THE MAKING OF PANDEMIC
Rusty Kedik’s blown 1980 Camaro Z28 — better known as Pandemic — is a working-class street bruiser built to hit hard and raise hell. From blower surge to big-tire attitude, this car didn’t whisper its way into South Bend… it kicked the damn door in.
IHRA’s Turning Point: One Racer, One Vision, and a Lot on the Line
New IHRA owner and racer Darryl Cuttell isn’t just buying a logo — he’s buying tracks, raising purses, and tying it all back to sportsman racers. Here’s what that really means if you haul in on an open trailer.
Save this one for a quiet night in the garage — it’s a working-class breakdown of where the IHRA might be headed next.
Broken, Busy, and Still Building: The Real Story Behind Slow Progress
Slow progress doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re building in the cracks of real life. If you’re one of the guys wrenching after overtime, fighting through burnout, or stacking projects between paychecks — this one’s for you. You ever notice how the loudest voices online always seem to finish their cars in six weeks?
Fuel Pump Kill Stories
Tech • Troubleshooting • Fuel System Fuel Pump Kill Stories: The Silent Failures Every Weekend Warrior Eventually Faces A fuel pump almost never dies “suddenly.” We cook them slowly with heat, bad wiring, dirty fuel, and cheap parts, then act surprised when they quit three counties from home. Here’s what really kills fuel pumps on
Built After Hours: Running 10s on a Working-Class Schedule
Built From Pain • Culture • Garage-Shift Warriors Garage-Shift Warriors: Running 10s in the Quarter While Working 12s on the Clock This one’s for the working-class drag racers chasing 10-second time slips while the rest of the world thinks they’re “too tired” after work. If you’re punching brutal shifts and still finding a way to
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a hot rod, restomod, and pro touring car?
A hot rod is any older car modified for style and performance, often built with creativity and attitude. A restomod blends restoration with modern parts for reliability and comfort. Pro touring is a more aggressive form of restomod focused on handling, braking, and track-level performance.
I’m a weekend wrench-turner. Where should I start with my project?
Start with what matters most to you—looks, ride quality, or power. For beginners, upgrading brakes, suspension, and cooling systems first helps build confidence and sets a solid foundation for future performance mods.
I’m into hot rods, but I don’t race or autocross. Am I still part of the culture?
100%. Hot rod culture is about passion, creativity, and connection—not competition. Whether you cruise on weekends, collect parts, or just admire from the sidelines—you’re in.
How do I get my ride featured on SpeedNeeds.net?
We welcome enthusiasts of all levels. Just send us a few photos, a basic build list, and a short write-up of your project story. Whether it’s a full build or a weekend cruiser, we want to share your ride.
Got questions?
Feel free to reach out.