Classic Cars and Modern Engine Oils – Myths & Facts

I’m sure you have heard the talk, seen some e-mails and read some articles or blogs about current engine oils and it’s use in your classic or pre-80’s vehicle. If not, it goes like this………..

ZDDP (zinc dialkyl dithio phosphate, which contains phosphorous, plus some zinc & manganese) has been reduced to levels in modern engine oils that will cause rapid premature wear, even failure, of flat-tappet camshafts. This also affects some distributor gears and non-roller cam chains. ZDDP, more commonly called ZDP (zinc dithiophosphate) by automotive engineers, has been used in engine oils for over 60 years; the main purpose being an anti-wear, anti-friction barrier between the lifter crown and the camshaft lobe. The phosphorous is poison to catalytic converters, so the new “Starburst/ API SM” engine oils have the ZDP levels reduced to eliminate early catalytic failure, which is “certain death” to non-roller cam motors. Use of ZDP additives or diesel engine oils, which have several times more ZDP and are perfectly compatible with non-emission controlled engines, are necessary for these older motors to survive. Running with the low ZDP levels in modern “starburst” oils is almost like running without oil in your beloved classic!!!

OK, boys and girls. Let’s put this BS where it belongs…..in your trash bin. Here is some sound engineering information from Bob Olree of the GM Powertrain Fuels and Lubricants Group, starting with a little history of ZDP use.

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Reno car show,classic cars

Classics In Paradise
Car Show, 2008

It is time to get your classic or street rod ready for the beautiful ride to Reno for the annual Classics In Paradise Car Show, to be held June 21. If you haven’t attended this show before, it is definitely worth the trip. If coming from California, coming over on Highway 88 early in the morning is a beautiful cruise. If coming on I-80, it is still a nice drive through the mountains enjoying the Sierras. This show is from 3;00 p.m. to 9;00 p.m. so coming Saturday morning works well for a nice cruise. You can enjoy participating in the show and then relax for the rest of the evening. Then on Sunday, cruise home after a late-morning breakfast and enjoy your hot rod and the scenery.

The Classic Chevy Club of Reno is hard at work planning for this annual car show, which is again being held at The Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno. The management from The Atlantis is working closely with us to make sure everyone has a pleasurable experience at this event. They are holding 30 rooms until May21 just for car show participants. Also, guests staying the night can rest easy knowing their security staff is closely watching the cars. The Atlantis is also planning on having their new addition to the facility open for everyone to see and use, including the beautiful new spa.

Some of the show highlights include; great raffles, including a 55 Chevy pedal car, many items donated by local merchants and club members, and more special prizes are being added daily. Every participant will receive this handsome tapestry tote bag with route 66 theme and pockets for cell phone and water bottle. Also, there will be Carolina BBQ, Johnny Starr, the DJ that works with H.A.N. events, Champion Chevrolet will display new vehicles, and we may also have a surprise that everyone will enjoy, (even most club members don’t know about this yet).

This show is open to ALL makes of vehicles up to 1979, including rat rods and under-construction. The judging for this year will be by peer-judging, except for the “Best of” awards. Again, club members’ cars will be parked separately from the entrants and are not part of the show. We have approximately 24 classes so bring out that classic, muscle car or street rod for everyone to see. Awards start at 8;00 p.m. We are limiting the number of entries to 300 and pre-entries are entered in 2 special drawings that are $50 each. Use this trip as a warm-up to H.A.N.

We hope to see you there. It’s never been easier to register. Just Click Here for our online registration form. and fill it out. For any questions, go to our website (which is very interesting and informative) www.classicchevyclubreno.com or call Randy at 775-636-2941 or 775-424-6824. See you in June, we ordered good weather for the event.

Remember, what happens in Reno, stays in Reno.

First Annual Golden State Classics Car Show: Paso Robles. Open to all cars 1979 or older; FREE ADMISSION; See Flyer; Contact: Cheryl; 805-238-4086;
Website www.goldenstateclassics.org

“September 13, 2008 “

FREE ADMISSION Open at 7:00 a.m. for parking

Pre-Register- limited space available (First 300 cars)

Class Awards, Special Awards, and Merchant Awards

Open to cars and trucks 1979 and older
Paso Robles Downtown City Park
Raffle and 50/50 Drawing
Also Special Raffle- Stainless Steel Tool Chest & 32”Flat Screen TV
Show Starts at 9:00 a.m. & 50/50 – Raffle
Judging 9:00 a.m. to Noon
Hotels in Paso Robles: -La Bellasera-206 Alexa Ct. 866-782-9669- Paso Robles Inn. 805-238-2660 Adelaide Inn, 805-238-2770 or 800-549-7276 -Best Western Black Oak Motor Lodge, 805-238-4740 Holiday Inn Express 805-238-6500-La Quinta, 3446 Buena Vista, 805-239-3004

No Entry Fee Required: - FREE Donations are greatly appreciated_______

Location: The Car Show will be located on 11th Street between Spring Street and Pine Street, in the park.

Restrictions: No Loud stereos or alcoholic beverages.
Information: Call –Brandy Johnson 805-712-6049 or Cheryl 805-238-4086

Old Car Emissions Exemption No Longer Threatened
in 8 California Counties

Congratulations! The California old car hobby convinced California Senate legislators to amend legislation (S.B. 1549) that sought repeal of the state’s current emissions test exemption for pre-1976 vehicles registered by new owners in the San Joaquin Valley Unified Air Pollution Control District. The District includes eight counties in California’s Central Valley. Under the original bill, after Jan. 1, 2009, new owners seeking to register a pre-1976 vehicle in these eight counties would have been subject to emissions tests for the life of the vehicle. Under the amendment, the repeal language was removed and the bill instead now requires the DMV to study the state’s special license plate programs and recommend improvements.

Thanks to all of you for contributing to this successful resolution!

Terms under which this service is provided to you: sema.org/disclaimer

SEMA’s mailing address: 1575 S. Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765

Copyright 2007. Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA)

Food for Thought

For those of us who love Tri-Five Chevys it is often hard to think of our belovedClassic Chevy as just an investment.But for many of us these cars are a significant investment. I have bought and sold many 55-57 Chevys over the years and love every minute my time in the hobby. Recently in discussions with club members and others the increasing value of our tri-5’s came up. We would all hope for the increased value! But this may or may not necessarily be true. I attend 15-25 swap meets and car shows a year and like many of you watch Barrett-Jackson and other auctions on TV. I along with other long time tri-fiveenthusiasts continuously watch the investment potential of tri-fives. One would think classic chevys will always increase in value. But this is not always true. Many factors enter into the equation. Think about it? Quality of the car, style of the build, color of the exterior and interior, options and accessories, wheels and tires, age of the potential buyer, and other factors enter into the equation.

Lets look at these factors.

First–the quality of the car.:

Quality being fit and finish the most important. Many shows I attend I see beautiful tri-fives with bad fender gaps, bumpers aligned poorly, Missing bolts, and easily found parts absent. Simply making adjustments and installing bolts or missing parts add value.

Second, Style of the build:

Everyone should build the car of his or her dreams. But, I prescribe to the belief that if you build something different then the rest, you better be in love with it cause your keep’in it. Trends change

And value is in the current trend.

Third, color of the exterior and interior:

We all know about resale red. Paint it red and it will sell. I love red myself. But many other colors look great on the body and interiors of our tri-fives. Two tones are hot right now and show off those body lines. Lets just say a purple/pink exterior with bright yellow interior might not work.

Fourth, Options and Accessories:

Modernizing our cars with updates like fuel injection, electronic ignition, disc brakes, power steering, power windows, better cooling, air conditioning, etc. is always value added. But these upgrades tend to be expensive. We can only do what we can afford.

Fifth, Wheels and Tires:

Choose this update carefully! A very trendy update. Let me say, I’m not a big wheel and rubber band tire fan. Increasing rim diameter and tire size is a good thing, But consider the overall look and future trends.

Sixth, Age of potential buyer:

Probably the most important consideration with your investment if you wish to sell your ride in the future. I have noticed a leveling off of tri-five pricing this year. Yes, many factors are in play here. The economy, supply of vehicles, auction pricing, and age of buyers. What makes your tri-fiveinvestment so valuable? The desire to own it by others. Think about it? Who is that. Someone just like yourself. The popularity of any car is the desire of others to own it. Four years ago when I bought my current ride (a 1955 Chevy Sedan Delivery) The previous owner asked me why I wanted the car. I told him it made me think of my youth, good times brought back. Most car people I know want the cars of their youth. Mostly to bring back good memories. But consider we are all getting older and so is our potential buyers pool. The hot sellers right now are muscle cars of the 60’s and 70’s. That pool of buyers is generally younger then that of our Tri-fives. I’m not suggesting we don’t have great value in our tri-fives. But the pool of future buyers, I believe is getting smaller. Now don’t go out and sell your ride just think about your investment and its value as we move forward. Remember your choice should be what interests you.

Seventh—Other factors

Who knows what changes in the collector hobby are coming. I don’t! But, I can tell you I am encouraged by new youth at the shows interested in the older classics. I attended the Coast Mesa Show in Southern California a few weeks ago (3-16-08) and the Pleasanton show last weekend (3-29-08) Lots of customs and rat rods in attendance, most owned by younger rodders. I also attended the last Pomona swap meet, great show probably the best project car swap meet I have attended in the last 35 years. Looks like the hobby is starting at the beginning again. My advice is to hang on to your Tri-five or classic! Who knows it may soon bring big money like those muscle cars of the 60’s & 70’s.

Chuck Thomas

As of April, 2008, SB 1567 is pending in the California which, if it passes, will allow GPS units only to be mounted on the windshield. Current California law prohibits the mounting of GPS or radar detector units on the windshield, and out-of-state vehicles can be cited as well. If this bill passes, radar detectors will still be prohibited from windshield mounting. No date for voting is set.

Butch

On Jul y 1 of this year, a new law takes effect in California. It is prohibited to use a cell phone while driving. Following is a list of Frequently asked questions published by the CHP.

_________________________________________________________________
CONTACT: Fran Clader Media Relations Office

(916) 657-7202 2555 First Avenue

Sacramento, CA 95818

Wireless Telephone Laws FAQs

Two new laws dealing with the use of wireless telephones while driving go into effect July 1, 2008. Below is a list of Frequently Asked Questions concerning these new laws.

Q: When do the new wireless telephone laws take effect?

A: The new laws take effect July 1, 2008

Q: What is the difference between the two laws?

A: The first prohibits all drivers from using a handheld wireless telephone while operating a motor vehicle. (Vehicle Code (VC) §23123). Motorists 18 and over may use a hands-free device. Drivers under the age of 18 may NOT use a wireless telephone or hands-free device while operating a motor vehicle(VC §23124).

Q: What if I need to use my telephone during an emergency, and I do not have a hands- free device?

A: The law allows a driver to use a wireless telephone to make emergency calls to a law enforcement agency, a medical provider, the fire department, or other emergency services agency.

Q: What are the fines if I’m convicted?

A: The base fine for the FIRST offense is $20 and $50 for subsequent convictions. According to the Uniform Bail and Penalty Schedule, with the addition of penalty assessments, a first offense is $76 and a second offense is $190.

Q: Will I receive a point on my drivers license if I’m convicted for a violation of the wireless telephone law?

A: NO. The violation is a reportable offense: however, DMV will not assign a violation point.

Q: Will the conviction appear on my driving record?

A: Yes, but the violation point will not be added.

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Q: Will there be a grace period when motorists will only get a warning?

A: NO. The law becomes in effect on July 1, 2008. Whether a citation is issued is always at the discretion of the officer based upon his or her determination of the most appropriate remedy for the situation.

Q: Are passengers affected by this law?

A: No. This law only applies to the person driving a motor vehicle.

Q: Do these laws apply to out-of-state drivers whose home states do not have such laws?

A: Yes

Q: Can I be pulled over by a law enforcement officer for using my handheld wireless telephone?

A: YES. A law enforcement officer can pull you over just for this infraction.

Q: What if my phone has a push-to-talk feature, can I use that?

A: No. The law does provide an exception for those operating a commercial motor truck or truck tractor (excluding pickups), implements of husbandry, farm vehicle or tow truck, to use a two-way radio operated by a “push-to-talk” feature.

Q: What other exceptions are there?

A: Operators of an authorized emergency vehicle during the course of employment are exempt as are those motorists operating a vehicle on private property

DRIVERS 18 AND OVER

Drivers 18 and over will be allowed to use a hands-free device to talk on their wireless telephone while driving. The following FAQs apply to those motorists 18 and over.

Q: Does the new “hands-free” law prohibit you from dialing a wireless telephone while driving or just talking on it?

A: The new law does not prohibit dialing, but drivers are strongly urged not to dial while driving.

Q: Will it be legal to use a Blue Tooth or other earpiece?

A: Yes, however you cannot have BOTH ears covered.

Q: Does the new hands-free law allow you to use the speaker phone function of your wireless telephone while driving?

A: Yes.

Q: Does the new “hands-free” law allow drivers 18 and over to text page while driving?

A: The law does not specifically prohibit that, but an officer can pull over and issue a citation to a driver of any age if, in the officer’s opinion, the driver was distracted and not operating the vehicle safely. Text paging while driving is unsafe at any speed and is strongly discouraged.

- more -

DRIVERS UNDER 18

Q: Am I allowed to use my wireless telephone hands free?

A: NO. Drivers under the age of 18 may not use a wireless telephone, pager, laptop or any other electronic communication or mobile services device to speak or text while driving in any manner, even hands free. EXCEPTION: Permitted in emergency situations to call police, fire or medical authorities. (VC §23124).

Q: Why is the law stricter for provisional drivers?

A: Statistics show that teen drivers are more likely than older drivers to be involved in crashes because they lack driving experience and tend to take greater risks. Teen drivers are vulnerable to driving distractions such as talking with passengers, eating or drinking, and talking or texting on wireless phones, which increase the chance of getting involved in serious vehicle crashes.

Q: Can my parents give me permission to allow me to use my wireless telephone while driving?

A: NO. The only exception is an emergency situation that requires you to call a law enforcement agency, a health care provider, the fire department or other emergency agency entity.

Q: Does the law apply to me if I’m an emancipated minor?

A: Yes. The restriction applies to all licensed drivers who are under the age of 18.

Q: If I have my parent(s) or someone age 25 years or older in the car with me, may I use my wireless telephone while driving?

A: NO. You may only use your wireless telephone in an emergency situation.

Q: Will the restriction appear on my provisional license?

A: No

Q: May I use the hands-free feature while driving if my car has the feature built in?

A: NO. The law prohibits anyone under the age of 18 from using any type of wireless device while driving, except in an emergency situation.

Q: Can a law enforcement officer stop me for using my hands-free device while driving?

A: No. For drivers under the age of 18, this is considered a SECONDARY violation meaning that a law enforcement officer may cite you for using a hands-free wireless phone if you were pulled over for another violation. However, the prohibition against using a handheld wireless telephone while driving is a PRIMARY violation for which a law enforcement officer can pull you over.

March Club Event
Breakfast & Classic Car Photo Shoot Submitted by Robin

We were very lucky to have great spring weather for our classic car photo shoot on March 22. Twenty one club members came out for an early breakfast at the Black Bear Diner in Reno. After breakfast we all cruised down to Washoe Valley for a photo shoot at Bowers Mansion Park. What a beautiful sight to see all those classics cruising down 395!
A big “Thanks” goes to Ben Milander for being our primary photographer. (Check out the club website to see the slide show of the event!) Other club members taking additional photos were Barbara Perry, Alice Milander, Sharon Thomas and Lloyd Hargett. Ben did a great job posing each car for photos of the car with and without the owner(s). After all of the individual pictures we arranged the cars for a group picture.
Members and cars that attended: Our newest club member, Hamford Schroeder with his 1957 Chevy Cameo; Ben & Alice Milander with their 1960 Corvette; Dick Pattinson driving a 1966 Dodge Charger; Barbara Bain in a 1965 Mustang Convertible (did you know all of Dick & Barbara’s cars are RED!!??); our Prez Rich Lembi and Ruth Lembi in their 1934 Chevy Coupe; Rich & Barbara Perry in their 1955 Bel Air; Gene & Judy Fox in their 1956 Bel Air; Jon Lemos and his soon-to-be wife Carrie Pierce in their 1965 Chevelle SS; Randy & Marie Becker drove their 1937 Chevy Sedan; Chuck & Sharon Thomas weren’t able to drive their classic (under construction & almost done!) but came along to enjoy the event (that’s the spirit!!!); Lloyd Hargett driving a 1967 Cadillac convertible (with the top down) and Robin Hargett driving a 1967 Camaro RS convertible. Butch & Donna Chaffer came for breakfast but disappeared with their Corvette before we left on the cruise. We missed you two!
We had a great time and we’ll plan on repeating this event before the summer is over in the hopes of getting more pictures of club cars.

Photos

Plan Ahead, We are starting to get information on upcoming car shows we will post them here and also on our website.

Classics In Paradise Car Show

This car show is put on by the Classic Chevys of Reno car club in Reno Nevada. It will take place on June 21 this year and is an afternoon and evening event. Pllease make plans now to attend. Flyer is online. You can fill it out and send it in. The event is held at the beautiful Atlantis Casino Resort Spa. Come and spend the day and evening. Click Here for Flyer  Se
e our website for more info and updates.

Contact Randy Becker :(775) 424-6824 or email: BeckerHotRods@sbcglobal.net

Fall Colors Car Show

This car show takes place in Bishop, CA. Oct. 3-5, 2008. Many of our members attend this show and find it an enjoyable evnet. It is put on by the Owens Valley Cruisers who are a fun club. They also attend our Classics in Paradise show in June.

Please click on this link to download the flyer which can be filled out on your computer, print, sign and mail: Fall Colors Car Show Flyer

Golden State Nationals

October 3 to 5, 2008, Sacramento Ca. See Flyer here:

Lodi Street Rod Nationals

This car show takes place in Lodi, CA located between Sacramento and Stockton. Dates are June 27 to 29 and it is also a great event. They have vendors, show and shine, 24 hour security, Raffle, breakfast and live entertainment all day. This event is on the grass and is lots of fun. Plese see the flyer here: Lodi Street Rod Nationals June 27-29.

Force be with you from Classic Chevys of Reno

Ben J. Milander

If you have never been to the Eastern Sierra in the Fall, then this is your opportunity to come see the beautiful Fall Colors that only Mother Nature can paint. By the way, there is also a great car show going on as well. The Owens Valley Cruisers hosts the Fall Colors Car Show. This show attracts some very sweet rides from western Nevada, central California, and all parts known to mankind. The annual participation in this show is around 360 cars. So shine up your ride and come be a part of a fun-filled weekend in the heart of the Eastern Sierra.

The show kicks off on Saturday morning with a pancake breakfast prepared by the Bishop Lions Club. The show and shine is from 9:30 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. followed by a cruise down Main Street. The evening rounds out with a 50’s dance. Sunday morning gives rise to a breath taking Poker Run in the high country. I don’t know if you will get the high poker hand, but you will get HIGH, elevation 9800 feet. Mark October 3-5 on your calendars.

You can fill out an registration form ONLINE by clicking HERE