It was late summer, a few years back, and the CarShowSafari team was heading “down the shore” on the Garden State Parkway, toward the southernmost reaches of New Jersey. Not to frolic in the surf, nor to stroll the boardwalk chowing down on deep-fried delicacies. No, we were there to experience something larger than that: a vintage beach racing phenomenon called the Race of Gentlemen.
The Race of Gentlemen is a marvel. Unlike any automotive event I have ever attended, The Race of Gentlemen affectionately referred to as TROG, is less like driving down to Wildwood, New Jersey for a weekend of vintage fun, and more like stepping through a time portal into another world.
For so many reasons TROG is both unusual, and a car show to be imitated. It has the unique location of actually being on the beach, which sets a tone to the crash of waves – if you can hear them over the sound of vintage motorcycles, and the illustrious background of Ferris wheels, roller coasters, and the far-off New Jersey boardwalks. It almost gives one the impression of having stumbled into bike racing at Coney Island in the 1920s and 1930s.
That sensation, of course, is what they want. Great effort was put into selecting vendors, period attire was requested, and all around there were images evoking carnivals, classic foods, and the earliest days of racing.
Because that is what we’re really there for, after all. Both days of the events are chock full of vintage motorcycles and hot rod racing down the beach. Drivers are dressed in vintage-style racing gear, with rounded helmets and knee-high laced boots, their jodhpur pants bulging at their thighs. Some cars are in great shape, but others are rusted, dusty, and a whole lot of old school.
The racing is not about the winning. The racing is about the marvelous experience of these vintage beauties starting and running, and at not-unimpressive speeds either. Cars jumped the what-would-have-been-tree more times than I can count, but they ran, kicking up sand against the checkered starting line posts, revving powerful, classic engines with a great rumbling thunder to mimic the waves behind them.
The Race of Gentlemen is a visceral, sensory event. One didn’t attend the show, they experienced it, sloshing through the wet sand upon their shoes, smelling the salt sea air mixed with thirty-year-old exhaust rust coughing into the air. The revving of engines on the line seemed to reverberate through the wild, excited crowd. Hot sun baked our skin, and vintage, boozy root beer cooled our throats.
My first thought upon entering the show was something along the lines of wow, they moved the ocean a lot closer to the Bonneville Salt Flats. My second was that I had stumbled into some sepia-toned scene from the early pages, (and left out of the movie), of Hunter S. Thompson’s Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas where sports journalists gather in the desert to report on motorcycle racing – kicking up dust, shooting back whiskey, speaking out stories to editors across the country on the single phone out that far from civilization as the American dream grows around them, a phoenix from its own ashes. There’s no other way to describe this show – it was cool. It was sailor tattoos and album covers and pin-up girls cool. It was hot rods, rat rods, and motorcycles with rusted-out racing numbers cool.
The Race of Gentlemen is a visceral, sensory event. One didn’t attend the show, they experienced it…
It was also incredibly inspiring. Sounds a little odd – here were are, standing beside an original Wall of Death motorcycle performance tent, watching Bettie Page-inspired Hot Rodders throwback Sailor Jerry’s rum, and I’d call that inspiring? More than inspiring… hopeful as hell. Because this show, unlike so many car shows, is not comprised of a nostalgic group of car owners, recalling the days of chrome bumpers and sock hops. This show was younger kids, millennials with young families, and young adults who never lived through the era they’re dressing as, speaking as, and driving as. They’re not remembering their own history – they’re remembering the history of the automotive hobby. And not because it’s nostalgic, but because it’s damned cool.
…racing whatever we could cobble together, not quite realizing we were changing the automotive world forever.
That’s no slight on the wonderful, classic tradition of car shows countrywide. Those shows are so important to preserving the hobby and the history. But this show didn’t feel like a glimpse of the past. It felt like we had slipped right back into the photograph, and we were standing on the Bonneville Salt Flats, wearing cuffed jeans and racing whatever we could cobble together, not quite realizing we were changing the automotive world forever.
I believe wholeheartedly that hot rod and vintage racing culture is going to be the direction of the hobby. The Race of Gentlemen brought together history, cars, and hobbyists, but it also brought the next generation of classic car lovers. It brought families, and kids – drawn by the beach, the noise, the tents. It was a family affair that has all the potential to save the very hobby we love so much. And it was damn fun.
We need more events that blow our socks off. We need more left-field madness of motorcycles on posts two stories in the air – their driver balancing on one leg as it spins around a treadmill. We need more vintage style, historical photographs, wild and unique racing – so close to your face sand gets into your eyebrows. We need all of these things to push the hobby forward, to make it bigger and grander and more likely to last for years to come. The Race of Gentlemen is just the kind of event to get us there.
Precision-engineered 2 inch drop ProSpindle for 1955-57 Chevy Bel Air, Nomad, 210, and other full-size models make installing Wilwood brakes easy. The steel ProSpindle is lighter and stronger than factory cast iron, while lowering the car for a better look and improved handling.
The ultimate lay down creeper that eliminates frustration in the shop! Built on an aluminum frame with steel support bars, the Vyper Lay Down features four 4” industrial-grade rollover casters with guards, an adjustable 6”x8” headrest, and extremely durable Smart Fabric upholstery.
Bolt-in replacement control panel designed for Gen IV and Gen 5 systems. Machined from 6061-T6 billet aluminum, then triple chrome plated with laser etched lettering. Features include LED “a/c on” indicator and variable slide adjustments for fan speed, temperature, and air delivery selection. Installs in OEM dash location with included hardware.
MMX Performance Wheel The MF09TL design concept comes from the line patterns on the Nasca Wilderness in southern Peru, mysterious and beautiful. The wheel combined with forging technology and a 4-piece structure, let it more three -dimensional.
The ACME HPL 1st Gen Bronco Firewall and Engine Compartment Kit replaces your tired and weak stock firewall and front wheel tubs. The firewall is constructed of .090” thick A-36 Mild Steel, welds-in and allows clearance for motor swaps. The kit includes updated wheel tube and a modern brake booster/master for reliable high-performance braking.
Classic Instrument’s new 1964-67 GTO packages include speedometer, tach, programmable fuel gauge, oil pressure, water temp and volt gauges. All gauges are fully electronic and the set includes all senders, mounting hardware and wiring harnesses.
CVF billet trunk hinges are packed with features that don’t just look the part, they play it. With our 4-axis adjustment built directly into the hinge, this technology affords the installer the ability to adjust trunk gaps and inconsistencies without having to modify your trunk or mounting brackets. A feature you won’t find anywhere else but CVF.
Adam’s Swirl Killer 9mm LT Polisher, we have created a cost effective and very powerful polisher that will be able to correct and shine up to 85% of the painted surfaces. Adam’s Swirl Killer 9mm LT Polisher features a durable construction and its 1000-watt motor will deliver unmatched performance for years of paint correction.
ClearPlex Nano-Ceramic Windshield Protection Film is an IR and UV rejecting, light VLT, exterior-applied film geared for the auto and mass transit markets. ClearPlex NC is a 2-in-1 product that integrates IR-heat rejection that was previously only found in interior-applied auto films. Protect your windshield and keep your cabin cool with ClearPlex NC.
Lightweight and durable, the R35 Rambler is ready for adventure. Its simulated beadlock style, with bolt heads and outer ring, allows for the “rockcrawling” look but unlike a true beadlock, this wheel is suitable for street use. The outer ring adds strength to the wheel’ s outer edge making it more durable than a standard wheel while off-roading.
Water Spot Remover uses advanced chemistry to remove above-surface water spots from exterior vehicle surfaces, including paintwork, chrome, plastic trim, and glass. Even stubborn water spots are removed in seconds. The convenient spray-on, wipe off delivery is exceptional for hard-to-reach areas like door jambs, grills, and more.
The RGM Mustang Front Splitter is part of the RGM Mustang Body kit available in a high gloss black ABS, with an high impact acrylic cap. The complete kit has a upper and lower rear diffusers, a hood protector, side sills and rocker panel cover and wheel arch protectors. These parts are all built in a new high-tech manufacturing facility in the UK.
The new and improved VIKING 3350, our top-of-the line helmet series, is the ultimate blend of optics, comfort and versatility.
AN hose bundle has tons of color options and features 20,30, or 40ft of hose and 8 AN hose end fittings. Customize your ride with a great product at an amazing value. Available in AN6, AN8, and AN10 sizes.
With a built-in Intercooler, this Billet intake is designed for the new 7.3L Godzilla motor. Designed for aftermarket use in mind, we were able to reduce the overall height by 1.75” compared to the OEM intake. Additionally, this intake features a built-in water to air intercooler, supporting up to 1400hp. Available for LS style of Ford style intakes.
OEM aluminum heads fall short over time, the different heat expansion rates between iron and aluminum cause scrubbing and eventually blown head gaskets. PPE Cast iron cylinder heads are resistant to warping, melting, and cracking in excessive heat. Featuring cast-in fuel injector cups for the LB7, this is a must-have upgrade for any Duramax
240 amp medium size Billet alternator for GM LS engine swap street / racing applications.
White Lightning Series 1955-59 Chevy Truck Analog Gauge Panel w/a white polycarbonate subsurface with brush stroke finish. Avail: in Blue, Green, Orange, Purple, Red and White LEDs. Speed, Oil press and Temp senders included. Turn signals, high beam and automatic nighttime dimming. American Made w/a factory Lifetime Warranty.
Add rear disc brakes with ease to your 1963-1987 GM C10 and K10 Truck! Kits available in both 5 lug and 6 lug applications. Featuring a single piston caliper with a large 54mm piston and built-in parking brake. This caliper is mounted on a 11.5” rotor for fitment into most 15” wheels. Easy Bolt-On installation + a great upgrade for your truck!
Pedders SportsRyder adjustable Endlinks make a great upgrade to improve the responsiveness of your sway bar. The endlinks feature a heavy duty forged rod ends and 6061 aluminum center turnbuckles for quick and easy preload adjustment. Each kit comes with a pair of red anodized endlinks and all associated hardware.
Magnuson Superchargers is proud to announce the Magnum Performance Series X3100 for the LS family. Featuring our latest Supercharger architecture designed for maximum airflow, including unrestricted inlets and optimized charged air coolers. The X3100 is 17% larger, can flow 30% more air, and and is 11% more efficient than the mighty TVS2650.
Hand-crafted in Mississippi, Hammerhead Armor introduces the new ARMOR BOX for pick-up trucks. Custom designed for the enthusiast, sportsman, and contractor. This storage box delivers superior security of items while providing a myriad of unique, organizational features, both inside and out, to avoid the chaos that can occur in a standard toolbox.
CORSA Performance Pro Series Tuned Mufflers offer a premium tuned muffler solution engineered for custom fabrication. Every PRO SERIES tuned muffler features CORSA’s proprietary NO DRONE RSC Technology and has been engineered to eliminate common drone inducing frequencies on V8 engines. PRO SERIES Tuned Mufflers come in 2.5” and 3.0” sizes.
Baby Bullet LED Tail Light with Amber Glass Lens. Powerful LED brightness wrapped around a stainless steel bezel and Amber glass lens to provide modern brightness while maintaining a nostalgic touch.
Kontio Tyres is a new tire manufacturer from Nokia, Finland. Kontio Whitepaw Classic is a unique tire combining magnificent outlook of vintage tires and the excellent performance of the latest modern radial tire technology. The Kontio Whitepaw Classic is a genuine whitewall tire with a whitewall from 1 to 3 inches.
Titanium Knitted Sleeves are weaved from High Quality Basalt material in knitted style weave. This allows the sleeve to expand and contract to tightly fit the Turbo down pipes and exhaust pipes. Passes Flammability and burn testing with a thermal conductivity of .031. Available in different sizes and lengths.
The Europa Radio by RetroSound has a sophisticated style inspired by the radios found in Mercedes vehicles from the 1970s-1980s. The replica knobs, push-buttons, elegant chrome trim, and pinstriping perfectly complement their interior style while adding modern audio features, including HD-Radio Technology, Bluetooth, and Sirius-XM.
This bolt-in SLA suspension system replaces the McPherson strut design with a billet aluminum upper control arm, tubular lower arm and spindles with S-550 Mustang hub’s. This design greatly improves negative camber gain and overall suspension geometry. Available with either Ridetech Coil-Overs or Shockwave air suspension.
Vezda UHP MAX is a DOT summer UHP product optimized for performance in competitive Autocross, Drift and Endurance competition with a 200 AA A UTQG for exceptional dry and wet performance. The tread design combined with updated construction and compounding emphasize wear, driver feel and consistent handing capability not matched for the value price.
Part Number: 1-148-010 Engine Block Style: Stock/OEM standard deck Injection Style: 8 Throttle body Basic Operating RPM Range: Idle-7,000 Intake Trumpets: Intake Trumpets Included EGR: No Injectors Included: No Fuel Rails Included: Yes Throttle Body Included: 8 Pieces Base Material: Aluminum Casting Base Finish: Polished.
1994-2004 Ford Mustang Seatbelt Kit -Vehicle-specific replacement belts require no modification for a hassle-free install -Mounting hardware included -OE quality webbing available in over 40 colors -Meets and exceeds FMVSS 209/302 safety standards -Made-to-order in Oklahoma City.
Reproduction of the original front grill designed for 1973-74 Dodge Dart models. Manufactured in injection molded ABS and finished in argent silver in the accent areas, just like the original item. Features correct Pentastar markings in the proper locations for authenticity. The lower grill molding and park lamp lenses are available separately.
CTTI is proud to announce the release of the New CTR8890 Patented Air-cooled Oil-less Turbocharger rated at 1850HP.
The unit is suitable for engines ranging from 2.0-8.0L. The CTR8890 consists of an air-cooled oil-less bearing system that eliminates oil/water lines and can be mounted from horizontal to vertical position.
Ruff Tuff’s Sof-Touch and Ostrich simulated leathers combine with optional diamond quilting in a high-end, sophisticated look. Available for cars, trucks, SUVs, and UTVs in 7 Sof-Touch, 8 Ostrich, and 5 Croc colors. Water-resistant, UV-colorfast, durable. Clean easily with a damp cloth. Every stitch is sewn in the USA.
Nilosmoke contains a fast acting odor eliminator which quickly neutralizes odors caused by cigarette, cigar, food, pets and body odors in the air. NiloSmoke also contains a fresh, light fabric scent to help restore freshness in any area. this product is perfect for detailing cars or for an automotive shop to keep it smelling fresh.
In the December 2022 issue of Knives Illustrated, we journeyed together through the Philippines in search of bolo knives. That was only the beginning of my quest to find authentic, hand-forged blades of Southeast Asia. More countries and more adventures were ahead of me. It was a work in progress, but until then I hadn’t seen many forges in working operation up close and personal.
My first trip to Thailand was behind a camera in awe of what I consider to be the greatest subjects for a photographer. Strolling through the marketplaces in Thailand, I couldn’t help but notice the many different blades being used to process chicken, fruit, and food in the many street restaurants. After a few days, I soon learned of a village about a five-hour drive from where I was staying in Pattaya, Thailand.
This place was called Ayutthaya, once officially known as Siam, which was one of the most ancient cities in Asia. Ayutthaya was once regarded as the strongest power in mainland Southeast Asia, full of history and the most amazing temples. Ayutthaya is now considered somewhat of a tourist stop or a day trip out of Bangkok. However, I was there not only to see the temples, but to visit the legendary knife village of Aranyik. Wiai Roeycharoen Knife Shop is the name of the shop and forge I visited and where I bought a few big chopping blades.
The entire village is part of a program called OTOP (One Tambon One Project). The program aims to support the unique locally made and marketed products of each Thai tambon (sub-district). Thailand’s OTOP program encourages many village communities to improve local product quality and marketing, selecting one superior product from each tambon to receive formal branding as a “starred OTOP product.” This provides a local and international stage for the promotion of these products.
“THE THAI E-NEP IS KIND OF THE CALLING CARD OF THAI BLADES, OFTEN REPRODUCED BY PRODUCTION COMPANIES AS THE BIG CHOPPING KNIFE OF THAILAND.”
Being at the forge was akin to those of the Philippines, but there were some major differences. For one, the blade shapes were different, and the fuel used in the forging process was different. They used charcoal for some projects, but they also used bamboo, which produces an excellent form of charcoal that generates the extreme heat required to shape the steel used to forge Aranyik blades.
The two styles of blades were the E-Nep and E-Toh. Both blades are very traditional blade shapes of Thailand and are easy to get from various markets in the surrounding areas. Also, wouldn’t you know it? They chose 5160 leaf-spring steel for their tools.
The one forge in Aranyik that I visited had a very small anvil for pounding out blades. It was more like a squared chunk of metal sticking out of the ground. The hammers were squared pieces of metal attached to small, dry bamboo wood via a leather strap. These were not regular commercial hammers, but who am I to say? Their work is amazing regardless of their chosen work tools.
They also made these knives in the style of the one-piece tube handle design seen in the Philippines and Vietnam. Like the mountain province bolos of the Philippines, these were strong in construction because of the nature of the continuous piece of steel. However, none of the blades I came across in Thailand came with a nicely woven rattan handle like those found in the Philippines. That doesn’t mean that they had less function, just that the grip was different. If one was to sweat, it may cause the knife to slip out, but that didn’t seem to happen on my watch.
“THE PARANG IS THE MACHETE DESIGN OF MALAYSIA. I WOULD HAVE TO SAY IT IS THE MOST MIMICKED CHOPPING BLADE DESIGN IN THE MODERN CUTLERY INDUSTRY…”
These blades are meant for chopping up coconuts and firewood. All featured a weight-forward balance and super-scary sharp cutting edge. The Thai E-Nep is kind of the calling card of Thai blades, often reproduced by production companies as the big chopping knife of Thailand. It has a kukri (blade from Nepal) look to it, but with a full tang and hardwood scales. A full tang extends the full length of the grip portion of a handle, versus a partial tang or stick tang, which does not.
Perhaps the most common design in full-tang knives is when the handle is cut in the tang’s shape and the handle scales are then fastened to the tang by using pins, screws, bolts, and epoxy. They left the tang exposed along the belly, butt, and spine of the handle, extending both the full length and width of the handle. Needless to say, it makes for a much stronger, robust chopper in which the handle cannot come loose like with stick tangs.
The parang is the machete design of Malaysia. I would have to say it is the most mimicked chopping blade design in the modern cutlery industry, and sadly, most designs calling themselves parangs are a far cry from a real parang!
It was in Penang where I met with my friend Ahmad Nadir, who took me on a road trip to see where the Bidor parangs are made. Upon arriving at the shop, I was surprised and impressed with how modern this place was compared to the forges I visited in the Philippines and Thailand. They also burned coal, but have recently upgraded to gas forges. Their facility uses power hammers, which makes things run a lot smoother and faster.
There is more of an assembly line atmosphere with about six workstations, complete with a forge for heating the steel, an anvil, a quenching tub, and an automatic hammer. This forge also makes knives, axes, and many agricultural tools supplying a large area of Malaysia. Their specialty is making parangs. I didn’t know of any other place in Malaysia that exports real authentic Malaysian parangs to the rest of the world, other than Outdoor Dynamics.
The Bidor brand of parangs features a plastic handle either in red or purple. They are also stick tang in design, but with an added feature of a simple metal pin that goes through the handle and blade, thus further securing it and preventing those accidental mishaps of the blade flying out of the handle. They make a variety of traditional styles of the parang: Chandong, Kota Belud, Bentong, and the Ray Mears-styled parang.
Every model has a slight difference, so the blacksmith must have years of experience hammering out the fine detail and capturing all the nuances that make each one different.
In August 2021, Knives Illustrated ran an article on bushcrafting with Malaysian parangs. It showcased how to use parangs in the way they were meant to be used—on bamboo, on wood, and for food preparation. All the parangs and goloks were blades supplied by the Bidor blacksmith while the handles, fit, and finish, were from MyParang.com based in Penang, Malaysia. Ahmad Nadir switched his focus to making the Bidor parangs even better than before—semi-custom parangs.
Honoring tradition, he offers four varieties of the Duku Chandong, with 8-inch and 10-inch blades, and two with 12-inch blades. One of the 12-inch blades is an extra weighted Duku Chandong for a heavier chopper with the same style.
The Lading pattern is offered in the My Parang lineup with a 12-inch blade and a slightly more squared tip. It has about 7 inches of sharpened blade area, giving a lot of real estate for choking up and other grips. The Parang Lading is also used as a weapon in the Silat Cekak (traditional Malaysian martial arts), other than as an agricultural tool. There are some slight differences between the everyday tool and the ones used in Silat Cekak. Traditionally, Lading-style Parangs were made to fit the user’s arm for fighting and training Silat Cekak.
The Tangkin parang has a very ergonomic dynamic. It works especially well when you are positioned low on the ground. The curve seems like it’s drastically sweeping upward. However, in a low position, it enables the entire blade to be used, especially the sweet spot, keeping your knuckles safe and out of the way.
If you have ever questioned the toughness of a stick tang chopper, you are not alone. Many westerners want a full tang or nothing. As far as I know, not one production knife company has ever offered a stick tang style parang, golok, E-Nep, or bolo. Rather, they are all full tang and usually too thin and are called bolo machetes, parang machetes, E-Nep, or kukri machetes.
Condor Tool and Knife offers many great, authentic-looking, and rustic patterns, mimicking the real deal only to be on the very heavy side because of the extra weight of the full-tang. This makes them parang, bolo, and E-Nep-shaped tools, yet a far cry from the authentic feel of the way they were meant to be. They’re light and whippy with a weight-forward feel, thick near the hilt and always thinning towards the tip (distal taper).
Some custom knifemakers have offered more authentic versions by forging the blades, and a few brave makers have done some stick-tang models with a pin. That being said, Westerners can’t fathom a stick-tang knife chopping, splitting wood via baton, or digging with a wood or plastic handle. On top of that, these tools are often kept outside, like most tools. However, it has worked for their culture for centuries, and I think they know best.
As my trip to these amazing countries ended, it was the start of a lifelong passion devoted to these long blades and the variety of patterns. The more a person sees, the more they come to find they’ve only scratched the surface. My quest for authentically made long blades is far from over. As for the places I’ve been to, I know one thing for certain—I must return!
My Parang
www.MyParang.com
What makes My Parang blades so reliable and nearly bombproof? The simple answer is that the company has been doing it this way for as long as steel has been around and it had access to it. The handle is made of wood and drilled out to allow the V-shaped tang to fit. Epoxy is added, and the blade tang is pushed in.
This is how it’s done in Malaysia and Indonesia. For the most part, it will be all that is needed. However, My Parang adds a pin hidden under the copper ring/bolster, which is also epoxied. This results in a solid one-piece tool that isn’t going anywhere, yet preserves the feel, weight, and essence these authentic tools offer that mainstream production companies have yet to produce.
Editor’s Note: A version of this article appeared in TREAD Jan/Feb 2024.
KISSIMMEE, Fla. (April 23, 2024) – ECD Auto Design (NASDAQ: ECDA), the world’s largest Land Rover and Jaguar restoration company known for its custom luxury builds, including bespoke Defenders, Range Rovers and E-Types, introduces its newest one of a kind build, Project Scottsdale Commission. The Jaquar E-Type will find its new home in sunny Arizona.
Built on a Series III Model and highly customized with ECD’s second generation EV 300 HP powertrain and gorgeous accents, this roadster will be turning heads for years to come.
Project Scottsdale Commission is the fourth custom build for this ECD Auto Design client as well as their second ECD EV vehicle. This was the first ECD Jaguar E-Type to be contracted and was the project that brought ECD into the sports car production market. ECD has not looked back since.
“We love to listen to our clients and build relationships with them, and this is a prime example of how we made a significant investment and change to our business structure based on a client’s request,” said Scott Wallace, CEO of ECD Auto Design. “Every vehicle has always been completely bespoke, and it was just time to evolve into the sports car market. We were thrilled to be able to do so while making a valued repeat client’s dream come true.”
The striking exterior is coated with a Jaguar E-Type black paint accented with plenty of chrome from its door handles to its premium Borrani wire wheels. The oversized Michelin white wall tires absolutely pop driving down the street.
Stepping inside this beauty, the accents are stunning as the chrome from the exterior moves its way inside onto the handles, trim and window cranks. The classic E-Type seats are heated and wrapped
in high quality Spinneybeck antique red and distressed black leather. The premium Nardi classic wood steering wheel is ready to be gripped as Project Scottsdale Commission cruises down the Arizona streets.
Electronic upgrades include touchscreen user interface infotainment system coupled with JL audio speakers and subwoofer. The car also includes Bluetooth audio, USB chargers, cameras, Apple Carplay, Android Connect, cruise control, regenerative braking, DC fast charging, full LED lighting and automatic headlights.
For those that would like to dream from the comfort of their own home, ECD has recently launched a new state of the art vehicle configurator where users can design their dream vehicle from any computer, tablet, or phone. This is just another step in our forward-thinking process as we continue to deliver industry-leading solutions. Check out our new vehicle configurator here.
For more information on how to build your own Land Rover Defender – 90, 110, 130 or Series IIA, Range Rover Classic or Jaguar E-Type, please visit ecdautodesign.com.
Vintage Air introduces our newest Gen 5 SureFit systems designed for the 1953-56 Ford F-100 Series. Complete bolt-in, electronically controlled heat/cool/defrost system featuring industry-first OEM quality injection molded case with separate heat and cool coils, block type expansion valve, and high-capacity blower for rapid interior cooldown. Systems include a new under dash louver panel assembly with a 3-level LED backlit control, plus all components for installation.
Features:
All new OEM quality injection molded case with separate heat and cool coils, rubber over molded electronically controlled blend air doors, block type expansion valve, and high-capacity blower motor. Includes new 3-lever control panel, duct hose, wiring harness, hard lines, powder coated mounting brackets and firewall cover plate.
Benefits:
Modern bolt-in electronically controlled system utilizes the Magnum evaporator module that provides variable heat/cool/defrost functions in a package size that allows for continued operation of the OEM cowl vent. Servo motor-controlled doors, high-capacity blower, and large 2.5″ duct outlets provide fast interior cooldown and “just right” temperatures year-round.
Additional info:
Great bolt-in solution to add modern day all-season comfort to the quintessential classic truck. Customizable with many options for upgraded vents and in-dash control panels.
Vintage Air also offers complete SureFit kits for 1961–86 F-Series Ford Trucks and 1966-86 Broncos.
Every year, Jeep brings concept vehicles to Moab for the annual Easter Jeep Safari event. These vary from mild to wild, but the one thing they have in common is that the Jeep brand is using them as a litmus test to determine what their customers want from the brand. For 2024, Jeep brought four concept vehicles and each one of them offered some clues about functions and features we could see on factory Jeeps in the future.
Intro
Jeep began bringing concept vehicles to Moab for Easter Jeep Safari (EJS) well over a decade ago; for so long that it would difficult to imagine EJS without the Jeep concepts. It is also difficult to imagine them without Mark Allen, the mad scientist who Head of Design at Jeep. Allen retired last year after 30 years at Jeep and his very large shoes have been filled by Vince Galante, who pulled back the reins on some of the over-the-top body swap concepts like the Mighty FC and Five-Quarter in favor of heavily modifying the vehicles in the existing line-up while keeping them recognizable. Another item that didn’t make a return was the electrified Magneto concept, suggesting that perhaps Jeep owners are not ready to embrace a full-electric Wrangler. Each of the four concepts for 2024 did offer some peaks at features that we very likely could see on future Jeeps though. Past concepts have teased everything from paint codes to Hemi engines to Jeep trucks before they were available on the dealer lot.
Low Down
The Low Down is a four door Wrangler with a 392 that has been fitted with 42-inch BFGoodrich Krawlers and Ultimate Dana 60 crate axles. The suspension is at stock height, with the fenders moved up to accommodate the larger tires. Sound familiar? Back in 2009, Jeep created the Lower 40 concept that had a very similar premise, and when the JL was released in 2017, lo and behold it had larger fender openings that allow the fitment of 35-inch tall tires at stock ride height. While we don’t expect to see 42s become a factory option, the LEDs frenched into the front fenders for turn signals are something that could definitely find its way into production.
Willys Dispatcher
While the Low Down is sleek and modern, the Willys Dispatcher is more retro, with an embossed hood, low back seats with houndstooth fabric, and steel wheels with 36-inch Powerply tires. Despite the vintage look, this concept is based on a 4xe platform with a 2.0L turbocharged four cylinder supplemented by an electric motor. It has a bikini top and air compressor offered through Jeep Performance Parts. It also has been equipped with a Warn winch and metal hood latches, both of which we wouldn’t be surprised to see Jeep offer from the factory in the future.
High Top
The High Top was designed by Jeep Performance Parts and includes many items you can find in their catalog, including the high clearance fenders that the concept was named for. They make room for BFGoodrich’s new 40-inch tall KO3, the largest all-terrain tire on the market. Help to fit the big meats is also accomplished with an Accuair suspension system that replaces the coil springs with air bags at all four corners. We have already seen air bag suspension from Jeep on the Grand Cherokee, could the Wrangler and Gladiator be next?
PULL QUOTES
Each of the four concepts for 2024 did offer some peaks at features that we very likely could see on future Jeeps though. Past concepts have teased everything from paint codes to Hemi engines to Jeep trucks before they were available on the dealer lot.
Jeep began bringing concept vehicles to Moab for Easter Jeep Safari (EJS) well over a decade ago; for so long that it would difficult to imagine EJS without the Jeep concepts. It is also difficult to imagine them without Mark Allen, the mad scientist who worked at Jeep for 30 years and was the Head of Design.
Cruisin’ For A Cure is the largest single-day charity car show in the country. The annual show is held at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, California.
The event is held every year in September, “National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month”. The primary mission of this event is to fund prostate cancer research and provide free prostate cancer screenings.
In addition to the primary significance of providing free testing for prostate cancer, the event is an absolute blast.
The primary mission of this event is to fund prostate cancer research and provide free prostate cancer screenings
This year’s Grand Marshal was automotive personality, Chris Jacobs. Chris was present for all the fun and signed autographs for his fans.
Drive! was fortunate to get an exclusive interview with Chris. There were plenty of copies on hand at the show. If you wanted to read the interview and we learn more about the guy we all thought we knew, check out the October Drive! issue at driveonline.com.
Of course, the primary mission of this event is to fund prostate cancer research and provide free prostate cancer screenings. Car owners that display and cruise the show allow the public and participants to enjoy a day of fun and the opportunity to receive a free and potentially lifesaving prostate exam (DRE) and PSA blood test.
Since its inception, Cruisin’ For A Cure has provided free prostate cancer screenings. This year, KSK Cancer Center of Irvine, performed over 600 PSAs. Of those, 149 PSAs were elevated at over 2.5 ng/ml which is 24% of those who were tested. Those 24% were directed to see their urologist as soon as possible.
With the help of sponsors and participants, Cruisin’ For A Cure continues to spread the word on how important prostate cancer screening is by providing vital information on how it can be treated, and how easy it is to save you and the men in your life.
On site this year was a special car show within a car show – The Women ‘n Wheels Expo – an all-girl run event featuring local car gals.
They participated by laying out the parking spaces and parking all the cars. In 2019 we had 35 gals participate . This year it was increased to 60 parking spaces in the building. All parking spots were filled!
The organization also had their own Women ‘n Wheels awards that included 5 VIP women judges.
Next year, testing will begin at 7:00 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. By testing earlier Debbie says they can screen more men. And remember, it only takes 10 minutes. Early detection saves lives and we want to save your life and your loved ones life with our free prostate screening! Consider doing both the DRE & PSA blood test next year, this can help save your life.
Make your plan to attend on September 9th next year.
Check out the website for info: cruisinforacure.com
Meguiars – Official Car Care Appearance Sponsor
Woodside Credit – Collector Car Financing
O’Reilly Auto Parts
Bomel Construction
Lucas Oil Products
Leons Transmissions
Interstate Batteries
Southern Tire Mart
Budnik Wheels
Original Parts Group
Guaranty Chevrolet
Farmers Insurance
Hagerty
Classic Industries
Connell Chevrolet
Hedman Hedders
Vetchtein Law
FiTech Fuel Injection
Ford – Southern California Ford Dealers
Edelbrock
Comp Cams
InsureOne
D&D Golf
It’s a crawler, it’s a prerunner, it’s…an overlander? At first glance this wild Chevy Colorado looks like some sort of race truck or maybe some sort of rock crawler. Then you realize this truck has a long bed, a roof top tent, gear cases on the cab roof and is packed with enough gear to go off grid for months—this thing is an overlanding rig.
One might think the builder of this creation is confused or just can’t make up his mind, but in fact, Matthew Girgis knew exactly what direction he was going when he went full tilt with this build. Girgis wanted a rock crawling, desert running, overlanding rig that can still act as a reliable daily driver. So what does Matt consider himself? To answer that, all we have to do is check out the bright livery and logo on his truck for the tent company he co-owns. You will see “Overland(ish),” which perfectly describes the amalgamation of styles all wrapped into one.
“Being an overlander, though, means that Girgis has all the essentials. This includes tons of storage in his twin 83L Roam Adventure Co. rugged cases and a Leitner bed rack with dual Gearpod XLs with an Overland(ish) Summit roof top tent on top.
Pronounced [OH-ver-LAND-ish] (adj.), it comes from the Germanic language and describes an overlander who identifies as a pre-runner or rock crawler but still dons a roof top tent and packs their pour over coffee, skottle, full-size hibachi-style grill, refrigerated cooler, and all of the creature comforts of home.
“Does that race truck have a shower on the back of it? That’s the most Overland(ish) thing I’ve ever seen.”
“The Cement color paint on the truck offered a clean look, and would better hide the inevitable pinstriping from the tight off-road trails ahead.”
From the first time Girgis hit the dirt in Anza-Borrego, California, as a kid with his dad, he was hooked on off roading combined with camping with his family; it’s only logical he got into the overland world. While his dad inspired him to go off road, it was Girgis’ passion for travel and photography that pushed him to build such an extreme rig. Following his father’s footsteps, who owned a Chevy, he jumped into a Chevy Colorado and went nuts. He made an incredibly versatile overland vehicle that can camp for as long as he likes, and then turn around and run the desert at high speeds. Girgis loves the feeling of the suspension articulating and tackling the rugged terrain of his favorite spots like Anza-Borrego, California.
Girgis’ passion for off road combined with his passion for photography and videography came together in 2020 when he co-founded a small company called Overland(ish). Girgis says, “The true identity of Overland(ish) is rooted in just having fun, being goofy, making fun of ourselves and overall just having a good time.” He continues by saying, “We make content that doesn’t take itself too seriously and gear that does. We made so much fun of ourselves for having all these amenities from home that we ended up making tents that seem more like hotel rooms for the outdoors…what could be more Overland(ish) than that!”
Along with running Overland(ish), Girgis also lends his photography skills to outlets like Tread, industry partners, and Sprinter Overland Trips. Tread has used his talents for several features; it helps when the photographer truly understands his subject matter. Girgis can capture the right look and vibe of an overlander or off-road enthusiast because he is one himself. As lead photographer with Sprinter Overland Trips, this same notion applies. He captures Sprinter owners enjoying their time in the outdoors, challenging themselves with tougher terrain, and having a great time with friends and family.
“Girgis wanted a rock crawling, desert running, overlanding rig that can still act as a reliable daily driver.”
When you look at Girgis’ creation the first things you notice are the lights, the wrap, and the wheel and tire combination. KC Hilites is responsible for the truck pumping out more lights than the Vegas Strip. Controlling those lights are two SwitchPros 9100 series controllers that Girgis set with custom settings. Josh Daley of Daley Visual was able to take inspiration from an iconic ‘80s race car and make a striking wrap that blows minds and gives that nostalgic look that makes us smile when we see it. The 17×8.5 Fuel Block wheels wrapped in 35 x 12.5 Maxxis RAZR A/Ts finish off the look and give this wild ride its style and its grip. King shocks and secondary bypasses paired with Baja Kits and Timbren give this beast its ability to rip through all the whoops in the desert like a bat outta hell. An MBRP full exhaust gives this truck its rumble, and the custom wide Fiberwerx fenders let Girgis stuff those big Maxxis 35s in there and get that coveted stance every off roader strives for.
Being an overlander, though, means that Girgis has all the essentials. This includes tons of storage in his twin 83L Roam Adventure Co. rugged cases and a Leitner bed rack with dual Gearpod XLs with an Overland(ish) Summit roof top tent on top. In the bed, Girgis uses the Decked drawer system for all of his photo gear and more. On top of that is his Overland(ish) Basecamp insulated tent along with his full camp kitchen, all the way down to the kitchen sink, or in this case an EZ-sink.
For recovery, Girgis has a 12,000-lb. DV8 Offroad winch mounted to his DV8 steel bumper, a full Deadman Off Road setup paired with some goodies from Factor55. His spare is mounted on a Rig’d Supply Ultraswing with all the overlanding accessories, including a kitchen table. Also, in case the need arises, Girgis has a Pro Eagle 1.5-ton jack on deck. For underbody protection, Girgis has a full set of CBI Offroad skid plates and rock sliders, an AEV differential skid plate, and 589 Fab shock skids so he can romp on the rocks worry free. His engine mods include an engine tune from Trifecta Performance and a cold air intake from S&B filters. Not to be overlooked, his stopping power comes from a set of R1 Concepts brake pads and rotors.
The overland goodies don’t stop with the outside of this crazy Chevy Colorado. Girgis uses Midland’s MXT 500 Micromobile Two-Way Radio, MXTA25 3dB Ghost Antenna and a pair of Midland handheld radios to communicate with all of his buddies. For interior storage he uses a ColoradoCanyonEnthusiast rear attic system and a set of Greyman Tactical rear seat MOLLE panels. On the dash he uses a ColoradoCanyonEnthusiasts dashboard tray and 67Designs phone mount with carbon fiber arms and a 55 series rail. For extra power he has, not one but two, Blackfire portable batteries, one 500 watt and one 1000 watt, and a solar panel to charge them. They come in clutch when he is off grid and needs some extra juice to run his Dometic CFX3 45 all day. Hey, a guy needs a cold beer and maybe even an ice cream after running the desert all day.
“While his dad inspired him to go off road, it was Girgis’ passion for travel and photography that pushed him to build such an extreme rig.”
Girgis was inspired by all the Chevy prerunners on one side and his family camping trips on the other. What came from that was this Frankenstein’s monster you see before you. Just like a real race truck, when something breaks (something always breaks) Girgis doesn’t just fix it, he upgrades it. Girgis puts in the wrench time himself, doing most of the installations, along with some help from Toys For Trucks who installed his Baja Kits long travel setup, DNA Wheels and Tires who mounted and balanced his tires and keeps his truck aligned, and Brandon from 1T4 Fabrication who is responsible for keeping Girgis’ truck on the road (and off). These shops and fabricators did some impressive things to Girgis’ truck but there is more to come as his future goals and plans include a four-link suspension and full cage. Now that sounds like something we want to see!
To see more of Girgis’ adventures in overlanding be sure to check out his Instagram @Rad_Z71. Or visit his company page @Overland.ish.
Editor’s Note: A version of this story previously appeared in the May/June 2022 issue of Tread Magazine.
2017 Chevrolet Colorado Z71
ENGINE: 3.6L V6 (308hp, 269 lb.-ft.)
SUSPENSION: Baja Kits Chevy Colorado 4×4 Prerunner Kit (front); Upgraded Secondary triple bypass shocks, custom valved by Onyx Motoring; Timbren Industries Active Bumpstops (front and rear); Deaver Suspension Inc. Expedition Leaf Pack (rear); lift shackles (rear)
WHEELS & TIRES: Fuel Offroad Block wheels 17-inch with +1 backspacing; Maxxis RZR AT 35×12
ARMOR: CBI Offroad undercarriage skid plates (engine, oil pan, transmission); DV8 front and rear bumpers; 589 Fab/Ultraskids shock skids; AEV differential skid; Fiberwerx widebody fenders, custom rear fiberglass fenders for long bed
INTERIOR ACCESSORIES: ColoradoCanyonEnthusiast rear attic system; Greyman Tactical seat MOLLE panel; ColoradoCanyonEnthusiast dashboard tray; 67Designs phone mount; Midland USA MXT 500 Micromobile Two-Way Radio, MXTA25 3dB Ghost Antenna, 1500W Portable Powerstation, 500W Portable Powerstation; 60W folding solar panels (2); SwitchPros 9100 (2) w/power tray engine mount;
EXTERIOR ACCESSORIES: Bison Grill; Anderson Composites Type ZL Carbon Fiber hood; Akkon Headlights; Syper Auto taillights; KC HiLites 50” Gravity Pro6, Flex Era 4 (4); DV8 Offroad 12000lb winch; Factor 55 Ultrahook and Fairlead; Leitner Designs , Gear Pods; Roam Adventure Co. 83L storage cases; Overland(ish) Summit roof top tent & Base Camp; Rig’d Supply Ultraswing; Dometic CFX3 45; ProEagle 1.5 ton jack; Mountain Hatch Tailgate Table; MBRP catback exhaust; Prinsu roof rack; Daley Visual Camel GT Livery wrap; Decked Drawer System; R1 Concepts brake pads and rotors; Leitner Designs Forged Active Cargo System; EZ Sink portable wash and shower station;
Editor’s Note: A version of this article appeared in TREAD Jan/Feb 2024.
Photos by Brandon Burrell/burrell images
Whether you have a huge 8-foot truck bed on a dually or a small 4.5-foot truck bed like the one on the new Ford Maverick, having it set up to function correctly for your needs is important. A lot of times, larger trucks with larger beds may have stuff like a ladder rack, a 5th wheel connection, or an array of toolboxes. Smaller trucks like the Maverick generally don’t need large components to make them functional. For a lot of people, a smooth, factory-painted bed or even a spray-in bedliner will be more than enough. Others like myself prefer a more car-like bed that can safely haul around luggage and camera gear, while keeping it all out of prying eye’s view and securely locked into the bed. I know what you’re thinking. “Why not just buy a car?” Well, it’s still nice to have the utility of a truck bed when needed, but also have it double as a large trunk when needed.
For decades, smaller trucks like the S-10, Mazda B-series trucks or even the Tacoma were perfect for people who didn’t need the massive size of a full-size truck for daily needs, but still wanted something they could use to pick up a dryer, haul a dirt bike to the track, or take their mountain bike to the trails. It seemed the compact pickup truck was a thing of the past, until Ford released the new Maverick in 2022. Ever since that release, the buzz has been crazy about these little trucks, which has made them hard to find. That, coupled with production issues on the manufacturing side, turned them into hot commodities the past couple years. Fortunately, I was able to get my hands on one recently, and I plan to do a slew of upgrades to show our readers, starting with the bed upgrades you are currently reading about. I picked up an XL trim package, which is a stripped-down, bare bones base model Maverick. The base model eliminates some of the creature comforts that the higher trim levels have but after adding a few upgrades, it can still function like a higher-end truck.
For the perfect bed setup for my needs, there were only a few parts I had to get. The main part of this project was the Undercover Ultra Flex bedcover (Part #UDC-UX22032) with a $1,112 retail price. This tri-fold tonneau cover allows access only when the tailgate is open so when it’s locked, the bed cannot be accessed. The next item that was added was a tailgate assist strut that gives the tailgate the easy drop that higher-end trucks have. Essentially, it keeps the tailgate from slamming down when opened. This was a $22 part on Amazon—nothing that will break the bank, yet will make the tailgate perform like a much more expensive truck.
With my base model, the only way to lock or unlock the tailgate was to physically use the key, so adding an electronic lock that controlled the tailgate with the key fob buttons was important to me. To do this, I went to the local Ford dealer and picked up two parts. The OEM electronic lock (Part #JB3Z-9943170-A) at $109 replaces the manual tailgate lock assembly, and the OEM wiring harness to control it (Part #NZ6Z-14A412-C) with a $112 retail cost. The wiring harness replaces the factory wire that plugs into the backup camera inside the tailgate and plugs into the harness above the spare tire.
I also added a full Bedrug Classic Bedliner (Part #BRI-BRM22SBK) that goes for $480 retail. This full carpet kit lines the entire bed, including the tailgate and creates a trunk-like feel and look. This is perfect for what I use the truck for, but if I decided to get a load of mulch, it simply rinses out with a pressure washer like a spray-in bedliner would. Having this liner in the truck keeps luggage, bags, etc., from sliding around as well. The Maverick also has an option that comes on the higher trim models to add bed storage—the bed cubby (Part #NZ6Z-60286A72-A), which retails at $46. Adding this part creates a storage place built into the bed to store straps, a hitch, or whatever you need to stash to keep from sliding around the bed.
The install for all these parts only took a couple hours with the help of a buddy, so it’s something you can do on your own with simple hand tools to not only add function to your truck but also make it match what the more expensive models can do. Follow along as all the parts are installed.
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Fort Worth, TX (April 10, 2024) – Goodguys Rod & Custom Association crowned their first Top 12 winner of year by naming Ken Reister’s absolutely stunning 1932 Ford Phaeton as the 2024 Meguair’s Street Rod d’ Elegance winner this past weekend at the 23rd Meguiar’s Del Mar Nationals in Del Mar, CA. This coveted award goes to a vehicle originally built before 1948 that has been modified to exude sophisticated styling, excellence in build quality and overall elegance.
Built by Reister’s Rod Shop and Squeeg’s Kustoms, this project is something Ken has envisioned for decades. “I’ve dreamed about this car ever since I was released from the military,” Ken said. “When I learned that Chip Foose was designing an all-steel ’32 Phaeton body with Brookeville Roadster, I jumped at the chance!”
Once Ken obtained the freshly stamped steel body, his team at Reister’s Rod Shop went to work. A custom chassis was designed and fitted with a complete suspension system from Kugel Komponents. Ken made sure to use Ford power in the way of a fuel injected 302 cubic-inch engine that has been polished and detailed to the hilt. The car was handed off to Squeeg’s Kustoms for further body modifications, massaging and finally to be painted in a glowing Candy Apple Red over a Gold base. The beautiful interior was wrapped in leather by the Recovery Room and unique top was completed by Sid Chavers.
The Meguiar’s Street Rod d’ Elegance is just one of the Goodguys Top 12 of the Year awards. Eleven more vehicle owners and builders will add their names to this coveted list which includes Muscle Car, Street Machine, Custom, Truck of the Years and other top categories for classic vehicles and premier builders. Congratulations to Ken and the teams at Reister’s Rod Shop and Squeeg’s Kustoms for being named the Goodguys 2024 Meguiar’s Street Rod d’ Elegance.
