Issuu

Number 5/ NOVEMBER 2025 Publisher & Editor Jim Brandau Feature Writers Jim Brandau Executive Editor Jim Brandau Art Director-Designer Larry Williams – Williams Graphics Senior Feature Writer Emeritus: Ed Woodard Contributions: Michael Corazzelli, Butch Pate, P8 Photography, Al Liebmann, Rod Shows, SEMA, USPS, SVE, The Quail, Savoy Museum, Jeff Norwood, Norwell Equipped, NASCAR, Chevrolet, HOT ROD Power Tour, John Force Racing

Below: If its January, its almost time for the 76th Grand National Roadster Show. Pictured is the 1st Americas Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) winner, The Bill Niekamp 1929 Roadster with the big trophy! Digitally Produced in the United States of America

Advertising: Contact Jim Brandau for all advertising cost & availabilities at 615-300-2003 8am—5pm CST or at speedkinghotrods1@gmail.com

Contents @ Speed King Magazine All Rights Reserved. Editorial content is the sole property of the Speed King Magazine & Speed King Hot Rods. All information contained in each issue is the sole opinion and comments of the editor. The opinions and comments expressed in this issue do not reflect in any way either written or implied on any of the Advertisers in each issue. No portion of the Speed King Magazine maybe reproduced in any form, without written permission from the publisher. The Speed King Magazine will not be held responsible for any errors in the information submitted or provided.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Email us your email address to speedkinghotrods1@gmail.com to be added or for any change in your email address. SPEED KING MAGAZINE is published bi-monthly by Speed King Hot Rods, PO Box 254 Thompsons Station TN 37179. Phone 615-300-2003 On The Covers: Front: Hot Rod Line Up at the 56th NSRA Street Rod Nationals by Al Liebmann

Contributions / Submissions should be sent via email to speedkinghotrods1@gmail.com or by USPS mail to SPEED KING MAGAZINE PO Box 254 Thompsons Station TN 37179.

Back: Southeastern Truck Nationals by Butch Pate —P8 Photography

Contents Issue 6 January 2026

FEATURE COVERAGE Speed King Regulars Starter Button

Hot Rod History

Pg. 7

Pg. 8

Speed King News

38th Goodguys West Coast Nationals Pg. 24

Pg. 12

Back Page Pg. 91

Artist Corner Pg. 44

Advertiser Index SPEEDVETTE—2 HALABOUT VINTAGE PARTS –3 WILLIAMS GRAPHICS—5 TENNESSEE AUTORAMA—10 TECHNOCOAT POWDER COATING—11 CHICAGO WORLD OF WHEELS—22 OPPOSING CYLINDERS-23 AVS MOTORSPORTS—42 RODTEES—43 CYCLERAMA—52 STRANGE MOTION ROD & CUSTOM—53 RACING JUNK—72 TURN KEY INSURANCE-73 HUNTERS CUSTOM AUTO—84 KOUL TOOLS—85 WOLF MOTORSPORTS PHOTOGRAPHY—86 SOUTHEASTERN HOT ROD SHOW –88 TECHNOCRAFT ALUMINUM CABINETS—90

56th Street Rods Nationals Pg. 54 15th Annual SETN Pg 74

Find Us On Social Media On Follow Us / Like Us On Our Pages 6

“Starter Button” Greetings Everyone!

issue a little better.

Let me start off by wishing everyone a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR! May 2026 be your best year ever and may it be loaded with more automotive fun everyday.

This is not a one man show by any means! Check out the masthead of each issue and you will see the folks that contribute and help make this happen every two months.

What you have in front of you is our 6th issue. With this issue we have completed a years worth of publications! Six issues makes a year as we publish bi-monthly.

I need to single out some folks, as they stepped up and said YES when I asked for their help and support. I cant be everywhere and cant do it all. Key people like Larry Williams of Williams Graphics who makes us look good each issue. Photographers and contributors Michael Corazzelli, Al Liebmann and Butch Pate. These guys are attending events that I cant get to, and providing killer shots that fill the pages. Thank you guys, you ARE THE BEST!

When I decided to try my hand again at producing an online magazine again,( previously publishing the Digital Gearhead Gazzette for 22 years), I was not really sure how it would be received. Reason for that thinking on my part was easy, there simply are a lot of reading choices for the automotive enthusiasts, both digital format and in print also. Add in all the podcasts available to listen to, and well you see what had me wondering if this was a good decision on my part.

When I started this deal, I told you that this publication was about having “car” fun everyday. We have our foot on the “GO PEDAL” for more of that in the next year.

Based on your response to each of the 5 issues published so far, it was and is a good decision! Keep your feedback and comments coming, it just helps me make each

You are invited to come along for the ride...its gonna be fun!

Jimmy B

HOT ROD HISTORY U.S. Route 66, often called the “Main Street of America” or the “Mother Road,” is one of the most famous highways in the United States. Established on November 11, 1926, Route 66 originally stretched about 2,448 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. It passed through eight states—Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California—linking the Midwest to the Pacific Coast. In its early years, Route 66 symbolized progress and freedom, providing a vital path for farmers, travelers, and migrants seeking better lives during the Great Depression, especially those heading west as described in John Steinbeck’s The Grapes of Wrath. During World War II, it served as a major military route, moving troops and supplies across the nation. After the war, it became the heart of American car culture, lined with motels, diners, gas stations, and quirky roadside attractions that reflected

mid-century Americana. By the 1950s and 1960s, however, the rise of the modern Interstate Highway System began to bypass Route 66. It was officially decommissioned in 1985, removed from the U.S. Highway System. Yet its spirit endured—preserved by historians, enthusiasts, and local communities. Portions of the old road have been designated “Historic Route 66,” and today it remains a symbol of adventure and nostalgia. Travelers still follow its winding path to experience a piece

of American history, culture, and the open-road freedom that Route 66 helped define. Route 66 will celebrate 100 years in 2026. Look for special celebrations all along its route in the various states it passed thru. 8

GM Lowriders To Be Showcased On U.S. Postage Stamps In 2026 The U.S. Postal Service has announced a new collection of Lowrider-themed Forever stamps set to arrive in 2026, paying tribute to the artistry, culture, and history of the lowrider movement. The new stamp designs celebrate several well-known lowrider builds, all of which are based on GM models like the Chevy Impala and Chevy Fleetline. A total of five new designs will be available. "Low and slow: that’s the lowrider," the U.S. Postal Service states. "Outfitted with smallerthan-factory wheels, a fancy paint job and a special hydraulic system, these customized automobiles trace their roots to the 1940s-era working-class Mexican American/Chicano communities of the American Southwest." Five GM vehicles are featured on the stamps, including the 1946 Chevy Fleetline "Let the Good Times Roll / Soy Como Soy," the 1958 Chevy Impala "Eight Figures," the 1963 Chevy Impala "El Rey," the 1964 Chevy Impala "The Golden Rose," and the 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme "Pocket Change." Designed by U.S. Postal Service art director Antonio Alcalá, the stamp artwork uses photographs captured by Philip Gordon and Humberto "Beto" Mendoza. Each design includes the word "Lowriders" in Gothicstyle lettering and intricate pinstriping graphics, echoing the airbrushed lines and detailed motifs of lowriders. Visually, the stamps showcase each GM lowrider in full profile, each rendered in vivid color against a clean white background. The new Lowriders stamp series is one of several new stamp designs set to debut next year. "This early preview of our 2026 stamp program underscores the Postal Service’s commitment to celebrating the artistry and storytelling that make stamps so special," said Stamp Services director Lisa Bobb-Semple. "Each stamp is a small work of art an entryway into a larger story that connects people, places and moments in history. This year, we continue to honor that legacy with a diverse range of subjects and designs, from beloved series and commemorative anniversaries to bold new releases that will inspire and excite collectors and admirers alike." 12

SVE Launches 1,000-HP Yenko/SC 2026 Chevy Silverado With A Manual Transmission

Specialty Vehicle Engineering is back at it with another high-powered monster variant of a popular GM vehicle, this time stuffing 1,000 horsepower and a manual transmission into a rear-wheel drive Chevy Silverado. Indeed, with four-digit supercharged output and three pedals, this high-performance machine should be an absolute hoot to drive. SVE is also offering a few aesthetic options for those that want to customize the look of their new street machine. Inspired by the Yenko SC Chevys of the late ‘60s, the new 2026 SVE Chevy Silverado is powered by a 6.2L V8 outfitted with a forged 1538MV twisted steel crankshaft, forged steel rods, and forged aluminum pistons for durability under extreme loads. The engine also includes upgraded cylinder heads and a high-flow fuel system. However, the star of the show is the massive highoutput supercharger system, which includes an eight-rib serpentine drive and Boost-By-Wire control for precise throttle response. The package can be calibrated for either 91- or 93-octane fuel. To match the power, SVE equips the truck with a stainless steel cat-back exhaust system featuring high-flow catalytic converters and dual polished tips. Stopping power is delivered by red six-piston Brembo front brake calipers clamping onto large 16.1 -inch vented rotors. The suspension receives a two-inch front and five-inch rear lowering package with progressive-rate springs, Fox performance shocks, heavy-duty traction bars, and a larger rear sway bar for improved handling. Outside, this boosted Chevy Silverado rides on lightweight 22-inch forged aluminum wheels offered in Gunmetal, Satin Black, or Satin Black with a red line stripe, wrapped in Nitto performance tires. Other exterior highlights include Yenko badging on the grille, fenders, hood, and tailgate, along with available side stripes in colors like Gloss Black, Hugger Orange, Red, and others. Interior touches include embroidered logos on the headrests, special floor mats, and unique doorsill plates. Each truck includes an embroidered Yenko crest portfolio, owner’s manual, window sticker, and certificate of origin. Buyers also receive a three year/36,000 mile warranty covering both the powertrain and non-powertrain components. Optional upgrades include matching rear brake calipers and custom stripe graphics. 13

Battle of the Builders Winner at the 2025 SEMA Show On Friday, Nov. 7, the final day of the 2025 SEMA Show, the winner of the Battle of the Builders was announced. This year, there were around 200 entries, including the most Young Guns entries to date. During the week, the entries were narrowed down to the Top 40, then the Top 12, followed by the Top 4. The winning trophy was presented by Jim Holloway, VP of Mothers Polish, to Troy Trepanier of Rad Rides by Troy for his 1936 Ford Roadster. This was Trepanier’s second Battle of the Builders win, with his first in 2017. On “SEMA Live,” Trepanier said that Ford never built a ’36 fenderless Roadster, so this is truly a coach-built car. He said the team spent 26 months and around 15,000 hours on the build that included everything except the tires, engine block and transmission. Since then, they have put 700 miles on the car.

Coast-to-Coast Cannonball Run Rally Celebrated at Savoy Museum The Cannonball Baker Sea-to-Shining-Sea race is named for Erwin Baker, who drove from New York to Los Angeles in 53.5 hours in 1933… Georgia’s Savoy Automobile Museum has opened a temporary exhibit celebrating the famed Cannonball Run. The Cannonball Baker Sea-to-Shining-Sea race is named for Erwin Baker, who logged an estimated 5.5 million miles and set 55 different crosscountry records in the early days of automobiles. In 1933, Baker drove from New York to Los Angeles in 53.5 hours—a record that stood for 38 years. In 1971, to protest the new 55 mph speed limit, Brock Yates and others revived the Cannonball Run, with drivers Yates and Dan Gurney breaking Baker’s record with a time of 35 hours, 54 minutes. Set to run through Feb. 1, 2026, the exhibit hosted a “Tireside Chat” on Nov. 8 that included stories from Bill Warner, Ed Bolian and participants Judy Stropus and Pam Yates, who have participated in either the Cannonball Run format of the 1970s or the more recent, individual One Lap of America. SEE THE CARS

Notable Cannonball-related vehicles on display include: 1927 Studebaker Commander EW Sedan, on loan from the Studebaker National Museum, South Bend, IN 1933 Graham Model 57 Blue Streak 8 Sedan, on loan from Cameron Davis, founder of DC MotorWerks 1971 Ferrari 365 GTB Daytona Coupe, on loan from a private collection 1971 Porsche 911T (modified) Coupe, on loan from Bill & Jane Warner of Jacksonville, FL 1979 Mercedes-Benz 450SEL 6.9L 4-door sedan, on loan from Cameron Davis, founder of DC MotorWerks 2000 BMW M5 Sedan, on loan from Alex Roy

2004 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG 2-door, on loan from Ed Bolian of VINwiki, Alpharetta, GA 2015 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Sedan, on loan from two-time Cannonball record holder Arne Toman 2016 Audi S6 Sedan, on loan from two-time Cannonball record holder Arne Toman Maurice G. Bower Bronze Bust Trophy, bronze, on loan from private collection 15

Surprise! The 'New' NASCAR Chevy Race Car Is Still A Camaro Ever since the Chevy Camaro bowed out of production, fans have been waiting to see what would take its place on the NASCAR grid. The answer? Nothing at all. The Bow Tie Brand finally unveiled its updated NASCAR Chevy Camaro ZL1, and it only features a few changes compared to the 2025 Cup Series' "zombie" Camaro. The latest NASCAR Chevy Camaro ZL1 has been touched up compared to its predecessor. It sports elements lifted right from the recently revealed ZL1 Carbon Performance Package, which brings a number of carbon fiber elements to the roadgoing Camaro, including a ZL1 1LE grille, splitter with carbon fiber end caps, rocker extensions, a hood insert, and a generous spoiler. The NASCAR-going Camaro gets a larger hood power dome, plus a revised front grille that gives it a more aggressive expression and more pronounced rocker panels. Arguably the most notable change to the new NASCAR Chevy Camaro is the return of the Camaro name itself. During the 2025 season, Chevrolet replaced the nameplate with prominent Chevrolet branding, but that decision has now been reversed. While the new race car doesn't preview a next-gen model in looks, its name suggests that the muscle car isn't completely dead yet. In fact, GM has filed several Camaro-related trademarks in recent months, and, as GM Authority exclusively reported, execs reviewed a next-gen Camaro proposal. While that plan was ultimately put on ice, it hasn't been written off completely. Odds are that the Camaro has been revived for NASCAR competition because the proposed EV-only racing series has yet to materialize. GM unveiled the Chevy Blazer EV.R race car at Daytona in February 2025, but for now, that racer doesn't have a competition home. The Camaro will carry The Bow Tie Brand's banner for a while yet. Just a reminder, though the Camaro is no longer a production model, its continued use is allowed by NASCAR. So long as a vehicle exists as a production car at the time of its application for NASCAR competition, it can compete. The new NASCAR Chevy Camaro ZL1 will debut at the start of the 2026 racing season, making its first competition outing in the season-opening Clash at Bowman Gray. At the time of this writing, Chevy has not revealed the race car that will compete in the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series (formerly Xfinity Series), which has historically been modeled after the Camaro SS.

John Force Announces Retirement There will never be another John Force. The legendary NHRA Funny Car driver, who owns 16 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series championships, 157 race wins, 166 No. 1 qualifiers and 1,460 round victories in eliminations more than 50 years has made it official: 17 months after his devastating crash on the Virginia Motorsports Park dragstrip outside Richmond, Virginia, he’s hanging up his helmet for good. Force had been talking about his impending retirement even before last year’s horrific accident during eliminations in Virginia. When he tied Ed “Ace” McCulloch for five wins in the most prestigious race of each season, the Cornwell Quality Tools U.S. Nationals in 2019, Force first publicly discussed the fact that his career wasn’t going to last forever. At that time, he said he’d know, and yesterday, November 13th, he made it official. Force made his first appearance after the crash, from which he’s still recovering physically, at the Las Vegas race last fall; he’s come to most of the events since that time to render support for his John Force Racing team that includes retiring Brittany Force, a two-time Top Fuel champion, reigning Funny Car champion Austin Prock, attempting a second consecutive title this weekend during the 60th annual In-N-Out Burger NHRA Finals on the In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip, and 2012 Funny Car champion Jack Beckman, who assumed Force’s seat in the PEAK Antifreeze and Coolant Chevrolet SS at Brainerd last August. “I really love NHRA,” Force said in making his announcement, “but I am officially done with driving. I’ve said, so many times, ‘Until this race car kills me, they’re gonna have to drag me out of the seat.’ but the truth is,” he recognized, “I was dragged out of the seat at Richmond and they thought it killed me then. So I’m lucky that I’m back walking. They always say, ‘never say never,’ but I have grandchildren with Courtney and Graham, with Ashley and Danny, and now Brittany’s retired because she wants to have children. “It’s time for me to retire. I had medical stuff that I had to address, and ‘do I want to get back in the car and get hit on the head’, and I don’t. So I guess it’s official,” Force conceded, “I’m done. I won’t say I won’t ever get in a car to warm it up or maybe even make a burnout. Don’t know. I guess it’ll be the response from the fans. If they cheer loud enough, I’ll hear ya.” John Force Racing, the 23-time championship-winning organization he founded in Yorba Linda, site of his retirement announcement, and which currently operates in Brownsburg, IN will continue to enjoy Force’s expertise. Still, 2026 marks – not only NHRA’s 75th anniversary season – but the first time since the early 1970s that there won’t be a driver with the surname Force in NHRA nitro competition. It won’t be the same. 17

76th Annual O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Roadster Show The O’Reilly Auto Parts Grand National Roadster Show presented by Meguiar’s is returning to the Fairplex in Pomona, California, for its 76th year on Jan. 30-Feb. 1, 2026. Dozens of the country’s top custom cars will debut during the three-day event, featuring hot rods, customs, muscle cars, trucks and motorcycles from across the country, event officials stated in a press release. More than 500 hot rods will fill the Fairplex buildings, while another 500-800 vehicles will join the outdoor portion of the event each day for the 20th annual Grand Daddy Drive-In. The America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) and Al Slonaker Memorial awards are also returning for 2026. Since its debut in 1950, the AMBR award has been presented to a vehicle featuring exceptional originality, style, design, craftsmanship, engineering and functionality, and is open to all 1937-andolder U.S.-production-based roadsters, roadster pickups, phaetons and touring cars. The winner will receive a $12,500 prize, their name on the nine-foot-tall perpetual trophy provided by ARP Fasteners and a version of the trophy to take home. Al Slonaker Memorial Award. Established in 1974 by GNRS founder Al Slonaker, the Al Slonaker Memorial Award honors the top non-roadster vehicle at the show, selected by a panel of industry experts and often showcasing some of the most innovative and trendsetting customs in the world, officials said. The winner’s name is engraved on a custom billet trophy, and they receive a $12,500 prize along with a take-home trophy presented by ARP Fasteners. Exhibits will include the Suede Palace, which showcases traditional hot rods, customs and drag cars, as well as historic show rods like Clarence “Chili” Catallo’s 1932 Ford “Silver Sapphire” better known as the “Little Deuce Coupe” restored by Cory Taulbert and Darryl Hollenbeck, featured on The Beach Boys’ famous album. In addition, talented pinstripers from around the world will showcase their skills by creating automotive art, which will be auctioned off each day, with all proceeds supporting the Every ONE Free foundation. Check out Building 9 “The Fat Attack Feature Building” this year, it’s going to be absolutely wild! If 1935-1948 hot rods and customs are your thing, then this is a building you won’t want to miss! For more show info & tickets, go to www.rodshows.com 18

The 2026 Hot Rod Power Tour Takes Over Route 66 Every car enthusiast dreams of driving historic Route 66. It’s the highway that defined American car culture, and it will soon turn 100 years old. To mark the occasion, the 2026 Hot Rod Power Tour is heading to the “Mother Road” for a week of burning gas and torching tires. This isn’t just a car show; it’s the world’s biggest rolling automotive festival, and next summer it spans from Illinois to Oklahoma. The schedule puts drivers on the road from June 8 through June 12. Everything starts at Route 66 Raceway in Joliet, Illinois. The kickoff includes a massive car show and a manufacturer midway, but the real draw is the dragstrip. Registered participants can run their cars down the track before the convoy moves out. From there, the group heads to the Village of Rantoul. Organizers haven’t dropped all the specifics for this stop yet, but they promise a local feel at this former Air Force base community. Midweek brings the noise to World Wide Technology Raceway near St. Louis. This stop offers a full day of abuse for tires, with both drag racing and autocross open to attendees. The 2026 Hot Rod Power Tour then rolls into Springfield, Missouri. Since the Missouri State University Bears are on break, the school is opening its athletic parking lots to host thousands of hot rods. The trip wraps up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with a final celebration at Tulsa Raceway Park. Enthusiasts have a few ways to join the convoy. The “Long Hauler” ticket is the badge of honor for anyone driving the entire route. It comes with a special plaque, a car pass, and two admission tickets for every stop. If you want better parking and lunch included, look at the Platinum or Gold packages. For locals who just want to see the cars when they roll through town, single-day passes are available. This event is the first of two major celebrations for the highway’s centennial. It’s a rare chance to drive historic pavement with thousands of like-minded gearheads. Make sure to prep your ride and grab tickets early for the 2026 Hot Rod Power Tour. For more info head to https://www.hotrod.com/events/2026-hot-rod-power-tour-route -66-dates-locations 19

The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering To Celebrate the World’s Most Iconic Vehicles The event at Monterey Car Week will showcase four special featured classes, from Japanese performance to Italian supercar legends… The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering returns to Monterey Car Week Aug. 14, 2026, to celebrate the world’s most iconic automotive brands and historic vehicles, company officials stated in a press release. The event will showcase four featured classes and an exclusive collector series. The 23rd annual event will also include more than a dozen vehicle debuts from top OEMs and designers and a curated display of hundreds of rare and unique vehicles. Four celebrated classes will take center stage at next year’s event: The 100th Anniversary of Route 66, The Lamborghini Diablo, The Legacy of Japanese GTs, and The Ferrari F40. The 100th Anniversary of Route 66 Spanning nearly 2,500 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, Route 66 symbolizes freedom, adventure and the enduring spirit of the American road trip, noted the release. This special featured class will pay tribute to the highway’s cultural impact through a curated lineup of classic vehicles that once traveled America’s “Mother Road,” each honoring Route 66’s role in shaping American automotive history and inspiring generations of travelers. The Lamborghini Diablo The Lamborghini Diablo featured class will celebrate the “poster car” of the 1990s. Lamborghini’s first model capable of exceeding 200 mph and a former holder of the world’s fastest production car title, the Diablo stands as an icon of futuristic design and breakthrough engineering, solidifying Lamborghini’s standing as a trailblazer in modern supercar performance, event organizers said. The class will include Diablo examples, highlighting rare specifications and limited-production editions. The Legacy of Japanese GTs Celebrating the legacy of Japanese automotive craftsmanship, the artistry of customizable styling and advanced technology, The Legacy of Japanese GTs class will showcase a selection of the most influential and soughtafter models. Famous for their distinctive blend of performance, precision and tunability, Japanese GTs have earned a devoted following among enthusiasts worldwide. 20

The Ferrari F40 The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering will honor an iconic Ferrari model for the second consecutive year with The Ferrari F40 featured class. Celebrated as one of the most iconic supercars ever built and introduced in 1987 to commemorate Ferrari’s 40th anniversary, the F40 was the final Ferrari model to be personally approved by Enzo Ferrari. This class will highlight the raw performance and engineering excellence that continue to define Ferrari’s legacy. The Bruce Meyer Collection The Quail will also introduce an all-new collector series that will highlight unique collections from renowned collectors and enthusiasts. Among them, Bruce Meyer is widely recognized as one of the most passionate and influential car collectors in the hot rod and classic car spaces. Driven by his signature mantra, “never lift,” Meyer has assembled one of the finest private collections of Le Mans-winning race cars, Bonneville land speed cars, trendsetting hot rods and many other cars and motorcycles of historical significance. The Bruce Meyer Collection will present an exclusive selection that reflects his profound appreciation for the automotive hobby. Timeless Craftsmanship & Heritage Will Be on Display at The Quail “Our new featured classes, alongside the debut of the collector series, are propelling The Quail into an exciting new era,” said Gordon McCall, director of motorsports at The Quail. “Collectively, they showcase emerging technologies and design philosophies, while upholding the timeless craftsmanship and heritage that have been at the heart of this event for more than two decades.” The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering will also include eight returning traditional classes, including Custom Coachwork, Pre-War Sports and Racing Cars, Post-War Sports Cars 194560, Post-War Sports Cars 1961-75, Post-War Racing Cars, Sports and Racing Motorcycles, Evolution of the Supercar and The Great Ferraris. The vehicle entrant application is currently open. Go to https:// quaillodge.submittable.com/submit 21

The 2025 Goodguys West Coast Nationals: A Celebration of Automotive Passion Every August, thousands of automotive enthusiasts descend on the rolling

hills of California’s East Bay to experience one of the most anticipated event American car culture, the Goodguys West Coast Nationals. In 2025, this lege event — often referred to as the “Crown Jewel” of the Goodguys season — re turned to the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, California, from A 22–24, drawing passionate fans, builders, and families alike for three days o rods, customs, muscle cars, trick trucks, and automotive camaraderie. 24

ts in endary eAugust of hot

Photography: Michael Corazzelli Story: Jim Brandau 25

A Legacy of Hot Rod Excellence

The West Coast Nationals traces its roots back nearly four decades, and the 2025 show marked the 38th edition of this iconic event. Organized by the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association, the Natio serve as a celebration of American automotive heritage, bringing together vehicles built before 19 from immaculate vintage hot rods to powerful muscle cars — under one expansive fairgrounds sky

For many, attending the West Coast Nationals is more than just a weekend event: it’s a pilgrimage. thusiasts travel from across the nation — and around the world — to see some of the most impres builds ever created, network with other gearheads, and take part in traditions that have shaped ca culture for generations.

At its core, the West Coast Nationals is a jaw-dropping car show. The 2025 edition featured over 3 specialty vehicles, including street machines, restored classics, chromed lowriders, custom builds, vintage muscle cars.

e onals 999 — yline.

. Enssive ar

3,000 , and

One of the highlights was the Tri-Five Chevy exhibit — an indoor showcase dedicated to the fabled 1955, 1956, and 1957 Chevrolet models — featuring beautifully restored and modified examples of these timeless classics But the spectacle extended far beyond these legendary Chevys. Rows upon rows of gleaming hoods, polished chrome, and custom paint work stretched as far as the eye could see. Every possible make and model had a place: from elegantly refined restorations to wild, show-winning customs. The West Coast Nationals isn’t just a static display — it’s a festival of competition and recognition. One highlight was the Goodguys Top 12 of the Year Awards regional finalist competition held on Saturday, where vehicles competed for coveted honors in various classes. Awards spanned multiple categories, including Snap-on Muscle Car, Vintage Air Custom Rod, LMC Truck (Early), Scotts Hotrods ’N’ Customs Custom, Griot’s Garage Muscle Machine, and Dakota Digital Truck of the Year (Late). In total, more than 80 unique awards were presented throughout the weekend. 28

In addition to traditional judging, the event’s competitive elements extended to the Goodguys AutoCross series, where cars and drivers battled the clock on the thrilling autocross course. Qualification rounds on Friday and Saturday determined spots in the West Coast Shootout, a fierce speed and skill competition that always draws both participants and spectators to the edge of their seats.

Entertainment Beyond the Showfield While the cars are the stars, the West Coast Nationals is a multi-dimensional festival with something for every generation. The Auto World Family Fun Zone offered games, crafts, and activities geared toward kids and families, making the event inclusive and welcoming to all ages. The free Model Car Take-and-Make allowed youngsters and hobbyists to build their own miniature vehicles as keepsakes. Artists also had their moment with the Pinstriper’s Brush Bash, where talented pinstripers showcased their skills in live sessions and auctions. For bargain hunters and restorers, the Goodguys Swap Meet was a treasure trove of vintage parts and rare finds — a place where months-long restoration projects often get their missing piece. 30

Saturday’s Burnout Contest brought highoctane excitement, with smoke-filled pits and squealing tires turning the fairgrounds into a festival of sound and power. Complementing this was the Summit Racing Nitro Thunderfest, featuring vintage dragsters that roared down straightaways, delighting fans with thundering performance and nostalgia-inducing spectacle. Meguiar’s All-American Sunday One of the unique aspects of the Nationals is the inclusive All-American Sunday celebration. While most of the show focuses on vehicles built before 1999, Sunday opens the gates to all American-made or American -powered vehicles. This means later model classics, modern muscle, and contemporary hot rods can join the festivities and share the spotlight. It’s a crowd-favorite tradition that brings an even wider variety of automotive excellence to the grounds 33

Marketplace and Vendor Midway The marketplace at the West Coast Nationals is nearly as big as the show itself. Dozens of vendors lined the midway, offering everything from the latest performance parts to restoration supplies, specialty tools, apparel, and memorabilia. For serious builders and casual fans alike, this marketplace is a chance to connect with industry leaders, uncover new gear, and learn about emerging trends in hot rodding. Adjacent to this was the Cars 4 Sale Corral, where attendees could browse vehicles available for purchase — from project cars needing a loving restoration to fully finished showpieces ready to cruise. Whether buying or selling, this corral adds an extra layer of excitement to the event.

Community and Culture What makes the Goodguys West Coast Nationals truly special isn’t just the cars — it’s the community. Enthusiasts from all walks of life come together to celebrate a shared passion for automotive history, craftsmanship, and culture. Old friends reunite each year, newcomers find inspiration, and stories are exchanged over grills, car hoods, and shaded workspaces. The event draws a diverse crowd: families on their first car show adventure, seasoned builders showing off years of work, and industry professionals scouting fresh talent and trends. This fusion of generations and perspectives makes the Nationals more than a show — it becomes a living, breathing exhibit of automotive culture evolving in real time. Looking Forward As the sun set on the 2025 Goodguys West Coast Nationals, engines cooled and conversations lingered long into the evening. Attendees left with memories of gleaming chrome, revving engines, and the sense of being part of something larger than themselves — a tradition that binds thousands of enthusiasts together every year.

With each passing edition, the Nationals continues to honor its roots while embracing the future of car culture. Whether you’re a lifelong hot rodder or a curious newcomer, the spirit of the Goodguys West Coast Nationals invites you to join the journey — where history, craftsmanship, and passion meet under the California sun. 37

The

Artist’s Corner

Meet Jeff Norwell…...

Automotive artists and designers help turn ideas into reality for concepts, vehicle builds, parts creation and more. Automotive artists also draw to entertain us all, producing fun and exciting creations from their own creative minds and getting them on paper, canvas or a computer screen. However it is done, the results are the same: pure enjoyment and beauty for the viewer to behold. This month we are highlighting artist Jeff Norwell. Jeff Norwell first started to draw and paint at the tender age of 3 years old, and he was born into a family with a keen interest in all things automotive. Reading comics and automotive publications as an early teen, Jeff began drawing things with action and speed. Whether it be speed or action... That was what drew Jeff in. Like many a young hot rodder, building models furthered his excitement for things automotive, but that was all forgotten when he got his license and started his journey with real cars. Throughout high school years, Jeff continued drawing and painting. After graduating high school, Jeff headed off to college, studying the masters and graduating in 1987. Jeff has always had a very keen interest in the Golden age of Illustration. Jeff began his career in Advertising Illustration working for Ford, Chrysler and General Motors. While working for the “Detroit 3”, and keeping a hectic work schedule, he never forget or gave up on his true automotive love...traditional hotrods! Jeff’s love of traditional hot rods and classic illustration, led him to form Norwell Equipped in 1993.

Over his career, automotive artists like Peter Helck, Tom Fritz, Steve Stanford and Ed Newton have greatly influenced Jeff's work. While working with large Advertising clients, Jeff also began to work with HOTROD Magazine, Rod & Custom, Street Rodder and others too. Jeff's big interest is the great era of 1955 to 1969, with the golden age of the Hotrod, drag racing and Kustoms. Having had and worked in several studios, presently Jeff works and lives out of his custom built studio/shop, surrounded by his hot rods in Mildmay Ontario Canada Jeff has created his own line of Posters, Shirts and stickers for the Norwell Equipped Line. Jeff does commission work and can be reached at norwell.art@icloud.com Jeff's work can be seen on lnstagram under HotrodJeff or can be found on Facebook as well Do yourself a favor and check out “Norwell Equipped” at www.norwell-equipped.com...you will be glad you did. 45

Photography: Al Liebmann Story: Jim Brandau 54

The 2025 NSRA Street Rod Nationals: Louisville’s FourDay Automotive Spectacle! Every late summer, the city of Louisville, Kentucky becomes ground zero for an extraordinary celebration of classic cars, custom hot rods, and automotive passion. In 2025, from July 31 through August 3, the 56th Annual NSRA Street Rod Nationals returned to the Kentucky Exposition Center, drawing tens of thousands of participants and spectators from across the United States and beyond for four days of automotive excellence, competition, camaraderie, and culture. 55

First held in the 1960s, the NSRA (National Street Rod Association) Street Rod Nationals is widely regarded as the premier gathering in the world of street rodding. It celebrates vehicles that are typically 30 years old or older, encompassing street rods, customs, muscle cars, and special interest vehicles built between the early 20th century and later classics. For 2025, organizers proudly showcased over 10,000 vehicles, with collective valuations exceeding $600 million, including cars worth anywhere from $25,000 to more than $1 million. Louisville has been home to this major rodding tradition for more than three decades, and this year’s edition continued that legacy with a remarkable turnout: an estimated 55,000 participants and spectators poured into the Expo Center to take part in one of the most vibrant events in the automotive calendar. Unlike many traditional car shows that feature static displays alone, the Street Rod Nationals is a multifaceted experience, offering something for casual onlookers, seasoned builders, gearheads, families, and industry professionals alike. From early morning rollins to late-night celebrations, each day was packed with activities that highlighted different aspects of car culture and craftsmanship. 56

For those who prefer action over still displays, the NSRA Autocross was one of the weekend’s most thrilling attractions. Positioned behind the expo grounds, the Autocross course invited drivers (registered in the show) to test their skills, handling, and speed — making each run an exhilarating duel against the clock. Whether spectators watched from the sidelines or joined as ride-along participants, Autocross delivered an unforgettable adrenaline rush running Thursday through Saturday.

In another highlight for competitors, Friday’s Pro’s Picks offered a unique platform for builders to shine. Sponsored by Alumicraft Street Rod Grilles, this event invited top builders to choose their favorite cars — decisions that not only influenced final standings but also provided a chance for spectators to appreciate craftsmanship at its finest. Builders Showcase and Awards The NSRA Builders Showcase stood as a centerpiece exhibit honoring elite automotive craftsmanship. Hosted in the main lobby of the expo hall, this hand-picked collection of 40+ exceptional builds highlighted some of the best work from professional rod shops across the United States. Collectively, these cars represented creativity, engineering prowess, and artistic vision. From this elite lineup, one distinguished builder was crowned NSRA Builder of the Year — in 2025 this honor went to Brian Limberg of The Tin Man’s Garage for his stunning 1961 Ford Unibody pickup. Finally, the event’s culmination came on Sunday with the “Circle of Winners” awards ceremony, honoring 44 standout vehicles and recognizing achievements across multiple categories. This ceremony has become one of the most heartfelt and anticipated traditions of the Nationals, offering recognition not just for skill, but for passion and perseverance 59

One of the greatest appeals of the Street Rod Nationals is the immersive marketplace experience. Spread across the Kentucky Exposition Center were more than 300 automotive manufacturers, dealers, and vendors, representing the latest in parts, restoration supplies, specialty tools, accessories, and more. The swap meet drew avid restorers, collectors, and bargain hunters searching for rare parts or that crucial component needed to complete a long-term project. Swap meet participants could also sell specialty vehicles or parts, making this area a hub of commerce and conversation throughout the weekend. Seminars and Education Beyond the rows of shining chrome and polished paint, the event offered opportunities for attendees to learn, connect, and improve their craft. The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Education Days program ran several free seminars on Thursday and Friday, featuring expert presentations on everything from carburetor history to wiring strategies, suspension basics, fuel systems, and more. These talks were open to all attendees and provided valuable insights for hobbyists and professionals alike.

For many fans, the Street Rod Nationals is as much about community as it is about cars. Live entertainment, including local music acts throughout the weekend, added a festive atmosphere where families, friends, and enthusiasts could relax and enjoy the experience together. The event also featured classic activities like arts and crafts, games for children, and special category areas that celebrated unique aspects of hot-rod history. For those who enjoy the thrill of competition beyond the show field, the Nitro Knockout and other high-energy attractions provided bursts of excitement. And for visitors wanting to deep-dive into specific interests, dedicated displays such as the vintage fire truck lineup and specialized truck areas ensured there was something for every automotive enthusiast.

The Street Rod Nationals isn’t just a highlight for gearheads; it’s a major economic driver. In 2025, organizers projected the event would generate more than $7 million for the Louisville economy, supporting local hotels, restaurants, service industries, and tourism. With tens of thousands of visitors attending from all 50 states and beyond, the Nationals has become a cornerstone of summer culture in the region. Looking Forward The 2025 NSRA Street Rod Nationals reaffirmed why this event remains at the heart of American automotive culture. With its combination of showmanship, competition, education, and community celebration, the Nationals continues to bring generations together — from seasoned builders with decades of expertise to young families discovering their passion for classic cars for the first time. As the engines quieted and trophies were awarded, attendees left Louisville with memories of gleaming chrome, roaring autocross runs, and the shared thrill of automotive excellence — already looking forward to next year’s return. With each edition, the Street Rod Nationals writes another chapter in the story of American rodding, inspiring the builders and fans who will carry that tradition forward.

The heat that settled over the Wilson County Fairgrounds on the

July afternoon felt like an old friend — the same kind of warm, slow Tennessee heat that had watched over every one of the Southeastern Chevy/GMC Truck Nationals for the better part of two decades. 74

Photography: Butch Pate Story: Jim Brandau 75

By 2025 the fairgrounds had become more than a venue; it was the spine of a weekend-long reunion where paint met metal and stories met the open road. The show announced itself in a thousand different ways: a horn’s deep burble from a lifted K10, the whisper of an LS-swapped smallblock cooling under a C10 hood, and the soft clink of trophies being set on folding tables. For many, it was the high holy days of GM trucks. Bryan Ashley remembers the first year he put the show on, a hundred trucks, maybe, spread out in a field and shaded by nothing more than a few pop-up canopies and a lot of big ideas. He called a few friends, put the feelers out to local clubs, and rolled what might have seemed like a modest plan into something stubbornly persistent. Fifteen years later, what began as a tight circle around a handful of early adopters had swelled into a veritable migration. By 2025 that growth was evident, 1,630 trucks filled the fairgrounds! Everything from patina rich Advanced Design pickups to slammed street canvas showpieces and sky-high, mud ready 4x4s, and the fairgrounds hummed with a scale that made the first handful of years feel like a different lifetime ago. Walking the rows this past July, you could read the show in generations. Near the midway, an immaculate 1953 Chevrolet pickup wore its restoration like a well earned medal with flawless chrome, a tuft of custom upholstery, and a story about a grandfather who’d taught the owner to weld. A few aisles over, a gleaming 1990s Suburban with a modern LS4 powerplant sat beside a lowered C/K that looked painted by a nostalgic dreamer. 76

Vendors filled the buildings and stages, Fabricators huddled around polished manifolds. A swap meet table sold a NOS tailgate handle for a C10 that someone would treasure for a lifetime. It was a marketplace of memories, parts, and people. Coverage crews from magazines and online channels moved like bees, capturing every corner, every oddball build, every subtle personal touch. If the show’s soul was made of trucks, its bones were built on ritual. Friday morning felt like the quiet before a church service, last-minute detailing, flags rising on antennas, owners greeting friends they’d first met in other states. Saturday was worship with awards on the main stage, specialty categories handed out (from Best Patina to Best 1967–1972 Truck), and the loud, affectionate applause of thousands who’d come to celebrate both the perfect and the imperfect. LMC Truck, this year’s presenting sponsor, had its banners across the grounds, but the real sponsorship was the community itself — people who brought lawn chairs, coolers, kids, and decades of devotion. Social media feeds filled with the same images at once, fleets of squarebodies lined like planets, the glint of chrome in the sun, and the logo that had become synonymous with the weekend. The history of the Southeastern Nationals is the sort of American story that loves repetition. It was a grassroots idea, steady work to make it better, and a widening orbit to make it grow. Early years saw a compact, mostly club driven turnout, truck guys and gals who’d come because one of their own called and because the idea of a GM only gathering felt like the right kind of show to protect and grow. 78

Moving the show to the Wilson County Fairgrounds was a definite turning point. The extra space meant not just more trucks, but more vendors, a larger swap meet, and a family atmosphere that could host kids and grandparents in equal measure. Over the years, attendance crept up, then surged, a pattern that turned private passion into a public event with national reach. By the mid -2020s, the fairgrounds were dotted with replicas of the same stories you’ve heard from any long running car or truck shows. Marriages that started in a show line, long lost friends reconnecting over tailgates, and new generations learning to appreciate the hum of a carburetor. Nearby, a group of young builders compared wheel offsets and lift heights, trading vendor recommendations and Instagram handles like the oldtimers traded part numbers. The Nationals had become less about proving who had the most expensive restoration and more about proving that trucks made a language, a way of connecting inevitably different people around something tactile and timeless. As the sun dipped on Saturday and the trophies found their owners, the event felt both enormous and intimate. The scale was obvious, thousands through the gate and enough trucks that you could spend two days and still swear you’d seen less than half, but the small moments were what stuck. A kid leaning into a truck bed to look at a custom audio install, a woman showing her first restored truck to friends, an elderly couple walking hand in hand past rows of metal that once meant work and now meant pride. The Southeastern Nationals had, in 2025, become a map of community memory, a place where history sat next to innovation and where the past and present 80

of GM trucks met, chatted, and rolled away in the same direction. For those who came searching for something more than horsepower, those who came looking for lineage, for a handshake, for an hour of listening to someone tell a story about a truck that had been in the family since before airbags were invented, the SETN delivered like a well trusted jukebox. By the time the awards stage dimmed and the last trailers pulled out along the highway, it was clear that the event had not only survived, it had matured into a celebration of belonging. The first hundred trucks had sparked a light; fifteen years ago and more than a thousand heartbeats later, that light was a bonfire. And if the history of the Southeastern Chevy/GMC Truck Nationals has a next chapter, it will be written every summer by the people who keep coming back to add their trucks and their stories to the lot.

…Fueling Emotion, Frame by Frame: Where Every Detail of every shot tell In the realm of automotive photography, where precision meets passion, Wolf Motorsports Photography is a distinguished name. Founded by Jeff and Heather Wolf, this venture is more than a business—it's a culmination of a lifelong dream and an unwavering dedication to the automotive world. Jeff Wolf, an ardent hot rod enthusiast, once aspired to work for a car magazine. After having his work published unedited, online for a major magazine, he realized he could chart his own path. This epiphany led to the creation of Wolf Motorsports Media, the parent company encompassing Wolf Motorsports Magazine, its YouTube channel, and the photography division. Their mission is clear: to provide high-quality, emotionally resonant automotive content that captures the essence of the journey. Wolf Motorsports Photography is renowned for its still-life automotive images that tell a story. Their tagline, "Fueling Emotion, Frame by Frame," encapsulates their approach to photography. Each shot is meticulously crafted to highlight the intricate details and the soul of the machine, offering viewers a window into the automotive journey. The quality of their work has not gone unnoticed. In the fall of 2023, Wolf Motorsports Photography entered The International Chromatic Color Awards and received an "Honorable Mention" in the "Still Life Amateur" category for their piece titled "Big Block Candy." This accolade underscores their commitment to excellence and their ability to stand out in a competitive field.

Their photography portfolio is a testament to their versatility and artistic vision. From vibrant hues to award-winning compositions, the collection showcases a range of automotive subjects captured in stunning detail. For enthusiasts and collectors, these images are available for purchase in various formats, including prints and magnets, through their online store. Wolf Motorsports Photography exemplifies the fusion of passion, artistry, and dedication. Through their lens, they not only capture the beauty of automobiles but also tell compelling stories that resonate with enthusiasts worldwide. As they continue to expand their offerings and connect with the community, their work remains a testament to the enduring allure of the automotive journey. Beyond photography, Wolf Motorsports Media is dedicated to engaging with the automotive community. Their online magazine and YouTube channel offer a wealth of content for car enthusiasts, from in-depth articles to dynamic videos. This multi-platform approach ensures that their passion for automobiles reaches a broad audience. For more information or to explore their portfolio and pick up a piece today visit Wolf Motorsports Photography at www.wolfmotorsportsphotography.com 86

Still Life Automotive Photography ls a story of the Automotive Journey!"

Whose Road Trippin’ al the way down RT 66 This Year? It’s the 100th birthday of the “Mother Road” As the song says, it runs all the way from Chicago to LA….ends at the Santa Monica Pier!