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KUSTOMRAMA NEWSLETTER NO. 200

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Dear Kustomrama Family,

Here we are at the 200th edition of the Kustomrama Newsletter. It's hard to believe that it's been 14 years and 278 days since the very first Kustomrama Newsletter was sent out back in March 2009. I was just 27 then. Now I'm 42 and a dad to two great boys who, fingers crossed, might keep this passion for hot rods and customs alive long after I've hung up my keys.

It has been a memorable month in both joyful and somber ways. Just two weeks ago, the "Wild Bird," a mind-blowing custom '59 Thunderbird built by Bo "Gamen" Sandberg back in the '60s, stole hearts at the Oslo Motor Show. As you can see in the photo, my youngest, Pelle, was totally captivated by it, and honestly, so was I. When Gamen built this groundbreaking custom in 1965, he gave Scandinavia a show car that most hot rodders over here had only seen in magazines.

Tragically, we also received the sad news that Per Arne Knudsen, a true pioneer of the Norwegian hot rod scene, has passed away. His story is one of those foundational tales that remind us why we do what we do. A story we are excited to share with you all in this newsletter.

As we celebrate this 200th newsletter milestone, I just want to extend a massive thank you to everyone who's been a part of this journey. Whether you've been with us from the start or just joined the ride, your support keeps this thing going. It’s not just about sharing stories—it’s about keeping a whole culture alive and vibrant for the next generation of gearheads.

Looking forward to many more newsletters and even more stories. Here’s to keeping the wheels spinning and the fire burning this winter. And hey, maybe by the next 200 newsletters, it'll be my boys writing to you ;)

Warm regards,
Sondre Kvipt
Kustomrama Editor

Remembering the Legends

Per Arne Knudsen

A couple of weeks ago, we were saddened to learn of the passing of Norwegian hot rod pioneer Per Arne Knudsen, who left us on Sunday, October 13, 2024.

Per Arne was a true trailblazer in the Norwegian hot rod scene. His groundbreaking work with Viking Custom and Nor-Way Custom helped lay the foundation for the hot rod movement in Norway. Through his passion, creativity, and leadership, Per Arne played a key role in spreading the love for hot rods, inspiring generations of builders and enthusiasts who followed in his footsteps.

From wrenching on his iconic 1934 Ford Cabriolet in the early days to his later projects, Per Arne always pushed the boundaries of what was possible. His contributions will be forever remembered as a vital part of Norwegian hot rod history.

​We invite you to click here to visit Kustomrama for more information and photos documenting Per Arne’s incredible journey and his lasting impact on the hot rod community.​

Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who knew him. Rest in peace, Per Arne, and thank you for your countless contributions to our shared passion.

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Cristina Dudley's 1955 Chevrolet - Daddy's Girl

We're delighted to feature "Daddy's Girl" on Kustomrama, a 1955 Chevrolet restyled by cherished Kustomrama Newsletter subscriber Gordon Dudley and his daughter, Cristina. This car epitomizes the blend of 1960s custom car culture with modern refinements, embodying a three-generation family passion for classic Chevrolets. Gordon, a longtime enthusiast and custodian of family automotive history, crafted this vehicle as a tribute to the enduring spirit of car customization. Click here to discover the full journey of "Daddy's Girl" and explore detailed photos on Kustomrama.​

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Update: The Search for Duane Dewey's 1929 Ford Model A Roadster Uncovers New History

We are excited to announce that after sharing the story of Duane Dewey's 1929 Ford Model A Roadster in the Lost & Found section on Kustomrama, new information has surfaced about the car’s early history, adding a fascinating chapter to its legacy.

Prior to Dewey's ownership, the roadster belonged to Charles Scott, a well-known member of the Hornets car club and the owner of Scotty's Mufflers. Scott originally ran the car at El Mirage in 1947, where it competed as a Class C Roadster, reaching an impressive 121.13 mph. Scott’s modifications included filling in the rear quarter panels, removing the beltline, and equipping the car with a high-performance 1945 Mercury engine fitted with Meyer heads, an Edelbrock intake, a Winfield cam, and a custom ignition system. These modifications made the car a standout on the dry lakes and cemented its reputation as a competitive hot rod.

Duane Dewey, a member of the Roadents of Fontana car club, purchased the roadster in the early 1950s, keeping the legacy alive by racing it at El Mirage, where it clocked 109 mph. He later sold the car to his cousin, and since then, its whereabouts have been a mystery. Dewey’s son, Glenn, believes the car may have been last seen in the Los Angeles, Alhambra, or Eagle Rock areas.

If anyone has any information on the current status or location of this historic hot rod, we urge you to reach out to Kustomrama. Help us bring this piece of hot rod history back to the Dewey family. ​Click here for more details on Kustomrama and to assist in the search.​

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Looking for Info: David Engemann's 1939 Ford Convertible - The Dream Catcher

Do you recognize this old custom? Introducing "The Dream Catcher," David Engemann's 1939 Ford Convertible—a testament to decades of customizing and the evolution of a dream. Rescued from a junkyard in Escanaba, Michigan, this unique vehicle traces its lineage to the influential designs of Harry Westergard, specifically recalling the iconic 1939 Ford Custom he built for Mel Falconer. Despite its illustrious connections, much of the car's past remains shrouded in mystery, from its original builder to its various transformations through the 1940s and 1950s. We're on a mission to uncover its complete history and invite you to join the hunt. Dive deeper into "The Dream Catcher's" story, its unique features influenced by early and mid-century trends, and the ongoing restoration efforts that honor its legacy. Click here to visit Kustomrama for more detailed information, photos, and to help us trace the path of this mystery custom.​

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Update: Ron Ellis' Memories of His Dad's Iconic Candy Apple Red Thunderbird

In 2018, we featured Don Ellis' 1955 Ford Thunderbird in our Lost & Found section, hoping to uncover more photos and stories for its current caretaker, Dennis Bradford. Since then, Ron Ellis, Don’s son, has reached out with stories about his dad’s passion for speed and style. He even shared this rare photo of himself in Thunderbird. Taken in 1959, Ron was just 16 when his dad snapped this photo, showcasing the car’s stunning Candy Apple Red finish and Italian Borrani wire wheels. Many remember Don's Thunderbird from its feature in Rod & Custom June 1959, where it was described as "Trimmed with Taste." Most assumed it was black, but Ron set the record straight—this beauty was painted in a striking Candy Apple Red. Don, a Portland Ramblers car club member, customized the Thunderbird with split and expanded fenders to fit 1958 Chevrolet headlight doors, a reworked grille, and 1955-1956 Mercury station wagon taillights. Thanks to Ron for sharing this piece of family and custom car history! If anyone has more information or photos of this legendary Thunderbird, please reach out to us. The journey to document its full story continues, so click here to check it out.​

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Featured Video: Andy Southard Jr Archives - BOX 15: TEANECK NJ CAR SHOW 1958

Step back to 1958 with Andy Southard's stunning photo collection from a car show in Teaneck, New Jersey, now beautifully preserved and shared by Trent Sherrill of Speed and Kulture Magazine. After Andy's passing in 2023, Trent took on the mission of digitizing his incredible archive, bringing us crisp, colorful images of some of the finest hot rods and customs ever to roll the surface of the earth. Don’t miss this visual time capsule and consider supporting Trent’s invaluable preservation work. Click here to check it out.​

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Featured Video: The Barris Kustom Gets Revealed!

A piece of custom car history brought back to life—this 1953 Oldsmobile Convertible, restyled by Barris Kustoms in 1958 for Bill and Bob Glazier, emerges from 50 years in storage. Chip Foose preserves its vintage spirit, allowing the Glazier family to experience the thrill of driving their father’s iconic Barris custom once more. Click here to check out the video, and watch as memories are rekindled and a legendary custom hits the road again.​

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Teddy Z's 1957 Chevy

This month's Featured Photo transports us to 1961, right into the heart of California’s vibrant custom car culture. Pictured here is Teddy Zgrzemski’s 1957 Chevrolet Bel-Air, a pristine one-owner car that Teddy picked up for $1,100 after selling his 1954 Ford. The photo, taken at Junior Conway’s shop on Lakewood Blvd, captures Teddy in the driver’s seat with Steve Hill working on the front. Steve’s 1940 Ford can be seen in the background, adding a layer of nostalgia to the scene.

As Teddy recalls, "Larry Watson was in the front building," with Paul's Kustom Interiors next door and Howard's Boats nearby. "Junior was across from Howard's, and across from Larry was Gene's Muffler Shop. It was a commercial complex. Great days!"

This Bel-Air epitomizes the 1960s custom styling. After acquiring it, Teddy brought the car to Barris Kustoms, where he worked as Junior’s helper. The Bel-Air was nosed, decked, shaved, and had its fender louvers filled. The hood received a custom scoop enhanced with chrome bullets. Junior completed the transformation with a dazzling Candy Blue over White Pearl base, while Eddie Martinez added a headliner and package tray using the original fabric, making the car a true showstopper.

This snapshot from the Steve Hill Collection offers just a glimpse into the rich custom car culture of Southern California. Thanks to the dedication of enthusiasts like Steve and Teddy, we’re able to preserve and celebrate the history of this iconic era. Click here for more info and photos of Teddy's '57 on Kustomrama.​

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Keep the chill at bay with the Kustomrama November 2024 Playlist! Featuring hot tracks like I Really Love You by Dee Dee Sharp, Heavy Soul by The Black Keys, and It’s Your Voodoo Working by Charles Sheffield, this playlist is built to bring the heat. Tune in, turn it up, and let these fiery tunes keep you warm all month long. Click here to check it out.​

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Memory Lane Update: Photos of Dale Scribner’s Henry J Found!

We recently shared Dale Scribner’s story of his 1953 Henry J, lowered by Sam Barris in Carmichael, California. At the time, Dale hadn’t located any photos of his beloved car, but we’re excited to announce that he has found them! Dale tells us that he used to take the Henry J to Mel’s Drive-In in Sacramento, where the car culture thrived. “We would make a loop up K Street, down J Street, and into Mel’s, waiting for a parking spot. The place was full of life, and sometimes, folks would be looking to race." Mel's was a hotspot for street racing, often captured in scenes reminiscent of American Graffiti. One night, after the legal drag races in Vacaville, Dale recalls a memorable moment when a Willys gasser was rolled off a trailer, fired up, and driven through Mel’s, to the excitement of everyone present. This spontaneity and rebellious energy encapsulated the era, with cars packed into every available spot and racers constantly seeking competition at stoplights. Now, with the rediscovered photos of his Henry J, we’re thrilled to share this visual piece of history that represents not just Dale’s journey but a special era in custom car culture. Thank you, Dale, for taking us down memory lane once again! Click here for more info and photos on Kustomrama.​

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Uncovering the X-2: A Found Photograph from 1958

Mark Britten recently sent us an intriguing find—a photograph he stumbled upon on Thomas Hawk's Flickr page, stamped July 1958. This unique car sparked curiosity: short bonnet, rear-mounted engine, central steering wheel, and a distinctive sliding canopy. He sent it our way, and we were happy to tell Mark that he had come across a photo of the Besasie X-2. The X-2 was one of four experimental cars crafted by Raymond Besasie of Besasie Engineering in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Built from 16-gauge aluminum with a chrome moly tube frame, it housed a powerful rear-mounted 1956 Cadillac engine and boasted a striking 4-foot fin. In 1958, the X-2 made waves, earning a spot among the "Top Customs of the Year" in Motor Life and later appearing in a Clark gasoline commercial. However, its trail grew cold, and it was last seen in deteriorating condition by a railroad in 1970. Thanks to Mark for sharing this gem with us! Click here for more info and photos of the X-2 on Kustomrama.​

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How much is our automotive heritage worth to you Reader?

At Kustomrama, we're driven by passion, not paywalls. As a volunteer-run Encyclopedia, we're dedicated to keeping the history and legacy of traditional hot rods and custom cars free and accessible to everyone, everywhere. From server costs to content collection, every aspect of our mission needs fuel. Whether it's $5, $20, $50, or any amount you choose, your donation keeps the engine of history running.

​Click here to tip today and be a part of preserving this unique legacy for future generations.​

I appreciate your support!

Best regards
Sondre / Kustomrama Founder / Keeping History Alive

What is Kustomrama?

Kustomrama is a comprehensive online encyclopedia passionately dedicated to the preservation and sharing of traditional hot rod and custom car history. With a mission to keep this vibrant history alive for generations to come, Kustomrama offers an extensive repository of knowledge, featuring over 11,716 pages filled with information and more than 30,000 photos showcasing hot rods and custom cars from around the globe. Our goal is not only to document but also to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the hot rod and custom car community, ensuring that the stories and innovations of yesteryear enthusiasts are accessible to everyone.

What is the Kustomrama Newsletter?

The Kustomrama Newsletter is our vibrant bridge to enthusiasts of traditional hot rods and custom cars, offering a direct line to the latest entries and features in the Kustomrama Encyclopedia. As a free publication diligently curated by the Kustomrama team, we aim to deliver rich insights and fascinating stories right to your inbox on a weekly basis. Each issue is packed with summaries of new stories, in-depth articles, and captivating photographs that celebrate and document the evolving world of hot rods and custom cars.

Received this newsletter from a friend? You're just a click away from joining our community! Click here to sign up for your own free subscription and never miss out on the newest discoveries and articles from the extensive archives of Kustomrama.​

Please Help Us Spread the Word!

Do you know someone with a passion for traditional hot rods and custom cars? Friends or family who revel in the rich history and vibrant stories of these automotive marvels? By forwarding this email to them, you're not just sharing a newsletter—you're inviting them to become an integral part of our dedicated community.

At Kustomrama, we believe in the power of collective storytelling. An astonishing 90% of the material we publish is sourced directly from emails and contributions from our newsletter subscribers. This vibrant exchange of photos and stories allows us to continually enrich and expand our encyclopedia, creating a more comprehensive and engaging experience for everyone involved.

The more enthusiasts join our mailing list, the broader our network of stories and contributors grows. This means more fascinating tales, more rare photographs, and a richer history for us all to share. So, in forwarding this newsletter, you're not just spreading the word—you're helping to preserve and celebrate the legacy of hot rods and custom cars for future generations.

Join us in this exciting journey. Forward this email to those who'd cherish it as much as you do, and let's build an even stronger Kustomrama community together.

What is the Kustomrama Member Community?

At the heart of Kustomrama, beyond the vast encyclopedia of traditional hot rods and custom cars, lies our vibrant Member Community. Each "COMMENT" button embedded within this newsletter serves as a portal to a collaborative space where enthusiasts like you can engage, discuss, and dive deeper into the stories that fuel our passion.

Our community platform welcomes contributors and supporters to share their insights, offer feedback, and contribute to the evolving narratives of the hot rod and custom car culture. Whether you're looking to provide additional information, share a personal anecdote related to a story, or simply express your enthusiasm for a piece, your voice is invaluable to us.

Interested in becoming an active participant in shaping the history and stories of hot rods and custom cars? Click here to join our community today. As a member, you're not just joining a forum—you're becoming part of a dedicated collective committed to preserving and celebrating the rich legacy of automotive culture.​

What is the Kustomrama Marketplace?

The Kustomrama Marketplace is a curated classified section for traditional hot rods and custom cars. It's the go-to place to buy, sell, and explore vehicles, parts, and memorabilia. For a $100 fee, your ad will be featured on Kustomrama, in our Monthly Newsletter, and across our social media, reaching over 100,000 enthusiasts. Click here for more information.​

I have some stories or photos that I want to share with you. What do I do?

We're always on the lookout for fresh stories and photos to enrich the Kustomrama Encyclopedia and share with our community. If you have material related to traditional hot rods, custom cars, or any piece of history you believe deserves a spotlight, we'd love to hear from you!

Getting in touch is easy. You can simply hit the 'reply' button on this email to start a conversation directly with us. Prefer a different method? No problem! Email us at mail@kustomrama.com with your stories, photos, or any inquiries. Alternatively, if you're a member of our vibrant community, you're welcome to submit your material directly to our Member's Community platform.

Your contributions play a crucial role in keeping the spirit and history of hot rodding and custom cars alive. Whether it's a personal anecdote, a piece of automotive history, or a series of photographs, your shared materials help us all to celebrate and preserve the rich tapestry of this culture for future generations.

Thanks for helping us keeping history alive

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