Another Drop-Top Six-Four From Andre'sAbout this time last year, we let you in on a '64 Ford Galaxie 500 convertible being built by Andre's Customs and Rods in McKinleyville, California, followed up by a subsequent feature. Guess that blue ragtop caught the attention of Southern Californian Jeff Jones, as he wasted no time getting his same-year, same-model Ford up to the guys in way-NorCal! This one's going to feature a complete Air Ride Technologies suspension setup, big ol' disc brakes with Intro Twisted Vistas hovering above, a full custom interior including RodDoors bucket seats and paneling, a Wurthit Designs rack-and-pinion with an ididit column, and a freshened-up 390/Ford-a-matic drivetrain. The exterior will be coated in a custom Sikkens paint, while mild-custom touches (including the '60 Merc grille) will set Jeff's 'vert off from its stock brethren. Look for the '64 to debut in early spring.
Goodguys "Best Of" 2004A highlight of the previous summer event season, as with many seasons past, was the Goodguys Custom Rod of the Year and Street Rod of the Year awards programs. The first of which was held, as it always has been, at the annual Heartland Rod and Custom Nationals in Des Moines, Iowa. Followed wholeheartedly by CUSTOM RODDER, the Custom Rod of the Year traditionally draws out some fine later iron, and this year was no exception. Walking away with the honors were builder Roger Burman of Lakeside Rods (Ft. Dodge, IA) and owner Doug Hoppe, the men behind our cover drop-in '55 Chevy convertible. For more on the gorgeous car, flip to the full feature beginning on page 40. The following weekend, at Goodguys enormously successful PPG Nationals in Columbus (coverage of which you can also find on page 28), the selection of Street Rod of the Year was made. This year it went to Troy Trepanier and Roger Ritzow, the builder and owner team behind the amazing '32 roadster that knocked everyone's socks off (you'll have to look elsewhere for a feature on that-sorry!). All in all, it was a good year for Goodguys, especially considering that they reached a 400-event milestone, as well! For more information, please visit www.good-guys.com.
Vegas Of Old?Not quite, but close! The Stardust Resort & Casino is getting its feet wet (really wet!) in the hot rod and custom hobby by opening up its doors to rod-related events. "The auto-minded program marks how the Stardust is giving car guys what no other hotel in Las Vegas can-a home away from home for their prized autos." The Stardust will now offer special group rates, preferred parking areas, a collector-car concierge, and outlined driving tours for all national and regional clubs, as well as individual owners and hobbyists. Along with its famous signature marquee providing a traditional-'60s backdrop, the resort affords guests deluxe accommodations with renowned restaurants, world-class entertainers (gotta see Wayne!), and an exciting casino atmosphere to entertain club members when they're not cruising the world-famous Las Vegas strip! For more information, contact Mary Ann Burns at (702) 732-6274 , or visit them online at www.stardustlv.com.
Edelbrock: A Performance LegacyThe Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum is going to host a dedicated exhibit October 16 through February 14. The story of the remarkable Edelbrock family and company, which helped shape the hot rod car culture and industry, will be displayed in the form of landmark vehicles/race cars, photos, artifacts, and more from Vic Edelbrock, Jr.'s personal collection. Several special events will highlight the exhibit's four-month run, including the Edelbrock Night of Champions on Friday, November 12 (in conjunction with the Auto Club NHRA Finals). Come take part in the gala celebration of one of hot rodding's pioneering families/corporations at one of the nation's best places to see the history's past! For specific information on the various events, please contact the Museum at (909) 622-2133, or visit www.nhra.com/museum.
Toddler Rod WearYou may or may not put much thought into your everyday outfits other than making sure your socks match (if you wear socks) and your grease/beer stains are at a minimum. When it comes to your kids, though, that's a whole 'nuther story! Why not keep them at the hot rod fashion forefront with Swivel Industries' latest in toddler rod wear! Choose from a variety of rod culture-inspired Ts and one-sies-Junior Hot Rod Mechanic, Swifty's Garage, and Lil' Gasser among others. Suit your kid up in style-swivel style. For more info, contact Swivel Industries at P.O. Box 480355, Dept. CRM, Los Angeles, CA 90048; e-mail at info@swivelindustries.com; or visit online at www.swivleindustries.com.