1 RUMBLER CONTENTS 19 JAMESTOWN 47 GHOSTS OF N.DAK LOOKING TOWARDS CLASSIC CAR CLUB Sanish North Dakota

2 THE FUTURE 20 NEW CAR REVIEW

Club President "Skovy" 2015 Ford Mustang CLUB APPLICATION

CLASSIC CAR 2 BIRTHDAYS (Jan) 21 3 ACTIVE MEMBERS SUMMARY 1978 Datsun 510

3 AWARDS BANQUET Wagon 4 DICK LANDY RARE FINDS

6 RUMBLER MINISTRY 23 1969 Chevy Scott W. Block Camaro Z/28 BRIAN KAMLITZ CLASSIC CAR 25 8 Dual Carburetors, SUMMARY Drag Slicks & Race 1946 Ford Custom

Gas LOST DREAMS

9 FORD MUSCLE CARS 27 Mysteries of the 1971 Ford Torino missing GM

Last of the Breed MOTORAMA Cars 11 DEVILS RUN CLASSIC CAR 31 12 AROUND MILL HILL SUMMARY Dinner: S&R Truck 1959 Chevy Impala Plaza 34 ENOUGH TO MAKE A 13 Show: Unbroken GROWN MAN CRY A BREED APART CLASSIC CAR 36 14 1971 Hemi Road SUMMARY 1953 Cadillac Runner 'Elegante' 17 JAMESTOWN ELKS 38 1949-'52 CHEVYS TIME WARP Gaining in collectability 18 1969 Chevy 42 Upcoming Events Nova SS L78 46 SWAP SHOP

P a g e | 2 LOOKING TOWARDS Bronc” motor scooter. Hope you THE FUTURE have fun with it Jamie. Story & Photos by Skovy At the meeting on January 14th, we will be issuing Pastor Scott Block a check for reimbursement of a bullet proof vest. He is the Crisis Pastor in the Jamestown area and was expected to pay for the vest with his own money. At the Awards Banquet it was put to a vote and agreed that we pay for that. Scott is a great friend and as MEMBERS BIRTHDAYS you know writes an article for the What a wonderful start to a new “RUMBLER” each month. Keep Ann Marie Houge 01/01 year. Where in knowing that in a up the good work Scott and keep Martha Tracy 01/02 short 3 to 4 months our cars will safe. Kathy Anderson 01/07 emerge from the safety of the Della Dewald 01/07 warehouses and garages around Verdell (Jake) Jacobson 01/07 North Dakota to bath in the Viril Layton 01/10 splendor of the spring sunlight. Laura Williams 01/13 Candace Gums 01/14 Yuk! Where did that come from? Richard VanFleet 01/16 Realizations amiss, we know that Ruth Johnston 01/19 in this part of winter we are Cliff Calheim 01/24 collecting parts and getting ready Brian Kamlitz 01/24 for the spring to come to install Emmy Swedlund 01/24 all those new and shiny parts Kevin Thoele 01/25 onto our cool rides. Allen Huber 01/30 Stan Orness 01/30 2014 was a fantastic year for the

James Valley Street Machines. Miss your birthday? Please We introduced new fun stuff for Around Mill Hill reappears in the contact me at 701-202-7067 members to do. The Dakota “RUMBLER” after a few month whereas I can update your Blacktop Tour was a complete hiatus. It comes with an records. success. I’ve heard rumors there additional twist though. Along will be over 40 cars participating with dinner evaluations, Around in our 2015 Dakota Blacktop Mill Hill will also rate current

Tour when we invade South movies playing at the Bison 6

Dakota and have a blast with our Cinema. Thank you Lyman & neighbors to the south. Cory for this cool idea. Read of our discovery in the Our awards banquet was the best “RUMBLER”. Thank you all and ever! Over 100 people were in have a prosperous 2016! attendance and our fund raising auction brought in enough money Want to get on the “RUMBLER” to pay for all our 2014 email list? “RUMBLER” issues adventures. Thank you for all. to date … 9629!

Jamie Meidinger won the “Bustin [email protected]

P a g e | 3 Houge, Jason & Ann Marie Seher, Jeff Huber, Al & Sue Specht, Gary & Margaret Jacobson, Verdell (Jake) & Linda Specht, Leslie & Debra Jangula, Duane Speckman, Dale & Pamela Jaskoviak, Steven (Skovy) Stromberg, Bryan Jensen, Paul & Sue Swedlund, Troy & Emmy Johnson, Brandon & Sonia Thoele, Kevin & Kim Kamlitz, Brian Thomas, Troy & Tricia Karn, Dale & Sue Titman, Nick Keim, Lyman & Darlene Tracy, Dean & Martha Kessler, Michael & Mary VanFleet, Richard Kleinknecht, Delno & Phyllis Vining, Taylor ACTIVE MEMBERS Kolb, Dale & Nidia Wegenast, Colin & Toni Allmer, Michael Kummer, Jeffrey & Erin Westerhausen, Leon & Mary Jane Andersen, Jeff(Andy) & Karla Lade, Joshua Wiest, J.P. & Judy Anderson, Bruce & Kathy Lang, John (JR) Wilhelm, Jeff Anderson, Roger & Meleia Layton, Viril & Mary Wilhelm, Rod & Sandy Anderson, Scott & Kim Loose, Larry & Bonita Willman, Casey & Jessica Bachmeier, Donovan & Karla Lulay, Bob & Alma Wolf, Cameron Balvitsch, Wayne Lynn, Randy Wolff, Clayton & Beverly Behm, Earl & Connie Lynn, Tyler & Pauline Wonnenberg, Douglas & Robyn Bensch, Paul & Janis Martin, Randy & Patti Berg, Wayne & Tami Mathias, Roger & Bonnie 2014 AWARDS BANQUET Beyer, James McCreedy, Terrance Great Friends, Great Music, Block, Scott & Pat McCullough, Gary & Billie Great Gathering, And Great Brandenburger, Max & Williams, McIlonie, Bernie & Darlene Laura Organization. Meidinger, Jamie Briese, Lee & Penny Meyer, Ken & Annie Calheim, Clifford & Marla Photos by Candace Gums. Miller, Randy & Crystel Carow, Billy & Candace Mischka, Kenneth & Judy Thank you KC’s in Jamestown for the great Christianson, Glenn & Lucinda food and facility. Mittleider, Cody & Elaine Dewald, Joel & Della Mitzel, LeRoy Dodd, Jim & Mary Jo Moser, LeRoy & Gloria Emo, Paul Nelson, Troy & Lois Erdahl, Shawn (Shady) & Dawn Nenow, Roger & Lois Frank, Tracy Nogosek, Aaron & Amy Gaier, Craig & Johnston, Ruth Obrigewitsch, Les & Sheryl Gehring, Duane & Kathleen Olson, David & Adele Geisler, David Olson, Taylor Gibson, Teddy & Diane Orness, Stan & Sharon Gilbertson, Mike & Murray, Kim Patzner, Elroy & Elayne Gilge, Larry & Cindy Petrek, Gary Godfrey, Collin Poppe, Jerry & Ardie Gray, JeriLynn & Andy Ravely, Thomas & Rhonda Greenlund, Ron & Darlene Redinger, Dale Gums, Robert & Candace Rixen, Dennis Guthmiller, Neil & Linda Schauer, Ronald & Cindy Heiman, Tyler Seckerson, Kelly & Tricia Holzkamm, Al & Cindy

P a g e | 4

DICK LANDY This Southern Californian put his stamp on drag racing. Story & Photos by Terry Shea (Hemmings Magazine)

In this space, we've seen some accidental Hot Rod Heroes, the sort of industry men whose job running a car company allowed them to have a significant impact on the sport or on the cars they offered to the public, but hot rodding wasn't necessarily their life. Dick Landy was not one of those guys.

From the time he was a teenager up until he died at age 69 in 2007, "Dandy" Dick Landy lived and breathed drag racing and high-performance engines. Square jawed; barrel chested and broad-shouldered like a linebacker, Landy was physically somewhat larger than life during

P a g e | 5 a career that saw him compete in to come in 1965, Landy's 330 handicapping, and it instantly Stock, Super Stock, A/FX and have been referred to as the first became one of the most popular later Pro Stock. The Southern funny car, due to its awkward on the circuit. California-born Landy had his look. first experience drag racing in a loaned Ford pickup. He was 19 at the time, and, while the results of that first foray in the borrowed truck are lost to history, clearly it struck a chord within him.

In the years following high school, he studied mechanical engineering and built high- As the Hemi's essentially performance marine engines. But With full Dodge sponsorship and dominated Pro Stock, pressure he continued to regularly visit the a Hemi under the hood, Landy from Ford and Chevy led the drag strip. While racing his continued to do well at the strip sanctioning body to alter the brother Mike's 1960 Ford, in Stock, Super Stock and A/FX rules, adding weight to the equipped with a 352-cu in Police classes throughout the late 1960s. Mopars and allowing wedge-head Interceptor engine, he caught the Landy's sponsorship arrangement Fords and Chevys more leeway attention of some local sponsors. with Dodge led to a special in the cars and engines they Soon after, Landy began a relationship that had him appear fielded. Once the rules favored relationship with Andy Andrews, at local Dodge dealerships to the blue oval and bowtie crowds, a Ford dealer from Van Nuys, conduct racing clinics face-to- increasingly frustrated Hemi California, who decided to back face with customers, much like teams began walking away. him. His success with Andrews the same arrangement Sox & Landy's was one of them, fed up landed him factory support from Martin had with Plymouth. that the rules were heavily Plymouth in 1962, and in 1964, Landy, an excellent businessman stacked against them. But Landy he switched to Dodge. who often competed in all-white kept racing, embracing the driving gear while wearing tennis AHRA and winning Pro Stock It was in 1964 that Landy, shoes, also sported the patches of titles in 1973 and 1974. driving one of the first factory his sponsors, which included the Eventually, Landy stepped away Hemi race cars, a Dodge 330, likes of Goodyear and Pepsi. as a driver in the late 1970s and decided to make some serious stopped fielding teams after alterations to his car. Though When the leaders of the NHRA 1980, as even the AHRA rules Super Stock allowed for as much made it difficult for competitors were doing him no favors. as two percent of wheelbase like Landy and other experienced alteration, late in the season, racers to go straight-up and head- Landy modified the car to A/FX to-head in the stock classes with spec by radically altering the their altered machines, he joined wheelbase. By installing a solid with the Grumpy Jenkins, Don front axle from a Dodge A100 Nicholson and Sox & Martin van, he was able to move it teams in forming a traveling forward six inches. Further match race that not only made the alterations included moving the group some decent money, but rear axle eight inches forward. also caught the attention of drag- Though it was not as radical as racing authorities. In 1970, the factory's 10/15-inch (rear and NHRA added the Pro Stock class, front) altered-wheelbase models which did away with

P a g e | 6 acted as crew chief and engine that was referred to was of builder, would continue until course, none other than the Son Landy's death in 2007. of God himself, the carpenter from the crummy little town of RUMBLER MINISTRY Nazareth. Story & Photos by Scott W. Block So if you were faced with a moral or ethical situation you didn’t know how to handle, you would ask yourself the question: “What would Jesus do” in this particular situation? For some people it hopefully helped them to make a wise decision. WWJD was also a gentle reminder for some good, solid, upright Christian behavior. This sensible and intelligent behavior would then demonstrate the love of Jesus toward others through the actions of the person who thought about that question and then attempted to act in a Landy's skill behind the wheel “good”, ethical, and moral way was perhaps matched by his towards their neighbor. salesmanship and an outgoing personality that made him However, for twisted minds like popular with the media and fans mine (and yours?), well, we can’t alike. For most of his public life, simply leave it at that now can he almost always had a cigar we? (Insert evil laugh here.) clenched in his engaging smile. WWJD? (Part 1) Racing, giving speeches to So let us rephrase the question of Dodge customers at clinics, A number of years ago, back in “What would Jesus do?” working on the car in the pits or the 1990’s, the abbreviation or (WWJD) to “What would Jesus celebrating during a trophy the acronym WWJD became drive”? Yep, like I said twisted ceremony, his cigar became a popular in the United States. Do minds. And you didn’t believe signature part of his persona. Yet, you remember this? It was a me did you? while he was rarely seen without popular accessory for church the trademark stogie, he never “youth groups”. The capital With a tongue stuck in my cheek actually lit the cigar. letters showed up by being and my heart filled with humor, printed on cheap, tacky bracelets let us a take a little peek into Automotive Research, Landy's and necklaces, the letters were what, maybe, just perhaps, the first engine-building and tuning imprinted along the lengths of Son of the living God, if he shop, opened in Sherman Oaks, lanyards, and it was found to be physically walked the earth California, in the early 1960s. written all over the place. At that today, what he would drive. And Later, he would change the name time it meant “What Would Jesus hopefully, God will forgive me to Dick Landy Industries and Do?” and it meant for you to for writing this and you for move the operation to nearby reflect and to speculate on the life reading it. If you think this is a Northridge. The business, which and times of Jesus and how good little disrespectful, well, in all also employed his brother who of a person he was. The Jesus honesty, I would somewhat agree

P a g e | 7 with you. But, knowing God, drove a gas sipping, small engine block to the weak.” Maybe he knowing Jesus, and knowing the economical Honda, but not was thinking about people who Holy Spirit, I do believe, in my wanting to upset the horsepower liked Hondas again and was quite heart, that they have a wonderful guys, Jesus simply didn’t speak concerned for them. sense of humor, and so I feel and about what he really liked to trust that the Triune God is drive. As a proof of this “green” Yet even more evidence suggests laughing along with us. hypothesis, they quote a verse in these Chrysler products were the Gospel of John where Jesus popular back in the day. We see One theory suggests of what tells the crowd, “for I did not that the head of John the Baptist Jesus would drive would be speak of my own Accord, but the was brought to King Herod on a Mopars. Yes, perhaps Jesus was a Father who sent me himself has Charger (another name for a Mopar guy. We find in the Bible given me a commandment about platter). Now that is kind of that God was pretty upset and what to say and what to speak.” gross, so we read even more so angry with Adam and Eve Here we figure out that Jesus was that “John came neither eating because they ate the forbidden slightly ashamed of driving a nor drinking, and so they say, he fruit (no it was not an apple!). In Honda and had to blame the set has a Demon.” response to their actions God of wheels he drove on his Father. drove them out of the Garden of Sorry Honda people, but Jesus That’s enough for now. Eden in a Fury. (Genesis 3:24 still likes Mopars! Thankfully! But stay tuned for translation altered slightly.) next month as we once again will Jesus had some disciples you tackle the subject of WWJD, However, if we turn to Psalm know. These were the twelve “What Would Jesus Drive.” 83:15, depending on the guys that followed him around, translation of the Bible you read, hung out with him, ate and drank Peace to you dear readers. May God was to pursue His enemies with him and went to car shows you have a blessed and fantastic with either a Pontiac or a Geo. with him. We see, however New Year? May God fill you We read that God was asked by profoundly sad it may be, that the with all good things, bless you the psalmist to “pursue your Apostle’s too, favored Hondas. In with all good things, and grant enemies with your Tempest and the book of Acts, they were even you joy, peace, and good health. terrify them with your Storm more “green” than Jesus for it (hurricane.)” says that the Apostles car pooled Keep on cruising, keep on for the “apostles were in one laughing, and keep on reading the But we might have to go back to Accord.” Rumbler. Happy New Year! the Mopar idea. Perhaps God favors Dodge pickup trucks. There is further evidence that When Moses was in the Jesus was into Chrysler products. wilderness, the Israelites were Perhaps Jesus was into off- warned not to go up the mountain roading and liked Jeeps. After all until the trumpet (Ram’s horn) where he lived would have lent sounded a long blast (Ex. 19:13). itself to a great four-wheeling area with sand dunes, rivers, and Some scholars don’t believe the hills and all. We read in 1 idea that Jesus drove Mopars. Corinthians that he really liked They suggested that Jesus was a Jeeps and was quite concerned little more “green” in his thinking that liking these vehicles too and would not go after a fire- much could be become a problem breathing, gas-gulping, for others. We hear “but take care horsepower generating car. They that this Liberty of yours does not would therefore insist that Jesus somehow become a stumbling

P a g e | 8 DUAL CARBURETORS, 2000 we formed what is DRAG SLICKS AND RACE Jamestown Drag Racing GAS. Association President Glenn Story & Photos by Brian Kamlitz Christianson, Vice President Brian Kamlitz, Sec/Treasure Tara Kapp and 6 board members, over the next several months we had made hundreds of phone calls and asked for favors and attended several airport board meetings That was such a special weekend get approval from FAA and the that over the next 8 years we board we knew we had a lot of talked to different people we work to do and set up the first contacted the airport just to see couple years we put our race on how much it will take I had a with just 14 people it was just a route driver job so I would make one day race the first year, our contacts all over the state on first race was one HUGE success making a dream a reality, with had around 75 racers and just Glenn and myself being founding about 2000 Spector's in August members of the James Valley Off 2001 had several meetings Roaders we bought our first Porta afterwards to set in place another tree timing system in North race for the following year. Drag racing has been around for Dakota this system was battery decades in the early 50's a farmer operated so we could race any over by Sabin Minnesota had place in the state and didn't need land and built a track to keep his power or pavement, got a call kid off the streets and to make from a customer in Harvey ND sure that his friends had a place and they asked what it was going to race safely. It starts around to cost to rent our timing system I 1986 for me going to Interstate said we have a meeting in a week Dragways in Sabin Minnesota, I will bring it up and get back to Glenn Christianson had drag you. raced several different cars over there over the years. I told Glenn 1998 Harvey ND got the ok to 2012 we got enough money to one Sunday heading over to race race on their airport and our purchase a porta tree timing that it sure would be cool to have JVOR club brought our timing system making our club more drags in Jamestown ND this was system up and put on the first self-efficient each year for the probably 1990-1991 we had a lot airport race, after that we got last 5 years we have been adding of enthusiasts back then and even involved deeper and started to our club with useful tools to the years before but one weekend putting one together in help out the workers on race day. we 31 people from Jamestown Jamestown 1999 Glenn and Actively we get about 35-40 racing and over 75 Spectators we myself started putting things helpers to set up for race day and took a group picture not everyone together on paper and putting our tear down, we couldn't do it is in the pic but a good amount contacts together, over the few without the help of the sponsors, for the last minute decision to years there was 8-9 more places the racers, the diehards that want have a group shot off of have airport drags 1999 we had a drag racing in Jamestown North Schumacher’s camper. couple meetings with a few Dakota. Currently we host 160 others in attendance. racers on a weekend of racers and around 1200 spectators, so 2015

P a g e | 9 will be a great year for the drag waiting for the go ahead from the the Torino becoming the base racer in Jamestown as we have state and federal government. trim level. All engine sizes got our Foundation papers ready remained the same as in 1970, to send out and get approved for FORD MUSCLE CARS although the output of nearly all our new addition James Valley 1971 Torino. Last of the Breed. the engines was reduced slightly. Motorsports Foundation is Story & Photos by John Smith (MRE Books) In 1971, the big 429s were no getting formed. longer referred to as "Cobra In most people’s minds, 1971 Jets." They became "CJ" and Primarily this Motorsports represents the last year of the true "CJ-R" (Ram Air) engines. foundation will ultimately fund musclecars available from the the construction of the drag strip major manufacturers. The As in 1970, all Torinos shared a in The Jamestown area and after automakers were no longer able 117-inch wheelbase and 20S.2- the drag strip will be completed to resist the governmental and inch overall length, and weights the foundation will be able to insurance company pressures and ranged from 3,345 pounds for a help out all the other 12 the musclecar era, which six-cylinder equipped four-door Motorsport clubs here in officially ended after the 1972 Torino sedan, up to 3,700 Jamestown, so in the next several model year, ceased to exist. Even pounds for a 429-equipped months you all will be seeing a though nearly every manufacturer Torino Squire station wagon. lot more advertising and offered intermediate bodies with The Torino was the base trim notifications from the JVMF. large engines in 1972, they were level of the series in 1971, with all forced to run lower bright windshield, rear window, compression ratios, due to the and roof drip rail moldings; regular gasoline requirement, and "Corporate design" stainless steel output dropped considerably. The hub caps; the FORD name, in result was the “decal-mobiles” block letters, on the driver's side which were high-performance of the hood and spaced across the only in the eyes of the advertising lower rear body panel; a dark- people. argent colored ABS plastic grille

with bright horizontal dividing bar; and the TORINO designation, in block letters, along the side of the rear quarter- panels, just above the rear marker lights. Inside, the Torinos were Just a simple conversation 29 equipped with all-vinyl years ago we are taking a dream upholstery material with and making it a reality this is Sporting only minor trim updates for 1971, matching all-vinyl interior trim going to be a huge feat for the the Torino continued as one of the best- panels, vinyl-coated rubber floor looking models ever to emerge from motorsports clubs. We are Dearborn’s styling studios. mats, and the TORI NO name, in working on getting this going, block letters, on a plaque on the this will be a monthly short The intermediate 1971 Torinos passenger's side of the instrument article in the Rumbler each were identical to the 1970 panel. month as the progress gets going models, with two exceptions, a The Torino 500 was the we are looking at more news slightly revised grille and longer intermediate series for 1971 and articles, in the near future a laser stripe on the GT models. included all the standard Torino website will be set up and there The Fairlane 500 series was features, in addition to the "high will be more contact info on how dropped, as was the Falcon and series" divided egg-crate style to get in touch with us. We are the two-door sedan model, with

P a g e | 10 ABS plastic grille, with bright models continued to offer a very moldings and the Ford crest in luxurious interior, with cloth and the center; bright wheel well and vinyl seating surfaces and interior rocker panel moldings; a bright trim panels, simulated woodgrain molding at the base of the side appliques on the lower portion of windows; bright window frames the instrument panel and door on sedans; the "Torino" crest in panel inserts, bright plated the center of the rear deck lid armrest bases, and the deluxe (except Sportsroof models); a two-spoke steering wheel with "500' plaque in addition to the simulated woodgrain appliques. rear quarter TORINO identification; and the TORINO The Torino GT continued as the script on the driver's side of the sporty version of the series. In hood. Inside, Torino 500s addition to all the standard featured cloth and vinyl seating features of the Torino series, it surfaces with matching all-vinyl included the 302 two-barrel V-8 interior trim panels, color keyed engine; a special hood with a nylon carpeting, front and rear wide, nonfunctional hood scoop; armrests, and a color-keyed bright molding on the rear hood textured metal lower instrument lip; a dark argent rocker panel panel surface. molding, with the GT identification on the front fender portion of the molding; dual racing mirrors, with remote control on the driver's mirror; "Corporate design" chrome- plated hub caps with trim rings; taillights recessed behind a black metal latticework insert; a textured black insert on the face Interiors were carryovers from 1970. Bench seats were standard in GT models, with of the Sportsroof rear deck bucket seats and center console optional. spoiler, with the FORD name, in Luxury options such as the tilt steering wheel block letters, on the right side of were beginning to appear on the intermediate The Torino Cobra continued to models. the insert, and the TORINO hold its position as the script on the right side of the performance model of the series, The Torino Brougham continued standard rear deck lid on the but with one major change. The as the top trim level, and included convertible, which also included mighty 429 Cobra Jet was all the standard features of a power-operated top and glass replaced with the 351 Cleveland the Torino series, in addition to rear window. Inside, Torino GTs four-barrel V- 8. In addition, the 302 two-barrel V-8 engines, a utilized a horizontally pleated all- Cobras included four-speed bright lower body side molding vinyl upholstery material with manual transmission with Hurst and bright wheel well moldings. matching interior trim panels shifter; heavy-duty suspension The BROUGHAM script on the with a black textured insert, a with larger stabilizer bar, heavy- rear roof pillars. A black textured black textured lower instrument duty shock absorbers and springs; insert with bright bars and the panel, deluxe two-spoke steering dual exhausts; F70x14 belted TORINO crest in the rear body wheel with simulated woodgrain Wide Oval white sidewall tires panel, additional sound applique, bright armrest bases, on 14x7 rims; a 55-amp battery; deadening and insulation, and and bright trim on the foot dual note horn; the low series bright wheel covers. Brougham pedals. ASS plastic grille painted flat

P a g e | 11 black with a bright horizontal DEVILS RUN SCHEDULE dividing bar that included the FOR FRIDAY MAY 29TH, 2015 "Cobra" coiled snake in the AT THE SPIRIT LAKE center; bright metal wheel well CASINO & RESORT moldings; argent-colored wheels Story & Photos by Stan Orness with "Corporate design" hub caps; "Cobra" decals along the sides of the rear quarter-panels; The beautiful chrome Magnum 500 wheels and a flat black painted rear body really set off the styling of the GT. These add section, with the "Cobra" emblem a sporty appearance to nearly any Ford in the center and the FORD product. name, in block letters, along the Popular Torino options included right side of the rear deck lid. the 302 two-barrel V-8 engine ($95); the 351C two-barrel V-8 engine ($140); the 351C four- barrel V-8 engine ($188); the Hello Everyone, 429CJ four-barrel v-a engine ($374); the 429CJ-R four-barrel Best Wishes for the New Year. V-8 engine ($531); Cruise-O- (We had meant to send a Merry Matic three-speed automatic Christmas but my computer was transmission ($217-$238 on in the repair shop). Using the same body as in 1970, the 1971 Cobras); four-speed manual Torinos were updated with a new grille and transmission ($250-standard on REMINDER, this is last call for side trim. The top-line GT package was an Early Bird registration to “North exterior trim option featuring a “laser stripe” Cobra); heavy-duty suspension that faded light-to-dark and contrasted with ($23); Traction-Loc differential America’s Hottest Car Show/Rod the body color. ($48); Drag Pack with 3.91 Run” DEVILS RUN. Early Bird Traction-Loc differential ($155); Entry Forms are available at Drag Pack with 4.30 "Detroit www.greaterdakotaclassics.com Locker" differential ($207); click on Devils Run Car power steering ($115); power Show/Rod Run then Early Bird front disc brakes ($70); Shaker Entry Form. You will be able to hood assembly ($65-351C four- register later but this is a $15 barrel V-8 only, standard on savings from on-site The Sportsroof fastback hardtop was a very 429CJ-R); 8,000 rpm tachometer registration. attractive package, especially when adorned ($49); styled steel wheels ($58); with the GT trim. The rear panel between the A couple of other reminders: taillights featured a honeycomb insert. chrome Magnum 500 wheels Nevertheless, the blind spot created by the ($158); front bucket seats ($15O- roof was significant. ** The Spirit Lake Muscle Car GTs and Cobras); center console Show has a few additions: ($6O-GTs and Cobras); Sport $10,000 Dollar Poker Run, an Slats ($65-Sportsroof); laser additional free meal, Slot stripes ($39-8Ts); push-button Tournament, Free $10 Slot Play, AM radio with antenna ($66); Burnouts, Muffler Rapping, AM/FM stereo radio ($240); Corvette Rally, Robi’s Dyno will vinyl roof ($95); SelectAire air be setup, etc. (Saturday & conditioning ($428); power Sunday in Roosevelt Park). tailgate window on station wagons ($35); and white sidewall ** This year will be the 75th tires ($34). Anniversary of 1940 Cars. The parade will be led by 1940 Fords,

P a g e | 12 from Creative Impressions in AROUND MILL HILL Roosevelt Park. (DINNER) Story & Photos by JVSM Evaluation Team ** I am sure you all knew of Ed “Big Daddy” Roth, creator of the “Rat Fink” one of the most recognized legends in our hobby. He passed away in 2001 but his legend continues thru his son Cody “Rat Agent” Roth. Cody is carrying on the “Rat Fink” legend with 100’s of t-shirt designs, signs and other items designed by Around Mill Hill is going to be a his Dad. “Rat Agent Cody”, his monthly evaluation of area wife Amber and their two “Rug businesses. If you are a paid Rats” are some of the nicest member of the JVSM and would people you will ever meet. They like to take part in this program, will all be at the 23rd Annual please let me know Devils Run. “Rat Agent Cody” [email protected] and I will personally autograph all “Rat will add your name to the list. Fink” items purchased at Devils Run. Last month, Skovy along with Vice President Tom Ravely & 10 This will be their first ever visit other members of the James to North Dakota, please swing by Valley Street Machines went to and welcome them to North the S&R Truck Plaza & Cafe in Dakota and Devils Run. You will Jamestown and evaluated the be glad you did!! Check them out service and food we received. at www.ratfink.com Mind you, this article is not ** MORE INFO TO COME!! written to slam and business, but Followed by their 1940 friends of We are still working on some it is written to make the public other makes. There will also be details and will update you as aware of services the Jamestown special parking for these cars in they happen. A tentative schedule area residence are getting. Ball Diamond #1 on Saturday. is posted at Classic Instruments will be www.greaterdakotaclassics.com Evaluations are based on a 0 to 5 donating awards to this car group rating. A number 5 is the best which will be given at the awards Happy New Year to all!!! rating and a 0 rating is area ceremony. Stan & Sharon needing work. There is a total of 1100 points to be scored. 55

** Pinky Tuscadaro’s 1956 points per line and there are 20 Lincoln Premier Convertible, fields that are evaluated. Again, which was used in Laverne & these evaluations are not for the Shirley and on Happy Days, will intention for getting anybody be on display all weekend. fired or to slam a business. It is a Hummmm, I wonder how many fact finding mission. Laverne and Shirley’s or Pinky Tuscadaro’s will show up for picture taking. T-Shirts with you and Pinky’s car will be available

P a g e | 13 2. Check back to ensure that your crewmen before he's caught by meal was satisfactory: 54 Points 98.18% the Japanese navy and sent to a 3. Offer refills on beverage/drinks: prisoner-of-war camp. 51 Points 92.73% Director: 4. Was the order correct, complete Angelina Jolie and properly prepared? 50 Points 90.91% Writers: Joel Coen (screenplay), Ethan Coen DESERT: (screenplay) 1. Mention/Offer Desert? Options? 53 Points 96.36% Stars: S&R TRUCK PLAZA & 2. Was the order correct, complete Jack O'Connell, Takamasa Ishihara, Domhnall and properly prepared? Gleeson CAFE 53 Points 96.36% James Valley Street Machines GENERAL: 1. Did they appear to be busy and Evaluation: efficient in their work? 52 Points 94.55% * Excellent movie. Great Morals 2. Were the tables properly bussed? on behalf of the Americans. Can 3.5 STARS OUT OF 4! 54 Points 98.18% 3. Did the bartenders appear neat and see why they called it professional in their appearance? “Unbroken”. His Convictions & Appetizers were the Assorted 55 Points 100.00% Chicken Wings & Onion Rings. 4. Did the overall dining experience belief in God is what all Main Course was Ribeye Steak meet or exceed your expectations: Americans should have. Makes 52 Points 94.55% you proud of our soldiers. with all the fix’ns or the Plaza 5. Were there enough employees to Burger. Desert was assorted pies. take care of guests? * I’m glad Louie survived. I’m 52 Points 94.55% glad he prayed to God. I’m glad MEET & GREET: the he saw his family again! 1. Convey the feeling that you were a valued customer: TOTAL POINTS: * Wow! This movie just shows 53 points 96.36% 1038 points 94.36% how much perseverance that a 2. Seat you and deliver menus in a man can have. Truly amazing. courteous manner: 52 points 94.55% S&R Truck Plaza … This * Remarkable from beginning to 3. Was the staff properly attired? month’s rating is 3.5 stars out of end. 53 points 96.36% 4. Fantastic Job! * Great storyline. Sold SERVER: performance. Some character 1. Suggest a beverage or specialty confusion in the first half hour. drink: AROUND MILL HILL 46 points 76.36% (MOVIE) Similar looking characters in the 2. Appear to be knowledgeable about Story & Photos by JVSM Evaluation Team raft scenes. Fluid transitions. the menu items: Appropriate flashbacks. 54 Points 98.18% 3. Remain attentive throughout the * Very good for a true story. Too dining experience: long on the water scene, more on 54 Points 98.18% 4. Mention/Offer Appetizer? Options: the camp should be done. Great 51 points 92.73% acting and directing. * Glad to be an American. APPETIZER: 1. Serve the soup or salad within a Freedom is NOT free! reasonable time: * Excellent movie. It gives strong 51 Points 92.73% appreciation for our POW’s and 2. Was the order correct, complete Vets. What they sacrificed for and properly prepared? 51 points 92.73% our freedom. * Very strong movie. Portrays the After a near-fatal plane crash in ENTRÉE: WWII, Olympian Louis agony that the POW’s had to 1. Were appropriate condiments endure. served? Zamperini spends a harrowing 47 51 Points 92.73% days in a raft with two fellow * Very soul grabbing. Very good

P a g e | 14 storyline. Felt like we were actually witnessing its 425 an era. Chrysler made the Street experiencing everything he did. underrated horsepower in all its Hemi as long as possible, but fury, was enough to make car 1971 was the last year the guys stand up and pay attention. corporation could get away with And, today, well, we don't have it--and that customers were still to tell you what the word means. willing to pay a stiff premium for it. Beyond the money that As part of our archaeological changed hands at the dealer, expedition, we're going to take a Hemi buyers got whacked once closer look at one of the last of more when it came time to pay that 426 Hemi species, the 1971 the insurance man, and then A BREED APART Road Runner, a rare beast when again and again every time the 1971Hemi Road Runner. One new--just 55 were made. Few tank needed to be filled. of the last of its kind, this '71 survive. Hemi Road Runner marked the Also, like our archaeological end of one era and the start of counterparts, we study another. Story & Photos by Terry Shea transitions--when one species (Hemmings Magazine) died off and another took its place. Sometimes, we find there are exceptions to the natural progression, and a rare creature manages to continue to thrive in subsequent eras. One such beast is the '71 Road Runner. Even as the original "elephant motor" was making its final stand, the Road Runner itself was all new. No longer had a derivative of the Working in this business now-defunct Belvedere line, the sometimes seems a bit like When the Hemi era started in Road Runner had become part of archaeology, though we might 1966, Chrysler had high hopes of the Satellite family, as had submit that studying a T. rex selling between 5,000 and 7,500 Plymouth's more upscale would be a hell of a lot easier if cars per year. Alas, in six model performance car, the GTX. you could get at its build sheet years, Chrysler sold just a hair and options list. Like the over 10,000 examples, a fraction dinosaurs, muscle cars have come of what they expected. And as the and gone and come back again at production line wound down late various times, though we have no in 1970 for the 1971 model year, names for the muscle car eras just 356 Hemi-equipped cars like we do for the various ages of found new homes. Somewhere the dinosaurs: the Triassic, amid rising insurance rates, restrictive emissions laws and Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. perhaps some people just losing So, instead of lamenting any interest, the world began to move As part of Chrysler's long-gone muscle car epoch, let's on. There were a few big-block implementation of the "Fuselage" just put a name to one of the most machines that came later, most design language that started with storied periods in automotive notably the 1973-'74 Pontiac SD the massive full-size C-body cars history: the 426 Street Hemi 455 Firebirds and Trans Ams, but in 1969, the Road Runner Eras. From 1966 to 1971, mere the last of the Hemi cars featured wider, rounder mention of the Hemi, let alone undoubtedly marked the end of bodywork with more curves on a

P a g e | 15 slightly shorter wheelbase, aerodynamic body--all '71 As part of Plymouth's "Rapid bumpers cleverly integrated into Satellites also featured flush door Transit System" of high- the front and rear ends and a high handles and windshield wipers performance cars, the Road beltline along with concealed under the trailing edge Runner fit in quite nicely, still correspondingly smaller of the hood. The halo-type equipped with its signature Road windows. Gone was the bumpers could be ordered with Runner "beep-beep" horn, still convertible: All Road Runners an elastomer coating, giving an carrying licensed decals of the were two-door, pillar less appearance similar to Pontiac's speedy, nominally flightless hardtops. Though taller and wider Endura nose, though chrome was Looney Tunes bird that manages than the previous-generation standard. to constantly outwit the persistent, if highly ineffective, For performance car fans, the Wile E. Coyote. Even for '71, slightly bulging fenders over Plymouth used the cartoon squared-off wheel arches-- characters in animated ads for the standard fare on all 1971 car, complete with antics Satellites--gave the car an even associated with the all-new more muscular stance. The machine that proved useful to the muscle car may have been on the bird and highly detrimental to the way out, but Plymouth designer Coyote. The implication was John Herlitz gave it a sparkling clear: With a Road Runner, you set of clothes to make its exit could be a winner, and without, grand. Herlitz had wowed the you would be more likely to fall faithful a year early, penning the off a cliff and end up nothing evocative--and today iconic-- more than a puff of smoke. 1970 Barracuda. When viewed in profile, the '71 Road Runner Fortunately, the engineers in the clearly cribs from that 'Cuda's powertrain department continued shape, particularly with its long to produce some stellar engines, hood and short, almost truncated adding an appropriate soundtrack deck. The result was a thoroughly to the otherwise visually modern design at exactly the compelling Road Runner. Under right time that Chrysler needed the hood, changes were afoot, to one. be sure, though not as severe as they would be in coming years. The high-performance four-barrel 383 remained standard kit for all Road Runners, though with compression down to 8.5:1, Plymouth rated the power output at an even 300hp. Of course, 1971 also witnessed the debut of the SAE's new net horsepower ratings, which saw the effective Road Runner, the '71 looked output of the 383 tumble to an lower and leaner, its hard edges even more sobering 250hp. But having been swapped for the 440 Six Barrel also remained something far more curvaceous. in the mix, down just 0.2 in Continuing with the aircraft compression and still good for 385hp (305 net), knocked back theme--and an obviously more

P a g e | 16 just a nickel from the previous the Road Runner in 1968. It also a director of rates for a water year. At the top of the heap, you could have been the choice for a utility, the remarkable could still get a Hemi, virtually muscle car buyer with Winchester Gray Hemi Road unchanged from previous years, proclivities toward having one Runner remains with its despite barely making ends meet hell of a sleeper of a Hemi car, its numbers-matching drivetrain. We when it came to satisfying the Winchester Gray paint nearly say remarkable because we have EPA and the California Air invisible in a world of High- encountered plenty of Hemi cars Resource Board, the latter of Impact colors like Tor-Red, that have seen their original which mandated a quieter air Curious Yellow and Moulin powerplant blown sky high in cleaner for the Golden State. A Rouge. Either way, the bench pursuit of an ever-quicker scoot new addition for the Road down the strip or possibly for Runner in '71 came in the form of bragging rights on the street. Mopars hottest small-block, the Though Rod has owned the car 340-cu.in. Engine that was still for a bit less than two years, the rated at 275hp (235 net), despite restoration was completed about the switch from a Carter AVS to a decade ago, and it has aged a Carter Thermo-Quad four- quite well. barrel carburetor. More important than what the But it is the Hemi Road Runner original buyer didn't check off on we have come to study today. the options list were the boxes he With just 55 built, a fuselage did tag, primarily that of the 426- Road Runner with Hemi power is cu.in. Hemi and the A833 four- indeed a rare creature. Of those speed manual transmission with 55, just a shade over half of them, Seat, steel wheels with "dog Hurst shifter. Coupled to the 4.10 28, were backed with a four- dish" hubcaps and deletion of the gears in the Dana 60 Sure Grip speed manual transmission, as '71 Road Runner's signature rear end included in the Super found in our feature car. strobe stripes down the C-pillar Track Pak, it must have made for Choosing the Hemi also required meant that the original buyer had one potent combination at the a host of other changes to the car no interest in any frills that would track. When Motor Trend tested a that were optional on lesser have attracted more attention to TorqueFlite-equipped 1971 models: Extra Heavy Duty the Hemi car... or slowed it Dodge Charger Super Bee (a suspension (up-rated torsion bars, down. model nearly identical leaf springs and shock absorbers, mechanically to the Road Likewise, he probably stuck with along with a fat anti-roll bar); 26- Runner) in December 1970, they the taxi-cab style 14-inch steel inch high-performance radiator managed a potent 13.73-second wheels in lieu of 15-inch Rally’s with fan shroud; dual-breaker quarter-mile at 104 MPH. because he would undoubtedly be distributor; a 70-amp hour swapping out the factory treads battery; and Air Grabber, a Attracted to the Hemi first and for something stickier anyway. driver-controlled cool-air system the color second, Rod has since Although earlier Hemi cars to feed that hungry Hemi. warmed to the somewhat stealth required 15-inch wheels, by nature of his '71 Road Runner. "I Our feature car looks to have 1970, 14s were standard and 15s don't care," says Rod, "but it's not been purchased by a racer when had returned to the options list. A a flashy car. With the dog-dish new, with as few options as racer might have figured, "Why wheels and the plain, sort of, gray possible added to the mix, the pay extra for something I'm not blue paint, it's not--if it didn't sort of no-frills, bargain going to use?" have the 'Hemi' call out on the performance car first envisioned front fender, you wouldn't even Owned today by Harrisburg, by Plymouth when it introduced know it was anything but a Pennsylvania's Rod Nevirauskas,

P a g e | 17 grocery getter, but I think that's I like the four-speed, number one. We have had several initiations part of the appeal." It's funny; I usually try to never since my last report and a number buy anything but four-speeds. of reinstatements and at this point Having finally reached a point in They hold their value best and we have a plus membership over his life where he can afford a they're just more fun. I love four- last year, so our membership Hemi, Rod has no plans to get rid speeds. It's where it's at! I like the continues to be on the increase of it. "It's tough to step up from a B-body styling. I know some since we have a strong and viable one-of-28 Hemi car," he points people don't like the '71 as much Lodge again. out. "I plan on keeping it. I've got as the boxier '68 to '70 cars, but I it so it's virtually perfect now. It get a lot of nice complements on Our local Elks Hoop Shoot just needs nothing." Rod doesn't this because it's in such exquisite winners from the December 20th drive it much, but does take it to condition, and it's sort of a shoot-off were in the girls bracket shows. This past October at unique color. The biggest thing 8-9 yrs. Ella Falk; 10-11 yrs. Hershey, the AACA awarded the that attracted me to it is it being Kennedy Hannessonn; 12-13 yrs. gray Plymouth with a senior one of 28. I just love that fact. I Krysten Sherlock: in the boys 8-9 badge. like to collect the high-end stuff. yrs. Dalton Lamp; 10-11 yrs. I need to take up golf--a cheaper Kade Schumacher; 12-13 yrs. Though the Road Runner name hobby.--Rod Nevirauskas Carson Lamp. They all go on to would survive up through 1980 try at the state level to be held in (in its later years as not much JAMESTOWN ELKS #995 Jamestown at 9am, January 17th more than a badge-engineered CLUB NEWS at the Jamestown High School Volare, often with a 318 under Story & Photos by Craig Gaier (Exalted gym. Thank you to Jeff Doughty, Ruler) the hood), the 1971 model ND state hoop shoot director for marked the last time a thunderous running the events. Hemi would motivate the breed. Unlike researching dinosaurs, Coming festivities include the however, we can still witness real area Coors Light Chili Cook-off Hemi cars in action, their and Bison Championship powerplant breathing hard and Football on the big screen TV’s blowing smoke. this coming Saturday, January 10th. The Elkettes Casino night Who needs a T. rex? This past month was a month of to be held Wednesday the 14th. Owner's View Christmas parties, wine tastings The ND State quarterly meeting and initiations at the local Lodge. on the 17th, as well as the State I've been into collector cars for Hoop Shoot-off and maybe more about 30 years now, and I'm Every first and third Thursdays NFL football play-offs. Then the partial to Mopars. Until recently, are wine tasting evenings starting Elkettes Super Saturday on Feb. I couldn't afford the Hemi-type at 5:30. For $10.00 you get to 7th. cars, and now I have two of them. sample 3 selections and receive a free glass of the one you liked We have North Dakota State Elks best. January 15th will be the Convention get ready meetings next "Wine Night", so come if every month to work on running you like wines. The Lodge the State Convention, which will Clubhouse is always open be held in Jamestown this year Monday through Friday; mid- during July 24th through the afternoon until the crowd goes 26th. We will have a Hawaiian away. theme with lots of Beach Boys (and maybe a bikini or two?). Watch for more on this.

P a g e | 18 past that we wish was in our magazine. He knew immediately New Years' Day was a packed present. Sometimes said after absorbing that article what house at the Lodge with plenty of automobile was sold to pay for he wanted. Norm, accompanied merriment and comradery. There college or a down payment on a by his mother, went down to Park were free Tom & Jerry’s while house. Oftentimes, children came Circle Chevrolet in Baltimore they lasted, plenty of raffles for along and made the beast and ordered his very own big- various goodies and live music impractical. In the '60s, a draft block X-body. He put down during the second half of the day. notice from Uncle Sam $1,000 of his hard-earned savings sometimes meant selling your and financed the rest through treasured ride. Maybe it was GMAC-$91.92 a month for three The Lodge Clubroom/Tavern is wrecked. You pine for it 30, 40 years. His mom had to co-sign open to "everyone" (non- years later. because, legally, he was too members welcome) Monday young to sign the papers himself. through Friday from late There isn't a day that goes by Norm used a new part-time gig as afternoons until the patrons leave here at Super Chevy Command a truck driver to pay for the note, in the evening. So come on Central when we don't get an gas, insurance and race track down and check us out and if you email or letter that describes one entries. like what you see and what we of the scenarios above. Today, do, we're always seeking new we tell the tale of Norm Meads, a In November of his senior year, membership (no strings attached Baltimore police detective. His he picked up the black-on-black and low cost dues). story is unusual in that the car he brute and was instantly the envy longed for was the '70 of every kid at Woodlawn High TIME WARP SS396/375-horse Nova SS he School. It had 3.73 gears with 1969 Chevy Nova SS L78. purchased new when he was just Positraction, a Turbo 400, deluxe This is Norm Mead’s second a 17-year-old high school interior with bucket seats, a L78 Nova, and it’s very similar student. As a young boy, Norm remote control mirror, rear to the one he bought new as a took note of all the cool cars the defogger, AM-FM radio and the High School Senior. older guys owned. This inspired Z21 exterior style trim group. Story & Photos by Jim Campisano (Super him to start selling newspapers Chevy Magazine) when he was 12 years old. His "Very few seniors had the means parents encouraged his dream, It's a story as old as the car hobby to purchase a brand-new high- telling him that as long as he itself: Boy buys car. Boy drives performance car while in high stayed out of trouble and did well car. Boy loses car. Boy longs for school, and most parents would in school that he could use the another. not allow it," Norm explains. "I money to buy whatever didn't have to convince my automobile he could afford. parents. I wasn't a bad kid. I was responsible, and they had the philosophy of 'do what you want to do until you show us otherwise.' They stood by that policy as long as I wasn't breaking the law."

As Norm waited for his baby to There's not a reader in the arrive, he started accumulating a congregation who isn't nodding slew of aftermarket goodies. his head as he reads this. Every Then it happened. Norm read the Ultimately, a Sun tachometer and last one of us has a vehicle in our road test of the L78 Nova in the gauges, Hooker headers, Mallory July 1969 issue of Hot Rod distributor and some tuning tricks

P a g e | 19 (with the help of friend Tom close enough. It was black-on- solid-lifter cam and 2-inch Joyce) were added. Norm was black like the original, and it's Hooker Competition headers racing the Nova just about every got the A51 Strato bucket seats, (blowing into 3-inch Flowmaster Saturday at nearby Capital 3.73 gears, glove compartment mufflers). There are slapper bars, Raceway in Crofton, Maryland- light and custom interior Stewart-Warner gauges under the there would be no illegal street package. Ironically, this Nova SS dash, and a Zoom clutch assists racing. Ultimately, he whittled was local to the Baltimore area, with gear changes, but that's his elapsed times down to the having sold new at Sport really it. Except for the vintage of 12.20s at 111 mph with the Chevrolet in Silver Spring, the car and the gearbox, it mirrors above, plus 7-inch slicks and a Maryland. how his was from the early '70s. 3,000 rpm stall converter. This was very competitive in NHRA The SS was in very good Though it's not his original '70 B/Stock Automatic competition. condition when Norm found it. SS, it is a '69, just like the car he The original heads were on a 2- read about and lusted after in the The good times lasted about 2 1/2 bolt 396 block that was under Hot Rod road test. And every years. With marriage and a career hood, but miraculously, the single time Norm gets behind the in the Baltimore Police original block was included in the wheel, it reminds him of the Department on the horizon, there deal. The Nova had been a drag fantastic ride he ordered and was no time for drag racing and veteran, so there was some work loved as a teenager. the little black Nova SS was sold to be done. Jerry and Jay Jeferies in 1972. of Jerry's Auto Body and Paint JAMESTOWN CLASSIC refinished the body-mostly, it CAR CLUB NEWS It was in 2007 that Norm began was the roof, hood and trunk that Story & Photos by Craig Gaier the quest to find his old high needed attention. Tom Joyce (President) school dream car. He had no luck freshened the correct 396 block in his search and after a while and heads, and they were decided he'd have to settle for reunited and re-installed in the one like it-not exactly an easy Nova. Noted Chevy restoration task since so few were built like authority (and high school his (there were just 1,236 L78 classmate) Jerry MacNeish of Nova’s produced with the M40 Camaro High Performance Turbo 400 option in 1970)-and, rebuilt the M20 gearbox. how many could be black-on- black? The Jamestown Classic Car Club held its annual Christmas party with a three meat dinner at the Legacy Center, followed by pot luck deserts and fun and games. Everyone had a great time and the weather co-operated nicely.

We've been working on our annual Winter Wheels Car Show Ultimately, he found the genuine Rather than turning into a 100- to be held at the Jamestown Civic L78 SS396 you see here. Yes, it point restoration, Norm Center on January 31st. is a '69 and it has a four-speed personalized it to his own everything is pretty much in and not an automatic, but it was specifications, circa 1970. The place. We will have simulated engine is stock except for a hotter NASCAR and stock-car actual

P a g e | 20 driving displays and even a real Motor Company invited several then to a newly designed car that you can drive with real- media outlets to drive the 2015 independent rear suspension. feel simulations. There will be a Mustang through the twists and lot of Classics to see including a turns of coastal Malibu, We will defer to our colleagues at restored 1936 Auburn and a 7-8-9 California. Car Craft was among Motor Trend, who already have a Chevy. The 7-8-9 car is a the group tasked with those tough full road-test video on YouTube, convertible that has the front of a orders, and we savored our time for a more sophisticated 1957 Chevy; the center of a 1958 behind the wheel. performance evaluation, but from Chevy and the rear third of a our limited time behind the wheel 1959 Chevy all set on a Corvette Ford provided several cars for the of an auto-trans Eco Boost and a chassis. group to drive, both V8- and Eco manual-trans Coyote, the new Boost-powered. Because we're cars are an improvement of the So come on out to the Jamestown very familiar with the Coyote V8, previous generation, yet still feel Civic Center January 31st (enter we were actually eager to try the familiar and instantly identifiable your classic on the 30th). All turbocharged four-cylinder as a Mustang. Clearly designed participants get a picture/plaque engine, which has not been under and tuned for low-rpm power, the with their cars' picture. WE the hood of a Mustang since Eco Boost’s turbocharger wastes SELDOM LET THE SAME 1986. The Eco Boost is also a no time spooling up, and though CARS BE DISPLAYED TWO redesign. It displaces 2.3 liters power delivery isn't immediate YEARS IN A ROW, so if you like its SVO counterpart of nearly like a larger-displacement, were here last year, it'll be all three decades ago, but the size naturally aspirated engine, boost new this year. and cylinder count are about all builds quickly, allowing us to the two have in common. Today's maintain a steady, fast pace Next meeting will tentatively be turbo-four makes 310 hp and 320 through the tight, winding turns held January 27th at the lb-ft of torque, thanks in part to on Mulholland Highway. The Jamestown Vo-Tech Center by direct injection and a highly GT's 5.0 remains one of our the Jamestown High School efficient, twin-scroll favorite new-car engines. We entrance at 7:00pm. Everyone turbocharger. The Mustang GT love the way the Coyote delivers and anyone interested in any type comes with the familiar Coyote thrust with velvety smoothness or kind of Classic invited; 5.0L V8, but several changes all the way to the glorious- member or not. were made to it, including larger sounding 7,000-rpm rev limiter. valves, different cam profiles Both cars are comfortable and NEW CAR REVIEW with more valve lift, improved easy to drive fast. 2015 Ford Mustang port design in the cylinder heads, (Re-engineered) and an intake manifold equipped Story & Photos by John McGann (Hot Rod with charge motion control Magazine) valves that increase swirl within the cylinders for more complete combustion. All said, the improved Coyote cranks out 435 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. No V6-powered cars were present at the press event; its 3.7L engine is a carryover from the previous Early complaints levied against generation, and it makes an the new Mustang mostly seem to impressive 300 hp and 280 lb-ft. be aimed at the big jump in curb All engines are coupled with weight compared to the previous To celebrate the introduction of either a six-speed manual or six- generation, and the artificially the 2015 Ford Mustang, Ford speed automatic transmission and generated engine noises produced

P a g e | 21 by the sound system in Eco Once again proving that variety is “One of my pastimes is I’ll get on Boost-powered Mustangs. The not only the spice of life, it is the eBay Motors and just look at cars never felt heavy to us, magic of the collector car hobby, cars. It’s kind of like a virtual car though, admittedly, we drove to Parker has found himself a car show,” says Parker. “I came the event in an F350 Super Duty, hobby prize that might be unlike across this little car and it just so that probably clouded our anything hiding in barns, garages sounded too good to be true … judgment a bit. As for phony V8 and backyards from coast to Long story short, I e-mailed back sounds coming through the coast. and forth with the guy — his speakers, what can we say—we name was Brad — and I asked had the windows down and were Even after owning the little for some pictures and he sent me concentrating on the whistling hauler for more than four years, some and it looked exactly like and whooshing of the Parker can hardly believe it when he said it was. It looked mint, and turbocharger. Cannibal Corpse he gets in the Datsun for a short that’s why I bought it.” could have been blaring from joyride or gathering of collector speakers, and we probably vehicles. wouldn't have noticed. We'll be more objective next time.

“I take it to car shows and people ask who did the restoration, and I tell them Datsun did it in 1978,” CLASSIC CAR SUMMARY laughs Parker, a resident of 1978 Datsun 510 Station Wagon Grand Prairie, Texas. “That’s Story & Photos by Brian Earnest (Old Cars really what caught my eye about Weekly) the car — it being so unique and the shape it’s in. It’s really unbelievable.”

The Datsun belonged to a little That’s when the fun really started old lady — not from Pasadena, for Parker. He soon wrote to the but about 375 miles away in California Department of Motor Oakland — and rarely saw the Vehicles and requested whatever light of day for many years. The paperwork and ownership history woman, Helen Jones, only drove was available for the car, and her station wagon on short trips discovered that Helen Jones was and in nice weather. She put the original owner. Parker was John Parker knows it’s pretty exactly 17,136 miles on the car curious how the car had survived easy to get people to turn their before selling it in 2006 to a man so well and tried to contact Jones. noses up at his lovely 1970 from San Francisco for a He didn’t find her, but did Pontiac GTO. whopping $1,000. From there the contact the woman who had lived car changed hands several times next door to her. The neighbor All he has to do is park it next to before landing on eBay with said Jones had passed away, but his 1978 Datsun station wagon. 18,488 miles. she remembered the car.

P a g e | 22 “For years she and another lady and I took pictures of the garage Two- and four-door sedans and a would take the bus to San and driveway where the car had four-door wagon were staples of Francisco, which is where they been kept all those years,” he the 510 series cars, which offered both worked, I guess,” Parker said. gas mileage generally between 25 said. “Eventually the other lady and 35 mpg, great reliability, … bought herself a little station “The whole thing about it is many interchangeable parts and wagon, and Miss Jones liked it so when I was a kid I don’t even attractive sticker prices. The much, about a year later, she remember seeing those cars to wagon was discontinued in 1972, bought one, too, and I have the tell you the truth. I remember the but returned in 1978, when a one she bought. little two-doors, but don’t ever hatchback was also offered. remember the station wagons. It’s “The other lady drove hers all the just very unusual that it was able The unit-body 510s had time. She drove it into the to survive in this kind of independent front suspension and ground, but Miss Helen liked condition. I’ve never seen one four-link coil rear suspensions, hers so much she kept it nice and anywhere, ever! I’ve never even except the wagon, which had leaf clean and in the garage. It was seen one in dogged-out condition springs in back. Sedans and kind of a joke that she called it on the side of the road. I didn’t hatchbacks had reclining front her garage art.” even know they existed.” bucket seats, and all models had fold-down rear seats, carpeted The Datsun 510 series was a cargo areas, tinted glass, electric fixture line for the Japanese rear defrosters, side window automaker from 1968 through the defoggers, transistorized ignition, 1970s. The first series lasted and all-vinyl or cloth-and-vinyl until 1973 before the model went upholstery. on hiatus and was replaced by the 710 series as Datsun’s midsize The wagons measured 172.6 offering. The 510 was inches from tip to tip and reintroduced for 1978-’79 with a weighed in at 2,365 lbs. with the new chassis and body and the four-speed manual. Four- and overhead-valve, L20B four- five-speed manual transmissions cylinder, 97-hp four-cylinder were available, along with a engine that displaced 1952ccs. three-speed automatic. The second-generation wagons were not available with the five-speed (Parker’s car has the automatic). Fuel consumption with the four- speed manual was rated at 32 mph highway, 24 city.

A couple of years ago, Parker actually visited the home in California where Helen Jones lived and met the neighbor The car’s styling mimicked some lady who helped fill him in on European sedans, and the line some of the car’s history. “It was eventually became well-known fun doing it. The lady was so nice for its success as lightweight rally and I got to be friends with her cars.

P a g e | 23 By 1978, the 510 Series cars Francisco put 664 on it; then the it drives like a new car. I can’t were being built by Nissan next guy put on 90; then he sold imagine it driving any different Motors and were offered only in it to the guy who put on 70; then than it did in 1978.” North America. After 1981, the Brad, the guy who sold it to me, lineup disappeared for good, put on 528 miles.” giving way to the Nissan Stanza. Parker admits he doesn’t drive Even in warm climates, the wagon much, just a few miles unmolested survivors of the here and there. He’s happy to 1970s Japanese auto invasion are keep the miles down on the hard to find these days, and odometer and knows if he wants Datsun/Nissan station wagons to keep everything original on the would sure be at the top of the car, he’s going to need to keep RARE FINDS list of unlikely survivors. There the Datsun’s road trips to a 1969 Chevy Camaro Z/28 are a fair number of 510 sedans minimum. Parts for 1978 Datsun Story & Photos by Jerry Heasley (Hot Rod Magazine) and hatchbacks around from the 510 wagons don’t necessarily 1970s, particularly cars that had grow on trees. some rally racing history. Wagons are another story.

“I worried at the time, maybe I’m being duped … maybe this is too good to be true and you know what they say about that,” Parker admitted. “But I got some car people to look at the car and they "Somebody let loose a juicy said no, this paint is original, everything is original … This is tidbit about an original '69 Z/28 an original car. Actually, Parker has another in a basement." survivor with a similar story in “I haven’t even put any tires on his white, 1979 Ford Pinto with Skip Lecates found this Camaro it. Only two things aren’t only 5,000-plus miles. Both the same way he found the original, or three things, if you 1970s cars have proven to be Yenko Deuce that appeared on want to get real technical: feel-good time machines for a the cover of this magazine's Sept. battery, tires and oil filter. generation that grew up with '12 issue ("Mission Everything else is original. I them. Accomplished"), by talking with don’t know what’s out there in muscle heads in his area. He the world, but it’s got to be one “I take the wagon to shows and it determined that the owner was a of only a handful that exists in never ceases to bring a smile to very private individual. Instead of this shape, if there is even people’s faces,” he says. “And knocking on his door with no another one. I don’t know.” when I take it to car shows and invitation, Skip asked "a friend of they have an original class, it a friend" who works with the With the help of the California wins every time. Nobody can Camaro's owner to "talk to Larry DOT, Parker has even been able believe it hasn’t been painted or and see if I can get in to look at to calculate how many miles each restored. the car." of the Datsun’s previous four owners have put on the odometer. “People flip out about it … and Incredibly, the original owner “Miss Helen put 17,136 on it; some of them don’t even know saved the original battery many then the guy she sold it to in San what they are looking at. They years ago. Skip saved this Y77 don’t even know what it is. And

P a g e | 24 battery by fitting the case with stored in the basement with the world? Skip says, "There's no new cells. Z/28. doubt about it."

The odometer showed 21,229 in The car was not even thinking 1978. Now it has 21,672, 35 about rust. years later. This car must have stayed in the basement for most The car wasn't for sale. However, of the last 35 years. Apparently Skip let Larry know that he the owner always had another car wanted to buy the Z/28. Larry to drive. When the Z/28 was new was not ignorant of Z/28 prices.

and the owner drove to work, He knew what he had. He also, Skip knew asking if the car was Skip says he drove another car. obviously, liked the car. for sale would probably get him The Z/28 led a sheltered life. nowhere. Larry had purchased his However, this past year Larry Z/28 brand new when he was just called Skip. Larry had decided to 16 years old. Obviously he was sell the Z/28 that he bought brand attached to the Z/28. new.

After a couple years, Skip finally "If you want to say he kind of got an OK to come out to Larry's lost interest, you could say he lost house and see his Camaro. No interest in it," Skip explains. harm would be done. Skip was a "And the winter we had up here Camaro guy who just wanted to The interior featured console and last year was a little on the harsh look. gauges, a Hurst shifter, bucket side. He said, ‘I think I'm moving seats, a woodgrain wheel, and south.'" That's how Skip scored This car must have stayed in the Hounds tooth seats, all in big-time with one of the most basement for most of the last 35 excellent original condition. sought-after muscle Camaros, a years '69 Z/28, Hugger Orange, that is "That's pretty much what the car "a very, very high-end survivor "I don't know how many cars he is," says Skip. "I mean, this guy car." had underneath the house there," put a battery in it and saved the says Skip. original. He put another battery in it; he saved that battery. He put Most of the cars were covered. a water pump on it; he saved the So they were not classic barn original water pump." finds in the sense of being neglected. Larry peeled back a The paint wasn't just original. It car cover to reveal his original was "stellar," Skip says. Rust? paint Z/28, Hugger Orange with The car was "not even thinking deluxe hounds tooth interior. about rust." Skip has owned many Camaros, A set of four Firestone Sports Car but he had never seen anything All he could see were some very 200 tires, stored in the basement, like this Z/28. The car had minor paint touch-ups here and came with the deal. Skip believes obviously been well taken care of there, as if they were applied with these tires came on the Z/28 since new. He believes the Z/28 a matchstick. brand new. originally wore Firestone Sports Car 200 tires, which the owner Was this basement Z/28 one of Skip did not waste Larry's 45 removed and saved. They were the best time capsules left in the years of excellent Camaro care.

P a g e | 25 When he sent the original water slinging Left Coast customizer pump out for repair he told the Gene Winfield. The wild metallic shop, "Do not do anything to the green of “Voodoo Idol” was exterior of this water pump." inspired by that used on Winfield’s “Jade Idol.” So, the Skip removed the bottom of the “Voodoo Idol” became Voodoo Delco Energizer blacktop battery Larry’s personalized rendition of and fitted the original case with Windfield’s art form. The paint new cells. was squirted on with the classic CLASSIC CAR SUMMARY “Winfield fade”; the green gets The 302 is original down to spark 1946 Ford Custom darker as it traces down the Story & Photos by Brian Earnest & John curvaceous bodywork. plugs, spark plug wires, hoses, Gunnell (Old Cars Weekly) and belts. At this writing, Skip was preparing to fire up the 302 and gets the Z/28 operational for the first time in many years.

The rear bumper still had an “Erich” sticker on it, a reference to the original selling dealer, Emrich Chevrolet in Manchester, Pennsylvania. Larry Grobe’s customized 1946 Ford “Voodoo Idol” more than “Voodoo Idol” looks wild until held its own when he took it to it’s compared to Voodoo Larry’s “Auto Exotica” in Highland Park, other cars. Then it becomes Ill. Grobe’s car wasn’t just the apparent “Voodoo Idol” is really “token custom” at a ritzy classic his version of a sedate, clean- car concourse — it’s hard-formed lined custom that is fairly free of panels echo the craftsmanship of graphics or any unnecessary coach built customs. adornments such as those adorning Voodoo Larry’s Skip Lecates says, “When I saw “Voodoo Idol” is a swoopy coupe “Voodoo Psychosis” ’32 Ford it didn’t have any door dings or that qualifies as a radical coupe and his “Voodoo Kreeper” nicks or anything like that, I traditional custom. In creating ’53 Chevy. The look of “Voodoo pretty much knew I wanted it. It “Voodoo Idol,” Grobe — also Idol” brings back memories of was unscrewed with known as Voodoo Larry — the early days of lead sleds when mechanically. It was unscrewed started with a 1946 Ford coupe. pioneering customizers Sam and with paint wise. It’s just a very, He transformed the solid old car George Barris were selling very high-end survivor car.” into a tribute to legendary lead- “Barris Kustom grilles” and

P a g e | 26 building tinsel-free cars such as and to let motorists know that the “Four Foot Ford” and there’s an idol ahead. “Snooky.” “Voodoo Idol” was kept fairly Not only did Voodoo Larry want traditional by using pre-1954 his car to be a nod to Winfield, parts, with the exception of the but he also wanted to tip his hat under-hood technicalities. An ’81 to the Barris brothers, the Ayala Camaro sub frame carries a brothers, Dean Jefferies and other rebuilt Chevy 305 small-block V- early customizers. The ’46 Ford In the front and rear, Voodoo 8, which is backed by a Turbo came to him from Ron Ek, who Larry added 4 inches to the width Hydramatic 350. The engine swapped it for some metal of the Ford so that it would packs a tri-power carburetor fabrication work. As soon as the accept the ’49 Cadillac bumpers arrangement and plenty of finned car was his, Voodoo Larry started that a friend donated to the aluminum and chromed the customizing project. He project. Both of the bumpers accessories. Another not-strictly- chopped the top 5 1/2 inches in were in rather sad shape until traditional concession is the ART front and 7 1/2 inches in the rear. Voodoo Larry worked them with suspension that lowers the car for Eight inches were hacked out a welder. When he had them shows (and picture taking) and between the bumpers to shorten looking right, he attached a set of raises it for road use. the body and make it into a bumper guards from a “Darrin streamlined stretch-deck coupe in dip” Kaiser and had the whole the Lincoln-Zephyr/Delahaye works chromed. The bumpers vein. However, the rear window add to the Cadillac-style front is the one the car left Dearborn appearance of the “Voodoo Idol.” with. The B-pillars were canted Voodoo Larry mounted the to help create a teardrop shape. chrome-plated wheel covers directly to the wheel spindles, an The Ford running boards, which old-school 1950s trick that keeps worked against the smooth look them stationary while the tires Voodoo Larry wanted to achieve, and wheels turn. This makes the were surgically removed. After car seem like it’s standing still that operation, Voodoo Larry while the tires slide it along. sectioned the lower perimeter of the body 3-1/2 inches all around. Hired Gun Paintwork did the lead He attempted to section the work on the “Voodoo Idol” and factory hood, but the result was a squirted the car’s Jade Green less-than-beautiful shape, so his finish. Though the grille could answer to the dilemma was to pass for a 1946-’48 Cadillac or Trimmer “Mr. Stitch” built the scrounge up five pieces of metal Lincoln Continental adornment, entire interior from old-time and sculpt his own creation, it actually came from a ’47 fabric sample books combined employing his own leg and knee Studebaker as a $25 eBay find. with a dose of fabulous as his sandbag to hammer metal After custom fitting the bright needlework. The seats were over. The resulting custom-made work, he pounded out the rear sectioned 6 inches to give them hood is attached rather uniquely fenders and streamlined them the right look in the much-altered to the fenders and cowl with a with a pair of ’41 Buick fender Ford body. Forest Green and handmade hinge mechanism that skirts complete with Art Deco- lifts the panel slightly and shoves type factory ornamentation. 1949 Pearl White Naugahyde vinyl were teamed for a tasty two-tone it forward for a peek in the Plymouth tail lamps were added trim job. The tilt steering column engine bay. for stoplight and blinking chores,

P a g e | 27 is fitted with a vintage steering Even the license plate on the car LOST DREAMS: wheel and both share a Pearl is a 1954 Illinois tag with white MYSTERIES OF THE White finish, along with the characters on a dark green MISSING GM MOTORAMA gauge cluster, the passenger side background. Dark green CARS. telephone and the handles for the pinstriping (matching that on the Story & Photos by Raustin & David W. Temple (Old Cars Weekly). Photos from dual Appleton spotlights. The nose) decorates the center of the author’s collection and GM Media upper door panels, headliner, seat trunk lid. inserts and carpet foot pads are The tales related to the all done in Pearl White (pleated One of the secrets of “Voodoo disappearances of the dream cars in some places), as is the piping Idol’s” impact is Voodoo Larry’s of the General Motors Motorama on the seats and carpets. experience. Although he looks are not too unlike stories of youthful, Voodoo Larry has been mysterious disappearances within Green pinstriping is used on the plying the customizing trade for a the Bermuda Triangle and of steering column and the old- quarter century. He started crashed flying saucers stashed at fashioned phone. The gearshift building cars in his driveway Area 51. The whereabouts of ball has a white-and-green pearl when he was 18 years old. He many of GM’s Motorama cars striped design. “Voodoo Idol” is became a staple at local cruise are well known (with the lettered on the instrument panel, nights and car shows and his first majority of survivors owned by which is finished in a darker shop in Schaumburg, Ill., rode the Bortz Auto Collection and the green. A modern radio is the old school wave to success. GM Heritage Center), but there mounted in the windshield header His current shop in Elk Grove are still several cars unaccounted in front of the driver and the rear Village is more state of the art, for, which adds the captivating seats carry custom chrome-plated but that doesn’t change the fact element of mystery to the subject. radio speaker grilles. that Voodoo Larry puts his heart Detailed here are some of the and soul into every build and more intriguing mysteries of modification. missing Motorama cars. He’s certainly the Winfield, Barris or Jefferies of today, a dream he’s worked to achieve.

1953 Oldsmobile Starfire

For 1953, GM held a six-city auto show extravaganza featuring so-called dream cars, as well as their current lineup of automobiles. Among the dream cars was the Regal Turquoise Oldsmobile Starfire, a four- passenger convertible. As was

The trunk is trimmed with Forest typical of many of the dream Green panels that have Pearl cars, the Starfire foretold various White pleated inserts, and the styling elements to be found on trunk floor is covered with green future GM cars. The Starfires carpeting. Everything throughout wraparound windshield became the car is detailed to the nines. the norm on GM’s cars by 1955,

P a g e | 28 and its oval-shaped grille was appearing in two-tone paint for built. An old rumor about the fate seen on production Oldsmobile’s shows in Canada. Collector Joe of the 1954 Nomad offers a for 1956. Bortz possesses the only one glimmer of hope of one known to survive. One could resurfacing someday. What is not generally known logically suspect the black car Supposedly, the car was stolen about the 1953 Starfire is that was simply repainted, but there is from GM long ago and stashed more than one was built. a story of a black 1953 Wildcat away in a warehouse in Newport According to an Oldsmobile being in the garage of a GM Beach, Calif. I first saw this Engineering Log Book originally employee in the mid to late rumor printed in an article titled, belonging to the father of John 1960s. Is it still there? Was it “The Case of the Lost Albanita Perkins (also retired from ever really there? And Other Cars that have Oldsmobile), three Starfires were Mysteriously Disappeared,” built. A GM employee in the published in the August 1976 early 1970s told Mr. Perkins that issue of Motor Trend. Therefore, he personally cut up two 1953 the rumor pre-dates 1976. Even if Starfires. Incidentally, John’s the Nomad was in a warehouse in Newport Beach, it likely left Father purchased two sets (front there many years ago. While and back) of 1953 Starfire seats researching my book “GM’s 1953 Cadillac Orleans at an Oldsmobile salvage sale Motorama: The Glamorous Show around 1955. The existence of The 1953 Cadillac Orleans was Cars of a Cultural Phenomenon” these two sets of seats seems to also a part of that year’s GM 10 years ago, I was told of a corroborate the claim of two of Motorama. That car, a four-door rumor that the Nomad had been them being scrapped. However, pillar less hardtop, was actually recently sold. But stories such as one Starfire cannot be accounted titled to Charles Wilson, GM’s this seem to always be for, leaving open the possibility it president from 1941 until being unverifiable. has survived. appointed by President Eisenhower to serve as Secretary of Defense in 1953. The Orleans remains among the lost treasures of the GM Motorama.

1953 Buick Wildcat

Another mystery from 1953 is the Buick Wildcat. The first one to appear in public was seen at the Waldorf-Astoria; this car was painted black. Afterward, it seemingly disappeared and a 1954 Chevrolet Corvette white car completed the GM Nomad Motorama show circuit. Furthermore adding to the However, there was another A long-term mystery is the fate mysterious Nomad is more recent Wildcat built with radiuses rear of the so-called Waldorf Nomad research conducted for my new wheel openings and a detachable from the 1954 GM Motorama. book, “Motorama: GM’s hardtop. Furthermore, there are This Corvette-styled two-door Legendary Show & Concept reports of a green Wildcat and station wagon is probably the Cars,” which strongly indicates confirmation of a wildcat most well-known dream car ever that not just one example was

P a g e | 29 built, as is commonly believed. In “an early red Corvette fastback” Corvair into production until fact, there may have been as at the famed Warhoops Auto & Corvette sales were clearly many as three Nomads with one Truck Parts salvage yard in failing to achieve projected sales of them being scrapped. I am Sterling Heights, Mich., during expectations. Reportedly, one of reasonably convinced one 1954 the 1970s, and that it disappeared the sea foam green cars was Nomad was scrapped in early from there around 1978 or 1979. scrapped. What were the fates of July 1955, but there is Neither person knew the other. the others? photography of a 1954 Nomad on Furthermore, I have been told a display with new 1955 third-person account of this same Other missing 1954 concept Chevrolets at the 1955 Canadian story. This means at least two cars National Exhibition in Toronto, Corvair were built. held from late August to early Other lost cars from GM’s 1954 September 1954 — about six show circuit include the weeks after “the” Nomad was Oldsmobile Cutlass, a Cadillac reportedly scrapped. Until at least convertible dubbed La Espada of one 1954 Nomad surfaces, we are which two were built, as well as left only to speculate on what is the Cadillac Park Avenue (a fact and what is fiction. forerunner of the Eldorado Brougham of 1957-58) and the Cadillac El Camino (a version of the La Espada, but with a brushed aluminum roof). The latter was reportedly crushed.

1954 Chevrolet Corvette Corvair

The Nomad was not the only Corvette-styled show car for 1954. Another was the Corvair

— and this model also comes 1954 Cadillac La Espada with an equally or at least nearly However, Roger Roberts, who mysterious tale. Like the Nomad, built an amazing replica of the the Corvair is generally believed 1954 Corvair from a 1954 to have first appeared in a deep Corvette, states he has red paint color, and then changed documentation indicating one to a light blue-green after its more Sea foam Green Corvair was constructed as well as two appearance at the Waldorf 1954 Olds Cutlass Astoria hotel. Supposedly, the more in other colors — one deep red color did not show as Pennant Blue and the other well as expected, thus the change Harvest Gold — for a total of in color. However, there is now five! According to Roberts, the convincing evidence to prove the latter two were not publicly red Corvair was simply the first shown, but served as internal one shown and others were built prototypes for evaluation. This — as many as five! I have spoken suggests to Roberts that GM was to two people who said they saw strongly considering putting the 1954 Cadillac El Camino

P a g e | 30 That plan was indeed scrapped after production costs soared beyond expectations.

Unconfirmed crushes from ’55

and ’56 1956 Oldsmobile Golden Several cars from GM’s 1955 and Rocket 1956 line of dream cars — the Pontiac Strato-Star, Oldsmobile Oldsmobile’s 1956 Golden 88 Delta, the Eldorado Brougham Rocket was certainly one of the and the GMC L’Universelle (a most radically styled dream cars 1956 Pontiac Club de Mer front-wheel-drive panel van) — of the GM Motorama. In profile, also have unconfirmed fates. Those dream cars of 1956 which it resembled a rocket laid on its may or may not exist include the side due to its twin-torpedo, Pontiac Club de Mer, an exotic pontoon-shaped fenders and two-passenger sports car which tapering quarters. The rear might have been developed into a portion of its tapering roof serious racer to compete with the featured a split rear backlight likes of Ferrari, Jaguar and very similar in appearance to that Mercedes. This non-functional of the split-window 1963 1955 Pontiac Strato-Star dream car was only a little more Corvette. than 38 inches tall and barely Many years ago, the Golden more than 180 inches long. Its Rocket was reported to be in outer body panels were made of New Jersey, but this has not been clear anodized, brushed confirmed even after extensive aluminum painted with investigation by those who would translucent Cerulean Blue. Other like to own it. 1955 Olds 88 Delta than its diminutive size, the Club de Mer’s most apparent features A ‘crush-clusion’ were its twin bubble windscreens and shark-like dorsal fin. Not so Unfortunately, these common visible was its advanced and not-so-common rumors and suspension and trans-axle. A facts haven’t produced a “found” Pontiac V-8 rated at 300 hp was GM Motorama car in many said to power the experimental years. Therefore, it’s likely these sports car. What of the fate of the GM Motorama cars have Club de Mer? It is rumored to disappeared into the “Twilight have been obtained by a GM Zone” of lost show cars. Until GMC L’Universelle executive before it could be any of them appear — if they destroyed. There is also a rumor The L’Universelle show vehicle ever appear — their mysterious that places the car in Salt Lake (above) was likely scrapped once tales will continue to be as City, and another that says the car the decision was made to proceed intriguing and captivating as a is somewhere in California. with placing it into production. good mystery novel. By the way,

P a g e | 31 have you heard the rumor about more convertibles,’ so down the the 27 show and dream cars road it went. I had to unload it in allegedly placed in steel storage ’65, and then 11 years later I containers, buried throughout the found this one in Minnesota, arid southwest? where we lived.”

CLASSIC CAR SUMMARY 1959 Chevrolet Impala Story & Photos by Brian Earnest (Old Cars Weekly)

That was back in 1975, and ’59 Impalas were anything but Larry Axdahl figured he’d have a collectors’ items at the time. hard time improving on the 1959 They weren’t old enough to be Chevrolet Impala convertible he really scarce, and the gas crunch bought new back in ’59. at the time wasn’t doing any The catch was the car wasn’t for favors to the popularity of big, But that hasn’t stopped him from sale. Axdahl didn’t even know full-size cruisers of any vintage. trying. who the owner was, but he knew Axdahl said his wife, Roxanne, how to find out. “I saw this one at certainly wasn’t in the market for In some ways, his glorious red a local restaurant in the parking one. ’59 ragtop is actually better than lot, and I took down the license the Impala he bought new and plate, and I knew the town “[She] was kicking me when I kept for five years in his younger constable and he helped me trace bought it, though. She thought I days. The car has a modern air the owner down. He didn’t want was crazy. ‘What are you paying ride suspension, point-less to sell it. He told me no,” Axdahl $1,800 for that old used car?’ We distributor, dual exhausts, a more said. didn’t get that much for it when it modern 700R4 transmission and was only five years old and we certainly a better paint job than “Then he called back a couple traded it in [laughs]. the factory would have supplied. weeks later and said, ‘I’ll sell you the car.’ He had only had it a year “At that time it was a used ’59 Impala No. 2 will never make and was doing a little fixing on it. Chevy convertible. That’s all it Axdahl forget his first one, but And when he called me back, he was. It was not a collector car, the Chetek, Wis., resident seems said, ‘I’ll sell it, but I’m going to but I could see the potential for it just as happy with this one as he ask a lot of money.’ to be a collector car. You never was with his brand new see the ’59 Impala convertibles. convertible. “My wife and I met “He said, ‘I’m going to ask That’s what I told my wife in the and 6 months later got married $1,800 for it,’” Axdahl adds with early ’70s. I said, ‘You don’t see and started having babies, you a chuckle. “We didn’t negotiate any ’59 convertibles. If I ever see know how that goes,” he recalled. at all.” one I’m going to buy it.’” “When the second [child] was coming she said, ‘That’s it, no

P a g e | 32 stuff for the eyebrows. I looked Other identification features all that stuff up when I had the included Impala nameplates and car done in 2005, and it was more crossed racing flags emblems. than $2,000 in parts that he left Both identifiers were mounted me. That was worth more than I inside the painted insert area of paid for the car at that time.” the full length side trim moldings, below the rear side windows. The front fender top ornaments also had rear Axdahl said his Impala had been extension strips. Bright metal a lifelong California car before trim marked the deck lid center landing in Minnesota for one crease and tail lamp lenses. year. The previous owner had Closed models had simulated been driving the car a little and Impala-style roof scoops. Other tinkering with it a bit before standard fare included electric Axdahl came along and talked clocks, front and rear armrests, him out of it. vent pane windows and dual sliding sun visors. The options “It was still original paint and list included Turbo glide every piece of metal on this is automatic, air conditioning, six- original. It’s never been rusty. It way power seat, power windows, came from California, so it’s air suspension, and posit action, never been driven in the winter,” two-tone paint and other goodies. he noted. “The guy had had it for a year, and when he got it, the A 245-cid inline six-cylinder or engine was gone, so he replaced 283 small-block V-8 were the the engine with a 327 and a 400 base powerplant offerings, but a transmission behind that and put Axdahl certainly had plenty of 348-cid was also intruded for a new top on it and new black ’71 company in his affection for the 1959 with engines ranging from Buick cloth on the seats; black second-year Impala, a model the 250-hp Turbo-Thrust up to with a black top, and that just which has gone on to become a the 315-hp Special Super Turbo- didn’t fit the car, but I drove it collector favorite and one of the Thrust. that way until 2004, when I most beloved and recognizable retired and had time to fix it.” cars of the fabulous ’50s. The Impala was launched in 1958 and If Axdahl wasn’t already sure he perched atop the Chevrolet stable was getting a screaming deal as a member of the top-tier Bel before he took delivery, he was Air family. A year later, the downright positive after he Impala was broken out and given showed up to make the its own series, which included the transaction official. “The funny four-door Nomad wagons. That thing is, the guy … didn’t tell me same year, all GM cars were until I picked it up that he [was redesigned yet again and given The Impalas rolled on 119-inch giving me] all the parts in it that radical bat-wing rear fender wheelbases and measured 210.9 he’d acquired over the year — profiles and eyebrows over their inches from tip to tail. A that front bumper, the headlight headlights. The “cat’s eye” tail convertible with a V-8 on board bezels, one of the chrome strips lights are among the most weighed in at more than $3,650 on the side for the door … tail distinctive features of any car of lbs., and prices started at $2,967. light bezels, all the aluminum the era.

P a g e | 33 283. With that rear end and the overdrive, I had a pretty good

Drag car for the stoplights, and I could still get 22 mpg with a four-barrel on it!” he said. “My first car right out of high school was a ‘55 Olds, and it was three years old at the time I suppose. It had been beat up pretty hard by the guy who owned it and I said the heck with that, so I traded it for my first ’59 Impala. At the time I really wanted another Oldsmobile, but it was $1,000 more – so I had to settle for the Chevy. It was cheaper! [Laughs]

Axdahl says he did most of the mechanical work himself during For almost 30 years, beginning in the frame-off rebuild of his 1975, Axdahl drove his second second Impala 10 years ago, but Impala in almost the same had L’Cars Auto Specialists in condition he found it, but he tiny Cameron, Wis., handle the longed to return the convertible paint and bodywork, upholstery to its factory configuration and and new convertible top. Under have a car that looked as nice as the hood, the engine still appears the one he had bought new. This stock, and the original factory time, it was going to be his hobby markings inspection stamps on car and not primary the inner fenders and firewall transportation, and he wanted to have been preserved. have a car he could take off in any time the spirit moved him. That meant adding the air suspension, front disc brakes, modern four-speed automatic, dual exhausts and dual antennas. It also meant swapping in a correct 1959 348-cid V-8, which was an optional engine on the Impalas that year, and re-doing the interior in red. Impala No. 2 was “set up to cruise,” and Axdahl has done That’s a little different than the plenty of that. He regularly has car he wanted the first time the car at hobby events like the 2,500 miles a year on it,” he around. “The first one, I ordered Iola Old Car Show in Wisconsin, notes. it the way I wanted it, with three- and has rolled up about 40,000 on-the tree, with overdrive and a miles on his trusty Chevrolet over It comes as a bit of a surprise to the years. “We get about 2,000 to hear Axdahl admit he is

P a g e | 34 considering selling his lovely convertible after all these years. He has become plenty attached to it, but. “None of my kids want it,” he laments. “Well, they want a collector car, but one from their own era.”

In the next breath, though, its clear Axdahl hasn’t yet forsaken his love for the iconic 1959 Impala. “I could get another car that’s a lot less expensive than this one,” he laughs. “Who knows, I might look for another ’59. I’ve got a lot of parts. Every time I see any I bring them home.”

ENOUGH TO MAKE A GROWN MAN CRY Photos by e-mail (Jim Dodd)

P a g e | 35

P a g e | 36 aluminum-bodied Elegante airplane-inspired two-seat retractable hardtop was brought retractable hardtop. The car to the show in Lake George, employed the 126-inch N.Y., from West Palm Beach, wheelbase chassis and running Fla., by Dick Birdsall and his gear of a 1953 Series 62 older brother Bob. convertible that, his son Dick recalls, “Had caught fire at the My familiarity with the car came White Plains Cadillac dealership through an article published in and took three other cars with it.” The New York Times on April 28, He said when he was seven years 1955. The article lacked a photo, old and his brother Bob was 10, but proclaimed this $30,000 their father brought the burned- creation to be “a style leader at out remains of the base Cadillac the $500,000 International home to realize his remarkable Automobile Show that opened at vision. Cross County Center” in Yonkers, N.Y., on April 27 of that year.

Building a dream

The brothers Birdsall, having grown up two decades prior but one town west of me in Hartsdale, N.Y., harbor their own fond memories of such local car nut landmarks as the “Pipeline.” “My father already had plans all It was along the “Pipeline” where drawn up looking for a car,” Dick their father, noted commercial Birdsall said. Additionally, the CLASSIC CAR SUMMARY artist Harry Birdsall, could concept’s thematic details would 1953 Cadillac ‘Elegante’ explore the speed potential of his receive some added polish from Concept Car Ferraris without worrying about Albrecht Goertz, another friend Story & Photos by Brian Earnest & Gregg D. intersections. A shared passion who famously went on to design Merksamer (Old Cars Weekly) for racing boats (which remains a the 1956 BMW 507 and the 1970 professional interest of his sons Datsun 240Z. Birdsall’s partner, today) also forged fast Mr. Mascari, was also an friendships with the bandleader importer of race boat propellers Guy Lombardo and famed who “used to go back and forth to engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov, Italy all the time,” putting him in who fortified a Ford Flathead V-8 an ideal position to find powering one of Birdsall’s craftsmen who could actually watercraft with Ardun Hemi build the car without completely heads and a SCoT supercharger. breaking the bank. Though I never knew what it In 1953, Harry Birdsall teamed Even then, it took the Turin- actually looked like until it up with his partner, a Huntington, based Carrozzeria Rocco Motto arrived at the Cadillac & LaSalle Long Island, N.Y., insulation an astounding 30 months and a Club’s 2014 Grand National on contractor named Joe Mascari, to reported $30,000 to finish the July 12, I was oddly familiar with co-commission a futuristic, Elegante. At that lofty price, the the “Elegante.” The one-off,

P a g e | 37 car had intrinsic curb appeal in its around the Cadillac, which was low-slung proportions and mounted on a slowly rotating sharply bladed tail fins, which platform.” were well-augmented by an awe- inspiring retractable hardtop operated on a leisurely but smooth two-minute cycle by an intricate, hydraulically powered chain-and-sprocket mechanism. All of the inside and outside trim ‘Elegante’ therapy was spectacularly plated with 24- carat gold on the custom-made “After our dad passed away at the quadruple headlamp rings, door age of 49 from diabetes in 1960,” handles, cast-bronze license plate Dick Birdsall said, “the car went housing and windshield frame, to Mascari, who sold it to another the latter integrating vent boat racer named Louis Nuta. He windows that pivot into each later gave it to Stan Marks,” a outer corner with impressive road construction executive and neatness. The iridescent white Orange Bowl Committee mother-of-pearl paintwork was president who built the no less dramatically Rickenbacker Causeway complemented by “Deep Red connecting Miami to Key Given positive press and general Biscayne. Wine” Italian leather upholstery, prosperity of the surrounding a perforated leather headliner and Westchester and Fairfield County an illuminated St. Christopher suburbs, the partners’ ultimate medal for the hand-made, goal of building 10 more transparently rimmed steering Elegante retractable hardtops at wheel. $20,000 a copy seemed entirely achievable. Shortly after the finished car arrived in the United States on April 15, 1955, Dick Birdsall remembered “Goertz came to our The car passed to Marks in what house and took it for a 10-minute the younger Birdsall called “a spin — he was a pretty tall guy.” collateral deal.” The car’s first official public appearance, as reported in The After Dick Birdsall lost his son to New York Times article cited a tragic auto accident in 1996, his earlier, was the carnival-style brother Bob “knew I needed a outdoor auto show that ran at the project, so he brought me photos Cross County Shopping Center in of the car in early 1997. I went to Yonkers from April 27-30. The see Mrs. (Irene) Marks, having event attracted an estimated already asked her late husband 19,000 visitors the first day with about buying it a decade earlier. some help from free admission. Stan Marks’ passing in 1990 had already sparked my interest to get “From the 1 p.m. opening until back on it, though the car had the closing at 8:30 p.m.,” states weathered Hurricane Andrew the story, “there was a crowd under an open carport that

P a g e | 38 collapsed on it during the storm.” Concourse elegance offered a The coachwork was very measure of consolation from weathered as a result, while “the appreciative hobbyists who voted fins had been folded over to it the People’s Choice Award. reduce their height” and the original bench seat had been replaced by a pair of garish, gold- upholstered buckets.

1949-’52 CHEVYS ARE GAINING IN COLLECTEBILITY, BUT THEY’RE STILL BARGAINS Story & Photos by John Gunnell (Old Cars Weekly).

As is true with many immediate postwar cars, the 1949-’52 Chevrolet Style lines and Fleet lines are following their slightly younger postwar counterparts to the peak of popularity. Tri-Five Chevys have been a hobby sensation since the mid-’70s. Shortly thereafter, the gull-wing A 1956 Chevrolet provided a 1958 and ’59 Chevys caught the suitable frame for reproduction fancy of many collectors. Then, cushions. Meanwhile, the rear the National Chevy Association bumper, which had completely (www.nationalchevyassoc.com) rusted away around its built-in was formed and the first of the exhaust outlets, had to be re- all-new postwar models started made from scratch using stout getting some overdue moly tubing “like driveshaft recognition. The somewhat metal,” on top of which “we snazzier 1953-’54 models led the couldn’t take the body off to parade, but in the past two years, restore it as it’s wrapped around we have seen the 1949-’52 the frame. Luckily, the only Chevys grab a foothold, led by electrolytic corrosion we found convertibles, station wagons, was in the trunk where we could Fleet line fastbacks and Bel Air get at it.” hardtops.

All told, Birdsall summarizes his Most early-postwar cars were self-restoration effort as “a labor simply updated ’42 models. of love that took 16 years on-and- Independent automakers led off off. I lost a wife, two sisters and with fresh designs as early as my mother in that time,” though 1947, beating the new automobile the finished car’s March 2014 launches of the “Big Three.” By debut at the Amelia Island 1949, Chevrolet was ready to

P a g e | 39 tackle all comers with its new and rear leaf springs. Center- “Bustle back” cars designed with design. Point Steering and a lower center separate trunks were again called of gravity helped handling, too. A Style line models for 1950. 1949 three-speed shifter replaced Logically, the convertible and the Chevy’s sluggish vacuum shifter. station wagon models were in A torque tube driveline was also this line. Also available were the retained from prewar designs. two- and four-door “fastback” Prices for Chevy models ranged Fleet line models. The fastbacks from $1,413 to $2,267. were a bit sportier looking at the Chevrolet’s reliable “Stove bolt” cost of rearward visibility. Their 216.5-cid, 90-hp overhead-valve prewar flavor also caused them to six was used. Chevrolet soon lose favor in the forward- production, which had been looking ’50s. Chevrolet fastback 745,138 cars in 1948, climbed to styling would soon disappear

The Chevrolet Style line DeLuxe convertible 1,387,828 units. until the 1960s. remains one of the most coveted body styles of 1949. 1950 Low-end Special or high-end DeLuxe trims were merchandised The 1949 model was the first all- again. The Style line convertible, new Chevrolet since 1942, and it Style line Bel Air and Style line was lower and more modern. station wagon came only with Taller, flush front fenders DeLuxe trim that included fender blended into the body sides and skirts, chrome moldings, lower hood while pontoon-style “DeLuxe” script nameplates, rear fenders and a divided bright windshield reveal windshield were retained. As shown by this Style line DeLuxe Sport moldings, chrome rear fender Sedan, the Chevrolet grille lost teeth for 1950. shields and richer interior trim. Chevy marketed 14 new models Some models had gray-striped in the ’49 Fleet line and Style line In 1950, Americans flocked to broadcloth material with off-the- series. The Fleet line series had Chevrolet dealerships in record shoulder dark gray contrast fastbacks and came in sedan and numbers to see the exciting new panels, while others had vinyl or sedan-coupe formats. Style line Bel Air “hardtop convertible.” leather trim. models had a traditional roof that Chevrolet advertising said the ended where the trunk began. cars were the “first . . . and finest Models available in the low- There were coupe, convertible, . . . at lowest cost.” Selling priced Style line series included sedan and genuine wood-bodied features included a new two- two- and four-door sedans, a wagon models in the Style line speed Powerglide automatic sport coupe and a business coupe. series (an all-steel wagon was transmission. The “envelope” The latter had a single three- introduced mid-year). Each line body introduced in 1949 passenger bench seat up front and offered plain Special trim and continued in 1950 with the front a raised platform in the rear richer deluxe trim. Rear fender fenders incorporated into the compartment intended for enclosures (fender skirts) were body and separate rear fenders. salesmen to store luggage and included as part of the DeLuxe The lower grille lost a few sample cases. The business coupe trim package. vertical elements from 1949 and was a real “stripper” and was a new hood emblem for 1950 had always the lowest-priced model. The ’49 Chevy had improved wings above it, instead of on the Chevy made 20,984 business handling with carryover box- side. Taller bumper guards gave coupes in 1950, but most were girder frame construction, a king better front protection. used up in service, so they are pin independent front suspension rarely seen today.

P a g e | 40 The Fleet line Special line reported as 1,521,000 units, full-circle horn ring in DeLuxe offered the same two- and four- which meant that Chevrolet models, Fisher Body door sedans available in the Fleet supplied 42.4 percent of all low- construction, an overhead-valve line deluxe series. Even the most priced American cars and 22.78 inline six-cylinder engine, expensive Chevy — the steel percent of all domestic cars. The improved “Center-Point” eight-passenger station wagon — new 235-cid engine and steering, rivetless brake lining, was now priced below $2,000. Powerglide transmission were “Knee-Action” front suspension, installed in 300,000 vehicles. wide-base wheels, a standard Synchromesh transmission, 1951 hydraulic valve lifters (with Powerglide), “Reflector-Guard” tail lamps, a large storage area, torque-tube drive, a sealed exhaust system, a “Tip-Toe” clutch (with manual transmission), airplane-type shock absorbers, low-pressure tires, foam rubber seats, curved two-piece windshields and a New side trim and a revised grille with lower- counter-balanced crankshaft. set parking lamps were the easiest way to identify the updated 1951 Chevrolet models. Model availability was the same

as 1950. The Styleline Special A cleaner 1951 Chevrolet grille business coupe now listed for Chevy’s 216.5-cid valve-in-head featured a lower section without straight six was again under the $1,460. All models in the base vertical bars that “looped” around series sold worse than in 1950, hood for 1950. The four-main- the parking lamps. The wings on bearing, solid-lifter powerplant except for the bustle-back four- the hood emblem stuck straight door sedan. The popularity of the put out 90 hp at 3,300 rpm. When out, while the Chevrolet emblem Powerglide was ordered ($159 fastback Fleet line Special shrunk. Overall styling was the models took a huge dive: only extra), a 235-cid inline “truck” same as 1950, although Chevy engine rated at 105 hp was used. 6,441 two-doors and 3,364 four- hyped it as “New American doors were built. The 1950 Fleet It was the most powerful low- Beauty Design” and claimed priced-car engine in any 1950 line Special totals were 23,277 “brilliant new styling.” The and 43,682, respectively! car. styling changes gave the cars a “wider” appearance. Every selling feature of the ’50 Chevy’s fancier DeLuxe sedans Chevrolet seemed to have its own sold better in 1951 and the sporty The Chevy line again had 14 Bel Air saw a nice production promotional name, such as models. Chevrolet “Jumbo- “Center-Point” steering, “Center- boost as well. On the other hand, Drum” brakes had 15 percent convertible production fell from Point” seating, “Unitized Knee- more lining area and required 25 Action Gliding Ride,” “Proved 32,810 in 1950 to 20,172 in ’51, percent less pedal pressure. A and the number of station wagons Certi-Safe Hydraulic Brakes,” curved “Safety-Sight” instrument “Panoramic Visibility,” “Five- built also dropped. Fastbacks lost panel featured instruments sales, with the Fleet line four- Foot” seats and “Silent Synchro- compactly grouped in two Mesh” transmission. door sedan declining from clusters and lighting that 124,287 to 57,693 and the two- eliminated glare. Chevy’s 1951 door going from 189,509 to By the end of 1950, Chevrolet’s features included two-tone 131,910. calendar-year production was “Modern Mode” interiors, a new

P a g e | 41 The 216.5-cid solid-lifter “Stove manufacturing capacity for upholstery in a checkered pattern bolt” six in manual-transmission Wright R3350-26W and R3350- cloth. Prices began at $1,519. Chevrolets had a 6.6:1 30W engines. compression ratio and 92 hp at Chevrolet DeLuxes had moldings 3,400 rpm for 1951. The 1952 on the front fenders and doors, hydraulic-lifter 235.5-cid version bright metal rear fender gravel used in Powerglide-equipped cars guards with extensions, fender used a 6.7:1 compression ratio skirts and “DeLuxe” scripts and delivered 105 hp at 3,600 directly above the gravel guards rpm. The National Production on the rear fender pontoons. Agency placed quotas on the Bright metal windshield and number of automatic window reveals were seen. A transmissions built to save two-spoke steering wheel, with a aluminum and scarce steel alloys full blowing ring, replaced the for the Korean War effort. In three-spoke unit. DeLuxes also fact, the agency cut Chevrolet’s Grille teeth returned to the Chevrolet grille had ivory plastic control knobs installation rate on this option for 1952, and the hood shield was revised for with bright metal inserts, dome the model year. This sedan delivery wears the from 40 percent to 35 percent and styling trademarks of the passenger car line, lamps with automatic door held it there despite two appeals but was considered a truck. switches, sun visors and richer by General Motors. trim with foam rubber cushions. Chevy’s new-for-1952 grille had Upholstery combinations were five vertical “teeth.” They were reversed, with a dark-gray spaced across a horizontal center chevron pattern cloth and lighter- divider. The “floating” parking toned upper contrast panels. lamps were in the lower grille Convertibles, Bel Airs and opening. A new and wider nose wagons had their own trim. emblem displayed the Chevrolet name and below it a bow-tie Bel Airs came in the DeLuxe line logo. Chevy’s calendar-year and could be ordered in one of production took a steep 21 four solid colors or 11 two-tones. percent drop, but it was Convertibles came in 10 colors Dealer introductions of ’51 handicapped more by wartime with five different top colors. Chevys were held on Dec. 8, production controls than anything Station wagons offered four 1950. The division’s model-year else. Like other automakers, finishes in combination with production totaled 1,250,803 Chevy had plenty of civilian woodgrained trim panels. The units. Chevrolet remained orders — it just couldn’t fill them Fleet line DeLuxe coupe was the America’s number one all. Chevy’s output included the only fastback. Prices for the automaker. Chevy also had large one millionth Powerglide car. seven DeLuxes began at $1,696 military contracts and built a and the convertible ($2,113) and $20,800,000 facility in The plainer Special Series no station wagon ($2,281) were the Tonawanda, N.Y., to create longer included Fleet line highest-priced Chevys. These additional capacity for the fastback models, which were models had production runs of production of Wright R3350 being phased out. All Specials 11,975 and 12,756 units, aircraft engines. On Oct. 2, had bustle-back styling. Nine respectively. Model-year Chevy disclosed plans to put up a exterior colors and four two-tone production was 827,317 units. $30 million aviation engine plant combinations were provided for The 28-millionth U.S./Canadian in Flint, Mich. The new factory sedans, sport coupes and business Chevy was built in December. was to adjoin an existing coupes. Two-tone gray interiors assembly plant and double the were featured, with seat ______

P a g e | 42 money invested in V-8 engines Speedway and cosmetic restyling have Budweiser Duels Daytona, Florida brought higher prices. Prices for NASCAR factory-correct stock condition Camping World Truck Series cars are slowly rising, but are still Daytona International 02/20 affordable for many buyers. Speedway Daytona, Florida NHRA Mello Yellow 02/20 Drag Racing Series to CARQUEST Auto Parts 02/22 NHRA Nationals Phoenix, Arizona NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Daytona International 02/22 Speedway Daytona 500 Daytona, Florida NASCAR Market Watch: 1949-’52 Chevys Camping World Truck Series 02/28 Atlanta Motor Speedway Atlanta, Georgia According to Mecum Auctions’ NASCAR “Infonet” service, recent selling Sprint Cup Series prices on 1949 Chevy cars have 03/01 Atlanta Motor Speedway included $27,500 for a stick-shift Atlanta, Georgia NASCAR Styleline DeLuxe convertible, Sprint Cup Series $11,000 for a Fleet line fastback 03/08 Las Vegas Motor Speedway and $6,200 for a Styleline Las Vegas, Nevada DeLuxe. A 1950 Styleline NHRA Mello Yellow DeLuxe sedan fetched $10,500, 03/12 Drag Racing Series to Amalie Motor Oil but then a nice 1950 DeLuxe 03/15 NHRA Gatornationals coupe nailed down $22,000 Gainesville, Florida (condition counts). A 1950 Bel James Valley Street Machines NASCAR Air brought only $14,500 at an 01/14 Regular Meeting Sprint Cup Series Ohio auction of a big Chevy Jamestown, North Dakota 03/15 Phoenix International Raceway Jamestown Classic Car Club Phoenix, Arizona collection. In Florida, a ’50 01/31 Civic Center Car Show James Valley Street Machines woody wagon brought $22,000. Jamestown, North Dakota 03/18 Regular Meeting Also in Florida, a ’51 Bel Air NHRA Mello Yellow Jamestown, North Dakota netted $20,500. At 02/05 Drag Racing Series NASCAR Mecum’s 2011 Indy spring to Circle K Sprint Cup Series 02/08 NHRA Winter nationals 03/22 Auto Club Speedway auction a yellow ’51 convertible Pomona, California Fontana, California with a black top was sold for NASCAR NHRA Mello Yellow $32,000.Two years later, at the Sprint Cup Series 03/27 Drag Racing Series Daytona International to NHRA same Indy auction, a frame-off 02/14 restored Aspen Green over Speedway 03/29 Four-Wide Nationals Sprint Unlimited Charlotte, North Carolina Fathom Green ’51 Bel Air with Daytona, Florida NASCAR the big engine and Powerglide James Valley Street Machines Camping World Truck Series fetched $22,000. Auction prices 02/18 Regular Meeting 03/28 Martinsville Speedway realized for 1952 Chevys have Jamestown, North Dakota Ridgeway, Virginia NASCAR NASCAR fallen into the same ranges. Some Sprint Cup Series Sprint Cup Series modified versions with big 02/19 Daytona International 03/29 Martinsville Speedway

P a g e | 43 Ridgeway, Virginia 05/10 Sabin, Minnesota Top End Dragways NHRA Mello Yellow NASCAR 05/31 Swedes Car Club Swap Meet 04/10 Drag Racing Series Sprint Cup Series Sabin, Minnesota to SUMMIT RACING.com 05/09 Kansas Speedway NASCAR 04/12 NHRA Nationals Kansas City, Kansas Sprint Cup Series Las Vegas, Nevada James Valley Street Machines 05/31 Dover International Speedway NASCAR 05/13 Cook Out Car Show Dover, Delaware Sprint Cup Series S&R Truck Stop NHRA Mello Yellow 04/11 Texas Motor Speedway Jamestown, North Dakota 06/04 Drag Racing Series Fort Worth, Texas NASCAR to Toyota James Valley Street Machines Camping World Truck Series 06/07 NHRA Summer nationals 04/15 Regular Meeting 05/15 Charlotte Motor Speedway Englishtown, New Jersey Jamestown, North Dakota Charlotte, North Carolina NASCAR 04/18 Oahe Speedway NHRA Mello Yellow Camping World Truck Series to 11th Annual Fanfest at the 05/15 Drag Racing Series 06/05 Texas Motor Speedway 04/19 Pierre Mall to Summit Racing Equipment Fort Worth, Texas Pierre, South Dakota 05/17 NHRA Southern Nationals Jamestown Speedway NASCAR Atlanta, Georgia 06/06 Bomber Bonanza Sprint Cup Series Jamestown Speedway Jamestown, North Dakota 04/19 Bristol Motor Speedway 05/16 Points Race Top End Dragways Bristol, Tennessee Jamestown, North Dakota 06/06 TintMasters Street Legal Drags NHRA Mello Yellow Top End Dragways Sabin, Minnesota 04/24 Drag Racing Series 05/16 TintMasters Street Legal Drags Oahe Speedway to O'REILLY Auto Parts Sabin, Minnesota 06/06 7th Annual Dave Graves 04/26 NHRA Spring nationals NASCAR Memorial Corvette/Mustang

Houston, Texas Sprint Cup Series Rally Oahe Speedway 05/16 NASCAR Sprint All Star Race Pierre, South Dakota 04/25 Chassis Inspection Test & Tune Charlotte Motor Speedway NASCAR 04/26 Shootout Races w/Test & Tune Charlotte, North Carolina Sprint Cup Series Pierre, South Dakota NHRA Mello Yellow 06/07 Pocono Raceway NASCAR 05/22 Drag Racing Series Pocono, Pennsylvania Sprint Cup Series to NHRA NHRA Mello Yellow Richmond International 05/24 Kansas Nationals 06/12 Drag Racing Series 04/25 Raceway Topeka, Kansas to NHRA Richmond, Virginia Jamestown Speedway 06/14 New England Nationals Jamestown Speedway 05/23 Advantage RV Mod Tour Epping, New Hampshire 05/02 Test & Tune Jamestown, North Dakota 06/13 Top End Dragways Jamestown, North Dakota 05/23 Top End Dragways to Bracket Weekend Oahe Speedway to Bracket Weekend 06/14 Sabin, Minnesota 05/02 Shootout Races 05/24 Sabin, Minnesota Jamestown Speedway 05/03 Coca Cola Points Race Oahe Speedway 06/13 NLRA Late Models Pierre, South Dakota 05/23 Shootout Races Jamestown, North Dakota Top End Dragways 05/24 Points Race Oahe Speedway 05/03 Test & Tune 05/25 Points Race 06/13 Shootout Races Sabin, Minnesota Pierre, South Dakota 06/14 Points Race NASCAR NASCAR Pierre, South Dakota Sprint Cup Series Sprint Cup Series NASCAR 05/03 Talladega Superspeedway 05/24 Charlotte Motor Speedway Sprint Cup Series Talladega, Alabama Charlotte, North Carolina 06/13 Gateway Motorsports Park NASCAR NASCAR Madison, Illinois Camping World Truck Series Camping World Truck Series NASCAR 05/08 Kansas Speedway 05/29 Dover International Speedway Sprint Cup Series Kansas City, Kansas Dover, Delaware Michigan International 06/14 Jamestown Speedway Jamestown Speedway Speedway 05/09 Opening Night 05/30 Armed Forces Night Brooklyn, Michigan Jamestown, North Dakota Jamestown, North Dakota James Valley Street Machines 05/09 Top End Dragways Top End Dragways 06/17 Cook Out Car Show Season Opener-Bracket 05/30 Hot Rod Drags Buffalo City Rotisserie Grille to Weekend Sabin, Minnesota Jamestown, North Dakota

P a g e | 44 NASCAR Jamestown Speedway Jamestown Speedway Camping World Truck Series 07/11 A-Mod Showdown 07/25 MW Mod Festival 06/19 Iowa Speedway Jamestown, North Dakota Jamestown, North Dakota Des Moines, Iowa Jamestown Classic Car Club NASCAR 06/19 MSRA 07/11 Park Car Show Sprint Cup Series to Back to the 50's Jamestown, North Dakota 07/26 Indianapolis Motor Speedway 06/21 St. Paul, Minnesota 07/11 Top End Dragways Indianapolis, Indiana NHRA Mello Yellow to Bracket Weekend NHRA Mello Yellow 06/19 Drag Racing Series 07/12 Sabin, Minnesota 07/31 Drag Racing Series to NHRA NASCAR to NHRA 06/21 Thunder Valley Nationals Sprint Cup Series 08/02 Sonoma Nationals Bristol, Tennessee 07/11 Kentucky Speedway Sonoma, California Jamestown Speedway Sparta, Kentucky Jamestown Speedway 06/20 Kids Night Car Craft Magazine 08/01 NLRA Late Models Jamestown, North Dakota 07/17 St. Paul Street Machine Jamestown, North Dakota Jamestown Speedway to Nationals Top End Dragways 06/27 Street Stock Spectacular 07/19 St. Paul, Minnesota 08/01 Hot Rod Drags Jamestown, North Dakota 07/18 Jamestown Drag Racing Sabin, Minnesota 06/27 Top End Dragways to Airport 1/8 Mile Drags NASCAR to Bracket Weekend 07/19 Jamestown, North Dakota Camping World Truck Series 06/28 Sabin, Minnesota Jamestown Speedway 08/01 Pocono Raceway Oahe Speedway 07/18 Points Race Pocono, Pennsylvania 06/27 Showdown on the River Jamestown, North Dakota Oahe Speedway 06/28 Points Race Top End Dragways 08/01 Shootout Races Pierre, South Dakota 07/18 TintMasters Street Legal Drags 08/01 National Dragster Challenge NASCAR Sabin, Minnesota Pierre, South Dakota Sprint Cup Series NASCAR NASCAR 06/28 Sonoma Raceway Sprint Cup Series Sprint Cup Series Sonoma, California New Hampshire Motor 08/02 Pocono Raceway 07/19 NHRA Mello Yellow Speedway Pocono, Pennsylvania 07/02 Drag Racing Series Loudon, New Hampshire NHRA Mello Yellow to Summit Racing Equipment Oahe Speedway 08/07 Drag Racing Series 07/05 NHRA Nationals 07/18 Countdown to the Jam to NHRA Norwalk, Ohio 07/19 Points Race 08/09 Northwest Nationals Jamestown Speedway Pierre, South Dakota Seattle, Washington 07/04 Stutsman County Fair Races James Valley Street Machines 08/08 Top End Dragways Jamestown, North Dakota 07/22 Regular Meeting to Bracket Weekend Oahe Speedway Jamestown, North Dakota 08/09 Sabin, Minnesota 07/04 Special Bike Race NASCAR NASCAR 07/05 King of the Track Camping World Truck Series Sprint Cup Series Pierre, South Dakota 07/22 Eldora Speedway 08/09 Watkins Glen International NASCAR New Weston, Ohio Watkins Glen, New York Sprint Cup Series 07/24 Elks Lodge 995 James Valley Street Machines Daytona International to Elks State Convention 08/12 Cook Out Car Show 07/05 Speedway 07/26 Jamestown, North Dakota S&R Truck Stop Daytona, Florida James Valley Street Machines Jamestown, North Dakota NASCAR 07/24 Dakota Blacktop Tour Jamestown Speedway Camping World Truck Series to Taking South Dakota 08/15 Points Race 07/09 Kentucky Speedway 07/26 By Storm! Jamestown, North Dakota Sparta, Kentucky Jamestown, North Dakota 08/15 Top End Dragways NHRA Mello Yellow NHRA Mello Yellow to Bracket Weekend 07/09 Drag Racing Series 07/24 Drag Racing Series 08/16 Radial Revolution to Route 66 to MOPAR Mile-High Sabin, Minnesota 07/12 NHRA Nationals 07/26 NHRA Nationals Oahe Speedway Chicago, Illinois Denver, Colorado 08/15 Shootout Races Jamestown Speedway 07/25 Top End Dragways 08/16 Gamblers - Small Wheel Race 07/10 Dakota Classic Modified Tour to Bracket Weekend Pierre, South Dakota Championship 07/26 National Dragster Challenge NASCAR Jamestown, North Dakota Sabin, Minnesota Camping World Truck Series

P a g e | 45 Michigan International Richmond, Virginia to NHRA 08/15 Speedway NASCAR 10/04 Keystone Nationals Brooklyn, Michigan Sprint Cup Series Reading, Pennsylvania NASCAR 09/06 Darlington Raceway Top End Dragways Sprint Cup Series Darlington, South Carolina 10/03 TintMasters Street Legal Drags Michigan International 09/12 Top End Dragways Sabin, Minnesota 08/16 Speedway to Bracket Weekend Oahe Speedway Brooklyn, Michigan 09/13 Sabin, Minnesota Fall Finale NASCAR James Valley Street Machines 10/03 Shootout Races Camping World Truck Series 09/16 Cook Out Car Show Pierre, South Dakota 08/19 Bristol Motor Speedway Buffalo City Rotisserie Grille Oahe Speedway Bristol, Tennessee Jamestown, North Dakota 10/04 Fall Finale Class Races NHRA Mello Yellow 09/17 Oahe Speedway Pierre, South Dakota 08/20 Drag Racing Series to ET Finals NASCAR to Lucas Oil 09/19 Pierre, South Dakota Camping World Truck Series 08/23 NHRA Nationals NHRA Mello Yellow 10/03 Las Vegas Motor Speedway Brainerd, Minnesota 09/18 Drag Racing Series Las Vegas, Nevada Jamestown Speedway to NHRA NASCAR 08/22 Back to School Night 09/20 Carolina Nationals Sprint Cup Series Jamestown, North Dakota Charlotte, North Carolina 10/04 Dover International Speedway NASCAR NASCAR Dover, Delaware Sprint Cup Series Camping World Truck Series NASCAR 08/22 Bristol Motor Speedway 09/18 Chicagoland Speedway Sprint Cup Series Bristol, Tennessee Joliet, Illinois 10/10 Charlotte Motor Speedway Jamestown Speedway NASCAR Charlotte, North Carolina 08/29 Season Championship Sprint Cup Series 10/10 Top End Dragways Jamestown, North Dakota 09/20 Chicagoland Speedway to Bracket Weekend 08/29 Top End Dragways Joliet, Illinois 10/11 Season Points Championship to TintMasters Street Legal Drags 09/25 Jamestown Speedway Sabin, Minnesota 08/30 Sabin, Minnesota to Stock Car Stampede James Valley Street Machines NASCAR 09/26 Jamestown, North Dakota 10/14 Regular Meeting Camping World Truck Series NHRA Mello Yellow Jamestown, North Dakota 08/30 Canadian Tire Motorsport Park 09/25 Drag Racing Series NHRA Mello Yellow Bowmansville, ON to AAA Insurance 10/15 Drag Racing Series NHRA Mello Yellow 09/27 NHRA Midwest Nationals to AAA Texas 09/02 Drag Racing Series St. Louis, Missouri 10/18 NHRA Fall Nationals to Chevrolet Performance NASCAR Dallas, Texas 09/07 U.S. Nationals Camping World Truck Series 10/17 Top End Dragways Indianapolis, Indiana New Hampshire Motor to Bracket Weekend 09/26 Jamestown Speedway Speedway 10/18 Big Money Weekend 09/05 Labor Day Duel (Saturday) Loudon, New Hampshire Sabin, Minnesota Jamestown, North Dakota James Valley Street Machines NASCAR 09/05 Top End Dragways & Don Wilhelm Inc. Present Sprint Cup Series to Bracket Weekend 5th Annual Dan Wilhelm 10/18 Kansas Speedway 09/06 King of the Track 09/26 Car Show supporting the Kansas City, Kansas Sabin, Minnesota ND Huntington's Disease NASCAR Jamestown Speedway Foundation Camping World Truck Series 09/06 Labor Day Duel (Sunday) Jamestown, North Dakota 10/24 Talladega Superspeedway Jamestown, North Dakota NASCAR Talladega, Alabama Oahe Speedway Sprint Cup Series NASCAR 09/03 Thunder on the Prairie New Hampshire Motor Sprint Cup Series 09/27 09/05 Junior Drag Racing Speedway 10/25 Talladega Superspeedway 09/06 Draggin for Pinks Loudon, New Hampshire Talladega, Alabama 09/07 Points Race 09/25 Oahe Speedway NHRA Mello Yellow Pierre, South Dakota to 11th Annual National Open 10/29 Drag Racing Series NASCAR 09/27 Finals with Class Races to NHRA Sprint Cup Series Pierre, South Dakota 11/01 Toyota Nationals Richmond International NHRA Mello Yellow Las Vegas, Nevada 09/12 Raceway 10/01 Drag Racing Series NASCAR

P a g e | 46 Camping World Truck Series SWAP SHOP 10/31 Martinsville Speedway Ridgeway, Virginia NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 11/01 Martinsville Speedway Ridgeway, Virginia NASCAR Camping World Truck Series 11/06 Texas Motor Speedway Fort Worth, Texas NASCAR Sprint Cup Series 11/08 Texas Motor Speedway Fort Worth, Texas NHRA Mello Yellow 11/12 Drag Racing Series to Auto Club 11/15 NHRA Finals FOR SALE: ‘50/’51 Merc R & Pomona, California L inner front fenders $150 each. NASCAR Swap Shop ads are taken from James Valley ‘49-’50 Merc Coupe upper L.S. Camping World Truck Series Street Machine members, NDSRA “Street ¼ panel N.O.S. $150. ‘49-’50 11/13 Phoenix International Raceway Talking” magazine, “Cars for Sale in Phoenix, Arizona Jamestown” on Facebook. upper rear pan $75. ‘49-’51 good NASCAR gas tank $150. (4) ‘49-’51 Merc Sprint Cup Series WANTED: 1980’s Jeep pickup wheels, nice $60 each. 701-349- 11/15 Phoenix International Raceway parts. I’m restoring a 1982 Jeep. 3913 Sterling Phoenix, Arizona 701-845-3032 Ken James Valley Street Machines 11/18 Regular Meeting FOR SALE: ‘34 Plymouth Jamestown, North Dakota FOR SALE: ‘55 Chevy parts: Sedan hot rod. Ready to cruise. NASCAR left & right fenders, two door Info: 701-678-2908 Bugs Camping World Truck Series sedan doors with glass & 11/20 Homestead-Miami Speedway regulators, two (new) doors skins FOR SALE: ‘46 ½ ton Ford Homestead, Florida NASCAR in box. ‘56 Chevy Belair two Pickup with flat head V8. Would Sprint Cup Series door stainless. Rear quarter panel make excellent Rat Rod! $1200. 11/22 Homestead-Miami Speedway patch panels, lower section, left 701-220-6771 Eldon Homestead, Florida & right. Windshield and rear James Valley Street Machines glass. Wind Wing, door & WANTED: Original Awards Banquet 7:00 12/10 Prime Rib & Potato. quarter glass for two door. Big (usable/patina ok/ repairable) Live Auction @ the KC's Block aluminized headers for ’55 parts for ‘40 Willys Model 440 Jamestown, North Dakota frame. Ecklers Big Block motor Pickup - Front &/or rear bumper, mounts. Two door sedan front tailgate, tailgate pivots, both front bench seat, primered springs. grille halves, headlight lens (1 or Have 22’ of trailer rubber tread 2), gas tank (usable or pattern), for snow mobile runners. One ‘63 seat cushions & seat base. Any (+ -) 14” Chevy rim. Have help / leads appreciated. Need pictures for review. Have other items suitable for “Shop” truck, parts. Located in Fargo. 701-261- not “Show” truck! 218-681-7073 2857 John or 218-686-5611 Phone, text, pictures. Randy

INSPECTIONS: Vehicle inspections done at Dallas

P a g e | 47 Kustoms in Hillsboro, ND. Call We are actively seeking old 701-436-6399 photos and postcards of Sanish, Elbowoods, and Van Hook.

GHOSTS OF NORTH DAKOTA

Sanish, ND. This page refers to Old Sanish, ND, not to be confused with the present town of Sanish. Old Sanish was a sleepy The postcard shown above is a western North Dakota town until scene from 1926. It was sent in 1953, when town residents began LOST BENEATH THE LAKE: by Sanish-born John Morris to evacuate to higher ground due SANISH, NORTH DAKOTA Benson who says: Story by: Troy Larson to the flooding of the reservoir (ghostofnorthdakota.com) behind the newly-built Garrison I was born in Sanish in 1936 but Dam. Not long after, Sanish left before memories of the succumbed to the rising waters physical appearance of Sanish and the townsite disappeared was imbedded in memory. beneath the waves of Lake Sakakawea. Although some The valley you see in the photo residents established “New above would eventually fill with Sanish” just across the highway water to become Lake on higher ground, most of the Sakakawea, necessitating a new town’s residents moved to the Old Sanish, North Dakota came Four Bears Bridge. newly established “Newtown”, to an end in 1953, when the river several miles to the east. valley it occupied for over half a century became the bottom of We photographed these ruins in North Dakota’s newest reservoir, 2005 when the lake was low. Lake Sakakawea. Sanish’s residents left for higher ground, as did the residents of other low- lying towns like Van Hook and Elbowoods. Buildings were demolished and the land flooded The photo above shows the as the reservoir filled behind famed Sanish rodeo, an event that Garrison Dam. A new Sanish was drew people from miles around. founded up the hill, but most Tom Jorgenson of Williston says residents settled elsewhere. it was taken by a family friend and he dates it somewhere in the We photographed some of the late-forties to early-fifties. The remaining foundations in Sanish arches of Verendrye Bridge can back in 2005 when the lake levels be seen just above the treeline, were very low, ruins which had right of center. again slipped beneath the lake as of summer 2012.

P a g e | 48 ghostsofnorthdakota.com or write to: Sonic Tremor Media LLC PO Box 6484 Fargo, ND 58109- 6484

This photo from Crow Flies High Butte shows the old Four Bears Bridge, with the new Four Bears Bridge under construction right next to it. When the new bridge was completed, the old one was imploded.

Ghost of North Dakota is a wonderful contribution to the State of North Dakota. If you want to buy these books or read more stories go to

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