Now you can digitally check the valve spring pressure of your cylinder heads with the heads bolted to the block. This great new tool from the Proform Parts tool crib will save you time and money, removing the aggravation and expense of tearing apart your top end.

This adjustable digital valve spring pressure tester paart number 67601 is available with digital readout pressure capacities from 0-to-600 lbs.  The base of the tool can be adjusted to fit all common aluminum rocker lengths and offsets. The digital gauge displays pressure in 5-pound increments with peak hold and backlighting features. This is a tough tool, made from billet aluminum with a knurled handle area for a positive grip. Black anodizing protects the surface, with the bright readout is powered by a single 9-volt battery. Contact then at www.proformparts.com.(586) 774-2500

Mount your Nitrous bottle in style with UPR’s Billet Single Nitrous Bottle Bracket. Featuring Billet Aluminum construction and engineered to be light and strong. This bracket features an O-ring design that safely secures the bottle and prevents it from being scratched by the brackets.

No longer do you have to worry about clamps and sliding your bottle out. The two large Billet Knobs makes for quick bottle changes even in tight spaces. The UPR Billet Single Nitrous Bottle Bracket is easy to install and is CNC Machined from billet aluminum. It fits both 10lb and 15lb Nitrous Bottles and features rubber O-rings to protect the bottle from scratches. The kit includes billet mounting rails for an easy installation. Contact UPR Products at (561)588-6630 www.UPRproducts.com

The "Shaker" Is In The House

Like you, we love a great collectible diecast. Check out the news on the latest from GMP in our blog below.

Ford’s Total Performance era made many famous racers even more famous; to the point of legendary some will say. One of those racers, whom we’ve had the direct pleasure of meeting at various events over the years, is Hubert Platt, the Georgia Shaker. Known for his on and off the track antics, he was called a “controversial racing showman” in local newspapers. Hubert’s Georgia Shaker took many shapes, but none was more memorable than his Ford Thunderbolt. These special lightweight Fairlanes, stuffed full of 427 FE power and little else, made Ford a household name in drag racing circles and now our friends at GMP Diecast, a household name themselves, have given us Ford fans a diecast truly to be proud of.

Hubert Platt’s Thunderbolt has been recreated in 1/18th scale detail, including opening doors, hood, and trunk, with all of the features that made the Thunderbolt famous. Dressed in the Georgia Shaker paint scheme and ready for your favorite display spot, GMP is offering them for $119.95. For those wanting the ultimate in collectability Hubert himself will be signing only 250 examples of this diecast. For more information or to order yours get with GMP today at www.gmpdiecast.com or (800) 536-1637.

UPR Products to Sponsor NMRA Auto Show and Top Qualifier Through 2012

Get the full details in our blog below...

The NMRA is pleased to announce that UPR Products has stepped up once again and will increase its support of the event series through the 2012 season. UPR Products will continue to reward the Pro Outlaw 10.5 and Super Street Outlaw classes with their Top Qualifier program that pays $250 every event to the top qualified Pro Outlaw 10.5 and Super Street Outlaw racers. UPR Products has long supported many of the fastest NMRA racers and the Top Qualifier program is a perfect fit for promoting their awesome line of race and high performance products.

The NMRA has developed its Auto Show and Shine series into one of the best car shows in the U.S. With 100s of cars per event, the NMRA attracts some of the best looking and coolest Mustangs and Fords to show off at each event. UPR Products, one of the leading manufacturers and retailers of dress up and high performance components for the Mustang, truck and Lightning, will support the NMRA Auto Show & Shine as its title sponsor and biggest supporter. Watch for special UPR Products offers, awards and promotions exclusive to the NMRA Auto Show & Shine participants in 2010 and beyond. For more information on the NMRA Keystone Automotive Ford Nationals hit their website at www.nmradigital.com and for details about UPR Products log on to their website at www.uprproducts.com.

Calling all car clubs!

Eagle One To Donate Total Of $3,000 To Favorite Charities Of Car Clubs Winning Golden Rule Award

Check out our blog for more details and where to sign up

Clubs with active community involvement programs have an opportunity to win the grand prize of a $1,500 cash donation to
a favorite charity in the Eagle One Golden Rule Awards competition. Three other Award-winning clubs will each receive a cash donation of $500 for their favorite charity.

Recognizing and rewarding car clubs for outstanding community service programs is how Eagle One car-care prooducts has
chosen to promote the fact that there is more to car clubs than just cars.

Winners will be selected in four regions of the U.S.: West, Midwest, East and South for conducting the most outstanding community service program in their region during 2009. The grand prize will be awarded to the car club judged to have performed the most compassionate achievement.

In addition to a total of $3,000 in cash donations from Eagle One, and co-sponsor Valvoline, winners will also receive a generous supply of Eagle One car-care products and Valvoline motor oil for fund-raising purposes, as well as a custom-designed trophy.

An entry form may be downloaded by visiting www.eagleone.com. It can also be obtained by calling (818) 501-1445. Deadline for entries is Dec. 31, 2009.  Winners will be notified by February 10, 2010.

Eagle One is part of the Valvoline family of brands.

The next generation in hood pin technology is the "Quik Latch" Hood Pin System. A low profile look, and with just a push of the button, the hood is unlatched.

The Patent pending design features one finger activation – The button stays in down position until re-latched and then button pops back up so there are no more pins to keep up with. Installation is simple with basic tools.  They are available painted or polished and in a variety of styles. Prices start at $399.99 per set. Contact Quik Latch Products
www.Q-Latch.com
(469) 387-0212

The Annual Great American Teach In

Spending a little time with our youth is rewarding, check out our blog to read more.

Every year schools around the country participate in the Great American Teach In by having parents and family members interact with the students via the products and machines they use in their day to day jobs. From helicoptors and police motorcycles to race cars and farm implements, the kids get to hear all about the "toys" and how important it is to stay in school and get an education.

This year we were invited through a coworker to a local middle school. We brought our Factory Five Roadster for display and joined a Shelby GT500 Super Snake, a Ford GT Supercar, and a S197 Mustang drag car (with LOTS of nitrous!).

The kids loved the cars, asked a LOT of questions (how fast, where's the roof, what's the chrome thing behind your head), etc. and we all had a great time. Of course getting to start the car and revving it up for them put smiles even on the teachers faces. If you have kids in school (or grandkids) don't hesitate to step up next year and offer your time. I'll be doing it again, that's for sure!

Mark

Design Factory Launches New and Improved Web Site

Jim Gerdom's company has been designing concepts, limited production, SEMA vehicles, and more for three decades. Check out their latest work in our blog.

Jim Gerdom's Design Factory has been helping the likes of Ford, GM, Kenny Brown, and countless others over the last thirty years with concept art, posters, product packaging designs and more. An offshoot of all this has been the great automotive art that the Design Factory has offered to car nuts like you and I.

Jim fired us off a CD recently of some of his newest work and to let us know they've completely redesigned the Design Factory web site with online ordering of their artwork and more. So take a few minutes and go check out www.designfactoryart.com and let Jim know we sent ya!

Project Generation Gap Body Work Begins

Our '68 Mustang project is getting itchy with fiberglass, check out the blog for more details.

The crew at Classic Creations of Central Florida (www.classiccreationsfl.com) gave us a shout earlier this week that our project got the green light to start making some progress. So, with camera in hand we stopped by on the way to work this morning to check in. Low and behold our fastback was inside and had a fair amount of tweaking and fitting done in just two short days.

The front fascia from Classic Design/Flashback (www.cdcflashback.com) has been fit and a mounting bracket devised, the '05 and up Mustang door handles have been tacked into place and tested with new Scott Drake (www.scottdrake.net) door latches and strikers, and last but not least, the Shelby trunk lid and end caps (www.maierracing.com) have been fit.

Of course there's still plenty to do and we'll be right there taking photos for future stories in the magazine, so stay tuned for more in an upcoming issue.

Mark

Avid Need For Speed Fans Bring Racing Dreams To Life Through Mustang Unleashed Campaign

The 2010 Mustang Unleashed contest continues. Check out the latest in our blog below.

Four passionate gamers who have burned rubber on the race track through their video game consoles brought their racing dreams to life at an actual speedway for the eighth installment of the Mustang ‘10 Unleashed campaign.

Ford called upon the gaming community and staged a tournament with the best Need for Speed™ players to determine who would face the ultimate challenge.  As masters of the video game racing world, the winners played Need for Speed to hone their driving skills. The selected gamers competed against each other in the critically-acclaimed Need for Speed SHIFT™, which includes the new 2010 Ford Mustang. 

After they battled it out on their Xbox consoles, the four gamers received a chance to put the pedal to the metal at Willow Springs Raceway in Rosamond, Calif.  The contestants included:  Kirby Anderson (25); Troy Alessi (22); Justin Keppler (24) and Jason Morrell (24).

With the help of driving teachers from Fast Lane Racing School, the gamers learned the in and outs of the actual sport of racing.  At the end of the day, the participants had their time added up from their video racing and their time on the real-life track, as they raced on the same track, in the same car. The person with the lowest combined time won bragging rights.

“The whole point of the Mustang Unleashed Campaign is to intersect the passions of our life-long Mustang lovers with their most creative, wildest, most impossible dreams,” said Steve Ling, car group marketing manager for Ford Motor Company. “We’ve taken two seemingly different worlds and weaved them into one amazing “Unleashed” experience for these four winners.”

This experience is among several other dream Mustang experiences Ford is bringing to life with “The ‘10 Unleashed.”  Famous drifter Vaughn Gittin Jr. slid sideways around Japan, consumer Roger Keeney drove blindly, and 18-year-old consumer Derek Murrell drag raced his high school shop teacher.  Each of the incredible videos can be viewed on www.the2010Mustang.com.

To find out who earned bragging rights on the virtual and real-life speedway, check out the video chronicling the Need for Speed experience at www.the2010mustang.com.

Brothers Announces Battle of the Brands and Weekend Car Show

Just a few miles from Daytona Beach, the new Brothers Performance Warehouse will be the site of their second big event. Read the blog for more details and show dates.

Brother's Performance Warehouse will be hosting their 2nd Big Car Show, Sale & Dyno event at their new 64,000 square foot Deland, Florida facility on Saturday December 12th from 10am-4pm. This event will feature the first "Battle of the Brands" dyno shoot-out with approximately six Mustangs competing against GM LS Camaro/Corvette models and six Hemi Challenger/Charger models in a fun event that will award a $250 cash prize to the top horsepower car with a supercharger or turbo (no nitrous will be allowed and the cars must be steet legal and driven to the event).

To enter the dyno contest call (800) 486-2681 x452 to make your dyno appointment. Space is limited to six cars for each make, so call now.

In addition to the dyno shootout there will be a huge car show and sales event with a one day 10 percent discount on most new products and up to 50 percent off on a huge selection of used and discontinued items from hundreds of companies.

The Daytona Beach (just ten minutes away) Wing House Girls from Ker's Wing House restaurant will be in attendance all day to help out with a free t-shirt giveaway to the first 500 participants, as well as to take pictures with the show attendees.

Don't miss it! Check out www.brothersperformance.com for last minute info.

 SEMA, working on behalf of California enthusiasts of specialty vehicles (street rods, custom vehicles, kit cars and replicas) and in cooperation with the Department of Motor Vehicles, Bureau of Automotive Repair, Air Resources Board and Attorney General's office has resolved a complex and threatening issue to this market segment and the industry it serves.  "This breakthrough procedure allows owners of certain specially constructed vehicles (SCVs) to avoid the pitfalls of a previously muddy process for legally registering and titling such vehicles in California," said Steve McDonald, SEMA Vice President of Government Affairs.  "Under this process, vehicle owners can avoid a situation that could have led to confiscated SCVs and law enforcement action. Further, the program now permits these vehicles to demonstrate state emissions-compliance requirements."

 Over the years, California's complex vehicle registration laws have created confusion for hobbyists and the state employees who administer the regulations.  Consequently, certain SCVs may be erroneously registered or titled.  SEMA has worked with state agencies to address the interests of all parties, including enthusiasts in the SCV market, so that these vehicles can be properly registered and titled in the state.

"Given the looming threat of prosecution that owners of specially constructed vehicles were facing, SEMA's charge was to find an equitable solution that provided these owners a reasonable period of time to voluntarily re-title their vehicles and pay any necessary back taxes and fees," said SEMA General Counsel Russ Deane.  "After five years of work on these issues, an innovative and ground-breaking solution has been created."

Last year, SEMA helped enact into law a program whereby the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) would develop and administer a vehicle registration amnesty program.  The amnesty program will be in effect from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010 and will apply to vehicles that were previously registered or classified under erroneous or illegal circumstances.  Under this new law, the DMV will grant amnesty from prosecution to a vehicle owner if certain conditions are met, including the owner filing a completed application with the department.

More recently, a process was established to allow specially constructed vehicle owners that have been granted amnesty to avail themselves of emissions requirements that recognize the unique nature of these vehicles.  While there are still details to be concluded, SEMA has reached a tentative agreement with the state to provide for three methods to achieve compliance.

First, an owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and apply for one of 500 (per year) smog-check exemptions.  Under California law, these 500 exemptions for specially constructed vehicles are available each year on a first come, first served basis.  For vehicles with an exemption, a smog test referee compares the vehicle to production cars of the era that the specially constructed vehicle most closely resembles to determine the model year.  The vehicle owner can then choose whether the inspector will certify the vehicle model year by body type or by the engine model year.  Only those emissions controls applicable to the chosen model year are required.  California law authorizes a $160 fee for each referee inspection.

Under a second option, SCV owners can pay all back taxes and penalties and then choose to install one of several OEM engines and related powertrain components (including specifications for the construction of a fuel tank and delivery system) that are intended to meet California emissions compliance requirements.  GM is currently readying an engine package for this purpose.  "In fact, by using one of these engines, it is anticipated that owners of amnesty vehicles will be able to exchange their existing engines for a powertrain that represents the latest in GM's emissions and performance-related technologies," commented SEMA Technical Consultant, Jim McFarland.  However, McFarland indicated that because certain variables are involved when configuring any engine or powertrain package for emissions purposes, some measure of compliance risk is involved when such components are installed in a range of vehicle types and conditions.

Finally, working under the banner of the "GreenRod Project" and recognizing that the demand for the 500 exemptions greatly exceeds the supply, SEMA configured a kit of emissions-related aftermarket parts that met California smog-check standards during a series of tests on a project vehicle.  An owner can pay all back taxes and penalties and, if the owner is not able to obtain one of the 500 available exemptions, a "retrofit kit" of parts can be installed.  Major components in the kit include an aftermarket electronic fuel injection (EFI) system, EFI controller, exhaust headers, camshaft, mufflers and catalytic converters. For the purposes of the GreenRod Project, the retrofit kit was installed on a high-mileage 1980 El Camino fitted with a 1986 carbureted, 5.7 liter engine.  The 5.7 liter/350 cubic inch displacement small-block Chevrolet V8 engine is one of the most widely-used engine platforms for all types of specially constructed vehicles.   

According to McFarland, "While the engine SEMA used to develop the kit was considered a worst case configuration, it still passed smog-check requirements.  Variables such as engine condition, accumulated mileage, and related factors affecting emissions from these parts may, in some cases, cause similar engines not to meet acceptable emissions levels.  Nonetheless, transitioning from a carbureted environment to a fuel injected environment while utilizing the latest controller technology and emissions parts upgrades available from the specialty equipment industry resulted in dramatic and unprecedented reductions in tailpipe and evaporative emissions on the test vehicle.  The retrofit kit actually improved performance and drivability while not limiting power in a full acceleration mode, compared to a carbureted engine.  It was perhaps the first time a package of specialty aftermarket parts has been assembled for the purpose of reducing tailpipe emissions which did not reduce power or performance."    

"Given the seriousness of the title and registration issue in California, SEMA's work with the state agencies to create practical solutions for specialty vehicle owners, both now and in the future, is an outstanding accomplishment," said So Cal Speed Shop owner, Pete Chapouris.

How do I know if I need to apply for amnesty?
If you have knowingly made any false statement or knowingly concealed any material fact in any document filed with the Department of Motor Vehicles or the California Highway Patrol, you will need to apply for amnesty.  Examples of this would be failing to report the actual value of the vehicle and failure to pay the correct sales tax when the vehicle was first titled/registered in California, or incorrectly stating the actual age of the vehicle.  As a further example, a replica of a 1932 Ford built in 2002 is not a 1932 vehicle for the purposes of this California amnesty program.  It is a 2002 vehicle.  In general, if you have reason to believe that there is erroneous information on your vehicle's title, it should be corrected.  

What are the consequences if I do not re-title my vehicle prior to the conclusion of the amnesty period?
If you understated the value of the vehicle to the extent that the State of California lost more than $1,000 in revenue, you could be charged with a felony.  If the amount is less or you incorrectly stated the age of the vehicle, you could be charged with a variety of misdemeanors.  Recent prosecutions for this type of offense required owners to pay back-taxes and fees averaging $4,000 per vehicle.  In some cases, owners were forced to surrender the title to their car.  To receive amnesty, any and all back-taxes must be paid in full and the vehicle's title must be factually corrected.

What documentation should I take to the DMV office when applying for amnesty?
Applying for amnesty will re-start the titling and registration process for your specially constructed vehicle.  You will need to submit a new DMV 343 Application for Title and Registration form.  You will also be required to file a DMV 5063 Statement of Construction form, listing the origin of the vehicle's parts and their purchase price.  It would be helpful to have a bill of sale for the vehicle or any appropriate receipts for parts/labor that can be used to establish the actual value of the vehicle.  If it is likely that your car had a fraudulent title and will need to pass a smog check, it is advisable to apply for one of the 500 smog check exemptions granted per year by the DMV.

How much should I expect to pay for the "retrofit" kit?  How much should I expect to pay for the GM engine and powertrain?
The retrofit kit is a collection of emissions-related parts with specifications developed by SEMA for which a variety of aftermarket manufacturers will be able to supply components.  On average, the kit should cost approximately $6,000.  The labor to install the package will likely cost an additional $5,000.  If you choose to use a new engine and powertrain package from GM, the current LS3 package will retail at an estimated $7,900.  GM will also offer a number of other emissions-approved engine packages with a variety of performance options and price levels.  Estimated installation cost for the GM system is approximately $6,000.

If I use a GM engine, how will I know if I've used the correct parts and properly installed them?
GM will include comprehensive instructions that leave little room for error.  If you feel that you do not have the mechanical experience to install the package, there are local hot rod shops, independent repair facilities and dealerships capable of installing the parts.  Even when parts are correctly installed, there are variables involved when attempting to meet certain compliance requirements, such as engine condition, other modifications and related factors that can affect emissions.

If I choose to retrofit my current engine, how will I know that the parts kit will actually enable my car to pass the smog test?
The retrofit kit that SEMA developed consists of emissions-related parts intended for a range of engine displacements.  It was designed to work with engines typically used in specially constructed vehicles.  In general, these would be carbureted V8 engines manufactured by GM, Ford and Chrysler.  Although these parts enabled SEMA's project engine to meet emissions requirements, there is no guarantee that they will allow any engine to meet smog check requirements, depending upon variables that include, but limited to the following:  mechanical compression ratio limits, improperly installed catalytic converters, excessive wear (valve guides, piston rings and cylinder bores), piston displacement limits and a mal-functioning EGR system.

Is there a way I can get a pre-certification test check to see if my vehicle will pass the smog test?
Yes.  California law allows any licensed smog-check station to conduct a pre-test on your vehicle to determine whether it can pass a loaded mode smog test before you submit the car for inspection at a BAR Referee station.  The average price for a pre-certification smog test in California is approximately $49.  If your vehicle fails the pre-certification smog check, it may be possible to make adjustments that will bring it into compliance.  As with any vehicle maintenance, it's best to use a mechanic you know and trust.  

What if I have questions about technical aspects of this program?
SEMA and GM will be available to provide some immediate technical assistance for enthusiasts who apply for amnesty to help them navigate through the process.  SEMA has begun communicating with builders of SCVs and engines, enabling them to respond to the most common questions from enthusiasts.    SEMA will also compile additional guidance information.  These approaches will help expedite solutions to SCV owners seeking to meet California smog-check requirements.

Goodguys Rod & Custom Release Their 2010 Event Listing

Get Your pre-'72 Fords shined up and ready for a Goodguy event coming to a town near you in 2010. See the blog for full event location details.

The Goodguys Rod & Custom Association, the largest rod & custom association in the world with over 70,000 members, will stage twenty-three events in 2010. The event lineup features nineteen national events for rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage as well as four “Get-Together's” in California which welcome all years, makes and models of specialty vehicles.

The season gets started March 12, 13 & 14 with the brand new Spring Nationals at Westworld in Scottsdale, Arizona. The season also wraps up at Westworld in Scottsdale November 19, 20 & 21 for the season-ending 13th Southwest Nationals.

Notable date changes include the 4th Meguiar’s Orange County Get-Together which will move from its traditional March date to May 15 & 16. The 5th Nashville Nationals at LP Field has been moved up to Memorial Day weekend May 21, 22 & 23. All other dates will remain on the same weekends as 2009.

The year eligibility has been changed for the 24th West Coast Nationals in Pleasanton. The event now welcomes rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage.

Vintage drag racing is featured at select 2010 events as is the popular Street Challenge Autocross. Vintage drag racing will be held at the 22nd Hot Rod Nationals in Indy, the 9th Blue Suede Cruise in Norwalk and the 3rd Nostalgia Nationals in Bowling Green with Friday Night Drags in Columbus, OH, Puyallup, WA, Spokane, WA, Joliet, IL and Charlotte, NC. The Street Challenge Autocross will be held at thirteen of the twenty two events including a new course at the Colorado Nationals in Loveland.

Goodguys Rod & Custom Association
2010 Event Schedule
Info (925) 838-9876; www.good-guys.com

1st Spring Nationals
March 12, 13 & 14 - Westworld, Scottsdale, AZ
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, autocross & more!

28th All American Get-Together
March 27 & 28 – Pleasanton Fairgrounds, Pleasanton, CA
American powered rods, customs, classics and muscle cars of all years, makes & models. Indoor & outdoor car shows, giant swap meet, car corral, vendor exhibits, West Coast Custom of the Year award & much more!

10th Del Mar Nationals
April 9, 10 & 11 – Del Mar Fairgrounds, Del Mar, CA
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, autocross, Street Rod ‘Elegance award, live entertainment & more!

4th Meguiar’s Orange County Get-Together
May 15 & 16 – O.C. Fair & Expo Center Costa Mesa, CA
American powered rods, customs, classics and muscle cars of all years, makes & models. Car show, vendor exhibits, autocross, live entertainment & more!

5th Nashville Nationals
May 21, 22 & 23 – LP Field, Nashville, TN
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, autocross, live entertainment & more!

17th Summer Get-Together
June 5 & 6 – Pleasanton Fairgrounds, Pleasanton, CA
American powered rods, customs, classics and muscle cars of all years, makes & models. Car show, giant swap meet, car corral, vendor exhibits, autocross & much more!

13th Colorado Nationals
June 4, 5 & 6 – The Ranch @ Larimer Co Fairgrounds, Loveland, CO
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, autocross, live entertainment & more!

22nd Hot Rod Nationals
June 11, 12 & 13 – O’Reilly Raceway Park, Indianapolis, IN
Rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and race cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vintage drag racing, vendor exhibits, swap meet, live entertainment, Hot Rod of the Year award & more!

19th East Coast Nationals
June 25, 26 & 27 – Dutchess Co. Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NY
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet & more!

19th Heartland Nationals
July 2, 3 & 4 – Iowa State Fairgrounds, Des Moines, IA
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, autocross, fireworks & more!

13th PPG Nationals
July 9, 10 & 11 – Ohio Expo Center, Columbus, OH
The biggie! Over 6,000 1972 & earlier rods, customs, classics and muscle cars! Car show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, street rod of the year award, street machine of the year award, live entertainment, Friday Nights Drags and so much more!

23rd Pacific Northwest Nationals
July 23, 24 & 25 – Puyallup Fair & Expo Center, Puyallup, WA
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, live entertainment, Friday Night Drags & more!

9th Great Northwest Nationals
August 13, 14 & 15 – Spokane Fair & Expo Center, Spokane, WA
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, live entertainment, Friday Night Drags & more!

9th Blue Suede Cruise
August 20, 21 & 22 – Summit Motorsports Park, Norwalk, OH
Rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and race cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vintage drag racing, vendor exhibits, swap meet, live entertainment, & more!

24th West Coast Nationals
August 27, 28 & 29 – Pleasanton Fairgrounds, Pleasanton, CA
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, America’s Most Beautiful Street Rod award, live entertainment & more!

9th Mid-Western Nationals
September 3, 4 & 5 – Kansas Speedway Kansas City, KS
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, live entertainment, autocross, track cruise & more!

4th Peak Chicagoland Nationals
September 17, 18, & 19 – Chicagoland Speedway, Joliet, IL
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, live entertainment, autocross, track cruise, Friday Night Drags & more!

6th Great American Nationals
September 24, 25 & 26 – Pocono Raceway, Pocono, PA
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, live entertainment, autocross, track cruise & more!

18th Lone Star Nationals
October 1, 2 & 3 – Texas Motor Speedway, Ft. Worth, TX
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, live entertainment, autocross, track cruise & more!

3rd Nostalgia Nationals
October 15, 16 & 17 – Beech Bend Raceway Park, Bowling Green, KY
Rods, customs, classics, muscle cars and race cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vintage drag racing, vendor exhibits, swap meet, live entertainment, & more!

17th Southeastern Nationals
October 29, 30 & 31 – Lowe’s Motor Speedway Charlotte, NC
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, live entertainment, autocross, track cruise, Friday Night Drags & more!

21st Autumn Get-Together
November 13 & 14 – Pleasanton Fairgrounds, Pleasanton, CA
American powered rods, customs, classics and muscle cars of all years, makes & models. Car show, giant swap meet, car corral, vendor exhibits, autocross & much more!

13th Southwest Nationals
November 19, 20 & 21 – Westworld, Scottsdale, AZ
Rods, customs, classics and muscle cars through 1972 vintage. Car Show, vendor exhibits, swap meet, & more!

Kaase's Boss '9 Engines Ready

Now you can have the legendary Boss '9, built with all new parts, between your front fenders. Check out the blog for more info.

It’s hard to overestimate Kaase’s reputation among Ford engine enthusiasts and the confidence they place in his products. Though all of the parts needed for the revival of his Boss Nine engine are new, the arrival of some had been delayed. By the time the heads and other sundry components finally appeared, anxious buyers were chomping at the bit for their new engines, and six or more had been assembled before the new product release could be written and pictures taken.

When asked which of the specifications of the new engine had incited most passion, Kaase’s answer came, “Only one of the first half-dozen buyers was interested in learning the full specifications of their engine—it seems it’s the ‘wow’ factor they like most!”

For more details and full specs on Kaase's Boss '9 engine package be sure to check out their web site at www.jonkaaseracingengines.com.

Continental and Hoosier Announce Strategic Alliance

Two great tire companies put their heads together. Check out the blog for full details.

The convergence of the high-performance street tire and race tire industries took a significant step forward today as Continental Tire and Hoosier Racing Tire announced a strategic alliance based on a shared vision for motorsports marketing and race proven technology.  By engaging the companies at the marketing, business and R&D levels, the alliance will allow both companies to drive new growth prospects, technologies and have the potential to ultimately transform a variety of motorsports platforms.

“This partnership will open the door for endless opportunities, which will benefit both companies,” said Bill Caldwell, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Continental Tire.

“The combination of Continental’s expertise is in performance street tires, and Hoosier’s industry leading technology in race tire development will allow both companies to compete in new market segments.”

“The exchange of technologies will result in increased levels of performance in future product developments for both companies,” said, Joerg Burfien, Director of R&D - Americas, Continental Tire.

The alliance will consist of Continental and Hoosier being strategic partners for advanced performance solutions and motorsports integration.  A team of industry veterans has been formed and will be the driving force behind the collaborative marketing, product development and implementation process.  Both companies will invest substantially into resources for the marketing, business development and delivery of specific products.

“We are working together because we believe it benefits both organizations by affording opportunities for deep collaboration in marketing and business development, allowing us to rapidly deliver high quality products to consumers who are simply demanding the best tire for their investment,” said Dennis Sherman, Vice President Sales and Marketing, Hoosier Racing Tire.   “Together we are better.”

With sales exceeding €24 billion in 2008, the Continental Corporation is one of the top automotive suppliers worldwide. As a supplier of brake systems, systems and components for the powertrain and chassis, instrumentation, infotainment solutions, vehicle electronics, tires and technical elastomers, the corporation contributes towards enhanced driving safety and protection of the global climate. Continental is also a competent partner in networked automobile communication. The corporation currently employs approximately 133,000 at nearly 190 locations in 35 countries.

Hoosier is the largest race tire manufacturer in the world.  Hoosier manufactures and distributes a complete line of racing tires for most types of racing, including road, drag, oval, and kart applications. For additional information on Hoosier Racing Tire and its line of high performance racing tires, log on to www.hoosiertire.com.

The 2009 SEMA Show Gives Mustang Fans Reason to Drool

Plenty of Mustang (and Ford) iron to be seen. Check out the blog for details.

That's right, the 2009 SEMA show is full of Mustangs and other Fords. Not only is Ford the official manufacturer, but the 2010 Mustang is the big deal here this year. But don't let that fool you into thinking the show is all new cars. Certainly not. We've seen dozens of classic Mustangs and Fords throughout the show and we'll have a web only story on those finds soon.

GoPro Goes HD!

Read all about it in our latest SEMA blog...

We have been using the GoPro compact digital video system for almost two years now. You've most likely seen some of our videos right here on this very site. We love the unit for its compact size, ease of use, and portability. From track days to new car launches and even summer cruises in our personal cars the GoPro has been a great tool (and toy!) for us.

At the SEMA show this week the video camera gurus at GoPro have announced a new HD version with 1080p output, 60 fps capability, better sound, and a new rechargable battery!

The booth was crazy as GoPro owner Nicholas Woodman gave away a few of the new HD units to the rabid crowd of fans and media types (the open bar didn't hurt either!). We hope to get our hands on one soon and add even more great video to our site. Stay tuned.

The Ring Brothers Do it Again!

Debuted at SEMA, the '64 Fairlane is a big hit, more in our blog...

The Ring Brothers, well known for their amazing creations that started life as "normal" Mustangs, has debuted their latest build here at the SEMA show Tuesday afternoon. A '64 Fairlane they dubbed the Speedlane. Featuring a Roush 402IR stack injected engine, and subtle, yet decisively Ring Brothers body touches, the car was a huge hit when unveiled at the BASF booth earlier this week.

We hope to bring more detailed photos to the magazine in an upcoming issue, but for now you get this sneak peek from the show floor. You can also see some build photos at www.ringbrothers.com/shop-floor/fairlane/.

The 2009 SEMA Show

Coming to you "live" all week, read the blog for more.

SEMA is upon us and for those that don't know, the SEMA show is THE place to see all of the latest and greatest in performance, appearance, handling, braking, and body parts for your project.

Unfortunately, the SEMA show is open to industry professionals only. Meaning, all the people that actually want to buy this stuff have to see it in magazines, TV shows, and online. We'll we're doing our part here at Modified Mustangs & Fords and we'll be coming to you from the show floor all week with our coolest find of the day. It might be a hot new part, it might be a killer SEMA vehicle, or it might just be some news on something that will be coming out soon but isn't here at the show yet. So check back each evening this week and we'll have something for ya!

Any high performance can benefit from weight transfer to the rear axle when launch time comes. Now Calvert Racing Suspensions now introduces a 90/10 drag racing shock absorber specifically designed to help get your car moving.

These shocks have a light weight design and offer lightning quick separation for maximum weight transfer. Dual stage valving on compression allows the car to settle on the top end.  Calvert 90/10 Drag Shocks are available for most vintage Ford applications. They have an MSRP of $59.00 each. For more information contact Calvert Racing Suspensions at (661) 728-9600 www.calvertracing.com 

Bring at touch of class to your vintage Ford interior. Mustangs Unlimited is pleased to announce this nostalgic classic wood wheel available for any 1967-1973 model Cougar and any 1965-1989 model Mustang without tilt steering. We’ve also seen this wheel installed on Falcons, Fairlanes and others.

 Features include all walnut rim with a 15-inch diameter and a 4-5/8” dish. The wheel has brushed stainless spokes and classic rivets highlighting the handgrip. Year Model specific mounting kits are available. The cost is $134.88. Mustangs Unlimited is proud to offer this great steering wheel as well as the whole Grant Steering Wheel & Accessories line. Contact Mustangs Unlimited at (888) 229-2929 www.mustangsunlimited.com 

Proform now offers this Adjustable Billet Fuel Log. It features CNC machining and has leak-proof sleeves that are sealed with four O-rings.

The Adjustable Fuel Log fits a wide range of carburetors having various fuel-bowl configurations. This includes all Proform Race Series Carburetors as well as Holley 4150 and 4500 models. Each Adjustable Billet Fuel Log includes carburetor stanchions with #8 A/N female fittings. The log's inlet side comes with both 3/4"-hex #6 and #8 A/N fittings. Outlet is 3/8" NPT to allow more room for a regulator. The Adjustable Billet Fuel Log is available in two finishes. First is natural billet aluminum, which is part number 67183B. The fuel log in anodized Proform Purple is part number 67183PU. We found one for $123.95. For more information contact Proform Specialty Auto Parts at (586) 774-2500 www.proformparts.com

Now Wilson Manifolds is offering race-proven carb spacer technology at a budget-friendly price. The new SE-Series Open Spacers use the exact same design as Wilson's high-end racing spacers, which increase plenum volume and move the throttle blades away from the roof of the runners.

This allows the air/fuel mixture to turn more easily into the runners for improved distribution and mixture quality adding mid-range and top end power. Wilson SE-Series Spacers are CNC machined from billet 6061 aluminum, and are available in 1/2-inch, 1-inch, 1.5-inch, and 2-inch heights for 4150 and 4500 series Holley carburetors. Part numbers 000090 is an open spacer for 4150 series carbs and it has a list price of $108.65. For more information contact Wilson Manifolds at (954)-771-6216 www.wilsonmanifolds.com

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration under-inflated tires is a major cause of traffic accidents. Now Precision Safety Innovations (PSI) announces the availability of Tire Wise Tire Pressure Monitors.

There’s no need to get on your knees with a tire gauge because the pressure monitors tell at a glance whether or not a tire is properly inflated. Installed onto the tire valve stem in place of the cap they indicate red for a low inflation condition and green when the tire is properly inflated. A set of four costs just $19.95 so they are inexpensive insurance. Contact Precision Safety Innovations at (866) 417-4977 www.tirewise.com

Small block Ford owners can now get the added power and performance benefits of CNC-ported cylinder heads without the CNC price tag thanks to Trick Flow’s new Twisted Wedge® Street/Strip cylinder heads with Fast As Cast™ runners. The heads are ready for installation straight out of the box and are capable of producing well over 500 horsepower on a naturally aspirated engine as delivered.

The heads feature intake and exhaust runners patterned after the famous Twisted Wedge CNC-ported heads. This allows them to flow like CNC-ported cylinder heads right out of the box—without the time and increased cost associated with CNC-porting. The result is near CNC-ported power and performance for about the same price as standard cast cylinder heads. The Fast As Cast version of the Twisted Wedge Street/Strip heads has other features that made the Twisted Wedge name synonymous with winning—high volume intake runners (190cc), 2.020"/1.600" stainless steel valves, high rate double valve springs, 10° machined steel super locks, 10° chromemoly steel retainers, bronze alloy valve guides, tungsten alloy valve guides, ARP 7/16" rocker studs, and guideplates. Twisted Wedge Street/Strip series heads work with most OEM and aftermarket intake and exhaust manifolds/headers. Bare cylinder head castings are also available. Based in Akron, Ohio, Trick Flow Specialties offers products that provide “Ultimate Bolt-On Performance.” Trick Flow’s product lines include cylinder heads, intake manifolds, camshafts, valvetrain components, and more. (330)n 630-1555 www.TrickFlow.com.