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Never underestimate the power of longevity. TUF Racing fielded their first Supercross team in 1985, making them the longest running privateer team in the history of AMA. That unrivaled resilience speaks volumes about team owner Dave Antolak and his keen eye for talent and knack for motivation. TUF Racing's list of past riders reads like a who's who of two-wheeled battlefield winners. This year the perennial Arenacross team will compete in the frenetically competitive East Coast AMA Supercross series. TUF Racing will field a two rider effort featuring Kyle Bitterman and new teammate, Vince Freise.
TUF Racing's Vince Freise earned a solid 6th place in round 3 of the East Coast AMA Supercross series.
"Vince is a 22-year-old former amateur champion that has moved up to the pro ranks and he has improved every year since," said Antolak. This year Vince has split his riding up by racing the 450 class on the West Coast and the 250 class on the East Coast for TUF Racing." Vince will be riding the TUF Racing modified CRF250.
The team, says Antolak, is concentrating fully on the 250 East Coast Supercross series and after three rounds TUF racing already sits squarely in fifth place overall in the championship. It was in preparation for this round at Saint Louis that Scott Venning, TUF Racings' Engine guru, made some key changes during the week leading up to the race to help Vince get off the line a little quicker.
The engine changes worked as planned as Vince earned a good gate pick for the main, which he then converted into a great start. After the first turn Vince was locked on the rear fender behind eventual race winner Wil Hahn. "I got a little tight the first few laps because I was kind of excited being in second and I lost a few positions," admitted Vince. "The more I run up front though, the more I feel like I belong up there. The bike is great, the suspension is perfect, and I can't wait until next week in Daytona."
"We had a couple of small mishaps at the first two rounds that held us back a few places, but we have been consistently getting better each week and are happy to be in the top five overall. Our goal is to make the podium this year and I think that is a very obtainable target," commented Antolak. "The season started three weeks ago in Dallas with stops in Atlanta and Saint Louis and we will be heading to Daytona this weekend."
Note: In round 4 of 250 Supercross East series contested at Daytona Vince Freise finished tenth.
1990 BMW M3 has 500 Horsepower LS3 engine with T56 6-speed transmission at SEMA
When some people hear "M3" they could imagine a classy sedan made for looks and luxury, not necessarily power - but take a look under the hood of Kevin Byrd's 1990 BMW M3 build and you just might not believe your eyes! Kevin removed the stock 4 cylinder motor and packed Corvette's 500 Horsepower LS3 in the engine bay with a dominant T56 6-speed transmission behind to distribute all those horses to the wheels.
Kevin Byrd's 1990 BMW M3 was at SEMA in Optima Batteries booth
Kevin Byrd is a long-time car enthusiast, mechanic, fabricator, and tech junkie. Kevin graduated from the University of Florida in 1998 earning his Mechanical Engineering Degree. He first started his career in Advanced Design in Aerospace, and has since then move on to work in Powertrain Research and Development for Ford Motor Co. Kevin uses the time around his schedule at Ford to work as one of the two hosts of "Two Guys Garage", a TV show on SPEED channel that demonstrates the correct way to modify vehicles and install aftermarket products. He has appeared in other automotive TV shows such as "Overhaulin'" and "Rides".
Kevin Byrd's SEMA featured BMW M5 uses K&N universal cone-style air filter for his custom ride.
Even during his demanding schedule, he somehow found time to build a 1990 BMW M3 for the 2012 SEMA show, which will mark the 9th year Kevin has been in attendance. Kevin states, "Building a car for SEMA takes a small army of talent, stacks of cash, or in my case, a lot of insanity, lack of sleep and determination." It looks like all that hard work was well worth it because he now has a beautiful powerhouse of an M3, and will be featured in the Top 5 SEMA Editors Choice from AutoGuide.com as well.
"Two Guys Garage" host Kevin Byrd brought modified BMW M5 to SEMA show
After the difficult task of fitting an over 400 lb. engine into a Bimmer, Kevin got in touch with his contacts at K&N Engineering to provide him with a universal cone-style air filter for his unique application. Since Kevin decided to put a 500 horsepower LS3 in a lighter car, the power-to-weight ratio will be significantly high. "I chose to use a K&N because it's just good stuff, I always use them." Kevin's told us his first K&N air filter was for a hot rod Camaro he built over 23 years ago! K&N's high-flow filtration technology continues to help Kevin reduce restriction, and get the most efficient air flow to his engines.
SEMA displayed BMW M3 with LS3 Engine swap, T56 6-speed transmission and much more
Kevin plans on having the car featured in "Popular Hot Rodding" and "European Car" magazines, and wants to tour the race circuit in 2013. He will also be continuing his work with Ford Motor Co., and "Two Guys Garage" on SPEED channel.
Kevin Byrd's BMW was equipped with the following modifications at SEMA 2012:
500hp LS3 Engine swap
T56 6-speed Transmission
Hand-fabricated Headers
Dual 3" Exhaust
Magnaflow Mufflers
AST 3-way Adjustable Coil-overs
BBS Wheels
Pirelli Pzeros Tires
K&N Universal Air Filter
Also check out this K&N news story:Two Guys Garage Episode to be Taped at K&N on Car Collector Appreciation Day with Kevin Byrd.
Red Lion Motorsports sponsors two NASA series cars including a 2006 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V and a 2000 Integra Type-R.
Many of those into building cars are likely already aware that Red Lion Motorsports offers an astronomical number of aftermarket performance parts for an array of makes and models. In fact, they are a dealer for an excess of 375 manufacturers and over 500,000 parts and accessories.
Although a provider of parts and accessories, the company's passion for the sport of racing goes much deeper. In fact, according to owner, Ben Therrien, they sponsor several vehicles in the world of racing, an endeavor embarked upon in 2006.
The 1980 Camaro they sponsor, is equipped with a small block engine. The motor sports a Holly 950 carburetor sitting atop a Procomp intake. Designed to handle the horsepower, a TH-400 transmission is bolted to the bell-housing, and the back wheels are secured to a ten-bolt rear end.
The 1980 Chevy Camero sponsored by Red Lion Motorsports experienced its share of success last season
Driven by Brandon Wyatt, the offspring of the father/son Wyatt Racing team, the vehicle's best E.T. (Elapsed Time) is 11.40 at 117 miles per-hour. Having been sponsored by Red Lion for two years the team has seen their share of success, In fact they finished second at the Hangover Nationals and finished ninth overall in the American Dragcar series.
Red Lion also sponsors two NASA series cars. They took a 2006 Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V, driven by Westly Benett, under their wing two years ago. The modifications made to this particular vehicle are extensive, to say the least. Improvements have been made under the hood and throughout the drive train. The steering and braking systems have seen modifications as have the wheels, tires, and suspension.
Red Lion Motorsports also has an interest in cycles, and in turn sponsors this 2003 Honda CBR 600-RR.
They have been sponsoring the second NASA series car, manned by Ian Gill, for four years. Although fewer modifications have been made to this particular race car, some essential changes have been made. In fact, the stock engine was replaced with a built/balanced LS/VTECH motor, while Prothane sway-bar bushings and Blox sway-bar end links were added to the mix. Plans for this season are to run the 2000 Integra Type R in the Time Attack events and the Honda Tuning Magazine R Challenge.
Red Lion also has an interest in motorcycle racing as well. They have been sponsoring a 2003 Honda CBR 600 RR, ridden by John Stillon for three years. The bike sports a few modifications, including a Zero Gravity Double-Bubble windscreen, a 520 chain and sprocket Double H brakes on the front and rear, a two Brothers racing exhaust with midpipe and custom paint. The crew also saw the importance of installing a K&N air filter.
"There isn't one vehicle in particular that we enjoy sponsoring most," explained Therrien. We enjoy all of them. They each bring something different to the events they attend."
Referring to sponsoring multiple vehicles he continued, "We actually have only one person who oversees all of the teams. We are working on building an open-road racing team as well. The members of our teams are very important to us. They help promote Red Lion Motorsports with their public relations work and vehicle presence."
Ben Therrien and Red Lion Motorsports are confident that success awaits those who adhere to hard work, and good tuning, as well as have an awareness of the importance of good luck. But the crew is also an advocate of proper maintenance.
"If you don't perform maintenance, you're just asking for trouble," explained Therrien. "This is a serious matter with us. While racing vehicles, you have the possibility of serious injury or even death over something that could be caught in regular maintenance."
The owner and his affiliates are also perfectly aware that maintenance plays a huge role in one's overall success. That in mind, Red Lion Motorsports depends on K&N products to keep the internal components of their engines running clean.
"We've been using K&N products since 1973," he stated. All of our vehicles use their air and oil filters." Sharing his thoughts on K&N products, the owner said, "There is nothing better in the industry. We have tested and proven their products on the track and will use nothing else. We also recommend only K&N products to our customers."
Red Lion Motorsports is no different from any other entity involved in racing in the fact that they savor victories. When asked their hopes for the upcoming season of the sport, Ben Therrien answered, "This year we are shooting for top-ten positions in each devision, but taking a championship is not out of the question."
Other K&N news stories about Red Lion Motorsports include, Red Lion Motorsports Brings Extremely Rare Nissan Skyline R33 to the SEMA Show, Ben Therrien's Red Lion Motorsports is a Time Tested Automotive Parts Powerhouse and RedLion Motorsports Prepares 2006 Chevy Cobalt SS Turbocharged for the SEMA Show.
2013 Chevy Camaro Convertible 2SS/RS as shown at SEMA
With so many builders working tirelessly for weeks, days and even hours up to the opening of the 2012 SEMA show in Las Vegas, many of some of the world's most exciting cars are getting geared up for display. Once on display many of these vehicles receive outstanding recognition that any builder or show car owner would be proud to receive, just like Rick Bottom. This year Rick was awarded the "Best New Interior" award from GM Design. After seeing the interior of the 2013 Chevy Camaro Convertible 2SS/RS 6-speed manual with 806hp and 730 lb./ft. torque, it is plain to see why.
Metra SEMA booth featured Rick Bottom's 2013 Chevy Camaro Convertible 2SS/RS
"Jannetty Racing Enterprises was a primary sponsor doing all mechanical work and expert tuning by Ted Jannetty using SCT iTSX wireless internet bluetooth via an iPhone," said Rick while giving credit to many of those involved with the build. But don't let the award for the interior design let you think that this Camaro is a slow boat on the line. Boasting plenty of aftermarket modifications and performance parts, this SS convertible is ready for the open road. "With 806hp under the hood the XTC 800 Camaro SS convertible is the ultimate performance machine for the sun loving enthusiast," said Rick.
806 horsepower Chevy Camaro Convertible 2SS/RS at SEMA
"Featuring a Metra Dash Kit and their own OE Navigation head unit to guide your travels. Vibe amps and speakers round out the A/V system. Truconnect wire and accessories keep things powered up and noise free."
Only the best aftermarket products were used in this build, including a K&N performance air filter to ensure that enough clean air gets to the supped-up engine. Rick would also like to thank American Brothers Design/Foster Machining, and Tony Williams/ASAP Digital for their assistance with the project.
Build is dedicated to the Memory of Paul "Dake" Schmitz. Other aftermarket parts and upgrades used on the Camaro Include:
SEMA featured modified 2013 Chevy Camaro Convertible 2SS/RS
Sherwin Willliams /Planet Color Automotive Finishes Screaming Yellow Pearl Tri-coat
Injector Dymamics ID-850 injectors
Trent's Trick Upholstery/Devil Accessories fasteners
RX Catch Can
American Racing Headers 1 7/8" long tube 3" x-pipe
Pirelli Tires 255-30-22 front 315-25-22 rear Pzero Nero
Pedders Suspension by Raymond Alignment Plainfield IN
Pedders Sport Ryder SuperCar with 30 pos. adj. reservoir shocks coil over system, bushings sway bars
Anzo Lighting LED taillights
3d Carbon- Body Kit and rear spoiler
MPD Inc. Hood for Showstopper Accessories
Centerforce Clutch- their new DYAD twin disc clutch and flywheel combination
Driveshaft Shop 1000hp street axles and Aluminum one piece drive shaft
Eaton TrueTrac differential
Lingenfelter 3.70 ring and pinion set
Husrt Shifter and Roll Control
Carriageworks Grilles
Vortech V-3 Supercharger and Air to Air Intercooler with Jannetty Racings Vortech upgrade kit which includes a larger K&N filter, 3.12" top pulley, adds a second By Pass Valve,
Jannetty Racing "Rough Idle" Blower Cam
Lingenfelter drop in dual fuel pump fuel system with upgraded fuel pump control module.
Billy Boat 3" exhaust system with dual mode.
Granetelli Motorsports Rotors and Spark Plug Wires
Roadwire Leather Upholstery Kit
American Brother Designs Billet Interior and Exterior Parts
Defender Worx door panel billet trim
K&N Air Filter
Showstopper Accessories Hood, LED mirrors and side marker lights
ProCustom Headlight Covers
Metco driveshaft safety loop
Fragola AN Fittings
Pirate Mfg. Billet Reverse light trim
Chrometech interior chrome plating service
exterior chrome molding trim by Clayton Machine
Raymond Performance hydro dipping of the wood grained interior parts
Innovate gauges
Autometer prototype gauge piller pod
A few other articles from SEMA includes: Project Builder Sam Piazza Brings 2010 Chevy Camaro SS to Las Vegas,
Christian Van Lewen's Custom Camaro SS at 2011 SEMA and the custom 2010 Chevy Camaro SS by Performance Supply Innovations at SEMA.
SEMA displayed Pfaff Designs 1959 Chrysler Imperial with modified Viper rear end
Customization is defined by Merriam-Webster as "to build, fit or alter according to individual specifications," and a picture of this 1959 Chrysler Imperial is the perfect candidate to sit alongside this definition. With a laundry list of modifications, alterations, iterations, parts and builders, it is hard to say what part of this beautifully designed Chrysler has not been changed. Built by an industry legend, Murray Pfaff of Pfaff Designs, this Chrysler is the pinnacle of perfection from its Dodge Viper modified rear end to its legendary 6.1 liter Hemi V8 motor with custom intake manifold and air box. The list of modifications, custom and OTS parts, as well people both directly and indirectly involved in this journey is a feast for the eyes. Murray set out "to build the sports car that Chrysler never built and re-write history," and did so, in part, by cutting the car "in half five times, at least once in every direction."
Pfaff Designs SEMA Featured 1959 Imperial has received numerous awards
Perfection requires patience, time and effort. Logged from the beginning of the build, the total man-hours invested in this masterpiece totaled more than 10,000 hours over a span of 4 years. Talk about obsession. The ex-4 door Imperial has received many awards and accolades including, but not limited to:
Outstanding Engineering & Best in Class, Detroit Autorama 2012
Barris Award, Muscle Cars at the Mansion 2011
Stock to Rock, Eyes on Design Concours 2011
HOT ROD Magazine, Power Tour feature - October 2012
Mopar Action Magazine - Winter 2013
1959 Chrysler Imperial Displayed at SEMA show
Murray's search for perfection entails the use of quality materials and he got hooked on K&N when he "first used K&N products over 20 years ago and have never stopped!" Only a man with such passion for the automotive industry and a team of equally passionate and talented members could have designed and built such an amazing work of functional art, and Murray puts it best: "Individually we could have never created such an outstanding ride, but together we did!" Here is a shortened list of the parts and modification to the 1959 Imperial:
Painless Performance 18 circuit trunk mount harness
2009 Dodge Viper IRS - narrowed approximately 8"
Steering column - Ididit
Shock/Strut Manufacturer - KW Suspension
Schwartz Performance G-Machine Chassis
Muffler Manufacturer - Flowmaster Hushpower
Transmission - 518 automatic w/overdrive Model PT 518 SS (street/strip)
Engine - 2009 6.1 Mopar SRT HEMI crate motor
For those car enthusiasts inspired to build amazing vehicles, Murray had one thing to say: "Inspiration without action doesn't add up to a whole lot in the real world." We couldn't have put it better ourselves.
Highly custom 1959 Chrysler Imperial attracted much attention at SEMA
Amazing details on SEMA featured modified Chrysler Imperial
Chrysler Imperial with 6.1L Mopar SRT HEMI crate motor at SEMA
