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THE AUTO BUILDER
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Shop Truck Makeover
It’s a classic type of buildup: a big-block 396 in a ’66 Chevrolet El Camino, sprayed a glorious red with in-your-face yellow flames. Meticulously created by Bob Nation of Twin Falls, Idaho, like so many great builds, this one comes with a story.
A Farewell to the ‘Camfather’
Ed “Isky” Iskenderian—engine builder, innovator, mentor, philanthropist, and founding father of the modern aftermarket—passed away on February 4, 2026, at the age of 104. Known around the globe as The Camfather, Isky leaves behind a legacy so deeply woven into hot rodding and motorsports that it is impossible to imagine the industry without his fingerprints on it.
All-In-One Conversions
The lines of ’55-’57 Chevys are almost sacrosanct. They haven’t been modified or changed over the years with very good results. There have been a couple of exceptions, but by and large, chopped tops, restyled fenders and other modifications that alter their original lines don’t come off looking real good. The problem is in the proportions. We’re not sure if it’s because the factory got them so perfect right out of the gate, or if it’s that most have been left alone over the last 50 years, so a chopped top looks strange. Whatever the reason, the classic “greenhouse” roofline, long fenders and slab sides all work very well together.
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Remembering Alex Xydias
Honoring the Life and Legacy of A Hot Rodding Icon
The automotive world lost a true legend with the passing of Alex Xydias in 2024. Born in 1922, Xydias was not just a figure in hot rodding; he was a driving force whose innovations and passion forever changed the landscape of the industry. His life was a journey of relentless pursuit—of speed, of innovation, and of community.
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Photography by Stephen K. Anderson
A Passion Born in Los Angeles
Alex Xydias’ love for cars blossomed in the vibrant streets of Los Angeles. His early years were filled with the hum of engines and the thrill of speed, setting the stage for a career that would leave an indelible mark on the automotive world. After serving as a crew member on a B-17 during World War II, Xydias returned home with a renewed dedication to his passion. In 1946, he opened the doors to the So-Cal Speed Shop in Burbank, California, a haven for hot rodders and custom car builders that quickly became synonymous with high performance and groundbreaking designs.
The So-Cal Streamliner: A Testament to Innovation
Among Xydias’ many achievements, the creation of the So-Cal Streamliner stands out as a pinnacle of his career. This sleek, aerodynamic marvel set speed records at the Bonneville Salt Flats, capturing the imagination of car enthusiasts everywhere. The Streamliner wasn’t just a vehicle; it was a symbol of Xydias’ ingenuity and his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of what was possible in automotive performance.
A Founding Father of SEMA
Alex Xydias’ influence extended far beyond his work at the So-Cal Speed Shop. As a pivotal figure in the founding of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), he helped shape the future of the automotive aftermarket industry. His efforts in organizing the first High Performance & Custom Equipment Trade Show at Dodger Stadium in 1967 laid the foundation for what would become the annual SEMA Show—an event that remains one of the most significant automotive trade shows in the world. In 1982, his contributions were rightfully recognized with his induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame.
A Mentor and a Voice for Hot Rodding
Throughout his illustrious career, Xydias was more than just a hot rodder; he was a mentor, a guide, and a voice for the community. His work with Petersen Publishing as the publisher of Car Craft and Hot Rod Industry News helped promote and preserve the hot rodding culture, ensuring that its spirit would endure for generations. He shared his vast knowledge and deep passion with countless young enthusiasts, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie that remains at the heart of hot rodding today.
A Lasting Legacy
In the 1990s, the So-Cal brand was revitalized, thanks to the efforts of Xydias and his partner, Pete Chapouris. Xydias also served on the board of the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum, a testament to his lifelong friendship with Wally Parks and his enduring influence on the motorsports community. The establishment of the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts is perhaps the most fitting tribute to his legacy, providing a place where future generations can learn and be inspired by the same passion that drove Xydias throughout his life.
Remembering a Legend
Alex Xydias lived to the remarkable age of 102, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and shape the world of hot rodding. His contributions to the automotive industry, his mentorship, and his unwavering passion for speed will never be forgotten. As we celebrate his life, we honor the indomitable spirit of a man who dedicated himself to the pursuit of excellence in every facet of his life. Alex Xydias’ memory will forever be a source of inspiration for car enthusiasts around the world, a reminder of the power of passion and the enduring impact of a life well lived.
