everything that isn’t covered in polished veneer panels. This is Chris’s work and his vision. I diffidently point out that in certain lights it’s a bit New Orleans cat house but I get away with this possible slight against Irene. Chris bristles – and he has a lot to bristle with in the facial hair department – and defends Irene. ‘Well, there’s no shag pile!’
Limp Bizkit
But there are stickers, a lot of them. Some are original and some are a mash-up of things that Chris likes, everything from Limp Bizkit to, somewhat inevitably, Vans. And on the rear spare wheel cover there is equally in-
evitably a depiction of Irene herself. Maybe there’s an echo there of the sort of art that B-17 Flying Fortress crews who flew out of here would have painted on the nose of their bomber. We know the heartbreaking stories of how those young bomber crews always named their planes after women and how they came to love and trust and obsess over their aircraft as the bombers took them deep into enemy territory. Chris may not be going for an aerial view of Essen every night but there’s no question that Irene takes him places and there’s a real bond there. Apart from anything else, she’s virtually a daily driver. She goes to work, she goes to shows, she tows a trailer and is a working vehicle not a show vehicle. Well you probably guessed that last part since there’s no way Irene looks like she’s ready for the catwalk.
It’s lived and you can see it’s lived. Like a woman ageing who accepts who she is and doesn’t go for Botox or lifts. And that confidence is attractive. And that’s before Chris goes on again about what a great vehicle Irene is. After a while I began to get a feeling that something was a bit strange, a bit off. As we chatted I thought about the feeling and finally I blurted out the accusation: ‘You’re happy aren’t you?’ Dear reader, sorry to spring that on you, I know how difficult it is to deal with. But Chris just laughed. ‘We love everything American. We’ve got the big skies and the long country roads, and it rains less here than virtually anywhere in the UK. And I love my job, I love what I do, and it’s fun. And Irene is really reliable, really easy to work on. ‘I’ve owned quite a few really nice cars but Irene I’m really attached to. I’ve had offers to sell her but she is the one. The one I’m most
(Oh gods, I’m getting that anthropomorphic disease now.) But Chris is careful. Underneath she’s covered in more protective oil and wax than a Brazilian supermodel (and you know how slippery they can be). And, while the paintwork is original and largely untouched, it’s all covered in protective seals. The idea is that this is a vehicle that shows it has lived, it’s not for sticking in an air-conditioned, humidity-controlled suite only to be brought out on special occasions. This goes to shows and helps shift burgers.
emotionally attached to. I’m committed to Irene until the day I die.’ As you might say when you look at a Zaks burger and what you can put on it: top that.
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Dragstalgia A glorious sunny Friday saw a full day of RWYB action, followed by the first qualifying session of the weekend – ending with a new world record for a steam-powered vehicle when Graham Sykes clocked 6.718 / 161 on the Force of Nature drag bike. This was clearly going to be a fantastic weekend. Everyone knew rain was coming on Saturday morning, though it proved more persistent than we hoped and some dramatic thunder storms kept spectators in their tents, or sampling the merchandise
in the beer festival, and cars off the track most of the day. Huge applause to the track crew who tried again and again to dry the track, only to be thwarted by another shower until eventually, at 5pm, things cleared up and the Cannonball rolled into stage, racing then going on later than advertised in order to get through more qualifying. The delay put proceedings back and meant many missed the cacklefest as it took place in the pits while the racing was still going on track but hey, at least we heard it.
Come Sunday, the weather was improving again and racing kicked off on time at 9.30 with a massive 64-car ladder in Nostalgia Super Stock, and continued pretty much uninterrupted through to the finals around 6pm. We’ve concentrated on the fourwheeled racing here, but throw in all the additional facets of the event such as the nostalgia race and show car displays, vintage drag bikes, the CC invitational on track, NSRA-organised show ’n’ shine, live music, traders and exhibitions in the Vintage Hub, a beauty parlour, Wall of
Other attractions
Here’s just a few of the other things that caught our eye over the weekend Standard Pic: Mike Pye
We’ve been waiting about 10 years, maybe more, to see this wonderful Dave Rothwell creation and, thanks to Chris Hay, it’s finally finished. Car is a 1934 Standard Flying 9 with 18 and 20-inch Dayton wires and a Maserati (well, Ferrari really) quad-cam V8 out of a 2000’s Quattroporte.
Pic: Mike Pye
Pic: Mike Pye
Chinese Bandit
Recently imported by Mark Fox and Arron Haywood, Chinese Bandit is a Flatheadpowered ’37 Topolino race car built in 1959 and raced on the east coast of America by Don Salvagio. It’s a periodperfect piece of drag heritage.
Donovan
Pic: Mike Pye
The motor in the True Blood tribute slingshot is not only the original Donovan 417 block that Dennis Priddle set a new world record with in Mr. Revell in 1975, but it wears the Ed Pink mag’ blower off Raymond Beadle’s Blue Max flopper that came here in 1978. This is the ultimate UK nitro cackle car.
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Spirit of ’76 We were particularly chuffed to hear the names of Alan Martin, Steve Tristram and Martyn Payne being called round to the start line on Sunday afternoon to receive the Spirit of ’76 award from British drag racing legend, Pete Crane, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the sport of drag racing.
These three (plus Mark Fullard) were the driving force behind both the Hot Rod Drags and the Nostalgia Nationals at Avon Park, which started in 1989 and 1993 respectively. Obviously, things have changed a lot in the interim but, without these fine gentlemen, neither of those nostalgia events would exist in the form they do today. Cheers guys.
■ Words: Mike Pye ■ Pics: Julian Hunt
Death, the aforementioned beer festival, jet car demonstrations and more and it’s easy to see why this is one of the most popular drag racing events of the year. We’re still not convinced it needs to try and be a ‘lifestyle event’ as, once again, we witnessed bands playing to an empty field while the stands and banking were packed with spectators watching the racing. That tells us plain and clear what people go to Dragstalgia for. Either way, it remains one of our absolute favourite weekends of the year, and we wouldn’t miss it for the world.
AA FA
Below: First of the new, upcoming Old School Classic Altered Racer cars to be finished is Bryan Whitfield’s American Austinbodied entry, High Spirits. Beautifully detailed car has now set the standard for the class. Not that we ever had any doubts about that with the names involved.
Pic: Mike Pye
Commuter
Pic: Julian Hunt
Above: Built in 1966, Commuter was the UK’s first AA/Fuel dragster and, to this day, still holds the British Land Speed Record for a wheel-driven vehicle, having posted a two-way average of 207.4mph over a flying kilometre at Elvington airfield in 1970 with Tony Densham at the wheel.
David Vincec
We haven’t seen this Pro Street Nash Metropolitan since we featured it in our May 2020 issue, and here it was running in the CC Invitational, now in the hands of David Vincec. 13.785 / 78 on this pass.
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NSRA show ’n’ shine winners Pics courtesy of the NSRA
Clifford Evens
BEST OF
SHOW
’56 Chevy Bel Air Steve Norton
’55 Chevy Truck
Ben Barnett
Len Marriner
’28 Model A Sedan
Dragstalgia Cannonball Despite losing a few competitors to engine damage early doors, the much-anticipated Dragstalgia Cannonball started strong, with 18 entries and flashes of brilliance from some of the teams. A new PB 6.301 / 206 for Paul Harris in the Mr Six tribute Monza in session one, side-byside sixes by Apache (number one qualifier on 6.238 / 211) and Time Traveller II, as well
’Ford Popular
as Venom and Nitro Bug. Great to see Havoc back out to play too, Nick Davies having to fight the Bantam’s errant urges on every run, and Rob Elsom’s Dirty Deeds Camaro flopper, now with John Hale at the controls. Steve Johnson might be trying to sell the Motor Mouse slingshot, but that didn’t stop him leaning on it hard, 6.925 / 197 on Friday, while with the West Country Shaker Avenger body on, Robbie Grabham had the Andy Raw vs Wayne
Allman
Chris Wade
’69 Pontiac GTO
Nick Davies
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Adam Clayton
Adam Gleadow
Robbie Grabham
crowd on its feet with a dramatic, bouncing 7.422 / 189 pass. Less fortunate were Paul Stephen, who brought the Double Trouble Bantam over from Australia only to be sidelined early on Friday with engine damage. Likewise, Robin Read in the old Daimler-powered rail. Switzerland’s Christian Zulauf, meanwhile, clocked a fine 6.842 / 202 PB in testing, but then went for a roll in the field Christian Zulauf
when the parachutes didn’t open so his elation was short lived. Come lunchtime Sunday, the ’ballers pulled round for a final round of qualifying and Tim Garlick was out to show what he can do in Apache. A blistering 6.057 / 228 was the result, alongside old hand, Steve Johnson, in Motor Mouse (7.021 / 198). Adam Clayton then had the ride of his life in the Firecracker Topolino when a Paul Harris
fuel leak got under the tyres and sent him across track on two wheels, less at times, which rather took our attention away from Joe Bond’s fine 6.412 / 222 in the other lane. Bob Hawkins, Nick Davies, Adam Gleadow (now with a highback T body on Motor Psycho) and Wayne Allman all put in solid performances, but the pairing of Paul Harris and Tony Betts produced one of the Tony Betts
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best races of the weekend, 6.377 / 205 vs 6.302 / 220. The standings at the end of the session were Garlick, Davies and Betts, 1, 2, 3, with less than three tenths between them on aggregate ETs over two runs. In session three, Alman put in a flyer, 7.149 at 198mph, Hale was shut off on the line and Ricky Gowen was still in test mode in The Cannonball. Again, it was Betts and Harris that had the crowd on its feet. The latter’s 6.336 / 208 was solid, but Venom put in its fastest ever pass, 5.964 / 237, bagging a new European and Nostalgia Funny Car ET record, as well as lowest ET of the meet, in the process. Yep, the team were pretty pleased with that. It’s not over ’til it’s over though, and those that stayed to see the final pairing of Apache and Havoc weren’t left wanting. Apache ran through straight as an arrow, 6.083 / 226, while Havoc took Davies on a hair-raising trip across both lanes, crossing the stripe in Apache’s wake. And the crowd went wild.
Ricky Gowen
Steve Johnson
Paul Stephen
Tim Garlick
Gasser Circus To show how close this class races, Ray Irish was number one after qualifying one, but was then down in 13th place by the end of session two, with Jason Hollamby in the number one spot (10.762 / 117 on a 10.75 dial), followed by Chris Layram and Laurent Levi, who travelled up from France to run his tough Mercury Comet in the Circus. Round one of eliminations was marked by a bunch of red lights and break outs, cutting the 22-car field in half, losing points leader going into the weekend, Jason Pickett, in the process. Racin’ Ray Turner was on a charge, two holeshot wins in two sessions keeping him in contention, while Jason Hollamby went through on a bye and Chris Layram, Steve Matthews, Patrick Hobbs and Sean Milsom all progressed to round three. Then it was all change, Hollamby took out Turner (10.837 / 119 on a 10.74 vs 11.098 / 118 on a 10.95), while this round it was Milsom and Matthews’ turn to pop their cherries on the tree. That just left Hobbs, Hollamby and Layram to duke it out for a place in the final.
Of the three, it was Hobbs that didn’t emerge the other side of the semis, thanks to Hollamby, while Layram took it easy on a bye. Then, in the final, Hollamby was too eager off the line, handing the round win to Chris Layram in the Outta Gas Anglia (11.106 / 88 on a 10.24 vs 11.104 / 116 DQ on a 10.75). Harvey Turner
Jason Hollamby
Chris Layram
on Prest
Laurent Levi vs Sim
Patrick Hobbs
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LET US SAVE YOU MONEY! For more details call or message Chris on: Tel: 07951 121389 | Email: chris@fgoodale.co.uk www.americanspeedshop.co.uk 56 CUSTOM CAR NOVEMBER 2023 Custom Car_2023_11_Nov_Goodale_QP.indd 1 Custom Car_2023_11_Nov_Composite Page_FP.indd 56
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Outlaw Anglia Plenty of action in qualifying one, from Phil Middleton’s high-speed reverses to Dalton Scarlett’s 7.853 / 177 PB for top spot in only his third pass in the Hooligan Fordson and Simon Barlow’s 198mph speed PB, so close to the magical 200. Sevens are still just eluding Ben Rushforth, even working the blower harder, but it’s surely just a matter of time. A PB 8.387 / 161 in qualifying one put him briefly into second place, before Mick Taylor pipped him with an 8.029 / 168. Talk of the town, however, was Australian John Willard’s storming 6.713 at 197mph for a new Outlaw Anglia ET record. Come qualifying two, all eyes were on the outrageous Mr Mopar car of John O’Sullivan, back out after 17 years, now with a screw blower and 30% more than what was already an outrageous amount of power in his Hemi-fied Pop. It’s a handful alright. No one was going to beat Willard’s time, but both Barlow and Colin Millar put in very low sevens to hold second and third positions respectively. In round one eliminations, Scarlett went quicker still, 7.427 / 185, John Webster carded a fine 7.168 / 185 to beat Andy Cunningham, Rushforth edged ever
closer to the sevens with a PB 8.153 / 163 and Colin Millar just dipped into the sevens, 7.999 / 161, against Aaron Bird. By the end of the round, the 30-car field was down to 15. Round two saw Rushforth, Millar, Middleton, Webster, Scarlett, Mick Taylor, Spencer Tidswell and Al O’Connor all progress, the latter taking it easy on a bye. Things were equally exciting in round three, Millar pumping gas to overcome Rushforth (7.306 / 182 vs 8.180 / 164), Scarlett storming through past Taylor in a fine race (7.463 / 185 vs 8.070 / 164), while Middleton took out a wayward Tidswell (8.609 / 156 vs 10.219 / 127) and O’Connor had another easy solo when Webster lost fire on the line. Lastly, Lee Taylor came out in the new pick-up for a time trial, 9.099 / 149 and looking strong. In the semis, storming Scarlett easily dispensed with O’Connor (7.525 / 161 vs 10.290 / 99) and Millar really let Middleton have it with a belting 7.064 / 196 pass to Ginner’s game 8.531 / 155, paving the way for a double seven finale. It wasn’t to be though. Millar’s off form 8.148 / 176 being no match for Scarlett’s 7.759 / 184 to take the event win.
Mick Hannah
AndyCunningham
Dalton Scarlett
Lee Taylor
Spencer Tidswell
Brian Watson
Aaron Windridge
Good Vibrations Motorsport Supercharged Outlaws Session one saw a new PB, and first seven, for Ian Merryweather in the Banzai Topolino (7.924 / 175) and another balls-out, wheels-up pass by Aaron Windridge (9.003 / 167), but the quickest runner in the class was Jim Usher (7.606 / 178), improving that to 7.376 / 182 in session three to hold the top spot. Jim Tucker is really getting to grips with the Hemi in Hellfire now, 8.877 / 157 on Friday and 8.704 / 156 in session two,
which also saw Brian Watson make a first full track pass in the beautiful O Black Betty slingshot (14.583 / 52) vs Mick Hannah in the equally pleasing Haggis Hunter (9.941 / 90). Bob Glassup was out to play in yet another red Mk1 Capri, this time running with a blown 454 in SO, improving from an 11.438 / 100 shakedown on Friday, to a 9.324 / 148 best. Aaron Windridge got our vote for most entertaining act of the weekend in the blown 350-powered Grim Reaper Altered, running consistent low eights with wheels-
up launches and laying down an almost full track burnout prior to an 8.003 / 167 pass in session two alongside Paul Dale’s PB 8.046 / 166 in the Acute Angle Anglia. Dale then improved his PB to a stonking 7.860 / 182 in session three to take the number two position. And his team went wild. Brian Watson must have been pretty happy at the end of session four, too, carding an 8.684 / 157 in his new to him rail, but the top three remained as before, Usher, Dale and Merryweather.
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l Smail
Chris Goodale vs Pau
Lite Steer Nostalgia Superstock Vic Parsons’ ’65 Belvedere has had a full rebuild and new engine at Williams Brothers Racing and proved its worth with a PB 9.969 / 135 first time out, improving to 9.804 / 136. Likewise, Paul Smail had a great debut in the new Thirsty Work Chevelle, 10.708 / 125 first time out, then 10.565 / 124.
Qualifying one was like revolving doors, Adrian Portelli bagging the number one spot, then Stewart Arthur, Kiwi Thompson before settling at Mick Sharpe (10.400 / 125 on a 10.39 dial). By round two of qualifying, the 73-car field had been reduced to 64, this time with Karl Kenyon in the 318ci Valiant (14.903 / 92 on a 14.90 dial) on top of the
heap, with Beavis Allen and Gary Semper in hot pursuit. Come eliminations on Sunday morning, a few no shows slimmed the field further and a few of the big hitters went out early doors, Gary Carr putting Dave Billadeau on the trailer and Don Scott despatching Stuart Thompson. It was a similar story on round two,
Springbridge Direct Wild Bunch New PB for Andrew Clifford (8.761 / 149) and quickest in class in the first round time trial on Friday. Next time out it was Ford Skipp collecting a PB ticket (9.520 / 139) and then John Sharod blew his PB out the water by over four seconds in the Never Say Never Wild Bunch T, 8.958 at 142mph. At the end of the day, it was Pete Brown in the number one spot (8.374 / 158), with
Phil James and Dan Wilson close behind. In round one, Alan Lloyd put in his quickest pass of the event at 7.664 / 168, Ruaridh Hart squeezed a PB out of the Opel GT mini flopper (11.601 / 107) and Steve Field clocked a fine 8.369 / 159. By the end of round two, in the average variance from dial in table Wild Bunch runs to, Philip James was on top, followed by Dan Wilson and Callum Swinchatt.
In round three, it was Rob Brown’s turn to post a PB, 8.356 / 157, winning his race against Dan Wilson, while other wins went the way of James Auld, Jim Tanner, Pete Brown, Ruaridh Hart, Alan Loten and Chris Hartnell. When the numbers were added up at the end, though, it was Wilson who emerged victorious with an average of just 0.015 on his dial in, with Auld the runner-up, an average of 0.038 off his dial in.
Dan Wilson
James Auld Ruaridh Hart
John Sharod
es
Elliott and Danny Jon
58 CUSTOM CAR NOVEMBER 2023
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Jon Pratt
Ash Rawson
Karl Kenyon Keith Williams
Spencer Tramm sent packing by Lee Chiles and Duncan Watts by John Sleath, leaving just 16 drivers in contention in round three. Through that went John Sleath, Karl Kenyon, Matthew Dowdy, Vic Parsons, Dan Williams, Ash Rawson, Pete Dodd and Glenda Thompson, Jon Pratt, Mojo and Chris Goodale, amongst others, falling by the wayside.
Willys Wars 23 cars signed or this year’s Willys Wars, and John Dalrymple ran quickest of ’em all (9.844 / 143) in the first round of qualifying for this heads-up, just-for-fun class. In round one, which brought Saturday’s racing to a close, Damien Bacon, Chris Cockburn, Jonny McClure, Guy Davenport, Phil Moules, Pete Rivers, Ian Rattan and Alan Mearns all won their races, along with Mark Bishop and Ian Challenor who went down track on byes. In session two, Dalrymple ran quicker still (9.787 / 142), with Moules, McClure, Graham Harrison and James Griffin all in the 10s and Guy Davenport bringing up the rear with a leisurely 21.977 / 60mph pass. By session three, however, only three competitors pulled round, Cockburn, Rattan and Dan Bates, posting 12.961 / 103, 12.260 / 109 and 10.621 / 124 respectively. Then, in the final pairing on Sunday evening, Cockburn took on Bates and emerged victorious when the latter saw red, 13.118 / 105 vs 10.653 / 124.
Paul Smail
A rash of surprising red lights from experienced racers in the next round narrowed the field to Ash Rawson, Matthew Dowdy and Vic Parsons, while underdog, Karl Kenyon, continued by taking out Pete Dodd on a holeshot (14.937 / 91 on a 14.86 dial in vs 9.318 / 143 on a 9.30). That set the stage for a
Daniel Bates
Ian Rattan
Kenyon vs Rawson and Dowdy vs Parsons semi-final, which went the way of Rawson and then Parsons when Dowdy red lit. Eventual round winner in a double breakout final was Rawson (10.234 / 130 on a 10.24 dial) over Parsons (9.762 / 135 on a 9.78 dial).
Chris Cockburn
Left: John Dalrymple
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Auto focus ■ Words and Pics: Keith Lee
Motor Mouse
B
ack in July at Dragstalgia, Steve Johnson made his final run down the Santa Pod quarter mile. It is something he has done more times than most who have ventured into competition. Few can say that they have reached their 50th season, and Steve’s final run in the Dragstalgia Cannonball was not a gentle sign off. He had already recorded one of his best times earlier in the meeting – but that last one was a nail-biter, as the car decided it wanted to flirt with the wall at high speed! ‘I thought there was just about a foot to the wall at the front,’ commented Steve. ‘But then the car is wider at the back!’ Happily, he got away without any damage, as few at the time would have known that he already had a buyer for the nostalgia dragster – who was watching the run in the start area, no doubt keeping everything crossed! Prior to buying the beautifully turned out gold slingshot from Jon Webster, Steve had enjoyed many years of competition running in Super Pro. Indeed, he was one of the few drivers who started out in this class, which has become so popular and competitive since its inception. However, the Steve Johnson racing career started many years before that. Initially, Steve tried his hand at circuit racing, in a Formula Ford single seater for the best part of a year. It was fun, but an accident meant a repair bill which was not viable to afford. Then a trip to Santa Pod saw Steve taking the opportunity to chat to a number of
Above: Steve in action at Dragstalgia, against Joe Bond, and aiming to keep the wheelies well under control! Left: Brother Hedley helped out, back in the Rochdale days. The car competed in Street Altered. Picture courtesy of Steve Johnson Below: The very beginnings of running dragsters. The neat Harold Bull chassis is shown unclothed, as the transplanted twin cam Lotus Ford motor now resided in place of Glen Read’s Volvo engine. Picture courtesy of Steve Johnson
racers – and return home with a plan to put a 1275S engine into a Mini. Racing in the Modified Street ranks, the name Motor Mouse was given to the little car which was ready for the start of the ’74 season. The inspiration for the name came from a series of Hanna-Barbera cartoons which first aired in 1969. Motor Mouse and Autocat featured dragsters and chopper bikes; Steve figured the name fitted, and
Motor Mouse 3 was immediately successful in the Junior ranks – and the lightweight car enjoyed being airborne
long time friend Steve Young did indeed race a Topolino altered called Autocat in 1976. After a year spent having fun in the Mini, running low 14s, Steve got hold of a Rochdale Olympic kit car powered by a crossflow Ford motor. This was soon replaced by a twin cam 1600 Lotus Ford, which was slotted into Motor Mouse 2. The body was painted purple and the combination ran down in the low 12s, which was quite an improvement. Late 1976, and Steve sealed a move into the dragster ranks. He retained the potent motor from the Rochdale, which had been upped to 1760cc, and this was used in a Harold Bull chassis acquired from Glen Read. Ready for the start of the ’77 season, he would join the Junior Dragster ranks which included Glen’s brother, Robin. Steve would soon find himself fighting to keep the front end somewhere near the track surface in his lively little dragster, in a competitive class. It proved to be a powerful combination, as Steve actually clinched the overall RAC National Championship win!
60 CUSTOM CAR NOVEMBER 2023
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Above: After a complicated motor build, the Cosworth GAA V6 made a stunning sight in the pits when it appeared Two litres of Cosworth BDA power would result in even quicker times, and the front end was even less keen to stay on the tarmac!
Power would next be improved with a two litre Cosworth BDG motor, which kept the times dropping. Up until this time, it was strictly four banger power in the Johnson cars, but for 1982 he turned up at Santa Pod with a jaw-dropper of a motor installed in a brand new race car. Totally different in looks, and sounding like a screaming banshee, this Ford based Cosworth GAA motor boasted 460bhp from its 3400cc quad-cam V6 configuration. A good number of these motors were destined for F5000 Indy series use. There were a number of them in bits, destined for the skip, but Steve knew where they were and was able to buy two of them. That was the easy part. The hard part was how he was going to assemble a working motor, as the bits were not labelled and there were no assembly instructions! Steve smiled wryly when remembering the hundreds of bolts needed just to put a pair of heads together… The finish on the wedge-shaped machine was first class and he was propelled into the high 8-second bracket on pump gas. Of
the cars he raced, this little dragster was his favourite. The only issue was with the car floating about at the top end, which was a little distracting! This brought about the next Motor Mouse, for which Steve constructed a rear-engined chassis. With the aid of some nitrous, the V6 screamer would get down to times in the 8.1s. The V6 cars had proved to be very successful, running in Super Comp eliminations. Eventually though, in 1989, he decided to sell everything off and would soon start afresh. This time, Steve bought a rear-engined Chevy dragster over in Florida. This import would see him competing at the beginnings of Super Pro, in which he was one of just three competitors. Steve is a multi-time championship winner, in what has developed into a very well supported and highly competitive class. Eventually, he hit best times of 6.7s/198mph in the dragster. There was
Sat behind the blower of his final ride, Steve warms the slicks, courtesy of 509 cubes of BBC Chevy power
Steve pictured alongside the cockpit at his final event, at Santa Pod this July
Below: You can tell by the pained expression on the face of the guy behind that he really wished he had some ear defenders when that Cosworth screamed away from the line!
the intention of putting a blower on – ‘but at the same time I instead blew the motor!’ Retirement beckoned instead. Very sadly, Steve lost his greatest supporter in 2016 when his wife Pat died. She had been there throughout a shared racing career. The lure of racing proved too strong, after a year away, and retirement was shelved in favour of the aforementioned gold slingshot. It was a not dissimilar colour to the first Motor Mouse dragster – only this one had that blower! Just like the first one, this car pulls wheelies, but Steve was not prepared for the monumental display it put on at the 2019 Summer Nats. The wheelie bar collapsed, leading to a landing that wrote off the car’s front end – and more painfully, cracked and crushed two of Steve’s vertebrae. Undeterred, both car and driver would be rejuvenated, returning best times of 6.98s/198.98mph – just frustratingly short of the magic 200. After so many years, anyway, and now into his seventies, retirement is now a reality – though he is still going to help the new car owner to get dialled in. Enjoy your retirement, Steve.
NOVEMBER 2023 CUSTOM CAR 61
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BRENTACRE CUSTOM CAR & HOT ROD INSURANCE
NB: We advise you to double check with organisers that the event or show as listed is still going ahead, to avoid any wasted journeys. To submit an event, email alan.kidd@assignment-media.co.uk
SEPTEMBER 30 All American Cruise In. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 30 Drag & Drift Dakota Raceway, Honiton. www.straightliners.events
17 VW Air-Cooled Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 21 Run What Ya Brung Saturday Night Special Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk
25 Spitfire Raceway Drag’n’Drift. Parranporth Airfield, St Agnes, Cornwall. www.perranporthdrivingcentre.com
DECEMBER 6 Hot Rod Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com
30 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk
22 ‘Normous Newark Autojumble Newark Showground, Newark, Notts. www.newarkautojumble.co.uk
OCTOBER
22 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk
10 ‘Normous Newark Autojumble Newark Showground, Newark, Notts. www.newarkautojumble.co.uk
1 Hayling Sunset Funland Amusement Park, Hayling Island. victorywheelers.co.uk
28 All American Cruise In. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com
19 VW Air-Cooled Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com
28 Flame & Thunder Show Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk
30 All American Cruise In. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com
29 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk
MAY 2024
29 NSRA Northern Swap Meet Melbourne Raceway. www.nsra.org.uk
24-27 Race the Waves Bridlington. www.backfirepromotions.com
NOVEMBER
24-27 Run to the Sun Newquay. www.rtts.co.uk
1 Wheels on the Waterfront Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne. Facebook: The Waterfront Eastbourne 3 Hayling Hotrods at the Beach. Hayling Island, Hampshire. Glenn: 07889 710189 4 Hot Rod Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com 5 Krazy Horse Late Nights Bury St Edmunds. www.krazyhorse.co.uk 7 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk 7-8 Straightliners Race Meet Melbourne Raceway, York. www. straightliners.events 9 Top Speed Monday Elvington Airfield, Elvington, West Yorkshire. www.straightliners.events
1 Hot Rod Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com
JUNE 2024
10-12 Classic Motor Show NEC, Birmingham. www.necclassicmotorshow.com
24 Deuce Day British Motor Museum, Warwickshire. www.deucesofbritain.co.uk
18 British Drag Racing Hall of Fame Gala Awards Dinner Oatlands Park Hotel, Weybridge. www.britishdragracinghof.co.uk
28-30 National Hot Rod, Custom and American Car Show Lincoln Showground. www.hotrodandcustomshow.co.uk
19 ‘Normous Newark Autojumble Newark Showground, Newark, Notts. www.newarkautojumble.co.uk
14 Classic Car Breakfast Meet Jack’s Patch, Kirton Lindsey. Facebook: Bomber County Classics
21 VW Air-Cooled Night. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com
14 Run What Ya Brung Santa Pod Raceway. www.santapod.co.uk
25 All American Cruise In. Ace Café, London. www.acecafe.com
15 Straightliners Race Meet Santa Pod. www.straightliners.events
25 NSRA AGM. Venue TBC. www.nsra.org.uk
AUGUST 2024 16-18 Hot Rods in the Borders Liliardsedge Holiday Park, Jedburgh. 01835 830271
62 CUSTOM CAR NOVEMBER 2023
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