Oil's Well That Ends Well
I'm sure these days everyone is aware that oil isn't just oil, and specific grades can provide superior performance and maximum protection depending on the application. AMSOIL now offers three new premium synthetic racing oils specially formulated to withstand the rigors of high-performance and racing applications, all three featuring the same additive package to provide maximum durability in multiple viscosities. The proprietary friction modifier in Dominator Synthetic Racing Oils reduces friction for maximum power and cooler engine temperatures.
While all three grades are recommended for high-rpm, high-horsepower, turbo/supercharged, gasoline- or alcohol-burning, nitro-fueled or nitrous oxide gas-injected applications, the 15W-50 is targeted at modified big-block, as well as late-model Ford and Dodge crate motor and aluminum block applications, the 10W-30 aimed at Modified big- and small-block as well as late-model GM crate motor applications, while the 5W-20 oil is for modified small-block, GM crate late-model, NHRA Stock Eliminator, and Junior Dragster applications amongst others. For more information contact AMSOIL at (800) 777-8491 or www.amsoil.com.
Timing Equipment
Every garage needs a clock, just so you know how late you were out there working on your ride, so why not make it a conversation piece rather than the old kitchen clock that made way for a new one in the house? Collectable Sign and Clock offers these new 14-inch lighted clocks featuring over 120 designs, comprising street rods, muscle cars, and hot rods from the past.
American-made, the clocks use a 22-watt fluorescent bulb with an on/off switch in the cord and a quartz movement that runs from a single AA battery. For more information contact Collectable Sign and Clock at (480) 755-7497 or www.usclock.net.
Deco Dash
While there are numerous gauge clusters and dash inserts out there in the aftermarket, few complement the style of the original interior (should that be the look you're trying to achieve), rather than add a modern street rod appearance. DC Street Rods' latest version of its Deco Gauge Cluster for '40 Fords, however, does exactly that, while accommodating modern gauges. It also fits '40 through '47 Ford trucks.
Available as a kit or turnkey unit ready to install, the Deco Gauge Cluster has been granted a U.S. Patent. Built to custom specifications, the buyer can choose the gauges, background color, the location of indicator lights if desired, and whether the raised portions of the faceplate are polished or machine-turned. For more information contact DC Street Rods at (925) 200-3840 or www.dcstreetrods.com.
Keep It Simple
Front of block "saddle mounts" for small-block Chevy motors are nothing new, but Engineered Components, Inc. has come up with a fresh version that can be combined with its similarly new accessory mount system. The Simplicity Engine and Accessory Mounting System attaches to the front of the block using eight bolts, four at the bottom of the block and four at the water pump attachment holes between the block and the pump, providing an extremely rigid mount. Eliminating the large, stock side mounts allows for more steering box clearance, fewer steering system U-joints, and a wider choice of exhaust system options.
The Simplicity Accessory Mounting System is an alternator and air conditioning compressor mounting system requiring no cylinder head or intake manifold attachment points. This freestanding system uses both front and rear water pump attachment points to mount the accessories between the valve covers, providing perfect pulley and belt alignment. The engine and accessory mounting systems can be combined for the ultimate in compact installations and are available for both short and long pump installations. Optional driver's side mounts are available for alternator and power steering pump mounting. For more information contact Engineered Components, Inc. at (860) 872-7046 or www.ecihotrodbrakes.com.
Horsing Around
If you want to build a unique hot rod you need to look outside the normal parts channels, because you never know what cool parts you just might find. If you're looking for a racing-style gas cap, one of the best you might find is this LeMans Roller Latch Fuel Cap designed for early-model Mustangs. Although this is a complete bolt-on kit for the Mustangs, it should be able to be adapted fairly easily to early hot rods. The kit includes a 2.25-inch ID fuel filler hose to connect from the new LeMans cap to the tank. The cap can be oriented in any direction and locked in place. Underneath the flip-top cap is a STANT-brand, vented, locking fuel cap which snaps into the machined aluminum base. All hardware is stainless steel and is included. The LeMans cap itself is polished aluminum. For more information contact R&R Specialties, Inc. at (423) 663-9816 or www.mustalgia.com.
Bring Your Tri-Five Alive
If you're looking to replace the steering box on your Tri-Five Chevy, you might want to check out Performance Online's new 500+ version. A step up from the regular 605 steering box in performance and technology, it employs a rack-and-pinion-style servo with unique effort characteristics for quick response and smooth operation, resulting in great road feel and feedback.
The 500+ is a brand-new unit and is easier to install than a 605 version, offering increased header clearance as a bonus. No external brackets are needed either, as the mounting bosses are incorporated into the casting, and the box will align perfectly with existing steering columns, negating the need for shims or spacers. With a 14:1 "sport" ratio, the 500+ uses the existing Pitman arm too. For more information contact Performance Online, Inc. at (800) 638-1703 or www.performanceonline.com.