Vintage Torque

American Pickers visit the National Motorcycle Museum

2012-02-25T13:08:00.000-08:00

For those that dont know.....the guys from American Pickers are loyal and have not forgot about the people that were friends with them BEFORE they were the cable phenom they are now.
John (creator of the National Motorcycle Museum) has always been a cool guy to me and he has been friends with Mike and Frank before they were "stars."
Here is a way Frank and Mike remember who was there for them way back when.

Frank and Mike came to Vintage Torque Fest last year as well. We did ask them to come- but knew that with the hectic schedule they now have - it would be very hard to find the time to show up. Not only did Frank and Mike show up to the show....they actually hung out and had a good time as well.

I do not know if their filming schedule will allow them to be at Torque Fest in May of this year......but Mike has agreed to let us view his recent purchase - the Von Dutch XAVW at Vintage Torque Fest May 4.5 - this will be in the main hall with other historic hot rods and customs.
I bought my first '35 Ford from Mike waaaaay back when - long before the show was on the air and I thank him for the continued friendship.
http://www.antiquearchaeology.com/
www.vintagetorquefest.com

Trophy Queen to Attend Vintage Torque Fest!

2012-02-23T12:10:00.004-08:00

ok....I am honored.......
Trophy Queen is coming to Torque Fest.
I need ya'll to purchase some of these top quality handbags.
I first met her in Yokohama at the Mooneyes show.
After that I would see her at the various shows in California.
And then I saw her article in DiCE magazine.
She has a way cool 1948 Indian.
After the last Pile Up she asked about Torque Fest......
I gave her the info and told her we could get her a spot.
I just looked at her schedule..........
Grand National Roadster Show (LA area)
Viva Las Vegas
Lonestar Round Up (Austin TX)
Jokers Car Show in Sweden
Bottrop Kustom Kulture Show in Germany
and......
Torque Fest.
That is it.
We are truly humbled to be in the same conversation as those shows.
If you have any doubts about the show - come on out.
Jenny is.
http://www.trophyqueen.com/

Detroit - Basement - Be There

2012-02-21T19:54:00.000-08:00

Detroit Autorama
Feb 24 Noon to 10pm
Feb 25 9am to 10pm
Feb 26 10am to 8pm

look for us in the basement......
need some propaganda?
we will be there to disseminate

Classic Pin Up Contest - May 5 - Vintage Torque Fest

2012-02-17T20:12:00.000-08:00

BY POPULAR DEMAND - Torque Fest will have a classic Pin Up Contest in 2012

Miss (or Mrs.) Torque Thrust will be given her title at 1 PM on Saturday in Building #1.

Much like the hot rods and custom cars that are a part of Vintage Torque Fest, this will have specific rules as to who can enter and what kind of dress is appropriate for the contest.

There will be no adult content for this contest - if you are wanting to see writhing grinding or other "adult" behavior then perhaps you should go to another event....this is part of a show that try to re create a period of time - specifically the late 50s/early 60s. As a result - all girls should wear period correct clothing. Absolutely no nudity or even anything close to it. Remember that stag films were the equivalent of today's Victorias Secret commercial in the late 50s and this is NOT what we are after. We hope to class up the joint with some pretty women....we hope you will join us.

Milwaukee - THIS weekend!!!

2012-02-14T19:24:00.000-08:00

I simply could not help myself......
this has got to be one of the greatest car show / events/ extravaganza promo flyers of all time.
What does this have to do with anything?
Well - the Cheaters that brought you the flyer above - they are from Milwaukee, WI.
The World of Wheels will be having their show this weekend in Milwaukee - so we hope to see some of the Cheaters at the show......
and if you wanna stop by the Vintage Torque booth - we will give you some promo material for Vintage Torque Fest....
the show that the Cheaters have provided overnight security the past couple of years.
AND - if you paid attention to the tunes that were being played - that was DJ ROME - yep - he is a Cheater. He spins some killer tunes at the Cheaterama and we begged him to come and play for us at Torque Fest.

Those guys have the longest running traditional hot rod show in the midwest....possibly the country....
the last weekend in August - I have been there 3 times and intend to get back there - The Nite Owl is always magical - but there is always some extra pixie dust flying around on that last weekend in Aug.
Seeya in Milwaukee!

Friday 4pm-10pm
Saturday 10-10
Sunday 10-7pm
Wisconsin State Fair Park

The ORIGINAL Gasser.....coming to Torque Fest!

2012-02-12T19:38:00.000-08:00

This car was the first of a series of Gassers and Funny Cars campaigned by NHRA Hall of Fame legend Junior Thompson over many years. The Old Black Studebaker won “Little Eliminator” in the first U.S. Nationals in Oklahoma City in 1958. It ran every weekend at Lions Drag Strip, at Pomona, Santa Ana and many other drag strips. The OBS (as it has come to be known) was raced against, and beat the best of the gassers during the ‘Golden Age of Drag Racing’, including Doug Cook, Tim Woods, Pitman and Edwards, Ed Weddle, Dick Harryman, Howard Johansen and many others.”

We are honored to have such an historic car being displayed in the inside historic hot rod section of Vintage Torque Fest.

http://www.vintagetorquefest.com/

BURNING LOVE 5 - Chicago - THIS Saturday!!!!

2012-02-10T12:27:00.000-08:00

I am really looking forward to Black Actress - they sound amazing - of course Pegboy puts on amazing live show as well.....
seeya there!
Half Fast Chicago presents the 5th annual
BURNING LOVE
Anti-Valentines day party
Saturday 2/11/12 @ The Flat Iron
1565 N. Milwaukee – Chicago – 8pm
21+ to get in
Black Actress & PegBoy perform Live
Half Fast Chicago will be debuting the latest Harley-Davidson Dark Custom Motorcycle
Sponsor swag & Give aways
$10 @ Door goes to HelpingHannahsHeart.org
More info @ HalfFastChicago.com/forum

AUCTION - On Facebook and on The H.A.M.B. - 2011 Torque Fest Vinyl Banner 6 FEET TALL

2012-02-08T12:04:00.000-08:00

Keven Carter of Car-N-Art.com did this killer design for last year.....we auctioned off one of these at the show last year and it went for a couple hundred bucks. We are hoping to generate the same excitement here by offering on Facebook and the HAMB. Proceeds from the sale will go to the Hannah Wells Medical Trust. Thanks for bidding!

The size of the banner is 42 inches x 74 inches or 3.5 feet x 6 feet tall.

This will look great in your shop! Or garage....or behind the TV....or your bedroom ceiling.....ok- maybe not.

ENTRY GUIDELINES

2012-02-07T11:02:00.000-08:00

Entry Criteria - Please note that all entry inspectors are HUMAN and if you have a problem with certain vehicles getting in/not getting in - then YOU should be an inspector!

Volunteer info is on the website - http://www.vintagetorquefest.com/

For 2012, Vintage Torque Fest has worked to remove the subjectivity from the show criteria. This means that Torque Fest has tried to clearly quantify the entry rules and write them specific enough for anyone to determine if their vehicle would be allowed in.If your vehicle does not meet entry requirements, there will be a separate area where the muscle cars, street rods, stock originals 1949 and newer, and other non-qualifying vehicles will park. This parking area is right by spectator entrance and these vehicles will be seen by everyone. This area will be run by the Coronados CC and will be labeled the Coronados Car Club Classic and Chrome section! . A "new car" VIP section will also be in the normal parking lot so new Camaros, Corvettes, etc do not have to park next to the daily drivers.If you are unsure if your vehicle will meet the requirements of the show, email clear pictures of the front & drivers side, rear & passenger side, and interior showing the dash and steering wheel to coolstuff@earthlink.net. Please note that if you wait until the week of the show to email us - that is TOO late. Email notification will need to be complete by April 20.

We are not being elitist or think that your vehicle isn't cool - we just want to focus on rides that would be driving around in the 40's, 50's and 60's. If you have never picked up a copy of Rod & Custom or Hop Up circa 1956 - do yourself a favor and go get some!

These are the guidelines we will be adhering to.

The Criteria

To get into the show, your vehicle must be a 1964 or earlier "Hot Rod" or "Custom" built in a "Traditional Style".

All stock appearing/restored vehicles pre 1949 are welcome at Vintage Torque Fest!

Any vehicles from 1949-1964 that appear stock will park in the Classic & Chrome section.

A couple of modifications to an otherwise stock vehicle will most likely get ya in thedoor.

Here are the rules:

1. MOST IMPORTANT RULE-UNSAFE VEHICLES SHOULD BE NOT BE DRIVEN TO TORQUE FEST. We are NOT doing Safety Inspections at Vintage Torque Fest. The entry to the show does not mean that we have deemed your vehicle safe to drive on the roads or dirt track. Driver assumes all normal, reasonable, and prudent responsibilities for maintaining the safety of their vehicle. Drive shafts visible from inside the vehicle, suspensions improperly mounted, fuel that is not inside a proper gas tank or some other fuel cell will be asked to park outside the Jackson County Fairgrounds - we do not need the police involved in citations for driving unsafe vehicles.

2. No art cars - what is an art car? As one buddy suggested - you know you have an art car when it looks like you had a giant magnet attached to your vehicle as you drove through the local junkyard and permanently welded anything that stuck to the car.OTHER definitions of art car - Vehicles that look like a skeleton, pumpkin, or any other non auto related items are art cars. These are not traditional hot rods.Further definition of art car - Rats that are attached to vehicles are considered art cars. Anything that is attached to the vehicle that is intended to shock or have comedic value will wind up being considered an art car.Vehicles in rust, primer, or survivor paint are WELCOME as long as they do not fall into the "art car" category as described above.

3. No billet anything (if you have some part on your engine that is billet - DONT open your hood!)If you have a billet steering wheel or column - put a shirt or coat over it!

4. All fenderless 1949-1965 vehicles will be in Classic & Chrome parking.

5. No neon, 80’s style monochromatic paint or mural graphics.

6. No independent front suspension on fenderless vehicles.

7. No Tune Port Injection or Electronic Fuel Injection (with open hoods).

8. No trailered street legal vehicles. We welcome period correct race, sprint, modified, midget, drag cars. Obviously these will be trailered in to the show, but the trailers will be parked off site after the car is unloaded. We simply will NOT have room to park trailers in the spectator parking.If you wish to purchase a camping spot to park your trailer - then you can arrange that with the fairgrounds. Otherwise please contact coolstuff@earthlink.net for further details about trailer parking within 1.5 miles of the event.If you plan on unloading your vehicle on Saturday - plan on being there before 7am. Friday will not be as crowded, so Friday drop off will not be as much of an issue.

9. No stock or stock appearing vehicles 1949 and newer. All Torque Fest show vehicles need to have at least two major visual modifications. This includes - but not limited to: lowered, have a wheel change, have a custom paint job, have body modifications, or something that makes them a hot rod or a custom. Missing hubcaps and hanging dice are not considered modifications. Again - if you are unsure - send a picture via email.

10. LOW PROFILE TIRES/RAISED WHITE LETTERS are for VIP parking. This is not a 70's show. Also if you have 50 series or lower profile tires this will be a vehicle that will be in VIP parking. They may look cool - but these are very new.....

11. Wheels should be period correct to the hot rod or custom vehicle they are on and be on the "Acceptable Wheel" list. Aftermarket wheels that are on the acceptable list should be no larger than 15" in diameter.Wheels larger than 15" need to be original stock or reproductions of stock wheels. For example, 16" Ford Wires, 16" Ford steelies, tall thin Model A wheels (17" 19", etc.). It is also acceptable if you are running enlarged reproduction versions of a stock wheel such as 17" steelies, 18" ford wires, etc.Again, aftermarket wheels such as the original style Torque Thrusts, Torque Thrust II's, or Torque Thrust D's should be no larger than 15".

Examples of wheels that are acceptable - see website

Examples of wheels that are for VIP Parking - see website

We WILL allow GM Rally wheels that do not have center caps or beauty rings! Again - if you have questions - email us.

12. Modern upgrades that you can SEE, like aero-dynamic/modern mirrors are for Classic & Chrome parking. Digital dash boards will need to be covered to be allowed entry to Vintage Torque Fest.

13. LED taillights that have the traditional/stock appearance are acceptable. LED lights that are thin single, multi row, or billet frames will be parked in VIP area.

14. Vehicles that have more than 4 wheels will be parked in Classic & Chrome area. If you have a stock vehicle that is Pre-'49 then these will be accepted.

OTHER NOTES OF IMPORTANCE!

1)Just because you got into Vintage Torque Fest or other traditional hot rod shows in previous years -does NOT mean you will get in this year - the criteria will be enforced this year.

2)We hope that custom car owners realize the coolness factor of your car goes down by 90% with your hood and trunk open....and it is very rare that cars with open hoods ever get national photo coverage. (We will have national photographers on site doing articles for Hot Rod Deluxe, Ol Skool Rodz, Car Kulture Deluxe, Traditional Rod and Kulture, Rolls and Pleats, and more)

3)Stuffed animals, cry baby dolls, rubber rats, fake food drive in trays, skeletons in passenger seats are not for Vintage Torque Fest.

4)No display setup/tables set up around your car. Your car quality will speak for itself...if you need to tell people who did the work on your car - feel free to stand there all day - but honestly, there is way too much going on to just sit there - go out and enjoy the show! Torque Fest does not encourage display boards....but if you have a display board for your car - please respect your neighbors and be sure that if they fall - the display boards will not hit the car next to you! Display boards for invited indoor cars are welcome.5)Disc brakes, electronic ignition, and radial tires are OK.

Motorcycles:

Bikes must be old-school/traditional looking choppers, bobbers, or pre ‘75cafe racers.

All pre-1965 STOCK motorcycles are welcome.

Jap bikes are OK - no crotch rockets though - take a look at the current trends in Japan - the Yamaha SR400 is being transformed into something completely new.

1. No art bikes

2. No stock bikes

3. No twin cam Harleys

4. No new Indians, Buell, Big Dog, or West Coast Chopper/OCC style bikes

5. No aluminum wheels

6. No wide rear tires

7. EVO bikes are OK - just need to be TRADITIONAL STYLE!

In order to get everyone in and parked quickly, there will be no reservedparking. If your club wants to park together, you must arrive together.

We reserve the right to refuse entry to any vehicle that we feel does not fit the spirit of the show

Thanks to TudorJeff, the Chrome Czars, and Cliffy for input on entry requirements.

Please try to understand what we are doing at Vintage Torque Fest. We are trying to have a certain type of show....if everything is allowed in - then there is simply nothing special about the show. We want you to come and have a good time....ask others that have been in the past - they will tell you that it is, indeed - a good time!
All gate proceeds from the show go to Helping Hannahs Heart Foundation
Info about this 501(c)3 can be found at http://www.helpinghannahsheart.org/

Seeya in Maquoketa, Iowa - May 4/5, 2012

Hardware for the Ladies @ Vintage Torque Fest 2012

2012-02-05T10:58:00.000-08:00

Last year they sold everything on Friday.....I think they will come more prepared this year.....but dont wait too long - cause I have a feeling there are gonna be more people at Torque Fest this year.......................
HARDWARE FOR THE LADIES
they will be set up in the Model / Motorcycle Building on May 4/5, 2012
Vintage Torque Fest
www.vintagetorquefest.com

Iron Invasion is proud to have Wayne the Train Hancock Oct. 6, 2012

2012-02-03T13:41:00.000-08:00

If you have never heard Wayne The Train Hancock.....
man oh man - you have been missing out.
Come and see him live at the Iron Invasion - Oct. 6, 2012
Details on the Woodstock Iron Invasion are at:
www.ironinvasion.com

ART SHOW - Rat Fink Alert!!!!

2012-02-02T12:06:00.001-08:00

OK - so we have received a Polar Fink, the Kustom Dorr Roth Fink, and Gator came up with his striped Fink.

Now it is up to the artists out there to come up with some variations on the theme.

I have had some artists ask what we want....well - whatever you think will be a cool idea and something you may feel is unique.

My daughter and I came up with a quick list of things that may be interesting to see turned into finkdom.....

Classic Icons like:Monroe

Elvis

James Dean

CLassic horror icons:

Frankenstein

Bride of Frank

Creature Black Lagoon

Dracula

Mummy

zombies are really popular now - Zombie Fink

Automotive Icons

Shelby Fink

Dale Earnhardt Fink (complete with intimidating moustache)

Henry Ford Fink

Mopar Fink

homage to movies finks:Milner Fink from American Graffiti or Robert Mitchum Thunder Road Fink

period correct Fink - caveman, middle ages fink - Victorian / Steampunk Fink, 50's Fink

turn Fink into a girl and put a poodle skirt on her

do a Don Johnson fink from the 80s

Heavy Metal fink (like Rob Halford from Judas Preist)
add some real hair, or cut the fink up and add your own parts/appendages (keep it family friendly of course), be dazzle the Fink - add sequins or glitter
of course the variations on paint scheme can be tremendous....flat black with red accents

or the new flat black - FLAKE!

pinstripe the fink to the max
how about other cultural icons these days

Mario Bros Fink

Darth Fink

Bart Simpson Fink

Kiss Fink

Angry Bird fink

or how about going to the color copy place and using some old Car Toon magazine covers and pasting them all over the fink?

the list goes on and on - but dont be afraid to make yours stand out!

We cant wait to see what the artists come up with and if you have not received your Fink - PLEASE email me.

vintagetorque@gmail.com

Remember these need to be turned back in to me by April 15. We will have a professional photographer take pix of the Finks before the show.If you turn them in at the show - you risk not getting your Fink in the national magazines.

Thanks

for more info about the art show - just go to www.vintagetorquefest.com and click on the Art Show link

Lucky Tubb ~ Thorn ~

2012-02-01T13:49:00.000-08:00

He is playing May 5, 2012. Real outlaw country.
Lucky Tubb - yes - he has a family tradition of real country music - his great uncle was the honky tonk legend Ernest Tubb. Dont be surprised if Lucky pulls a song out of the family hat - could be Walking the FLoor Over You or Waltz Across Texas....but it is the original songs that Lucky has come up with that are the reason for checking out his set.
Check him - you will be glad you did.
http://www.lonestarmusic.com/LuckyTubb

Over 40 Videos on Youtube - All Traditional Hot Rods and Kustoms

2012-01-31T11:18:00.000-08:00

Did you know that we have over 40 videos of traditional hot rod and kustoms on our You Tube channel?
You should go subscribe....we are always out there on the road shooting video for ya to check out - now all you gotta do is watch this stuff!

http://www.youtube.com/user/coolstuffiniowa2/

Inside the National Motorcycle Museum, Anamosa, IA

2012-01-29T13:06:00.000-08:00

If you have not been to the new museum over in Anamosa.......you gotta go check it out. It is only 30 miles from Vintage Torque Fest.....
so on your way to or from the show - be sure to stop by - you will spend a good bit of time there checking out all the stuff. There is stuff on the walls that really got me excited. Then you look at the bikes - man - just too much stuff!!!
Special thanks to John and Jeff for all their help in getting some vintage motorcycles up to the Torque Fest - this is exactly what we are trying to get and they have been doing this for years and years. So we truly appreciate all their efforts in paving this road that we are now going down!
www.nationalmcmuseum.org/

Burning Love Feb 11 to help the HHH Foundation - BE THERE!!!

2012-01-27T13:40:00.000-08:00

This is the poster from last years event - it was way cool - Keven Carter is of course a genius when it comes to graphic design and mixing elements that get the right "vibe"

The cats at Half Fast are doing the Burning Love again on Feb 11, 2012 and we hope you will show up in Chicago to support this.

All door proceeds are going to the foundation.
This is a non profit designed to help families that have kids with congenital heart defects.
more info:
http://www.helpinghannahsheart.org/

2012-01-25T14:59:00.000-08:00

Please steal this image!Use it on Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, your Blog.....whatever.

We are trying to get the word out about the show and we need YOUR help. The more people that know about the show - the better.

Believe it or not - there are people here locally that do not know about the show........we are 40 minutes from the grounds and these people have never heard about the show.

I was discouraged.

SO this is why we need you to help spread the word - if you need promo material - let us know and we will send it out to you!!!!

just email me

vintagetorque@gmail.com

gimme your address and we will send out some promo material you can hand out to your fellow gearheads.

thanks

http://www.vintagetorquefest.com/

The Torque Fest Forque Test

2012-01-23T11:58:00.000-08:00

ok - so I freaked out a bit on the guys doing burnouts last year....
but honestly - we can NOT have that happening with all the people walking around. If someone gets hurt - they are not gonna come after you - they are gonna come after the show. And that is why we can NOT have people doing burnouts when mixing with the spectators.
AND
this is why we have come up with a solution.
The Forque Test area.
(another way of saying a bike burnout pit)
Motorcycles that choose to burn off their tires can go on the specified area in the Motor Psycho section of Torque Fest. This way they can smell the burning rubber and not have to worry about having the bike cut loose and run over 3 kids in the process...........
hope this makes the bike guys a bit happier.

We really want the bike guys to be a part of the show.......
and trust me, there are more than a few car guys that are not necessarily down with the mix. But I feel the segment of bike guys that are coming to Torque Fest are NOT the typical leather wearing rolex rider looking to play outlaw for a day....
the bike guys we are trying to get in the door have a deep respect for the traditions of the past. This means looking for those old bikes and getting them up on the road again or creating something that has eyes looking toward the past. They are not afraid to modify a Yamaha SR 400 into something truly unique and something that is their own. The same mindset of tearing down and rebuilding to make something "your own" is strong in both communities.
I think the motorcycle enthusiasts understand where we are coming from, and know that we are all there to have a good time.

May 4/5, 2012
www.vintagetorquefest.com

Koffin Kats - "Chaos" (Live - 2010) Joe Guerilla/Stomp Records

2012-01-21T19:54:00.000-08:00

the girlies think he is dreamy..........
check out the Koffin Kats LIVE on Friday night - May 4, 2012.
Maquoketa IA.
14 bands - $10
you can't see much of anything for $10 these days.....
Torque Fest gives you a bargain for the entire weekend.
http://www.vintagetorquefest.com/

Rod & Custom Show in Rock Island IL TOMORROW - Torque Fest Pre Party

2012-01-19T13:53:00.000-08:00

cmon - what is your excuse for not coming out........
its too cold....
its too hot....
its too windy....
its too....... whine whine whine.
Get off your butt - go mingle with some fellow gearheads and get a FREE Torque Fest poster in the back hall.
Just look for the Coronados Car Club table and they will be glad to give you one.
January 20th - 22nd 2012
Friday: 1 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
FREE admission for military on Friday

Federation of Horsepower - Playing Live @ Torque Fest & Bombers Show in Aug!

2012-01-17T13:03:00.000-08:00

Ok - so you wont get to see The Federation of Horsepower this weekend at the QCCA but we will have them on the shuffle so come on back in the Torque Fest party area and you may just get to hear some killa city rock and roll!
These guys will be playing Torque Fest May 5 around 330pm so you better put your face mask on cause they are gonna do their best to kick your teeth in with their sonic onslaught.

Cant see em at Torque Fest?
OK
Check them out at the Bombers CC show in August.
The Bombers will be at the QCCA in Rock Island IL this weekend at the Torque Fest pre party, so go ask them details about their show!

www.bomberscarclub.com
www.federationofhorsepower.com

Polar Bear Cruise is coming!!! Bare Bones CC to battle the elements again!

2012-01-15T10:17:00.000-08:00

OK - watch the video - you will see some cool footage of the Polar Bear Cruise that happens on Super Bowl Sunday morning every year outside Chicago.
This year the Bare Bones Car Club are gonna head a bit farther north on the designated route.
Start off at 9am Golden Corral in Elgin IL
then roll out to FCR Engine Builders in Palatine IL
after that Nostalgic Auto Body in Island Lake IL
this is a rain or shine (or snow, sleet) event
I plan on being there filming.
Seeya there.

U R NEEDED! - Volunteer at Torque Fest - Free Shirt & Free Entry

2012-01-13T07:23:00.000-08:00

Less than five months away and we need 100 volunteers..........

2 hours is what we need.

There are a lot of people out there that think this kind of event just "happens"

It doesnt.

We need people to park show cars, sell merch, monitor the track, help the bands, be gate inspectors, be sure people have the wristbands, etc.

Please go here:

http://www.tinmilitia.com/VTF2012Volunteer.htm

Special thanks go out to Mitch and the rest of the Tin Militia for coordinating the volunteer staff.

I will try my best not to yell at anyone this year.....

really.

Mickey Thompson was the Real Deal - not just a name on some valve covers

2012-01-12T13:03:00.000-08:00

wow - this guy was the real deal....
most hot rod guys know his name from the after market products you see out there with the classic M/T on there.....
but did you know that he was the first American to break the 400 MPH mark in 1960?
He changed the way drag race cars were set up - coming up with the slingshot design.
And brought rear engine racing to Indy 500.
In 1968 he redesigned the funny car for drag racing and it wound up winning the NHRA nationals in 1969.
Those of us in the hot rod scene may know his name.....but we should respect it even more.
If you wanna see some vintage footage click above - OR
come to the pre party at the 29th Annual Rod and Custom show - come ot the back hall and we will be showing vintage racing, and old hot rod footage all weekend long on the big screen.

3 On The Tree to Rock the Joint - QCCA 29th Annual Rod & Custom Car Show

2012-01-10T10:20:00.000-08:00

Three On The Tree are gonna be rocking the back hall at the Torque Fest Pre Party coming up Jan 20-22 at the QCCA in Rock Island. Hope you will take a trip to the back to see all the shenanigans that are going on back there.
I think Chuck the Barber will have some tools on hand to help out with the shaggy hair that is running around!
And Todd Jones is gonna come on over and show some of his fantastic art again this year.
We hope that River Rat Cycles will be showing up this year as well.

Bombers Car Club will be in the hall along with some cool cats from Erie Car Club!
And....
dont forget that the Coronados Car CLub will have FREE Torque Fest posters - so be sure to stop by and get yours!
And while you are at it - grab some promo postcards to hand out to the fellow gearheads that were afraid to get outta the house over the weekend.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/3-on-the-Tree/234688999880924

Von Dutch XAVW to be shown @ Torque Fest!

2012-01-08T08:52:00.000-08:00

Antique Archaeology will bring Von Dutch XAVW Motorcycle to Torque Fest!

Mike Wolfe of Antique Archaeology has agreed to show the XAVW.

This is a creation that could only come from the visionary - Von Dutch. In 1966 Von Dutch got the idea to throw together a truly rare motorcycle, the XA Harley Davidson (Experimental Army) and a 36 hp VW motor. The result is a one-off piece of history that was thought to be lost to the ages.

After tearing the bike down, Von Dutch sold or traded (depends on who you ask) the XAVW to Ed Big Daddy Roth. The bike was then traded/sold on down the line until recently when Mike Wolfe was given a hint about the current location. After following up on the lead and confirming that this was the real Von Dutch bike from the late 60s', Antique Archaeology purchased the machine from a private owner once the pink slip was shown to still have Ed Roth's name still on it!

Vintage Torque Fest is excited to be able to have such a rare and unique piece on display at the show May 4/5, 2012. This museum quality piece will be on display inside the main hall with the other historic hot rods, kustoms, and cycles. Considering how few items still exist with a verifiable Von Dutch pedigree, this is truly a museum quality piece.

History on display is what you get at Torque Fest, and thanks to Antique Archaeology there will be another cool ride to check out!

www.vintagetorquefest.com

http://www.antiquearchaeology.com/

Vintage Torque Fest VENDOR ALERT - do you plan on being a vendor this year?

2012-01-06T12:09:00.000-08:00

OK - so - we have a pretty large waiting list of vendors that want to get into the show........
so if you want to renew your spot from last year - you need to get the $$$ to us!
Email vintagetorque@gmail.com
If you dont have the money to us by end of March, we will consider that as not wanting to do the show and give some other vendors a chance at doing the show.
Artist Alley spots are on a waiting list as well - but please email me if you want to get on the wait list for the artist alley.

NEW Asphalt Fiends Coloring Book 2012 - We Need Your Help!!!

2012-01-03T13:35:00.000-08:00

We need your help!

We are trying to assemble art for the 2012 Asphalt Fiends coloring book.

Do you know anyone that would be into getting their art distributed nationally?

The art does NOT have to be new - but does need to be a hot rod/motorcycle with a monster.

And we need the art to be vertical - not horizontal.

300 dpi on 9 x 13 is preferred, or something close to those specs.

This is for medical expenses incurred for Hannah Wells heart surgery, MRI's, x-rays, lab tests, shots, etc.

All participating artists will receive coloring books as a thank you.

Last year we had the following artists contribute art:

Todd Jones, Sinclair, Mark Thompson, Scott Fisk, Chad Lampert, Gary Mizar, Grant Cushman, Anthony Ausgang, Zakka, Joey Finz, Big Toe, 3 Sheets, Jim Hively, Mike Learn, Doug Dorr, Tingler, Eric Foust, Arlo Dillman, BOMONSTER, Ryan Curtis, Ben Mitchell, Ick, Jeff Allison, Corrie Erickson, Max Grundy, Jeff Roads, Bwanadevil, Chad Scheres, Bruce Gossett, David Gabory, Nick Hansen, Ger Peters, and Britt Madding. And a very special cover by Zombie!

More details at:

http://p4.hostingprod.com/@vintagetorque.com/asphaltfiends.html

http://www.helpinghannahsheart.org/

Date Set - Cordova Run Whatcha Brung - Sept. 29, 2012

2012-01-02T18:43:00.000-08:00

Cordova Dragway - September 29 - Run Whatcha Brung Drags.

It dont matter if you are pushing 18 seconds - just come on out and have a good time.

This event starts late and goes late.

Special thanks to the Bombers CC out of Peoria for all their help last year - I think 2012 will be much better.

www.runwhatchabrung.com

Welcome 2012 - Dates you should write down NOW!

2012-01-01T10:20:00.000-08:00

Yeah yeah - I know - there are so many people out there that feel Bono is lame. But I love mullets - and his is the mulletiest of all.
Be sure to schedule time off of work on May 4 - it is a Friday - you will want to be on the road en route to Maquoketa Iowa about 9am Friday morning to get to Torque Fest in time for the racing and bands.
The show starts at noon on Friday - but you know people will be arriving all day long.
Hope to seeya there - rain or shine.
14 bands - art show - vendors from all over the country - historic hot rods and custom cars inside one building and the killer historic bikes in the other building.
This is a show with one intention:
Have Fun.
and we hope to raise some $$$ for the foundation as well
Speaking of raising $$$ for the foundation - if anyone in the Chicagoland area that wants to have a good time - you should come out to the Burning Love party on Feb 11 at the Flat Iron.
The weekend before that will be the Polar Bear Cruise with Bare Bones CC.
Looks like I will be spending some time in Chicago soon!
And before that is the Torque Fest Pre Party that is held in conjuntion with the 29th Annual Rod and Custom show in Rock Island IL on Jan 20-22.
Who says there is nothing going on in the winter?!!!
http://www.helpinghannahsheart.org/
http://www.vintagetorquefest.com/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Half-Fast-Chicago/60432778480

Iron Invasion Woodstock, IL October 6, 2012

2011-12-29T07:06:00.000-08:00

The video is actually footage from shows from all over...
from Japan to Jalopy Showdown in PA........
But the point of the video is to get across to the public the kinds of cars that we wanna see at the Iron Invasion.
Hope you dig it and hope you like the music - Wayne the Train Hancock is playing the show along with the Hot Rod Hucksters!
www.ironinvasion.com

while you are at it ....
go LIKE the Iron Invasion facebook page
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Iron-Invasion/131072450322950

Did you miss them at the Hunnert Car Pile Up?

2011-12-27T08:07:00.000-08:00

if you did not get a chance to see them at the Hunnert Car Pile Up - come and see them on Friday night at the Vintage Torque Fest! May 4 will be here SOON!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Reckless-Ones/203217499972

A very Rare Holiday Greeting - The Big E

2011-12-25T09:01:00.000-08:00

I am a huge Elvis fan - the above video is an outtake from the documentary That's The Way It Is. Elvis in the 70s was not all fat Elvis......this is proof.
Hope y'all have a merry merry christmas baby.

Merry Chopper Christmas! And mark your calender for Burning Love Chicago in Feb!

2011-12-24T09:34:00.000-08:00

Hey all you cool cats! Hope you have a great holiday season!!!

Burning Love 5 is Saturday 2/11/12 @ The Flat Iron....they are helping out the foundation. So we hope you will come down hang out - here some good music and have a great night with the Half Fast crew.

Merry Christmas and Nappy Blue Year.

Have a Cool Yule!!!

2011-12-23T20:45:00.000-08:00

such a great song and is one of my new faves - I just discovered this one about 2 years ago.....
enjoy and have a safe holiday

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Mambo

2011-12-22T08:46:00.000-08:00

someone took a lot of time to create this.....this is one of my favorite all time Christmas specials. Hope you dig it.

They are all in it together man......

2011-12-21T11:25:00.000-08:00

The Prez, The King, and the (Memphis) Mafia....they have all been in it together for a long time.....proof is in this picture.

Now it is time to go listen to "Merry Christmas Baby" - the full length version...not that edited stuff.

And the other picture shows the Prez getting ready to kiss the ring of the King.

December 21 - 1970.

more info at:

http://www.gwu.edu/~nsarchiv/nsa/elvis/elnix.html

Last minute stocking stuffer! Torque Fest DVD!

2011-12-20T06:04:00.000-08:00

http://p4.hostingprod.com/@vintagetorque.com/DVDVTF2011.html

There ya go - order in the next 10 hours and we will get it to ya by Christmas.

Better yet - go to
http://www.vintagetorque.com/
and order the KKOA 2011 and the Hunnert Car Pile Up 2011 DVDs!!!!

Only a month til the Torque Fest Pre Party! Rod Custom Show in Rock Island

2011-12-19T15:04:00.000-08:00

ONE MONTH WARNING!!!
Time for a party - that is right the Torque Fest pre party will return to the back hall at the QCCA Rod and Custom Show in Rock Island IL on Jan. 20-22. Come on back to the OTHER hall and see the cool hot rods and customs.....we will also have a live band, some vintage racing on the big screen for your entertainment, and a couple of car clubs-like the Coronados and The Bombers, vendors, and artists that will get ya in the mood for the May 4/5 Vintage Torque Fest.
Seeya there!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rod-Custom-Auto-Motorcycles-Products-Show/100553683335660

OH - and the Coronados will have FREE Torque Fest posters as well!!! Get 'em while they are still there!!!

Hunnert Car Pile Up DVD is HERE - just in time for Christmas

2011-12-18T05:53:00.000-08:00

It is NOT too late to get these in time for Christmas!
The DVD is $15 and $3 to ship.
Running Time is 95 minutes with some previews at the end.
Order now and you will get these to stuff all the stockings of your gearhead family.

Our Christmas special is still up and running and orders placed before Dec. 20 will make it in time for stuffing the stockings. Our Christmas special this year is getting our 3 event dvds for $45-this price includes shipping! So if you were unable to make the KKOA, Torque Fest, and the final Hunnert Car Pile Up.....now is a chance to take a look and see what these shows are about. Details on the special are at http://www.vintagetorque.com/Or u can email us at coolstuff@earthlink.net

Teacher says - Everytime a bell rings.....

2011-12-16T17:54:00.000-08:00

Sunday!!!
1PM!!!
Galvin Fine Arts Center in Davenport IA.
Join us for some Christmas carols, an appearance by Santa Claus, and the holiday classic shown in glorious black and white.
www.itsawonderfullifequadcities.com

RED DESERT "No Rest for the Wicked"

2011-12-15T20:59:00.000-08:00

just an example of how Red Desert is gonna make you crumble before their might........

http://www.reverbnation.com/reddesert

Daikaiju - LIVE at TORQUE FEST!!! - Escape From Nebula M Spacehunter

2011-12-13T21:09:00.000-08:00

I have been a fan of these guys for years.....now I will FINALLY get to see them play live - everyone I have ever talked to and read online talks about what a crazy live band these guys are - CANT WAIT!!
pronounced:
Die Kie Jew
in japanese this means - Giant Monster -
http://www.daikaiju.org/

Mean Mother "Dirty Mary" Music Video

2011-12-11T21:04:00.000-08:00

I was blown away by these guys at the Sins of Steel show - you gotta check em out at Torque Fest!!!
MEAN MOTHER!
www.myspace.com/meanmother

Helping Hannahs Heart Fund Raiser - NEXT WEEKEND

2011-12-09T06:51:00.000-08:00

December 18

1 pm

We are having a Fund raiser!!!

That is NEXT Sunday people.

We hope you will want to come out to the Galvin Fine Arts Center and hang out- sing some Christmas Carols....see Santa Claus....and

Check out - It's A Wonderful Life in glorious Black and White on the BIG screen!!!

Details are at:

http://www.itsawonderfullifequadcities.com/

there is a facebook page as well:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Its-A-Wonderful-Life-Quad-Cities/180355018712474

All proceeds to:

http://www.helpinghannahsheart.org/

Only a handful left....Torque Fest 2010 Poster Set

2011-12-07T17:36:00.000-08:00

I really need to get organized.....found about 5 of these sets out in the garage.

$20 for 4 posters in a way cool signed and numbered protector jacket.

Shipping will be $6

All posters are 11 x 17 and are suitable for framing. You would not expect anything less from Keven Carter at Car-n-Art.com

Get it now and you will still have time to frame them for the Christmas present that you know that special someone wants..............

send paypal to:

coolstuff@earthlink.net

be sure to include info in the notes section telling us what you are purchasing.

Anyone that orders this week gets a special bonus as well.....

Max Grundy - cool cat and amazing talent

2011-12-05T17:44:00.000-08:00

this poster is quite large
16 x 16
shipped in a large tube
only $25 + $5 shipping (foreign shipping email me)
Max Grundy lithographs sell for $60-$80
now is a chance to get an amazing deal.
send paypal to:
coolstuff@earthlink.net
be sure to include info in the notes section of the paypal.

Only 2 weeks til the "It's A Wonderful Life Quad Cities" Holiday Classic w/ Jimmy Stewart

2011-12-03T17:50:00.000-08:00

Hope you are making plans to join us. Dec. 18 at 1pm - Davenport. Galvin Fine Arts Center

details at:

www.itsawonderfullifequadcities.com

or click on the fundraiser section of

www.helpinghannahsheart.org

Asphalt Fiends Coloring Book - great stocking stuffer for Christmas

2011-12-01T19:22:00.000-08:00

This is a GREAT stocking stuff for Christmas.
And a good way to benefit the Helping Hannahs Heart fund.
Go to:
www.helpinghannahsheart.org
there you will see a link on how to order the coloring book.
Special thanks to all the artists that contributed - we hope you will want to do another!!!

what to get your gearhead for Christmas? Weesner print!!!

2011-11-30T17:18:00.000-08:00

There were only 500 of these produced. Numbered on the back. Get it before these are long gone and going for big money on ebay.
http://p4.hostingprod.com/@vintagetorque.com/torquefestmerch.html

Dragstrip Girl - great movie from 1957

2011-11-29T07:29:00.000-08:00

Psychotic Cinema: Dragstrip Girl (1957)

you wanna see a good movie from back in the day - do NOT get Hot Rod Girl....she drives a T bird - that is not a hot rod.....

in Dragstrip Girl there are some great sequences.

If you need a copy we got it.

$12 + $3 shipping - comes with full color sleeve etc.

buy one - you will like it.

The above is a really great review of the movie.

KKOA Leadsled Spectacular DVD Hits the Streets THIS WEEK!

2011-11-27T08:02:00.000-08:00

http://youtu.be/9DoKF_3GY7o

here is the link if you wanna see a preview - lots of amazing rides rolling through Salina in the summer.........

the DVD is $15 +$3 shipping

makes a great Christmas gift.

Buy it.

http://www.vintagetorque.com/

Iron Invasion Pre Party Announced!

2011-11-25T19:11:00.000-08:00

Looks as thought the pre party for Iron Invasion will actually take place AT the grounds!
We have got the OK from McHenry County Fairgrounds to have a get together the night before the show.
We will have at least one band - details on that to be announced shortly.
Plans are for a shop tour at Hopperstad Customs from 430 pm to 600 pm
then we will cruise en masse to the fairgrounds.
Of course times and route info will likely change between now and then - but this is a great start to what we hope will be a great event.
Thanks to Kerry and Sam from the Tin Butchers for helping getting the ball rolling on this.

vintagetorque@gmail.com

and- do us a favor and go "like" the Iron Invasion FB page.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Iron-Invasion/131072450322950

http://www.ironinvasion.com/

http://www.hopperstadcustoms.com/

Heed The Warning - Koffin Kats to melt your face off

2011-11-23T19:40:00.000-08:00

heed the warning.........

the exact location of the nuclear blast that will be going off on May 4, 2012 is Maquoketa IA.

The impact of the blast will be caused by the sonic fury of the Koffin Kats.

Duck and cover.

http://www.koffinkatsrock.com/

so good - Mean Mother is coming to scalp ya - Torque Fest 2012

2011-11-21T21:28:00.000-08:00

oh yeah - these guys know how to put on a show fer sure -

all the way from Detroit - they know how to rock and are here to school the Iowa crowd

listen to the goodness at:

http://sawherghost.net/sawherghost/?page_id=577

Gettin' Ya Movin' Baby - THE DYES @ Torque Fest

2011-11-20T19:20:00.000-08:00

The Dyes are a great live act - and their CD is pretty great as well.
Hope you check them out at the Vintage Torque Fest!
http://www.facebook.com/TheDyes

Fund Raiser for HHH - Classic Movie Screening - It's A Wonderful Life

2011-11-18T07:05:00.000-08:00

It's A Wonderful Life Quad Cities:A new family tradition coming to the Quad Cities in December 10/24/20114

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Kim or John Wells(563) 940-9389 or kimhelpinghannahsheart@gmail.com

It's an old classic with a new twist.

Families from all over the Quad Cities will gather on December 18, 2011 to watch the original black & white version of It's A Wonderful Life on the big screen at the Galvin Fine Arts Center at St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa. And it's all for a good cause! 100% of the proceeds from this event will go to the Helping Hannah's Heart Foundation which is a local non-profit established to help children with congenital heart defects.

Before the movie there will be a special appearance by Santa Claus and a Christmas carol sing-along led by a vocal quartet and piano accompanist with lyrics on the big screen so the crowd can join in.

Tickets are $10/adult and $5/child ages 3-12 (kids under 3 are free on an adult's lap). Tickets can be purchased at www.ItsAWonderfulLifeQuadCities.com or at the door on December 18th.

Doors open at 12:30pm and the show begins at 1:00pm. Seating is limited and tickets are sold on a first come, first served basis.
Be a part of this first annual event and start a new tradition with your own family. More details can be found at www.ItsAWonderfulLifeQuadCities.com or www.HelpingHannahsHeart.org.-END-

Help us spread the word! Feel free to publish this press release in your blog, newspaper, magazine, etc.

Please send copies of this or similar press releases that you have published to kimhelpinghannahsheart@gmail.com.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Its-A-Wonderful-Life-Quad-Cities/180355018712474

Koffin Kats to play Vintage Torque Fest!!!! May 4, 2012

2011-11-17T17:11:00.000-08:00

If you have never seen the Koffin Kats play live......well....be prepared. They will knock you back into the 4th row if you are up front. This will not be due to a kick in the teeth....it will be from the sheer energy that emanates from the stage. They are there to give their all and they expect you to as well. We had many complain that there were not enough psychobilly bands at Torque Fest......well....complain no more - one of the best in the world are here to give you the shock and awe treatment.
All ages welcome.
14 bands - $10 for weekend pass
details:
www.vintagetorquefest.com
www.koffinkatsrock.com

Turn On Tune In Drop Out

2011-11-16T16:38:00.000-08:00

Turn On
tune in
drop out

V.T.F. does have camping onsite.....so if you choose to get crazy over the weekend - stay planted and leave the driving to Timothy Leary

http://www.vintagetorquefest.com/

Surf Zombies - kickin it all off on Sat. morn @ Torque Fest

2011-11-15T14:19:00.000-08:00

They have a following now at Vintage Torque Fest.....people ask - hey - is that surfing zombie band playing again at Torque Fest?
Yes......
yes they are.
Surf Zombies will be getting thing started Saturday morning at 11:00 am.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Surf-Zombies/137335488149

REAL Honky Tonk at Torque Fest 2012

2011-11-13T19:25:00.000-08:00

Lucky Tubb is the real deal people.........
if you are diggin' Hank III, Wayne the Train, Dale Watson, etc
then you are gonna love Lucky Tubb

go check out some of his music:
http://www.lonestarmusic.com/LuckyTubb

Daikaiju to slay at Torque Fest - We can not be responsible.....

2011-11-12T20:00:00.000-08:00

man oh man....
I have been a fan of this band for years........
it is not rockabilly
it is not metal
it is not typical
it is
DAIKAIJU
(pronounced Die Kie Jew)
this is Japanese for Big Monster
they are incredibly talented and to call them a surf band is, well - not accurate.
I suggest you go take a listen.
And when they hit the stage at Torque Fest - I think you will stop dead in your tracks from the virtuosity that is being laid down.
http://www.daikaiju.org/

PS - Torque Fest can not be held responsible for the mind meld that occurs during a Daikaiju performance. Please be prepared and establish a lifeline to the outside world when in the sonic range of the Daikaiju vibrations.

Metal circa 1989? ...and "It's One Louder Isn't It?"

2011-11-11T17:26:00.000-08:00

If you are wanting to hear some bands that go to ELEVEN - then come and see Stage II at Vintage Torque Fest May 4/5, 2012.

The Big Iron, Federation of Horsepower, Daikaiju, Mean Mother, Red Desert.....

all of their amps go to ELEVEN

Happy Metal Day to all....

I am going to go listen to some Rough Cutt or Kix or something......

Queensryche for old times sake (yes that photo above is Queensryche guitarist and my friends circa 1989? 1988?)

Veterans Day - Thanks for all that you have given

2011-11-11T06:26:00.000-08:00

My uncle served....my grandfather served....my father served.
I did not.
I have nothing but respect for all those that have.
Veterans Day - a day to remember those that have given their lives or parts of their lives to serve our country.
Thank You.

Vintage Torque Fest is Proud to have Davy Jay Sparrow!!!

2011-11-10T07:29:00.000-08:00

So....you are disappointed that we don't have Wayne the Train Hancock playing Torque Fest this year.....
Well - Wayne will be playing Iron Invasion on Oct 6 - Woodstock IL.
In the meantime - give Davy Jay Sparrow a chance - this is a genuine product of Kentucky and the music is played from the heart.

http://www.davyjaysparrow.com/

The Big Iron - LIVE - Vintage Torque Fest - KC Punk

2011-11-09T14:35:00.000-08:00

How do you classify these guys?punk? cow punk? punk a billy?
who cares - they are great.

vINTAGE tORQUE fEST - HiGh EnerGy = AL & The BLACK CATS

2011-11-08T19:48:00.000-08:00

buy them some shots and I suspect they will play a bit longer .....and get a little crazier.....
even if you don't - they are gonna rock your fingernails to the quick.......get ready - they are coming for ya. If you are not ready - they will roll right over ya.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Al-the-Black-Cats/74207331141

Vintage Torque Fest Art Auction Chad Scheres WOLF Cross

2011-11-08T06:00:00.001-08:00

Here is another piece that did not make it into the art auction of the Vintage Torque Fest. We hope you will bid on this and know that this is AN ORIGINAL PIECE OF ART!!! This is hand painted by Chad Scheres (aka Toy Ghoul)

We thank him for the contribution.

For those that dont know what the cause is all about:

www.helpinghannahsheart.org

the cross is 15 inches by 15 inches

Payment info for Hannah Wells Medical Trust will be provided after the auction is complete.

Red Desert - bringing the heavy from the north

2011-11-07T12:47:00.000-08:00

bringing the heavy from the north....
RED DESERT
they are gonna be tuning down for ya Saturday on Stage II of Torque Fest.
That's right - 2 stages this year at Torque Fest - one for the old school rockabilly and country - the other for the more "aggressive" music.
http://www.reverbnation.com/reddesert

14 Bands for $10!!! Only at Vintage Torque Fest!!!

2011-11-06T12:53:00.000-08:00

14 BANDS FOR $10!!!!
Nevermind the hot rods, swap meet, art show, custom cars, vendors, model display area, vintage racing, motorcycle exhibition, bus races, Ring of Fire, pin up contest, and MORE..........
we got FOURTEEN bands playin for you.
Metal, Honky Tonk, Rockabilly, Psychobilly, Surf, and Heavy Surf.....you are gonna get SOMETHING that you are gonna appreciate with the music at Vintage Torque Fest 2012
And just so ya'll know.......
we ain't talkin' the local guys that wanna play for free - these are NATIONAL (and International) acts coming from Austin, Kentucky, Detroit, Minneapolis, Kansas, Alabama, Spain (yes - SPAIN!)etc
Check em out at the show - and purchase a CD or a shirt by one of the bands - they are all needing gas money to get to the next gig.
http://www.vintagetorquefest.com/

Volunteer Form is up and Running on the Vintage Torque Fest Site

2011-11-04T10:56:00.000-07:00

Just so everyone knows.....

the volunteer link IS up and running on the website.

We have about 30 people that have said YES to a two hour shift.

We appreciate you helping the cause.

We need more to get this event to run smoothly!

On the main page of the site - it says

VOLUNTEER -

just click on that and it will take you to the page where you fill out the times you are available, the position you are wanting, and the details of what you get for volunteering early.

Please note that if you are a volunteer - like a person that pre registers - you get to come in early and park where you want....this was a big deal to some people last year. With the possible growth of the show this year - it may be an even bigger deal.

Thanks for helping us out.

http://www.vintagetorquefest.com/

Pre Register for Vintage Torque Fest - get the DVD for FREE

2011-11-02T10:42:00.000-07:00

did you get your DVD....?
well - if you had pre registered you would have....!
So - GO ahead - pre register.
Vintage Torque Fest is the show that kicks everything off in the midwest - so we know you are gonna be there!
We also know you are gonna want to see some of the highlights of the show a few months AFTER the show is over.
SO - this is the way to guarantee that you will get a DVD in the mail.
And it actually helps us pay for some of the advertising for the show as well.
Other benefits for pre reg -
1- You will save time at the event. Pre registered cars are allowed in 30 minutes early!
2 - Special PRE REG STICKER - exclusive to those that Pre Reg!
3- Pre-registered vehicles will receive FREE DVD of Torque Fest 2012, This will be sent in the mail in summer of 2012. This is why it is important you give a legible current address. DVD will be for sale to public at a later date for $15 + $3 shipping.
4- The first Pre-Registered vehicles are guaranteed a spot on the dirt track - lowest numbers get to get in line first.

http://www.vintagetorquefest.com/

Steve Evans - Voice of Drag Racing

2011-11-01T09:25:00.000-07:00

Steve Evans - died Nov. 1 in the year 2000. Many of you may not remember - but for many of us he was the voice of a generation. Thanks for all the memories.

Go Buy the new issue of Ol Skool Rodz - Vintage Torque Fest coverage!!!

2011-10-31T20:42:00.000-07:00

wow - it is on the shelves NOW - go pick it up!!!

We are super stoked by the coverage we got in the newest issue of Ol Skool Rodz!

Check it!

sorry for the lack of Halloween post - but I am too busy getting out there and getting some candy!

Oliver Built Group PINK HELMET AUCTION - to help pay medical bills

2011-10-29T11:34:00.000-07:00

Well - I finally unearthed the last of the helmets that were supposed to be auctioned off at the FIRST Vintage Torque Fest.

yeah - yeah - I know...organization is not my strong suit....

This was a very popular one and the work that went into it was crazy.

Lace work - striping - super nice. ALAN McWILLIAMS did the lace and base paint.

DEN OLIVER did the pinstriping and Oliver Group did the super cool bag that comes with this amazing piece.

Thanks to all involved and hope that you will want to bid to help out with some medical bills.

For those that dont know what is going on:http://www.helpinghannahsheart.org/

This auction $$$ will go directly to the Hannah Wells Medical Trust.

Info on payment will be provided once the auction is complete.

For those that dont know about the art show we have every year in conjunction with Torque Fest - you should check it out.

This year we will be getting artists from around the world to do their version of Rat Fink!

At the shows these helmets were bringing about $125-$200

Hope you will go on the HAMB or on Facebook to bid - THANKS

http://jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=638988

Last Hunnert Car Pile Up The First Iron Invasion & Donna's Caddy Amb...

2011-10-27T20:51:00.000-07:00

wow - I had no idea we would get so much coverage from this local Chicago cable show!!!
THANKS CHUCK!
And of course - the Chrome Czars - we are eternally grateful for your support.

Lucky Tubb to play Vintage Torque Fest May 5, 2012

2011-10-25T10:26:00.000-07:00

OK - two of my favorite artists collaborated on the above song.
Wayne the Train Hancock and Lucky Tubb

Wayne will be playing the Iron Invasion Oct. 6, 2012
Lucky Tubb will be playing Vintage Torque Fest May 5, 2012.

If you can't dig this music....
well....
sorry.
There is a LOT to do and see at these events so if you prefer to look at the cars or art or swap meet - then go to it.
ME.....
I will be front and center for both of these guys!
www.myspace.com/luckytubb

http://www.waynehancock.com/

don't mess with THE SLACKERS

2011-10-23T19:07:00.000-07:00

so after getting past the initial rough exterior of these Southside Chicago boys......they are really decent guys. AND talented.
Glad to know they are down with the cause - for BOTH - The Vintage Torque Fest and the Iron Invasion.

http://slacker-carclub.blogspot.com/

Need Your Opinion - Was I a JERK?

2011-10-21T07:18:00.000-07:00

OK - so here is an email I just got from someone - let me know if I was outta line with the response.

From: Disgruntled Biker Guy
I will agree that Torque Fest was a huge hit! And we all will be there again next year. But I got to say I have only one disapointment......the vintage bike show? Pre 1970? wow there were so many custom billet bikes there (In addition to the vintage bikes) and the one that won....? Nice sled but by no means a vintage bike, I mean really. I know your hands were tied on this but maybe someone should be judging that does not know the winner and does know what a true vintage bike is. It seems that every bike show you see anymore , the winner is a friend or a person that knows the judges or works for them? It is at a point that ..why bring my bike? There were Pans, Shovels

My Response:

not sure what show you are referring to........Vintage Torque Fest does NOT give out trophies. - This is CLEARLY stated on the website. Click on AWARDS link. Yes we have CLUBS that present their picks - but this is NOT sanctioned by Vintage Torque Fest.....why?cause people get all pissed off and start moaning about what won this and what won that - its all bull. Who cares what won?It is only a matter of one guys opinion................I have seen this directly with the ISCA - and this has thousands of dollars for winners on the line - it simply gets down to one guys opinion of what is "correct" - even though there are supposed "rules" in place to prevent this type of thing from happening.....awards - trophies - they are all lame.

If you are there for some kind of "award"You are there for the wrong reason.

As for the motorcycle section being "screwed up" last year - yes - fer sure.The guys on the gate that were supposed to be letting ONLY the vintage bikes or retro style bikes in....they left their post about 230 pm on Sat. As a result - newer bikes came into the show - they were NOT welcome and I tried to get them out.These people that came in on the "new" v twin crap did NOT understand the show and can stay home next year if they want to disrespect the rules again.
We had a special parking area for those bikes but they simply chose to ignore the rules.
Not cool.
If you were one of those bikes - then you know how we feel.
If you had something cool and vintage - we apologize to you for letting that "new" stuff in.
If you still dont understand what we are all about.........well...not sure what to tell ya
in case you did not read the entry requirements:

Bring out your Norton, Triumph, vintage Harley or Indian, or BSA. Yes, custom Jap bikes are welcome. As long as the bikes will be something that looks like it would be in Choppers magazine circa 1969, Cycle Source or DicE magazine.
Occ Bikes, touring bikes, and fat boys are welcome - but will have special parking outside.
Bikes must be old-school/traditional looking choppers, bobbers, or pre ‘75cafe racers. All pre-1965 STOCK motorcycles are welcome. Jap bikes are OK - no crotch rocketsthough - take a look at the current trends in Japan - the Yamaha SR400 is being transformed intosomething completely new.
1. No art bikes
2. No stock bikes
3. No twin cam Harleys
4. No new Indians, Buell, Big Dog, or West Coast Chopper/OCC style bikes
5. No aluminum wheels
6. No wide rear tires
7. EVO bikes are OK - just need to be TRADITIONAL STYLE!
In order to get everyone in and parked quickly, there will be no reserved
parking. If your club wants to park together, you must arrive together.
We reserve the right to refuse entry to any vehicle that we feel does not fit the spirit of the show

From your email - I could not understand if you were bringin a "new" bike or something old.

This was only our second year at our event and the first for trying to incorporate the motorcycles into the show.

We have had a LOT of resistance from the car guys about letting in the motorcycle guys.I have no idea why.

Perhaps there really is a different mindset between the two.For me and my friends - we all get along and we all appreciate the cool bikes and cars.....
I guess some people dont "get it"
We hope that you will want to join us again and have a good time.

Bottom line - this event is NOT about trophies - it is about having a good time and raising money for kids that have life threatening heart issues.If you cant get down with that........well....we will all be having a good time out at Maquoketa May 4/5.

Blast from the Past - Go Cardinals!

2011-10-20T11:58:00.000-07:00

ha - well - I am an old TV geek - what can I say.....
also raised in southeast missouri before heading off to california - so I have been raised with the Cardinals as my only "team"

VOLUNTEER - Please.............

2011-10-19T10:15:00.000-07:00

We need your help.
We hope that you will give us some of your time at Vintage Torque Fest.
We will give you free entry....and AFTER you complete your shift - we will give you an exclusive Vintage Torque Fest Volunteer shirt.
The new forms are ready to go and the Tin Militia are going to help organize this so we all are on the same page.
Please know that this event can not run smoothly if we dont have people willing to help out.
Thanks and seeya at the show!
www.vintagetorquefest.com

Volunteer link is right below the Awards link and right above the No Dogs link.
if you are unable to find it - email me
vintagetorque@gmail.com

THIS SATURDAY - Party - Hot Rods & Rumble Seat Riot - Waterloo IA

2011-10-17T10:32:00.000-07:00

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Olivers-Designs/128314740604286?notif_t=fbpage_fan_invite#!/event.php?eid=252343151464701

B Js Bar

110 Ida

Waterloo, IA

Presented to you by Flattops & Fenders, Butler & Sons Barbershop and BJs Bar & Billiards.

This will be a ROCKIN end to an awesome summer of hot rods, customs, bobbers and geahead comradery. Please come join us and ROCK OUT with Rumble Seat Riot! Brian, (drums) Larry, (upright bass) & Gene (guitar & vocals) will rock your socks off with their classic rockabilly sound so bring your ride and your swingin shoes and break loose.

and Chuck the Barber will be there if you lovely ladies wanna dance........

DVDs FINALLY ARRIVE!!!! Torque Fest 2011 is here

2011-10-15T19:00:00.000-07:00

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO ALL THAT PRE REGISTERED!!!!

Those that Pre Registered last year for Vintage Torque Fest - Thank You!

If you have not received your DVD you will be getting it shortly.

If you did not pre register and wanna see some of the action on the track, the inside invite cars, a bit of the art auction, swap meet, Weesner, Emerald Tide feature, vintage stock cars, motorcycle exhibition, good music, good people, and yes....a bit of bus racing......then you gotta get the DVD.

$15 + $3 shipping.

Go to www.vintagetorque.com

buy it.

we need some Halloween costumes for the kids.

Hunnert Car Pile Up 2011 VIDEO to watch NOW

2011-10-14T10:45:00.000-07:00

Here ya go - a few minutes form the FINAL Hunnert Car Pile Up.
DVD will be available in December.
It will be a perfect stocking stuffer.
THANK YOU Chrome Czars..........your support over the past few years has been most appreciated.
Seeya at the Heads Up
http://www.hunnertcarpileup.com/hunnert-car-heads-up/

Cedar Rapids Swap Meet THIS WEEKEND

2011-10-13T18:52:00.000-07:00

yeah - it is getting harder and harder to find actual car parts at swap meets.....but Cedar Rapids still has some.........
Cedar Rapids Swap Meet is this weekend at Hawkeye Downs - come and see us inside.

http://www.hawkeyedownsspeedway.com/

Hot Rod Hucksters will play @ IRON INVASION!!!

2011-10-11T21:43:00.000-07:00

YES - the Hot Rod Hucksters have agreed to play the Iron Invasion! Main stage around 11:00 am - they will kick off the event in grand style and we will hope they play tunes like this one!
If you dont know about the Iron Invasion.........you better get hep to the jive.
http://www.ironinvasion.com/
Woodstock IL
Oct 6, 2012

2nd Amendment........

2011-10-09T23:00:00.000-07:00

ya ever been to the machine gun shoot?
no?
even if you have no interest in guns.....this is something that should be witnessed once in your life.
Oct 14-16
http://www.knobcreekrange.com/

I dont care what excuse you have - GET TO THE PILE UP!!!

2011-10-08T06:07:00.000-07:00

where are you?????!!!!! you GOTTA be in Decatur Illinois today! Why? It is the single biggest traditional hot rod show in the country this weekend - in fact......

I cant imagine any other shows bigger aside from Lonestar Round Up and stuff out in California. Did I mention this is the last Pile Up?

get there..........NOW

www.hunnertcarpileup.com

FINALLY!!! Vintage Torque Fest DVD's have arrived!

2011-10-07T05:20:00.000-07:00

At long last - the DVDs have arrived! I have had to get one box overnighted from Oakland CA. So I will have some of these available at the Hunnert Car Pile Up. For all those that Pre Registered for Torque Fest last year - THANK YOU! We will be mailing these out to you next week.....so be on the look out. Hope you enjoy the 90 minutes of dirt track action, cars, bikes, people, and music that make up Vintage Torque Fest. And if you show it to your friends and neighbors....tell 'em you gotta BE there to really "get it".
Seeya at the Pile Up!
I am already in Morris!!!!
Clinton IL Pre party is tonight!

2012 shows - Independent Syndicate - Mark 'em on the calender

2011-10-06T19:58:00.000-07:00

many many people out there are trying to tell everyone that there are no more good shows out there because the Pile Up is ending after ten years. Yes the Pile Up was the biggest no doubt....

-but-

It is simply not true - look at what they have spawned!!!

There are now a lot of other shows that you can attend and have a good time and hang with your friends and still see the cool rides.

A central location to find these kind of shows..............

The Independent Syndicate

There are a few of us that organize these kind of shows around the midwest and we have all come together to try to tell you people that there are other shows out there!

go check it out.....

http://www.independentsyndicate.com/

and if you are at the Pile Up and you are looking for the 2012 schedule - simply ask us....

at the Vintage Torque booth, the Bombers, The Tin Butchers, Breeder, Cliffy.....we are gonna be there making sure you people know about the shows in 2012!!!!

facebook page:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Independent-Syndicate/163782663707359

Vintage Torque Fest Art Auction CONTINUES HERE - Dick Cherry Art

2011-10-05T07:05:00.000-07:00

The art auction was a highlight for many people at the Vintage Torque Fest. Unfortunately we did not have time to sell all the pieces that were there. We are in the process of rounding up the remaining art that was not sold and auction on Facebook and The H.A.M.B. aka Jalopy Journal.

http://jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=630715

simply email us or post on the Facebook or HAMB telling the world what you are willing to bid for this killer piece.

Dick Cherry is the artist and he spent a LOT of time on this.

check his site at:

www.dickcherry.com

We hope that the bidding will go well - cause I KNOW this piece would have brought some good money at the art auction at Vintage Torque Fest.

Most crosses that were there brought at least $100-$125.

The really detailed ones were bringing well over $200.

Payment info for Hannah Wells Medical Trust will be provided after the auction is complete.

For info about our benefit:www.helpinghannahsheart.org

thanks

cross itself is 15 inches by 15 inches....the aluminum diamond plating makes this about 16.5 x 16.5 inches.Amazing detail - this is ORIGINAL art...not some sticker or vinyl graphic.

Hunnert Car Pile Up - THANK YOU CHROME CZARS

2011-10-03T19:43:00.000-07:00

Don't know where you will be October 8.....but Decatur Illinois will be the place you SHOULD be.

www.hunertcarpileup.com

If you see those guys that wear the Chrome Czar jackets...........

go up and thank them.

Thank them for putting in thousands of hours over the past ten years to make something special.

Something that is talked about all over the country - and yes - even in lands beyond our shores.

They have dedicated a part of their lives for the hobby that we all love and live.

Thank them......

I know I will.

IRON INVASION - get your promo material at the Pile Up

2011-10-01T18:23:00.000-07:00

Yes - we know - it is over a year away.....but we really hope you will spread the word.....

do us a favor and go LIKE the facebook page

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Iron-Invasion/131072450322950

What else are you gonna be doing next October.....???

Come on out to Woodstock and have a good time.

http://www.ironinvasion.com/

We will be distributing promo material at the Pile Up in Decatur - so we hope you will grab some and take it back home with ya and look forward to it next year.

some have asked us - what is setting this show apart from any others?

well.....

not every show has a Do It Yourself Stunt Show.........

that is right - YOU can go out in the stunt area and rip it up with some power slides or donuts and get the crowd into it.

Another thing that not every show has is the Retro Reels Cinema - a great chance to go and check out some vintage footage from the past.

And we will bring you some good music that is not seen at just every show.......

October 6, 2012

Rain or Shine

ART SHOW - RAT FINK - get your brushes ready!

2011-09-29T11:53:00.000-07:00

Continuing the tradition of keeping the Big Daddy Roth spirit alive.....we bring you.......

RAT FINK!

This year's Vintage Torque Fest is gonna be the Finkiest ever! Cause we are getting some of the best artist in the WORLD to contribute!

The canvas that will be sent to the artists this year is a 2 foot by 18 inch Rat Fink.

We hope that artists that have contributed in the past will want to help the cause again.

Artists like Big Toe, 3 Sheets, Todd Jones, J-Sin, Squindo, etc have participated in the other auctions....this year we hope even more artists will want to be a part of the event.

All proceeds from the art auction directly benefit the Hannah Wells Medical Trust.

This is to help pay the medical bills, insurance, & medication for Hannah.

Info on her story can be found at http://www.helpinghannahsheart.org/

Jimmy Flinstone of Jimmyflintstonestudios.com has helped out with the art auction again this year. If anyone wishes to purchase the normal Rat FInk signs - contact Jimmy through his site.

Artists will receive 1 blank embossed Rat Fink ready for flake, one shot, enamel or acrylic. We know that the artists will provide some amazing interpretations to the classic icon - Rat Fink

Email vintagetorque@gmail.com if you wish to be a part of the art auction.

More info about this can be found at the Torque Fest website - click on the art show link.

ALSO - there will be some crosses that were not auctioned off at last year's event going up on the BLOG, The HAMB, and Facebook very soon.......stay tuned!

http://www.vintagetorquefest.com/

Traditional Rod & Kulture - Vintage Torque Fest Coverage - GO BUY IT!

2011-09-28T12:01:00.000-07:00

Amazing coverage in the most recent issue of Traditional Rod and Kulture.

If you dont get this magazine - go find it! It is one of the best out there. We were very excited to be located right next to Scary Larry's Jalopy Showdown Drags ad as well! Mongo took some killer pix and did a fantastic job of getting the major points across about the show.

Thanks to Zombie for giving us some coverage....it is appreciated.

www.vintagetorquefest.com

www.rodandkulture.com

Hot Rods and Harleys Oct 2 on the East side....Cruise to the Woods on the West side

2011-09-27T07:17:00.000-07:00

Oct. 2 Hopkinton IA

www.hotrodsandharleyscarshow.com

this is on the East side of Iowa....

on the West side of Iowa is the Cruise to the Woods

http://www.wccruisers.com/cruisetothewoods.html

Birthday Present to myself

2011-09-26T16:36:00.000-07:00

http://devour.com/video/stop-motion-jonny-quest/

for those that don't know.....
I am a geek.
Total and complete nerd.
I love stop motion animation.
I love old 60's cartoons.
Ladies and Gentlemen - I have found the perfect combination of the two.

Hunnert Car Pile Up - Countdown is ON - U gonna be there?

2011-09-24T18:41:00.000-07:00

Countdown is officially on.....

http://www.hunnertcarpileup.com/

10-8-11
pre party in Clinton the night before - get there early!

Maquoketa Iowa - Coronados CC

2011-09-23T07:10:00.000-07:00

for those that dont know - the Coronados Car Club did about 300 hours of work behind the scenes at Vintage Torque Fest. This weekend they are shutting down Main Street to bring in some hot rods and cool cars..........go support them!

Coronado Car Club

Muscle on Main

Saturday, September 24

6:00 - 10:00pm

Main Street

Maquoketa, IA

For more information call : 563-357 -2775

All Cars welcome!

Free admission Prizes awarded for "Best of Show"

Beverages available for purchase

2011-09-22T18:36:00.000-07:00

Jefferson WI is always the place to be this time of year - so - I will be there tomorrow!

http://www.madisonclassics.com/

I think I am in building C

come and find me - I will have a TV rolling the Vintage Torque Fest 2011 footage and distributing propaganda for May 4/5 2012 event!!! If you need some - come and hit me up!