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Randy Johnson's 1972 Chevy Camaro Gets Attention at SEMA and Ultimate Street Car Challenge

Mar 7, 2014

Randy Johnson's 1972 Chevy Camaro attracted visitors at SEMA 2013

One would suspect that Randy Johnson has many passions, and after learning a little about the Kewaskum, Wisconsin native, it would be safe to say his family and custom cars are two very important elements of his life.

Johnson designed a dual Spectre air filter intake system using several Spectre components for his 1972 Camaro at SEMA

Johnson realized his inclination to gravitate toward building cars early on in life. Assisting friends with builds was enjoyable to him, and with every moment he spent around vehicles came more knowledge- a knowledge that would eventually prove essential in his occupation. "I've always loved the automobile," recalled Johnson. "I find it a great way to express myself through the build of a custom car."

As an adult, Randy Johnson's enthusiasm for building custom cars remained steadfast. In fact, in 2007, he and his wife, Tobie, embarked upon a journey. Their new business would be dedicated to customizing vehicles. When the paperwork was done, D&Z Customs was born.

Of course, the builder is heavily into providing his clients with a one-of-a-kind product. However, he has partaken in several personal endeavors as well. Throughout the years, he has built eight project cars, the latest, a 1972 Camaro - a project that would wow the crowd at SEMA 2013.

SEMA featured 1972 Camaro is equipped with custom seats, steering wheel, Tiger Cage, Autometer guage, shifter, shifter boot, floor pedals, rear view mirror, fire extinguisher and more

When in the market for their next vehicle, some custom car enthusiasts search for a rig void of blemishes. But as a builder, Randy Johnson's mind set is a great deal different. While in pursuit of a car fitting the needs of his most previous project, the wheels likely began to turn upon locating a 1972 Camaro that was a far cry from eye candy. The body was painted with grey primer and the car was literally in pieces. A project that had proven overwhelming for the previous owner was viewed as an opportunity for Johnson.

Shortly thereafter, the builder put his nose to the grindstone. Dropping a Wagner Automotive-built 441 cubic inch LS7 in the engine compartment, he clearly had ample horsepower at his disposal. The engine was designed and built to perform. It sported a Comp cam, RHS LS7 R heads, a FAST 102 intake, a Callies crankshaft and rods and Wiseco pistons.

Regardless of an engine's components, it's life expectancy is short if proper lubrication isn't ensured. That in mind, the builder opted to install a Daily Engineering 3-satge dry sump system. This modification ensured a steady flow of oil in all conditions, which in turn, lent to a more consistent oil pressure and optimal horsepower.

Throughout the years, Johnson had depended upon Spectre products, and this build would prove no different. He designed a dual Spectre air filter intake system using several components.

"Spectre products have always been a natural choice for me in my builds," explained Johnson. "With all of the great aluminum tube pieces, it makes it easy to build a custom intake for whatever your car is.

"Great working and many filter options," he continued. "I'm very happy with the Spectre product line. I was very satisfied with the quality, and plan to continue using Spectre products in future builds."

With the drive line behind him, Randy Johnson cast his thoughts to a dependable suspension, capable of performing in a racing environment, yet lending to good handleability on the highway.

He chose a Heidts Pro-G suspension on the front and a Heidts Pro-G G.I.R.S. in the back. Installing Ridetech triple adjustable coil-overs all the way around the Camaro, he had the comfort of knowing the car could handle a plethora of conditions.

Of course, safety is always an issue, and the braking system plays a huge role in the well-being of the car, it's driver and those around them. Johnson chose to bolt on Wildwood 6-piston 14" brakes in the front. The rear brakes were also manufactured by Wildwood - the 10.5 4-piston models.

Aesthetics were also of great importance. In fact, when asked some of the more challenging aspects of the project, Johnson said, " Building the custom hood, rear spoiler and front spoiler."

Following the exterior modifications it was time to dress the Camaro up with a paint job And Randy Johnson had no intentions of doing anything other than providing onlookers with a product that was both exhilarating and pleasant to the eye. In fact, he suggested the paint scheme he chose was well accepted at SEMA 2013.

Making a few modifications to the lighting system, and bolting and adding impressive wheels and tires to the mix, he centered his attention to the car's interior. Sparco seats and steering wheel added to the overall comfort and look, while a Ridetech/DZ Customs full-custom Tiger Cage lent to an extra element of safety. With the installation of an Autometer guage display, shifter and shifter boot , Wildwood pedals, a rear view mirror and a fire extinguisher, the project was all but done.

Randy Johnson's build was not only a beautiful piece of work, but was built with performance in mind, as it finished 35th in the Ultimate Street Car Challenge."

Although countless hours were dedicated to this particular project, one can rest assured that Johnson considers his labors and well worth the effort. In fact, the builder likely gleamed with pride when his 1972 Camaro earned the Good Guys Gold award at the most recent SEMA convention. The car has also been featured on You Tube interviews with Power Media TV and high performance University and most of us can only imagine what it's like to see our ride featured in Popular Hot Rodding magazine. Johnson's car was in a feature photo shoot for Camaro Performers and was included in Top 10 Chevrolets by Block Forum.

While tinkering with automobiles as a youngster, Randy Johnson likely had aspirations of embarking upon his own projects as an adult. But little did he know that he would eventually set standards in the world of building custom cars.

Browse all Spectre automotive products by category at SpectrePerformance.com. While you are there use the Products by Vehicle Search to find Spectre performance products specifically made for your vehicle. To find a Spectre dealer near you use the Spectre Dealer Locator.

Wally Olczak Brings 2006 GTO To SEMA 2013

Feb 5, 2014

Wally Olczak's 2006 Pontiac GTO

Grant Park, Illinois native, Wally Olczak's passion for upgrading his rides began at an early age. "I have been a car guy my entire life," recalled the owner of FM3 Performance Marketing. "I started by upgrading my BMX bicycle as a kid and moved to bigger toys as I got older. I've been in the automotive business since 1989."

Although Olczak has dabbled in many makes and models, the Pontiac GTOs have a special place in his heart. At the age of 19, he purchased and built his first GTO, a 1966 model.

"I built that car from scratch," said Olczak. "Life got busy, and I sold that car to build my house. I was raising a family and didn't have the extra time or money," he continued. Finally, as I get older, I'm able to do that again.

One-and-one-half years ago, the business owner purchased another GTO, However, this vehicle differed a great deal from his first, as it came off of the floor in 2006.

When asked if he bought the car with a project in mind, Olczak said, "Yes and no. I was looking for a clean, late-model GTO to take to some track days and maybe do a few upgrades. After a few outings, I discovered that it handled like a dump truck on gravel. I contacted Bruce Raymond and Mike Norris, at Raymond/Norris Performance, and asked for their help improve its handling. As with most car guys, the project took a life of its own from there.

Wally Olczak showing off his Spectre air intake and the engine of his 2006 Pontiac GTO

"I have been a part of several builds in my lifetime," he explained. "But the last big build I did for myself was my '66 GTO."

Although the project was in good hands, there would obviously be obstacles along the way. The weight of the car was a definite concern. At 3,900-pounds, the task was creating an all-around street legal car that would prove competitive on the track.

That in mind, the build began with a suspension upgrade. The team turned to Pedders Suspension to provide them with a plethora of components. Many of which were prototypes built specifically for the project. However, they have since been added to Pedders product line.

To ensure a smoother ride and better handling, they went with differential bushing inserts, coil-overs and front adjustable sway bars. A front hub bearing package was essential while a number of well-designed bushings were utilized from front to back.

The company also provided the builders with lower ball joints, outer tie rods, shock bolts, and a 19mm adjustable rear sway bar. When the parts were installed, the effects were tremendous. Olczak and his fellow builders noticed a vast improvement in the performance of the car's overall ride.

Wally Olczak's 2006 Pontiac GTO on the track

One would only suspect a sigh of relief came with the completion of what they considered the greatest challenge of the build behind them. The suspension was the most radical modification," said Olczak. "Many at SEMA were very excited about it."

Although Olczak's GTO sports some of the most up-to-date suspension parts on the market, the car also benefits from several other modifications as well. The crew turned to Wilwood for a dependable front brake kit.

Eager to enhance performance, they went to work under the hood. Keeping a stock block and rotating assembly, they went with a FASTLXS 92mm black intake manifold package, Fuel Rail adapter and intake gasket kits.

They increased performance with a cam shaft, rocker arms and push rods produced by Comp Cams. Regardless of what lurked in the internal compartments of the engine, it was of utmost importance to ensure the exhaust system lacked any restriction. That in mind, they attached Dynatech headers to the Landspeed Development CNC ported and polished heads that they had previously attached to the block. And for looks, a pair of Holley Aluminum LS valve covers were bolted to the heads.

Searching for a great sound and adequate air flow entering the engine, they chose a cold air intake, produced by Spectre. "This is the first time I personally installed a Spectre intake," explained Olczak. But it came highly recommended. It's a quality product; simple installation, with an increase in performance."

Bearing in mind the importance of durability and performance, the team incorporated a Centerforce twin disk clutch system into the project and attached a Hurst competition Plus shifter to the transmission. Having upped the car's performance it only made sense to include rear end and axel into the mix that would exceed the stock component's performance and dependability. That in mind, they went with a G Force Rear end and axels.

With the suspension and drive train aspects of the build behind them, the team focused on comfort and safety, installing Recaro Sport TopLine seats, and chose Ridetech to provide the muscle car with safety features, including a Tiger Cage and 5-point harnesses.

Aesthetics were also essential. Dressing the car's exterior with a full vehicle wrap by Fetchgraphics, they accentuated the look with Ring Brothers hood pins. Black anodized 5-spoke wheels by Weld Racing and BF Goodrich G-Force Rival tires and the project was all but complete.

Upon purchasing his 2006 Pontiac GTO, one would suspect that Wally Olczak had aspirations of making a few modifications here and there. But little did he know that he was on the verge of embarking upon a 300-hour undertaking that at the project's end would dazzle attendees at SEMA 2013.

Browse all Spectre automotive products by category at SpectrePerformance.com. While you are there use the Products by Vehicle Search to find Spectre performance products specifically made for your vehicle. To find a Spectre dealer near you use the Spectre Dealer Locator.

Spectre Performance Air Intake for 2012 & 2013 Chevy Camaro Boosts Performance

Jan 31, 2014

Spectre's Chevy Camaro Air Intake 99881K with Red Air Filter

Spectre's Chevy Camaro Air Intake 99881K with Blue Air Filter

For legendary, unadulterated, muscle car DNA spiked with Hollywood pizzazz, it doesn't get any better than the 2012 and 2013 Chevrolet Camaro. Now in its fifth-generation, this latest version captures the overall universal appeal of the original 1967 Camaro, plus, viewed head-on with a slight squint, a vision of the 1969 Camaro headlights begin to appear like a friendly classic car ghost. As it has in the past, the 2012 and 2013 Camaro with its suggestive power bulge on the hood appears fast and ready to pounce on lesser vehicles even when it’s standing still.

Spectre's Chevy Camaro Air Intake 99881K with Black Air Filter

Spectre's Chevy Camaro Air Intake 99881K with White Air Filter

The 2012 and 2013 Camaro LT equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 revs to 7200 rpm and it puts out an estimated 323 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, which pretty much passes for V8 performance stats. A six-speed manual transmission comes standard and the six-speed automatic is optional.

The inherent quality of any muscle car is the ability to further bulk up. That’s where the Spectre Performance air intake for the 2012 and 2013 models comes to play. Spectre 2012 and 2013 Camaro air intakes, part numbers 9981 (red air filter), 9981B (blue air filter), 9981K (black air filter), and 9981W (white air filter) are specifically engineered to add horsepower and torque, while the specially designed oiled synthetic filter media provides excellent engine protection against damaging particulates and debris.

These high-performance air intakes for 2012 and 2013 Camaro V6 models is constructed from high quality polished aluminum tubing and comes with a heat shield. For variety and your convenience, the Spectre low-restriction air filter elements are available in four different colors, which can be effortlessly cleaned and reused. Spectre Performance air intakes are also easy to install and require no special tools or skills, and they include all necessary boots, clamps and hardware for an OE fit and finish.

See all of Spectre air intake systems for the Chevy Camaro on our Spectre Chevrolet Camaro Air Intakes page. You can also browse all Spectre automotive products by category at SpectrePerformance.com. While you are there use the Products by Vehicle Search to find Spectre performance products specifically made for your vehicle. To find a Spectre dealer near you use the Spectre Dealer Locator.

Ridetech Awes SEMA Attendees With 1933 Ford

Jan 25, 2014

The Ridetech 1933 Ford has seen its share of success, winning several events during the 2012 and 2013 seasons

Those in the business of building hot rods are likely familiar with Ridetech, and rightfully so. The Jasper, Indiana based company specializes in the manufacture of high-performance suspension systems.

The company takes pride in the fact a vast majority of their components are researched, developed and manufactured on site. These capabilities lend to "complete control over every aspect of design, quality and delivery."

Although suspension is their game, the Ridetech crew is talented in many other aspects of building rods. In fact, they have been assembling project cars for the past 17 years.

When asked how he originally got interested in these mechanical undertakings, business owner Bret Voelkel said, "Always been a gear-head. And having the talent to do what we do at Ridetech allows us to build some of the coolest cars out there. Just keeps me going."

Voelkel recently embarked upon a journey to Nevada, where he would dazzle the attendees of SEMA 2013 with a vehicle that epitomized design and performance. The car had already proven its capabilities numerous times prior to rolling to a stop at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

The Ridetech 1933 Ford's portfolio of achievements dated back to 2012. One would suspect Voelkel and his crew glimmered with pride after a win at the Optima Ultimate Street Car Invitational Brake Stop Competition. The hot rod was also victorious at the 2012 Goodguys Pro Series, and the Goodguys Street Rod Series.

The project car saw its share of success in 2013 as well. It earned a checkered flag at the Optima Face Off at Road America Brake Stop Competition, and a victory at the 2013 Optima Face Off at Road America.

With such an impressive track record, it's only fitting that this ride receives a variety of media coverage. The 1933 Ford graced the cover of the July 2013 issue of Hot Rod Magazine, a feat dreamed of by all builders and car owners. The publication also dedicated a 10-page article pertaining to the Ridetech project.

Although Ridetech is noted for producing high-performance suspension systems, the Ridetech 1933 Ford is a great example of the crew’s ability to build a hot rod from stem to stern

The car received it's much-deserved television airtime, as it was featured on five Optima Street Car TV shows.

The Ridetech 1933 Ford project was a result of dedication and perseverance. In fact, the team dedicated a staggering excess of 6,000-hours into the build. Beginning with a Factory Five kit, the Ridetech crew began working their magic, in the process, executing a few new ideas.

And as one would suspect, Ridetech manufactured parts were well represented during the assembly of the muscle car. This rig was destined to sport a suspension system, unsurpassed.

They opted to go with a "wishbone" design for the rear suspension. "Two bottom Links and a single "A" arm in the top, to control both lateral and axial rotation" provided the car with stability, predictability and speedy response.

Using the original pivot points, the crew fabricated and installed new control arms. They went with a Woodard rack and pinion front steering system, lending to greater handleability. With intentions of a means to set the car up more accurately in various conditions, the builders modified the spring rate drastically and bolted on front and back swaybars.

Although specializing in high-performance suspension systems, Ridetech had no intentions of stopping with a great ride and maneuverability. It was time to focus on the drive train.

Dropping an aluminum block, Ford, 427 small block engine, equipped with a Holley EFI fuel system, under the hood, lent to 580 horses of raw power. A three-inch exhaust system would ensure minimal resistance.

Acutely aware of the importance of maintenance, it was essential to take all precautions to ensure the engine remained contaminant free. That in mind, they turned to Spectre Performance for their filtering needs.

Bolting a magnesium NASCAR 4-speed to the back of the block, they could focus on other aspects of the drive train without concern of a subpar transmission. Installing a Winters quick-change rear end, they moved on to the braking system.

Lurking behind Forgeline wheels, 14" baer brakes provided impressive stopability. With other aspects of safety also in mind, the 1933 Ford was equipped with a full stainless roll cage, fuel-safe fuel cell and an onboard fire suppression system.

The Ridetech team also had the opportunity to showcase their fabrication skills with a plethora of aluminum fasteners, handles, latches and trim work on the body's exterior. They played a huge role in the modification of the interior as well, as it is completely hand-formed, double-wall, aluminum shielded.

Brett Voelkel and his talented crew at Ridetech turned the first wrench on the 1933 Ford project in January of 2010. Due to a vision, and countless hours of hard work and perseverance, the project is still paying dividends, and is yet turning heads today.

One might ponder why a man and his team would embark upon such a demanding project. However, building enthusiasts like Brett Voelkel and his crew might beg to differ. When asked the most enjoyable aspect of the project, the business owner suggested the brightest moment was hearing it run for the first time, and ensured it's first jaunt around the track ran a close second.

With SEMA 2013 behind him, one has to wonder what Voelkel has in store for the upcoming year. However, one can rest assured he and his crew will be well represented when the next event rolls around. "We will always be very active with the SEMA show," he ensured. "Either with company or customer cars."

Browse all Spectre automotive products by category at SpectrePerformance.com. While you are there use the Products by Vehicle Search to find Spectre performance products specifically made for your vehicle. To find a Spectre dealer near you use the Spectre Dealer Locator.

Spectre Has You Covered with Multi-size Flange Clamp-on Cone Air Filters

Jan 23, 2014

Spectre's multi-flange air filters include two insert adapters to allow the filters to clamp on to 3", 3.5" or 4" tubing

Every engine that runs by internal combustion of fuel requires air to operate, and the more efficiently that clean air flows to the engine to burn fuels like gasoline and diesel, the better your engine performs. That's information you can find in the first chapter of any Engine Maintenance for Dummies manual, yet air filters continue to be one of the most neglected parts of an engine, even though air filters are an easily replaceable component of the air intake system.

Spectre's multi-flange clamp on air filter are available in various sizes, heights and colors

Spectre Performance, with our universal clamp-on air filters, is doing our best to buck that needlessly, unproductive trend.

Whether you are looking for the perfect clamp-on air filter to finish your vehicle's air intake, or a more cost effective replacement to the one you have, or if you need a filter for your generator or pump's air intake - we have you covered.

Spectre's multi-size flange, clamp-on air filters are specifically designed with inserts, so they provide you the flexibility to use them for 3", 3.5" and 4" flanges. These round, tapered cone style replacement air filters are pre-oiled at the factory, so they're ready to install. They have an inverted air filter top for a larger filter surface area resulting in higher air flow potential and a longer service life. Spectre's precisely prepared air filters feature a highly efficient, synthetic filter media, with select number of filter design options available in a choice of red, blue, black and white media.

Spectre's Multi-Flange Clamp-on Cone Filters
Part Number	Flange I.D.	Base O.D.	Top O.D.	Height	Media Color
8161	3", 3.5", 4"	6.0"	4.75"	2.5"	Black
8162	3", 3.5", 4"	6.0"	4.75"	2.5"	Red
8166	3", 3.5", 4"	6.0"	4.75"	2.5"	Blue
8168	3", 3.5", 4"	6.0"	4.75"	2.5"	White
8131	3", 3.5", 4"	6.0"	4.75"	6.7"	Black
8132	3", 3.5", 4"	6.0"	4.75"	6.7"	Red
8136	3", 3.5", 4"	6.0"	4.75"	6.7"	Blue
8138	3", 3.5", 4"	6.0"	4.75"	6.7"	White
9731	3", 3.5", 4"	6.0"	4.75"	9.5"	Black
9732	3", 3.5", 4"	6.0"	4.75"	9.5"	Red
9736	3", 3.5", 4"	6.0"	4.75"	9.5"	Blue
9738	3", 3.5", 4"	6.0"	4.75"	9.5"	White

Browse all Spectre automotive products by category at SpectrePerformance.com. While you are there use the Products by Vehicle Search to find Spectre performance products specifically made for your vehicle. To find a Spectre dealer near you use the Spectre Dealer Locator.