INTRODUCING: SMOKIN’ SS – Part 1
April 9, 2024
THE AUTO BUILDER
Featured
CIMTEX SUPER CAMEO: PART 5
When we selected a Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 twin-cam, small-block 350 V-8 engine for our Cimtex Rods Super Cameo, we knew that we would be breaking new ground in the sense that GM never built a “production” automatic-transmission-equipped Corvette ZR1. However, there is record that a couple of Corvette ZR1s were specially equipped with automatic electronic overdrive transmissions for physically challenged Corvette enthusiasts. We don’t know whether it was done by the factory or by the private sector.
Nonetheless, it was our intent to run an automatic transmission behind this awesome powerplant. After all, we wanted our ’56 Super Cameo to be as civilized as possible, yet still be able to handle all the available torque and horsepower that will be the result of this twin Powerdyne (BD11-A) supercharged and intercooled Corvette ZR1 engine. But what type of GM automatic transmission would we actually be using?
ONE OF ONE
If there was ever a time of automotive wonderment and absolute freedom among designers and enthusiasts alike, it was the early 1950s. This was a special time when automobile manufacturers were exploring new territory previously held by the foremost automakers of Europe, and the Americans were going all out to stake their own claims to greatness.
TRI-FIVE FEVER TAKES OVER BOWLING GREEN
For three days, Bowling Green, Kentucky, became the center of the Tri-Five Chevy universe as the 11th Annual Tri-Five Nationals rolled into Beech Bend Raceway Park, August 13–15, 2026.
Presented by Classic Performance Products, the annual gathering brought together an incredible assortment of 1955, 1956, and 1957 Chevrolets from across the country. Bel Airs, 150s, 210s, Nomads, Cameos, Corvettes, wagons, sedans, convertibles, gassers, customs, and full-blown pro-touring machines filled the historic grounds, once again proving that few chapters in American automotive history inspire the kind of enthusiasm generated by Chevrolet’s legendary Tri-Five years.
Spotlighter
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: The Accusump by Canton Racing Products
Stop Shortening Your Engine's Life: Why the Accusump 3 Qt No Valve is a Must-Have
Here’s the deal: if you’ve got a V-8 or a high-horsepower V-6 or 4-banger and you’re not running an Accusump, you’re gambling with your engine’s life. The 24-006 Accusump 3 Qt No Valve is one of those pieces of gear you slap on and immediately wonder why you didn’t do it sooner. It’s been saving engines—and wallets—for over 30 years. Let’s break it down.
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Photos Courtesy of Canton Racing Products
What the Heck Is an Accusump?
In simple terms, the Accusump is like an insurance policy for your engine. It’s a pressurized oil reservoir that steps in to save the day when oil pressure drops or before you even fire up the engine. Here’s how it works:
- When your engine’s running and oil pressure is solid, the Accusump fills up and stores oil under pressure.
- When pressure drops—like in a hard corner or during startup—it shoots that stored oil back into the engine to keep things lubed and happy.
It’s that simple, and trust us, it works.
Why the Accusump Kicks Butt
1. Built for Power
This 3-quart beast is perfect for big V-8s or high-output V-6 and 4-cylinder engines. If you’re making big power, this is the Accusump you want.
2. Tough and Compact
At 16 inches long and 4-1/4 inches in diameter, it’s compact enough to fit in most setups but built tough enough to handle hardcore abuse. And yeah, it’s Made in the USA because quality still matters.
3. Mount It Anywhere
The piston-style design means you can mount this thing however you want—vertically, horizontally, upside-down, whatever. Other styles need to be vertical to work, but the Accusump doesn’t care. It’s ready to go no matter how you install it.
4. Pre-Lubrication = Engine Longevity
One of the coolest features is pre-oiling. Before you even fire up the engine, the Accusump delivers oil to critical components, reducing wear and tear. Whether it’s your daily driver, weekend warrior, or track toy, pre-lubrication is a game-changer.
5. Rebuildable and Serviceable
Unlike some of the cheaper alternatives out there, the Accusump is fully rebuildable. Blow a motor and get oil everywhere? No problem—take it apart, clean it up, and you’re back in business.
Real Talk: Why You Need One
Think about it. You’re ripping around a corner, hitting the brakes hard, or dealing with a sketchy oil pan setup. Oil pressure drops. Without an Accusump, you’re risking spun bearings, toasted cams, or worse. With an Accusump, you’ve got a backup plan that kicks in automatically.
And let’s talk startups. How many engines get murdered just from dry starts? That metal-on-metal grind is brutal. The Accusump stops it cold, feeding oil to the bearings before you even turn the key.
The Bottom Line
The 24-006 Accusump 3 Qt No Valve is one of those no-brainer mods that pays for itself the first time it saves your engine. Whether you’re a drag racer, road racer, or just a gearhead who wants to protect their investment, this thing delivers.
So, stop rolling the dice with your engine. CLICK HERE to head on over and get your Accusump, slap it on, and drive like you mean it. You’ll thank yourself later when your engine’s still running strong, race after race, mile after mile.
ARTICLE SOURCES
