Shop Truck Makeover
April 21, 2025
THE AUTO BUILDER
Featured
How-to Get Shorty
This article dives into the unique modification of a 1967 Chevy Suburban by Mike Dempsey, who reimagined it into a shorter, Tahoe-styled version. It also features Ken Farrell’s Retro Tek company, which has revolutionized the EFI system to combine the aesthetics of classic cars with the efficiency of modern technology. The article covers various aspects of vehicle modification, including chassis adjustment, engine upgrades, and the integration of advanced fuel systems.
ALL BUSINESS BUICK
Keith Samrany was poking around at a swap meet about 25 miles from his home in Grand Island, New York, when he found a ’35 Buick Series 40 business coupe that was just begging for a new owner. The coupe was in remarkably good condition, having been driven until around 1985, when a previous owner began a restoration that was never finished. Samrany, owner of KS Auto Stores in North Tonawanda, New York, had been a car guy for years, so he was very knowledgeable about the myriad of parts needed to build a hot rod. Enlisting the help of Dave Klock and Mark Morer, Samrany started to work on a project that eventually would take eight years to complete.
FOUR-IN-ONE
In the case of a new Honda Civic Si (EP3), this owner wanted to enhance high-rpm power. The K20 engine with the new i-VTEC 2-liter powerplant has considerably more torque available in the lower part of the power band in comparison to the older B- and H-series VTEC engines. While the EP3 used here is primarily a street-driven machine, the owner plans on taking the car to the weekend dragstrip on occasion.
Spotlighter
Myers Fenderless ’36 Takes the Trophy at the 75th Grand National Roadster Show
Flawless Execution, Timeless Style: How the Myers Fenderless ‘36 Stole the Show in Pomona ⚙️🏆
If you caught this machine in bare metal at the Rad Rides booth last year, you knew it was gonna be special. But now? Fully finished and flexing some seriously next-level craftsmanship, it’s the total package. From the hand-built body to the insane drivetrain and killer stance, this car just oozes cool.
Author
Jamie Dent
Photography by Scott Killeen
A Back-to-Back Victory
Pomona, California – Boom! Ross and Beth Myers just pulled off an epic back-to-back win at the Grand National Roadster Show, snagging the 75th AMBR award with another jaw-dropping ride. This thing is an absolute masterpiece, built by the wizards over at Rad Rides by Troy. And yeah, the Myers are making a habit of owning the AMBR stage—last year, Beth took top honors with her killer ’32 Ford Phaeton. Now, Ross is back with a fresh, full-custom 1936 Ford-based roadster that’s been dialed in to perfection.
If you caught this machine in bare metal at the Rad Rides booth last year, you knew it was gonna be special. But now? Fully finished and flexing some seriously next-level craftsmanship, it’s the total package. From the hand-built body to the insane drivetrain and killer stance, this car just oozes cool.
Power and Performance
Under the hood, the Myers Fenderless ’36 is powered by a 1957 McCullough Supercharged, 312ci Ford Y Block. This old-school powerplant delivers serious punch, making sure this roadster isn’t just about looks—it’s got the muscle to back it up. Power is transferred through a Bowler 4r70w Four Speed Automatic transmission, ensuring effortless cruising with smooth and precise shifts.
The rear axle is a Winters Champion Quick-change unit, built for both performance and show-stopping appeal. The suspension setup features a torsion bar system with wishbone-style radius rods and Ridetech Adjustable Shocks, offering a killer stance with modern handling. Stopping power is handled by Wilwood 4-Piston Calipers on all four corners, paired with custom machined drum covers that add to the car’s vintage vibes.
Custom-Built Excellence
The body of this masterpiece is a fully custom, hand-shaped design, loosely based on a 1936 Ford Roadster. No cookie-cutter styling here—every curve and contour was carefully crafted to create a truly unique ride. Underneath, a hand-built frame supports the structure, featuring custom-machined steering and suspension components that highlight pure artistry in engineering.
The car’s BASF/Glasurit Modified Porsche Aventurine Green Metallic paint is deep, rich, and totally unique, ensuring this roadster stands out in any crowd. Inside, the interior is just as impressive, with a custom-built seat and panels wrapped in hand-tipped leather, square weave carpet, and a hand-built lift-off top that ties everything together with a luxurious yet hot rod-inspired feel.
Rolling in Style
Rolling on Ford wide-five, mid-century race-inspired custom-machined wheels wrapped in Excelsior Stal-Sport Radials, this roadster embraces a period-correct look with a modern twist.
A Well-Deserved Win
This ride isn’t just another pretty face—it’s got the engineering chops and attitude to back it up. The AMBR award isn’t just about looking good; it’s about building something truly special, and the Myers’ roadster delivers in spades. Hats off to Rad Rides by Troy for another knockout build and congrats to Beth and Ross Myers for keeping the AMBR trophy in the family. See ya next year, Pomona!
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