8 FEB 08- ...is defined by Webster's as "skill or cleverness in devising or combining : inventiveness, or: cleverness or aptness of design or contrivance".
It's been a word that has spent an unholy amount of time bouncing around in my brain lately. I find it to be a powerful word when applied to our hobby/industry of hot rodding in general, as it's really the backbone of what we do. Consider an engine builder, working to tweak every last ounce of power, Sam Barris chopping the first Merc roof, or the first guy to conceive the idea of using lace to create killer patterns in custom paint. Hell, each day I'm confronted with the challenge of bringing unique ideas to a project, and in some cases, finding ways to stretch a budget, and draw in some wicked little details to set a car over the top. It's a matter of using what's there in front of you (and occasionally what doesn't exist!) in a new or different way, and then getting it all to flow.
A recurring theme here in the old blog has been that of cool details and inventive use of materials on a project, and this entry brings in some really neat stuff. First off, time had shot over some pics of his new, self-made planishing hammer. Confronted with pre-made units that maybe had the power but lacked the throw he needed, or even vice-versa, he did what any hot rodder might do: He made his own.
Pretty slick, indeed, and a great illustration of the point here. The human mind is capable of solving problems with amazing agility at times (there's even some grace in banging a sheetmetal panel to shape over a 2x4 when it's in the right hands!), and when it comes to creating tools to aid in work, provide convenience, whatever, it's always cool to witness.
Speaking of ingenuity, a recent side trek on the web, seeking more info on Sam Barris' Merc led me to a video highlighting a car that's always kept me fascinated (and, amazingly, another Barris-constructed car -- I say "constructed", as the majority of the innovations on the car were those of the owner), the Golden Sahara II, from the ingenuity (see a theme here?) of owner/designer Jim Skonzakis (aka Jim Street). Every inch of this car is loaded with ingenuity, and inventive, if not a step beyond state-of-the-art for its time (this was pre-1962!)... Man, consider that this was the FIRST car to have a TV in it, much less every other technical marvel thrown in. You may know this '53 Lincoln Capri from the Jerry Lewis movie Cinderfella,
or even the old Rob't. Williams "Leadsleds" poster (it's there in the original incarnation, anyway), too! In any event, over on YouTube is the following video (via the HAMB)... take a peek, and we'll pick this back up in a few:
How absolutely freaking cool is THAT??!
Ponder the thought that went into this car, the forward thinking, the sheer inventiveness... the INGENUITY. Granted, there's a lot of gimmickry going on here, but isn't this car just the perfect illustration of the times? That whole "world of tomorrow" kinda vibe going on, and all wrapped up neatly in a pretty slick custom.
I had shown this to my kids, and they flipped that the car had a TV, a remote... and then they said "they had TV back THEN"? Illuminated tires, whoopie.... TV? Amazing to kids. Go figure....
Good times...
29 JAN 08- ...good times, man.
This past weekend, we rounded up a group of fellow Valley friends (Craig, Jimmy, Paul, Boston Mike and myself), and headed out to Pomona for the GNRS.... And to say that we had a great time would be the understatement of the century.
The show was incredible, both in quantity and quality, and the people factor put it so far over the top, that I'm still at a loss for words. We'll be posting a ton ofshow coverage, and the related travel and show blogs over on Craig's MyRideIsMe.com in the next few days, but I thought I'd touch on just a few highlights here, anyway...
Aside from seeing some great cars I've somehow missed before (I had never seen the Aztec or Sam Barris' Merc in person before, and am still stoked over that), and roaming aisle after aisle of killer machinery, it keeps coming back to the people and time spent both at the show, and after hours. I was fortunate to have met one of my greatest influences, and spent a few minutes with Mr. Steve Stanford,which was just outstanding, and met greats like Roy Brizio and Pete Chapouris, and spent some time with great artists like Scott Fisk, Coby from Church Magazine and the mega-talented Max Grundy, all of whom are just supremely talented and great individuals. The show had it all, from traditional rods and customs to high-dollar, show circuit masterpieces, amazing bikes (Cole's cafe racer? WOW.) and even a killer lowrider selection.
Just when I got to thinking how great it all was, I was fortunate to have been introduced to Akihiro and Ayumi from Highway Trash (thanks, Pike!), and scooped up a couple issues of Burnout Magazine (a killer half Japanese/half English car culture magazine that I love, not only for the content, but the pure style). In all, the show was a feast for the senses, and the time on the road, as well as at the restaurant Saturday night put it over the top. My face still hurts from smiling so damn much, and my abs got a great workout from laughing so hard all the time... and yeah, I'm thrashed, but I'd do it again in a second. Look for more soon...
200 MPH...
25 JAN 08- ...speedometer, that is.
...and did I mention that it's a factory piece?
Anyway, last weekend was a blast, with good friend Josh dropping into the Valley for some time at the Barrett-Jackson auction (and subsequent menagerie of auto- and non-auto-related goodies and sights and sounds), as well as a Saturday morning trek for some breakfast and to take in a Chrysler 300 Show (the Chrysler 300 Club's 15th Winter Meet). Josh is a big 300 fan, and owns a '57, too, along with his killer, slammed '58 Buick. This is fitting, as the guy is a great photographer, and true auto afficianado.
Back on track here, as we strolled the small --but high-quality-- show, I was thrown for a loop by just how friendly these folks are, and how into the 300's (letter and non-letter cars), and was just kinda soaking up the great rides on display, when I came across one of the coolest things I've seeen in my car-gazing life:
A 1960 300F (Special Gran Turismo).
Consider: a Chrysler 300 is a big, luxury automobile that brings performance to the table. Light years ahead off the competition, this was a muscle car in its purest form. In 1960, the 413 Wedge was the new engine, and cranked out 375 horsepower in stock trim. You've probably seen a few with the unique cross-ram intake, which places the carbs over the fenderwells (more on this later). Chrysler also created a special short-ram version of the engine (the tuned runners for the intake were about 15" long), pushing 400 horsepower. They created only 15 of these cars, backing the mighty Wedge with the French Pont-a-Mousson four-speed transmission, originally created for the Facel Vega.
So, in effect, we have a luxury car with muscle car tendencies, wrapped in a killer styling package. All cool, but what blew me away was this: ...
...yes, that reads 200 MPH. Factory piece, from 1960. Consider that for a minute. (hell, the cars rode out of the factory on 15" wheels wrapped in Goodyear Stock Car Special Blue Streak tires... the same as used in NASCAR!) This was no ordinary car. This was a race car with STYLE.
I just wanted to share this, as it's a neat piece of history, and a very cool conversation piece, to say the least. We'll touch back on these killer cars in the future, to be certain.
Oh, and thanks again, Josh! Great times at the auction, man... too bad you didn't bring Robosaurus home. Maybe next time...
Taking flight...
15 JAN 08- ...in the Great White North, Kevin's blue T-Bird is taking shape in a big way.
This is the completely owner-built project that I am so stoked to have played a small part in... The 'Bird is Kevin's first EVER attempt at building a car, and the man has gone leaps and bounds over all his expectations, and continues to surprise us, and everyone who stops in the studio and gets a glimpse of the pics!
It's testimony to good, old-fashioned hard work, and a willingness to learn and not be afraid of mistakes, setbacks or otherwise... in other words, it's inspirational hot rodding at its finest. There's just something about a home-built ride that puts the butterflies in your gut. Look for updates soon, and for now, if you've missed it thus far, dig on the project HERE.
Closer to home, Jeff's Cutlass is nearing a spring-time debut, with the parts coming in, the paint getting a good rub, and everything kinda falling into place...
...including some non-factory pieces...
Starliner debut...
11 JAN 08- ...in the city by the Bay.
The boys were pushing some long days up in the Bay Area to prep their Starliner to make an (albeit unfinished) debut this weekend, and I'm stoked for them as always, and proud to have some of my work displayed with the car, thanks to the good folks at Flowmaster!
The car is typical of their work, being super clean, having AMAZING fit and finish, and packing some wicked personality and power, as well! What's kind of cool about this deal is that some years back, while living in the Bay Area, I started to draw cars again, after a long hiatus. Living there, in what is, effectively a custom car kingdom, was pure inspiration. In a lot of ways, my artwork heading back that way is a homecoming, of sorts, for what eventually became Problem Child Kustoms Studio. Probably more info than you asked for...
So, if you're in the Bay Area this weekend, make it a point to hit a great show:
...and check out the car, too, and say hi to everyone...
Music lessons...
8 JAN 08- ...and so much better than that "screamo" crap you're listening to, anyway.
After digging on Christian's post over on the Motorburg forum concerning some "singing F-1 cars" (ever heard an engine belt out "God Save the Queen"? You owe it to yourself to.), I had to share a slightly related piece here.
I've been working with some preetty cool projects lately, a few in particular began with the terms "pushing the envelope" and "extreme", and it did nothing but flare up the urge in me to go fast. Granted, this is bit on the opposing end of the spectrum frrom earlier posts, where we looked at subtle modifications, and really praised the "less is more" school of thought, but the sheer thought and engineering in an F-1 car is mind-blowing, and certainly fits here. What pushes it to the outer reaches is the awesome power (OK, and noise) created by one of these monsters. And in my opinion, they are a textbook example of "extreme". Dig on one running all-out:
...naturally, this about spoiled my plans to run a more traditional powerplant in any personal project again...
Mad Monte's...
28 DEC 07- ...or at least one very killer in-progress Monte, anyway.
What a great way to finish out 2007... Pam and Wayne's '72 has made it indoors!
The black Monte has been in their family since the early '80's, and is currently getting a decidedly modern facelift (along with some classic styling touches and custom techniques), and will see the road soon, looking something more like this:
The plan is to keep the car subtle, slick and very understated, and just play off of the car's naturally great lines, while upping the performance and luxury ante in every aspect. In other words, we're keeping what makes a Monte great to begin with, and not trying to make it something it isn't. The car has some great family history, and is heading down a great road. We'll keep you up-to-date as this one comes together...
Another year...
27 DEC 07- ...another twelve months of doing what I love (and what my grammar school teachers said I'd never do-- although I do use math every day...so take notes, kids!), and looking forward to 2008!
Anyway, the holidays kinda slipped by there, and I wanted to share something pretty cool with you. Rod (dig on his '55 project HERE) has made this tradition of scooping up something killer for me each year on his trek to the Turkey Run in Daytona, and this year, despite the mighty 'Vette giving some headaches, he still managed to send out this:
...adding to my growing collection of killer shift knobs. At this rate, assuming I ever get on with our project here, the wife and I will need to install a Lenco just to make use of 'em! For now, they have an honored place in the studio... Thanks again, man!
This year was a blast, and set off a creative high that just keeps rolling. Beyond having the good fortune to have seen some great print exposure (thanks to all involved with that!), I got to meet some great people, and work on some amazing projects. Thankfully, everyone here stayed pretty healthy (my knee being the exception to that rule), and we're stoked about 2008, with big plans on the horizon (and a new site, assuming time allows -- stay tuned for that!), and hopefully more cool cars to share with you!
Here's wishing you all the best this new year, and a special thank you to everyone for your support this past year. To say that it is greatly appreciated barely scratches the surface...
Happy Holidays...
24 DEC 07- ...from all of us.
We sincerely wish you all the best this season...
Coolest. Job. Ever...
23 DEC 07- ...is what I am fortunate to have each day.
It's not about fame or fortune (although I'd gladly try each on for size, even at the same time. I'm a martyr like that...), or anything like that at all, or even just the cool cars and projects and ideas I get to surround myslef with in the studio, but rather the PEOPLE. It's the folks building these things that allow me to do what I love (draw cars!) for a living, and make each ring of the phone music to my ears... and not just my cool ringtone.
This month's PHR illustrates that point for me. Rod's '55 (dig the project HERE!) graces a page in the front of the book, and is really a perfect example of why I love what I do.
It started with a project that kinda crept in, and just grew into a very slick shoebox that's coming together at home, built by family. Along the way, I got to know Rod, and it's been great doing so. I've been fortunate to make some great friends along the way, doodling cars and trucks and whatnot, and it just makes everything so much cooler to meet great folks, and share in the same interests, both car and otherwise.
My kids always say "you have the coolest job, 'cuz you make cool cars", and they're half right. I get to help someone realize a vision, and get on the way to enjoying their hobby. And beyond sticking it in the face of my grade-school teachers, making a living "drawing cars", I have the added bonus of making some pretty great relationships along the way, and how cool is that...
Best Buick...
17 DEC 07- ...is a great accolade, and when it comes from Hot Rod Magazine, it's oh-so-sweet.
Tom's wagon hit the pages of Hot Rod Magazine again, this time appearing in the February issue as one of their "Homebuilt Heros", their collection of "the finest owner-built hot rods in America", as chosen by the Hot Rod staff.
If you're a regular here, you may already know of Tom's '64 Buick Special wagon-turned-two-door, a car I enjoyed the pleasure of rendering early on in the planning stages of the project, and followed closely. Tom built the car using a pretty straightforward plan, keeping things simple and slick, and it's great to know that his hard work has been recognized. Congrats again, Tom, and thanks for the mention. And if you're out cruising in the Valley, keep your eyes peeled for this understated wagon...if you can catch it sitting still long enough, that is...
Four cylinders...
13 DEC 07- ...and eight pistons.
While it sounds remarkably like a first-time engine build gone awry, it was actually a development engine from Ford, designed and built by Eugene Farkas.
In the 1940's, Mr. Henry Ford was experimenting with lightweight, tube-framed cars, attempting to create a structurally rigid, but overall simple-to-construct car. And what better to power such a car than a very unique powerplant. Understanding Ford's mindset of simplicity is key in the development process (even if this seems a bit extreme for only seeking to eliminate some engine vibration!). You see, the world was changing, and getting more and more complex. Ford wanted to retain the simplicity of the Model T, but create something powerful, efficient and reliable to work in then-present day America. The four cylinder engine illustrated this simplicity, but it lacked the balance of a V-8 (far less torsional vibration, even in a solid-mount configuration). In his quest for a vibration-free engine, this twin-crank eight was born:
Granted, it's technically a four cylinder, but with two cranks and eight pistons, each moving in the opposite direction on combustion, thus balancing either side of the assembly. The engine had an overhead-cam, with a chamberless design (leaving the the actual combustion chamber in the block), running 1.5-inch valves. At 83 cubic inches (2.25-inch bore, 2.625-inch stroke), and running such a short stroke, this design would've been great for some high-RPM action, but, sadly, suffered from poor crank design (the billet cranks had no counterweights on the cheeks, thus exposing the center mains to some heavy abuse, consequently deforming at higher speeds). The cranks, incidentally, were geared together via herringbone gears (a pair each of left-and-right-hand helical gears per side), which were as quiet as a standard, single helical gear, but suffered no thrust issues. A large idler at the rear of the assembly acted as the flywheel, with the pressure plate (from a V-8 60) bolted to it. Furthering the quest for low vibration, the driveshaft speed was low, as the idler tgransferring power spun at roughly on-half of engine speed. A simple design engineered to arrive at the solution!
Another interesting fact is that this engine was constructed mainly of cast iron (aside from the aluminum oil pan). At the time, almost all of Ford's experimental powerplants utilized aluminum. This considered, the assembly only tipped the scales at around 260 lbs, and looked pretty slick, too:
Looking back, a simpler solution, such as rubber motor mounts, isolators, etc, may have been the more logical, stop-gap answer, but Mr. Ford had sought perfection in design, and running a solid-mount would have reinforced that notion. Besides, it was a pioneering effort like this that makes for such a great story...
Flying North...
07 DEC 07- ...to check on a non-migratory 'bird (via email, anyway).
Kevin's Thunderbird project (see more on it here) has been moving along steadily, and is starting to see primer... and the oh-so-fun block sanding that comes with it. The extended quarters and subsequent molded tail lamp housings were an early thought in the project, and we both agreed they would be a defining feature of this smooth cruiser, and, well, see for yourself:
It's just one of the subtle tricks we threw at the car, and while it's been said here before, we're amazed at Kevin's inititive and drive on this project, it being his first project! His attention to detail has been nothing short of impeccable, and we're stoked to see it moving along!
Check back for more updates as the project gets closer to paint...
European vacation...
06 DEC 07- ...or at least a side trip through old books and photos. This week's theme in the studio seems to be centering on European sports and touring cars... These cars, namely those from the later '30's and '40's are a treasure trove of cool design details, and over the summer, our studio field trip to the "Curves of Steel" exhibit at the Phoenix Museum of Art reinforced that earlier fascination.
I've always enjoyed applying some trick, subtle details to a design, and lately have been concentrating on the fine marriage of form and function. Consider the following detail from a '36 Peugeot:
What's cool is the integration of the emblem with the crank access. Simple, indeed, but how clean is that? It's not an afterthought, it's just good design!
What gets me going on cars from this era are the subtle details like this, as well as the mix of industrial materials, finishes and ruggedness... all juxtaposed with clean, flowing lines that all scream "luxury". Like a fine piece of jewelry, or a beautiful watch, the instrumentation is utilitarian, but graceful in its layout! (consider that certain, Earthy-toned '40 Ford from SEMA this year -- scroll down a few entries for more on that) with the killer gauges, and then ponder this from a '38 Alfa Romeo:
...pretty slick! (wait'll ya see my updated take on this theme for an in-progress project) It's like a Tag Heuer watch... OK, beyond the glaring reality of not being able to afford either the Alfa Romeo OR the watch... It does the job in STYLE. (wanna see something cool? Click HERE and check out the Monaco Calibre 360 LS , Kinda makes me think that dental school was a better idea. Lots going on, but well integrated.).
Anyway, look for more on this topic soon in the coming posts. I hope you'll find the topic as exciting as I do...
Rollin'...
03 DEC 07- ...to a world record.
A 1904 Rolls Royce (the oldest, running example, mind you) sold for a world record at a Bonham's auction, coincidentally held at the same venue where it debuted in 1905, the Kensington Olympia Motor Exhibition.
The 10 horsepower ride sold for a record $7.24 million, and was only the fourth car produced by the partnership of Charles Rolls and Fred Royce.
I imagine that in an alternate universe, it was picked up by the editor of a "rat rod" magazine, where it'd be the focus of a three-part tech series called "Roddin' tha Rolls, Bro", and would be just like the old days, assuming no one possessed any mechanical skill whatsoever, and that the world was over-run by psychotic, Sawz-All™-weilding maniacs. Below is a "Photochop" so popular with the kids these days:
Kinda like Norm's Kooky T on too much cough medicine. Can't wait to see it bedazzled with iron crosses and skulls...
"No king or prince..."
30 NOV 07- ..."has lived a better life", thus spoke a man who had truly done it all.
Evel Knievel has passed away today at 69 years of age, after suffering scarring in his lungs, as well as diabetes. Here's a guy labelled by the Smithsonian Institution as "America's Legendary Daredevil", and a guy who has probably done more to inspire modern "extreme" motorsports than anyone (hell, even I have a scar that can be attributed to wanting to be "just like Evel Knievel!", bailing from my tricycle as a young lad). Consider that he was, in fact, larger than life, and in many ways, a real-life Rocky story. He always came back at a challenge. In a day of third-rate heroes and so-called "role models", his tenacity stands head and shoulders above the field. Even breaking close to forty bones in his career wouldn't stop him.
I recall playing with my Evel Knievel motorcycle toy as a kid, and it was alwyas a favorite of mine, as well as watching him on TV, and learning early on to pull for the underdog. In a lot of ways, he played an instrumental part in shaping that part of my consciousness, and many of my friends', as well.
Thanks, Evel...
Seeing red...
29 NOV 07- ...topped with some black vinyl.
Jeff's Cutlass is looking good in a new coat of red, and is easing into the fast lane for completion soon. As do most of these things, it all started with a simple clean-up and detail session, and soon snowballed into one of those "gee, if I spend a little more time here" gigs... Getting a nifty little body-on resto, and overall freshening-up.
The bead blaster got a good workout, as did the forearms and shoulders (block-sanding is fun!), and the result is going to be one very clean and fun driver. However, as most things reality-based go, once the Olds is complete, it'll be up for sale so that things may progress on another very cool Olds project... but more on THAT soon...
A few more reasons...
28 NOV 07- ...to learn to read.
This month, you may have seen the PCK Studio name around a bit more than ususal, and we couldn't be happier. We're in Drive! Magazine, The World of Rods, Muscle Car Power Magazine, and if that ain't varied or even just enough, see us in Performance Auto and Sound Magazine, too...from which we've already heard "You draw tuner cars, too?" Yup... especially when they pack 1,000+ horsepower and a 'chute...
...and rest assured, there'll be more to follow in 2008. If you've yet to grab a copy of the (fairly) new World of Rods, I'm gonna say "grab one". Rich Boyd is at the helm, and it's taking off nicely, with a good mix of traditional and modern features, as well as event coverage and some nifty tech articles, too! As it grows, it'll only get better...
Thanks again to everyone for their support, and for finding what we do worthy of some ink...
Project Phoenix rises again...
26 NOV 07- ...in Houston.
Project Phoenix (Blake's '69 Firebird, as seen previously HERE through the build) stood tall, making the Houston Autorama this past weekend, and claiming second in the tough Custom Hardtop Class.
Going head-to-head with cars from the show circuit isn't easy, especially in your first indoor show... Even more when your ride is street-driven and worked hard like Blake's is.
Congrats to Blake and the family on a strong showing, and best wishes on their continued enjoyment of the car...
Friday, Black Friday...
22 NOV 07- ...is tomorrow. In honor of that, umm, "tradition" of crazy, "door-buster" sales, we're offering our own deal:
Tomorrow only (November 23, 2007), buy three shirts, and get one free. Buy three prints, and, you guessed it, get a fourth ON US. Add to that a free gift with every purchase during this sale, and by golly, it just doesn't get any better than that!
On that note, have a Happy Thanksgiving, and we'll throw some new articles up soon...
Deck your walls...
14 NOV 07- ...with some new art! Yeah, a holiday carol it ain't, but writing songs was never really my strong suit anyway... Limericks, yes. Cheery holiday ditties, no.
The holidays are fast-approaching, and I feel your pain in hunting down that "perfect" gift. Rest assured, if you've got a hot rodder or two on your list, I have a couple of suggestions to help, from apparel to wall-enhancing artwork, there's sure to be something to make the day memorable, without breaking the bank... Not to mention a unique piece they'll enjoy all year long. It's what we do here.
Anyway, we've decided, amid many requests, to issue the three pinup pieces for a short run... Just in time to decorate your shop for the winter thrash sessions, or help a friend decorate theirs.
No shop? Collect the set and add a theme to your office! We've created the series one more time with even bolder inks, and a superior-quality archival paper, and tied them all together in a striking theme.
Whether you choose the coupe, shoebox, or the ultra-popular lakes sedan (shown here):
you're getting a piece of art that's suitable for framing, and packed with detail. Check 'em out HERE, along with some other classsic prints.
While you're thinking about holiday shopping, check out the new shirts, as well! Order before 11/30 to ensure holiday delivery!
Thus concludes my once-a-year gift-giving suggestion entry...
Wayward ho...
09 NOV 07- ...away we go... At least over the internet, to the Black Forest of Germany for a quick peek in at Christian's Hudson pickup project.
When we last visited, he was busy grabbing up some ink in Classic Custom Trucks with the project, and his since brought some California sunshine to the rolling hills of his homeland via some nifty wheels, as well as some classic metal in the form of this:
the Caddy grille we had decided on for the re-worked front sheetmetal. (hopefully, the rendering hanging in the shop will provide continued inspiration as the project moves forward)
Further progress can be seen in the freshly boxed frame:
...which will soon be the recipient of some updated suspension componentry and a fresh drivetrain!
The project is gaining some serious ground now, and I'll continue sharing updates as it does...
"The future...
08 NOV 07- ...ain't what it used to be", said the great Yogi Berra, and after this year's SEMA Show, I have to agree in two distinct ways.
First the good news: The future of hot rodding, as a whole, is looking strong. There were a ton of new and innovative products, and some even greater rides... Troy and his uber-talented crew at Rad Rides raised the bar again with their utterly OUTSTANDING 1940 Ford... More to come on this creation, but for now, try to fathom the killer, clear gauges (that photos do no justice to!), which are just a small portion of the tricks to behold:
...and the rest is just as stunning:
I spent a good 40 minutes looking the car over, and then spent some time with the master himself, who was kind enough to hang out and chat. He's talented, humble, and a very cool guy, indeed.
On the total flip-side of things, there was a ton of "bling"-inspired machinery on hand, as always... A conspiracy by the wheel industry, apparently, to make sales of giant, 30+ inch wheels. I offer the following as an example:
(anyone ready to introduce 22-inch rotors?)
I'll save my more colorful remarks for our other blog, but rest assured, I'm hoping that the future lies a bit closer to the '40 first mentioned, and not something riding ON 40's...
Anyway, pics and maybe even some video from the show to uploaded as soon as we get all settled back in. Thanks to everyone we hung with last week, and to all of the new friends we made for your time and enthusiasm. '08 promises to be the start of some interesting new things...
NEW stuff...
26 OCT 07- ...is HERE!
Yes, it's all true. After a week or so of "Olds" stuff, sheer cosmic coincidence has dropped a delivery of new stuff in our laps.
The new shirts are here (well, the men's shirts, anyway... Ladies shirts will be here in about a week),
as well as the new stickers, too! And even more exciting? The shirts are available in both long and short sleeve versions, and the stickers come in two, that's right, TWO nifty sizes!
The shirts, as always, are Hanes Beefy Tee's, and the detail on the printing is second to none. The stickers are three-color, UV-coated vinyl, custom die-cut works of art, and all are in stock and ready to ship to your waiting hands.
Does living really get any better than this? We doubt it. Click HERE to pick up a few tee's (or HERE for stickers!)for yourself, and see what we mean...
More OLDS stuff ...
24 OCT 07- ...of the low-buck variety...
Good ol' "Project Cheap A**" keeps moving right along, with Jeff taking the initiative to throw on a new vinyl top, thus replacing the sad, weathered unit that previously covered the upper regions of the Cutlass.
Granted, this started out as an interim project while awaiting some major componentry for the "other" Cutlass (more on that beast soon!), but, as do most things when Jeff's involved, it snowballed to near-epic proportions, getting stripped and treated to a frame-on resto, thus saving a solid A-Body to fight another day....
The top came out surprisingly well (what is it about this roofline that just looks so right with a vinyl top?!):
and will look great against the red paint. Aside from finishing up the paint, re-assembly, and some slick new wheels and tires, the old girl is just about done, and should be ready for some Springtime cruising. Interested in a great little ride to have fun with in '08? Shoot me an email, and I'll get you in the right direction...
The good OLDS days...
19 OCT 07- ...and some Malibu nights...
I was sitting here, going over some old pics the past few days (for some entries in the ol' blog here), and I came across a couple of photos of my past rides. While I'll spare you some of the front-drive econo-boxes that have populated the driveway over the years (had the scanner not given up the ghost, you'd be looking at my incredible, flamed '87 Omni winter rat... perhaps the photo killed the scanner, which, odd as it sounds, is right on par for that demon spawn of a "car", complete with a horn that would go off at 2 AM when the temperature hit -10), I couldn't help but feel some nostalgia creep over me... and creep me out in some ways, too.
Anyway, one of the pics I came across was of my Cutlass, a nifty little daily driver that served plenty of time in the trenches, surviving brutal Great Lakes winters, back-and-forth to college duty, and an unwillingness to let a cold night or two interfere with my removing the T-tops and letting those Jensen 6x9's (installed with the nifty 4x10-to-6x9 adapters!) wail out some Slaughter with my sad mullet blowing in the breeze... I've said too much already:
At the same time, I had my weekend warrior and on-going project, which was coming together at a pace rivaled only by my ever-shrinking budget, and taking up more space than deemed necessary in my parents' garage. I've shared some history of the mighty Chevelle before, but thought it'd be kinda cool to share the old girl again... this pic was from '94 or '95, I believe...dig on that classic stance:
(I'll dig up better-quality pics soon for a fun feature...)
This was actually my first car, purchased as a scrappy 14 year-old, and transformed with some great help from some great people, and two VERY cool, understanding parents that just "got it"...
Suffice to say, parenthood and whatnot have led to some less-cool (but far more reliable!) rides, but man, what memories, mullets and all...
Excessive...
18 OCT 07- ...to excessively clean...
As I mentioned in the last entry, I was digging through some photos, looking for some shots to help illustrate a point in a future blog entry, and, well, the future is now, I guess...
"Where are we going today?" you ask... Back to the 1980's! Woo-hoo!
I got to thinking about some cars that made a serious impression on me in my youth, more specifically, cars built in the '80's. Even MORE specifically, cars that defined opposite ends of the spectrum, be they in style, outlandishness, subtlety, whatever. Narrowing it further, the two cars needed to have something in common, beyond their build decade.
Bear in mind, the '80's were a decade of HUGE influence on modern hot rodding. The garish show queens that pro-street became ushered in the rebellion we now call pro-touring. Clean street rods led to billet-encrusted trailer rods, and the to the rebellion that spawned a renewed interest in traditional hot rods (which, sadly, bred the "rat rod" whatever-the-hell-it-is hellspawn in the '90's... Ask me sometime how I feel about THAT.). A re-birth of customs, kustoms, and kustom culture. Aside from that whole Huey Lewis deal, not a bad decade.
I narrowed it to the undisputed king of pro-street excess, that yellow and candy-color graphics doused, hyperbole on wheels, Rick Dobbertin's J-2000, and Billy Gibbons' oh-so-sweet, I-could-just-eat-this-thing-up Cadzzilla. As a certain yellow-hued guy might say, "Mmmmmm..... purple."
To say that each car impacted the future of our hobby/industry would be an understatement. And that little Pontiac was anything BUT understated. It was designed to BE excess. One blower is good? Two is better. And make 'em siamesed. Add a pair of turbos, too, why not? The whole car, from the incredible, fully-polished chasssis, to the plated or polished damn-near-everything was detail to the extreme...
A flip front was trick, and, well, a flip-up body just had to be better, right? And how about that rear suspension, huh? Right on.... THERE WAS NONE! No room for pedestrian items like suspension out back... this thing needeed HUGE meats to complete the look.
It's everything that was "right" with the show car scene at the time, and a glaring example of what was seen as "wrong" with the pro-street movement. You have to admit, though, the car had amazing fabrication work, and a fit and finish that was unheard of before, and in some casees, since.
On the custom side of things, in my opinion, anyway, there is nothing sweeter than Larry Erickson's design opus, Cadzzilla... Take a moment, and drift back to that Hot Rod Magazine fold-out poster you no-doubt hung from your wall... Man, that car turned my world upside-down. It was so radical, yet easily identified as a Cadillac... it was classic, but, well, somehow... futuristic! It was a sled, but it hinted as a dry lakes or salt flats screamer... It was part luxo-barge, part touring car, part kustom... it was an automotive tour de force! Check. All it needed was a cool owner...oh, wait, Billy Gibbons. Checkmate.
In the later part of the 1990's, I snapped a quick shot of this gorgeous ride at the Oakland Museum of California,
resting beside the Hirohata Merc, which had the windows soaped, as the interior was unfinished... A historic gathering! (and just around the corner? The Beatnik Bandit.)
So what's all this boil down to? Consider how these two cars influenced the hobby... Sure, they may have ushered in an era of mega-buck show cars, but at the same time, they brought with them a new age of cars-as-personalities. Two very distinct, well-known cars, built with astronomical bugets, and quality that raised the bar sky high. Do I agree with what these cars stood for? Perhaps not entirely... As entertainment, yeah... As practical examples of how to build a car? Probably not. Taken, though, as symbols of the age of excess, well, hell yeah...
It all started...
15 OCT 07- ...with this issue.
It probably REALLY started in the womb, but my first conscious realization was when I read this issue.
It arrived in the mail that day, and as I grabbed it from the mailbox after school, I had no idea of the impact it would come to have on me...
Reading the magazine later that night, it all started to come together in my mind. The future of hot rodding was going to be wild, no doubt. I gazed over work by the masters... sketches galore of future rodding concepts that ran the gamut from out there to so cool I drooled... It was a zen moment when I flipped the page, though, and saw Charlie Smith's work. This was a guy who was thinking as I did! Modern takes on classic themes! Flush-fit bumpers... new car-style handles and trim, big wheels (I had been building model cars at the time using 1/24 scale wheels on 1/25 cars, because it looked "right" somehow...)... low, aggressive, and with a coachbuilt flair! My head was spinning...and then the moment of clarity. I wanted to design hot rods and customs.
Sure, it took a number of years to get here, and actually do it, but man, it feels like yesterday that I was inspired to go this route every time the pencil hits the paper... The cover of that magazine said it all: The future of hot rodding today!
Well, that and "Scott Sullivan's hair style isn't for everyone"...
Whipped cream...
10 OCT 07- ...and salsa.
Salsa?!
I know what you're thinking. "Where is he going THIS time?!"
I like looking at things from a decidedly different angle, and am often inspired to seek out the inspiration behind a trend, or a particular style... I'm a fan of mixing and matching themes, styles, whatever...and an even bigger fan of just having fun with whatever I'm doing, and often seek out things that reflect this attitude. Whether in friends, books, movies, or music. Occasionally, this leads me to seek out stuff that's a bit off the beaten path. Such was the case here in the studio once again.
(Yeah, it's gonna be another musical jaunt... and it'll all wrap up nicely, as usual, with cars. Stay with me, I think you'll dig this little side trip.)
Anyway, I got to thinking, of all things, about Herb Alpert (not Marv Albert. That'd be weird.), and gave a listen to "Whipped Cream and Other Delights"... A far cry from what I was listening to a week ago, to say the least.... and by far much stranger cover art (if not quite risque', considering its 1965 release date):
Granted, this album was released before my time (in this dimension, anyway... there may be another me in some other dimension, hanging out in a lounge...), but man... how cool were these cats? If you're not familiar with the Tijuana Brass, here's a quick history lesson:
Herb Alpert was a trumpet player who developed a unique sound that was a mix of south-of-the-border, mariachi and distinctly lounge-y sounds, probably best described as "Ameriachi" (as I learned from a few sources). If you're really lost here, think of the theme from the TV show The Dating Game, called "Spanish Flea", which was a Herb Alpert/Tijuana Brass tune, and you'll have an idea... or their version of "The Lonely Bull".
Anyway, the 'Brass cranked out a few albums in the '60's (even a cool Christmas album! Find a copy, and mambo your way through a Christmas Wonderland...)until Alpert called it quits, and took his (and business partner Jerry Moss') record label A&M, and signed some heavy talent, releasing a few albums of his own along the way (out-selling Michael Jackson in the late-'70's! Says a lot for that era, I guess), before selling the company to PolyGram in the late 1980's.
So what's this got to do with cars? Think traditional lowriders. Bellflower custom style(named after the city in LA county where the look spawned). A mix of the lowrider and custom car, and you'll see where I'm headed.
Consider Watson's Caddy:
It is the embodiment of the Bellflower look... the low stance, simple (if often ANY) body mod's, the bold, yet somehow understated paint technique (much like his T-Bird that came before), and those killer pipes. The East LA style, mixing elements from two cultures (like the Tijuana Brass did!), and coming out the other end with a clean, cool style. It's all about class, luxury, and style. Just like a lowrider, but with custom roots.
Lowriders embodied Mexican tradition. Crusing in a decked-out ride to impress the ladies, and show off your skills was more than just about the cars. Cruising may be traced back to the "paseo", where singles would walk around in the central plaza of the village, basically checking one another out. The idea here was to impress. Put these kids in cars, and it sure looks a lot like cruising... Which brings us forward a few years to the end of the second world war. Hot rodding was booming as young men returned from military service, eager to make creative use of their new mechanical skills. On the other end of the spectrum, the Mexican immigrants were making their cars look luxurious. It was style over speed... lowered stance, different hubcaps, an accessories like spotlights, skirts, pipes... many items shared in traditional customizing.
Fast-forward a few more years, and combine this look with the growing custom scene, and well, you got some clean, mild cars that made the most of the new styling coming from the factory... Apply it to a luxury car, and you're well on your way to a crossover look beyond compare. Imagine in late 1957 (coincidentally, the same year Bellflower was incorporated as a city), a young Larry Watson crusing into the Clock Drive-In in his panel-painted T-Bird...
I have a soft spot for this look... A couple years back, I sketched up a modern take on the look, combining it with the pro-touring look -- note pinstripe whitewalls on a 5-spoke as a nod to the classsic "Supremes and pinners" look (OK, and a mild chop, extended quarters, relocated and shortened trim...):
The idea behind the Bellflower look is clean lines, cool, vibrant and rich colors mixed with just enough chrome to keep your eyes happy...Make use of some 'flake or pearl, some striping... In other words, think mild custom, but dressed a notch higher. It's a fun style, to be sure, much like Herb's band of session musicians belting out "Ameriachi" cover versions. Take one thing, and spice it up with another influence, and man, you can't help but feel the vibe, and nod your head approvingly as you smile.
And that's how my mind works: From whipped cream to salsa, stopping in between for some quick history, and leaving you to consider mixing up some styles on your project...
Bench seat...
07 OCT 07- ...standard. So I open my email, and there's a link. I click it, and I get this...
Ah, the golden age of transportation...
Helping you get in shape...
04 OCT 07- ...or at least covering up your out-of-shapeness....
Yep, it's gettin' on SEMA Show time, and we figured "what the heck, let's tease 'em with the new shirts". So here it is, a preview of the all-new PCK Studio long-sleeve tee:
.Yeah, they're pretty darn slick, and we're mighty proud of the design. We're even working on some kids and women's shirts, per your requests, so stay tuned for updates on those in the next couple of weeks.
Here's a closer look at the front art (you'll have to wait to see the back):
Suffice to say, these will be offered on the highest quality Hane's products.... Meanwhile, we've got a few more of the Summer Tee's, which make great stocking stuffers (shoot us an email for a special offer if you're Holiday shopping here, and we'll hook you up with a little something extra).... Check out the gift specials HERE, and thanks again...
Older stuff HERE in the archives...