The Ford wagon sported a perfect...
The Ford wagon sported a perfect stance, immaculate woodwork, a subtle green exterior, and wide whites on steelies making it the ultimate cruiser.
Celebrating the 41st Anniversary of the NSRA Street Rod National's, it was the perfect time for STREET RODDER and Ford Racing to recognize street rodders who install a late-model Ford engine in a Ford. With this being the first year for post-'48 era cars to cruise the fairgrounds, our search led us to Gary McCormick of East Peoria, Illinois, with his freshly completed '49 Ford wagon powered by a 351ci Ford Racing crate V-8 linked to a Ford AOD transmission. To give the car a great stance, its original chassis was massaged and updated with a polished stainless Heidt's IFS while a 9-inch rear by John's Industries transfers the power. Once the body was razor sharp it was coated with plenty of PPG Mack Truck Green to give it a fine vibe, while the exterior wood was completed at Wood by Whiskers. Inside the car was treated to yards of butter soft leather by Steve and Marilyn Ralfs. A combined effort, the woody came together through the hard work of Ken's Street Rod Repair in Rockford, Illinois, and Gray's Garage in Metamora, Illinois. Congratulations to Gary who will receive a limited edition jacket as an award winner.
A Ford Racing 351ci mill gives...
A Ford Racing 351ci mill gives the wagon plenty of go-power. The healthy V-8 wears Ford Racing valve covers, catches its breath through an Edelbrock intake topped with an Edelbrock 650cfm carb, and dumps spent gasses through Sanderson headers. Glitter from Billet Specialties tops it all off while spark comes from an MSD distributor.
Attention to detail at every...
Attention to detail at every corner of the wagon makes it memorable, especially with perfect body, paint, and chrome.
Great job on the wagon Gary...
Great job on the wagon Gary and welcome to an exclusive group of rodders who are honored for their special accomplishments.