Lots of work in Derick Samson’s...
Lots of work in Derick Samson’s ’51 Business coupe from Marshall, MO. Samson is the designer, builder, and owner of his Ford, which is seamless in the body, bumpers, and floorpans. It rolls on 18- and 20-inch five-spokes, and is powered by a 355 that has had its block smoothed out.
This year Bruce Ricks, of Sapulpa, Oklahoma, picked up the top prize with his ’56 Ford convertible nicknamed “Suncammer.” Built by Steve Cook Creations in Oklahoma City the smoky silver ragtop was stunning top to bottom, and featured a 427-cammer motor under the modified hood (with a one-off intake manifold with the Ford logo cast in place). Subtle body mods were also made (extending the front fenders downward, A-pillar leaned back) and it sits on a longer wheelbase. Nickel plating was subtle, and both the interior and top were stitched by Gabe’s Street Rod Upholstery.
Even in tough economic times, the Autorama didn’t disappoint. But when one of the big anniversary shows are held, it seems that all the stops are pulled out, and next year’s show will celebrate 60 years of the Autorama, so you know it will be an extravaganza! For more photos of this event, be sure to check out www.streetrodder.com.
Pirelli is the sponsor for...
Pirelli is the sponsor for the Great 8 finalists—the group of owners who are in contention for the Don Ridler Memorial Award each year. Seven of the eight owners were present at an awards presentation including (from left) Mike Lethert, Tim Gunsalus, Bruce Milyard, Bruce Ricks, Kenny Frederic, Kenneth Tallent, and Derick Samson. Not present was Jim Marciniak.
Jim Campbell, a vice president...
Jim Campbell, a vice president at GM (second from right), and members of the GM Performance Parts team (sponsors of the Ridler Award) present Bruce Ricks (third from right) with the oversize check for $10,000.
Jim Campbell, a vice president...
Jim Campbell, a vice president at GM (second from right), and members of the GM Performance Parts team (sponsors of the Ridler Award) present Bruce Ricks (third from right) with the oversize check for $10,000.
[2011 Don Ridler Memorial...
[2011 Don Ridler Memorial Award Winner] Bruce Ricks’ ’56 Ford Sunliner was renamed “Suncammer” due to the 427 SOHC motor under the reshaped hood. Steve Cook Creations can take credit for this build, which features a wedge channel job, softened side reveals, a spine added to the trunk, and a full belly pan. The plating isn’t chrome, it’s nickel, expertly applied by Jon Wright’s Customchrome Plating. Gabe Lopez fabbed both the interior and the top.