In My Garage is a place for car guys and gals who love everything automotive! We hope you'll enjoy reading about car culture as much as we enjoy writing about it. We will scour the car universe for interesting videos and stories, give you car care tech tips that you won't find anywhere else, review exciting products, and talk to the interesting people who make the automotive world turn. If you're passionate about cars, if your garage is your "happy place", if you've got motor oil running through your veins... you'll find lots to enjoy! http://www.inmygarage.com/ Shopping/Vehicles/Parts_and_Accessories/Detailing_Supplies/ 2009. Griot's Garage, Inc. en-us Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:13:30 -0700 mhahn@griotsgarage.com (Mike Hahn) Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:11:27 -0700 FeedForAll v2.0 (2.0.2.9) http://www.feedforall.com http://www.griotsgarage.com/images/rss/logo_rss.gif http://www.inmygarage.com/ Car Culture Blogged by Griot's Garage 115 112
The 2010 BMW M-Car Day in Photos

M-Car Day is marked on the calendar of any BMW enthusiast in the Pacific Northwest. On August 22nd, 170 M-Cars from almost every era filled the lawn and red-lined parking lot at Griot's Garage. We've compiled some of the best photographs of the event and welcome those of you that were there to include your own links in the comments!

Enjoy the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2907 Car Culture 821E6696-42EA-41DC-93D4-3A770612CF39 Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:11:27 -0700
Fire-Up! Vintage McLaren Edition

With the Auto Display in the new Griot's Garage HQ, we constantly have amazing cars on display for everyone to see. On rare occasions like today, we actually get to hear (and feel) some of these babies fired up. Today's treat, vintage McLaren. Check out a quick description of the cars, then scroll down for the videos!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2868 Car Culture 41899FC4-B582-4F60-B311-95DA195DC6C9 Mon, 16 Aug 2010 10:38:25 -0700
Chrysler PT Cruiser: Crunk or Junk?

July 9, 2010. A day that will live in... meh? On that day, the last of Chrysler's famously plucky little retromobiles rolled off a Mexican assembly line. Did you mark the occasion with somber ceremony or celebration? The time has come to ask (insert fake drum roll here), LADIES and GENTLEMEN: PT CRUISER, CRRRRRRRUNK or JUNNNK?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2846 Columns 49D31362-C0BE-4547-B0A2-C2661213E391 Tue, 3 Aug 2010 15:48:21 -0700
Plum Crazy? Restoring a Rough 911S

At Griot's Garage, we like cars. Fast cars, elegant cars, cars with style. We also believe in the preservation of cars as important documents of history and culture. Sometimes that job involves a nut-and-bolt restoration, as with the subject of this article, a 1973 Porsche 911S that likely lived most of its life parked next to - not inside - the garage.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2799 Tech 5D4D8B4E-0D83-4F5C-AAD8-81ADFD19E90B Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:18:36 -0700
Car Care Towels Part 3: The 8-Sided Towel

If you've been reading the "Car Care Towels" series, you're already sold on micro fiber. And you know which towel to use when. Now, let's wrap things up with some tips that'll teach you how to take full advantage of those towels... and safely. No more waste. No more piles of half-used towels. And, of course, no more swirl marks!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2791 Tech 8BF0C3BE-978B-4611-9010-628F5423DDEF Tue, 13 Jul 2010 15:17:35 -0700
Porsche Speedster Gets a Lift

When Griot's Garage President, Mark Greene, told me a generous customer was allowing us to showcase his 1957 Porsche Speedster, I was ecstatic. When he told me where he wanted the car displayed, I was floored. It's not every day you see an automobile like this. And I bet you've never seen one hoisted 12 feet into the air with a forklift!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2769 Griot's Garage 15128ECC-9138-4FCE-A60E-CCA44C2B500B Fri, 9 Jul 2010 11:51:50 -0700
A New Garage! Part 9: The Grand Opening in Pictures

June 5th and 6th, enthusiasts of all kinds stopped by to experience the grand opening of the flagship Griot's Garage Retail Store and Car Care School. Thousands of car guys and gals brought their favorite ride by to check out our new digs and shop their favorite line of car care. Here are some of our favorite photos from the weekend. Enjoy!

See the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2744 Griot's Garage FB5173B9-AD7F-4C6B-B2F4-0A668272125F Thu, 17 Jun 2010 10:41:15 -0700
Petersen Automotive Museum and Griot's Garage

Auto enthusiasts everywhere know that one of the world's premier museums lives in sunny Los Angeles. The Petersen Automotive Museum is 300,000 square feet of automotive history; a collection deserving of top-notch preservation. Which is why Griot's Garage is proud to now be the museum's Official Car Care Product Provider!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2715 Griot's Garage F508FA9C-5C53-4656-9553-A64F53F22322 Wed, 2 Jun 2010 15:47:40 -0700
A New Garage! Part 8: The Grand Opening Celebration

After a long winter and countless late nights in the garage, it's time to pull the cover off our barn find build and take it for a test drive. The best news? You are all invited to ride along! Help dedicate our new flagship Retail Store and Car Care School in style! Join us for two days of fun, food, and (of course) great cars. We look forward to seeing you here!

Get the details...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2704 Griot's Garage 84D54E08-DBA9-4506-BB49-C0AB457719E8 Fri, 28 May 2010 15:31:51 -0700
Point/Counterpoint: What was 1932's keenest iron?

Detroit is the battleground for one of the oldest automotive rivalries; Ford vs. Chevrolet. The competition has raged for decades, and with the carpocalypse in full swing, we are reminded of another challenging time in America. Let's look back to see where Ford and Chevy stood in 1932. Who built a car that spoke to the masses then, and still stands as king? Dustin and Derek sound off.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2658 Columns 22C92697-4170-43B3-A60F-153B66A6A78C Thu, 20 May 2010 15:23:46 -0700
Caption It! Half-Fast Edition

Richard Griot doesn't accept anything "nearly right". So why did Griot's Garage recently take delivery of this beautiful, but partial Porsche? Caption this photo in the comments... we'll pick the best one next Friday (the 21st) and award the winner a Car Care prize! Also, check back for the full story on this cool roadster, built by our friends at Intermeccanica.

Caption it...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2650 Columns 2769375F-EA63-40FF-8ED5-525307F41148 Fri, 14 May 2010 11:05:28 -0700
A New Garage! Part 7: Open for Business

Now that you understand the benefits of micro fiber (if you missed the first article, read here), let's learn about which towel to use where. I'm going to step through the ten primary towels we offer at Griot's Garage, highlighting the benefits. I've even put together a cheat sheet you can print out and keep in your detailing kit!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2612 Tech 4BF265D9-638A-4273-90D7-9BDFFBC91D52 Mon, 10 May 2010 14:21:43 -0700
A New Garage! Part 7: Open for Business

We're ecstatic to announce that the flagship Griot's Garage Retail Store is open! While we put the finishing touches on the rest of our barn find build (in preparation for the grand opening in June), you're invited to check out the new store now. You'll be amazed at the transformation. Just take a look at the before and after photos!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2598 Griot's Garage DD5ED1AE-3435-4795-AC94-A4E138E60B55 Wed, 5 May 2010 14:43:04 -0700
The 100 Coolest Cars of All Time. Ever.

This could be my defining moment. The day you realize I am either a brilliant, savvy savant in the automotive blog world... or just a blathering idiot who had the audacity to put a Yugo on a list of the 100 coolest cars. It could also be the moment you realize some folks take these "Best Of" lists waayyy too seriously, and actually enjoy reading one for a change. Just throwing that out there.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2563 Car Culture 0CCF97DC-4A58-47F6-A481-7B81D1ADC771 Wed, 21 Apr 2010 15:52:25 -0700
A New Garage! Part 6: Rounding the Bend

You've had projects in your garage, so you know... There comes a time in every build where the finished product is in sight. Idea has transformed to rendering has transformed to reality. Just over a month ago, we showed you the progress on our barn find build and asked you to use your imagination. Now, you won't have to.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2487 Griot's Garage 99E61387-F2FB-447E-AC3F-EBA47D1E4588 Wed, 7 Apr 2010 11:14:50 -0700
Featured Partner: The Motoring Journal

Shopping for proper car care towels can be exhausting. The options for fibers, weaves, colors, and sizes just go on, and on, and on. In this three-part series on Car Care Towels, I'm going to package everything you need to know into one simple, easy to understand box.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2472 Tech FA4584F7-88C0-425A-847E-ABCB638DDB83 Wed, 31 Mar 2010 16:23:18 -0700
Featured Partner: The Motoring Journal

I'm constantly running across interesting car sites and enthusiast blogs. One that recently stuck out is Chris Runge's The Motoring Journal. Full of car stories, tech articles, and beautiful pictures, it's a dream for any car junkie. In My Garage is proud to announce The Motoring Journal as a Featured Partner!

See more Links & Resources...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?page_id=2113 Car Culture 1DA5E324-7B46-47EE-8891-0F6F657A49BD Tue, 23 Mar 2010 14:27:26 -0700
Michael Paul Smith's Model Community

Homes and storefronts glow while snow blankets the sidewalks. Classic American iron lines every street, preserved, as if never driven. In fact, the auto dealership has a full lineup of ‘61 Chevy's, right off the truck. There is a quiet calm. A rightness. You can almost smell the apple pie. This is Elgin Park, and you'd probably like living here... if only it was full-scale.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2438 Car Culture 1F59E1C2-6F40-4892-8535-EAB75A8159AE Mon, 8 Mar 2010 09:51:46 -0800
Toyota Starlet: Crunk or Junk?

The Toyota Starlet was a strange duck in the US, only being sold from 1981-1984 and quickly replaced by FX series Corollas and the Tercel line. Starlets were ugly, cheap, and small. But, they were also highly economical and easily modified. So, what's the verdict on these Japanese oddballs... crunk, or junk?

Weigh in...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2428 Car Culture 7067936D-8578-4751-A788-C9BABF2C64F7 Thu, 4 Mar 2010 10:10:31 -0800
On the Lot: 1935 Ford Pick 'em up

Clear skies never fail to bring out the cool rides. Blue Oval purists might want to look away, but we can guarantee you've never seen one exactly like this. A '35 Ford, originally a flatbed, now fitted with a Chevy long box. The powerplant is a fuel-injected, SBC... and this thing sounds great! Thanks to our customer for bringing it down to share.

Enjoy the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2406 Car Culture CB703C81-C43E-400E-8612-BAA95B186847 Thu, 4 Mar 2010 10:08:44 -0800
Crossword Challenge: 1950 Chrysler New Yorker

A beautiful, convertible New Yorker graces the cover of Griot's Garage Handbook #305. The big Chrysler is powered by a "Spitfire" straight-8 motor, mated to a "Prestomatic" fluid drive transmission. Gotta love those 1950's trade names! One of our customers has created a crossword puzzle  using facts about car (and Griot's Garage) as clues. Check it out!

Enjoy the puzzle...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2392 Griot's Garage C95BEB1F-04A9-4EF8-898A-3B3B8F1ADABF Fri, 19 Feb 2010 15:58:35 -0800
A New Garage! Part 5: Snapshots from the Beehive

Work on the new Griot's Garage headquarters continues to buzz along, and a recent visit to the site saw Richard Griot beaming like a kid on Christmas. As he excitedly showed us around, stepping over chalk lines and dodging drywallers on stilts, we managed to snap a few photos of the action. Add these to the project scrapbook!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2357 Griot's Garage 12249F06-4291-494C-AD7B-6A09E743C37D Mon, 15 Feb 2010 16:10:16 -0800
Restoring a Rare Eagle, Part 1: Chassis Teardown

If you receive the Griot's Garage Handbook, you might remember this recent cover car, a 1966 Gurney Eagle Mk1. The very first of Dan Gurney's legendary race cars, chassis 101 is an important piece of American motoring history. And In My Garage is fortunate enough to be able to peek over some shoulders as the Eagle undergoes a full restoration.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2336 Car Culture 1926B089-49B0-4113-9EF0-E8F25D52BE42 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 13:07:30 -0800
From the Flickr Pool: Vertorama Edition

Vertorama is short for "vertical panorama" (stitching multiple photgraphs together vertically), and it's just one of the techniques Horace Kwan used to create this stunning image. The car is a Ferrari F2008 which, since it wears #1, was likely piloted by Kimi Räikkönen during the 2008 F1 season. Congrats, Horace. Enjoy your prize!

See the winning photo...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2326 Car Culture 8D84052D-9272-4A3C-9D23-10FC563292A4 Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:14:29 -0800
Garage Plus lets you (yes, you) own a Man Cave.

Our friends at Garage Plus thought way outside the storage unit box when they came up with this concept: Garage "condos" you can own and customize! As they say, your imagination is the only limit to what can be done with your personal toy box. We recently asked Michelle Simon of Garage Plus to share a little more about their project.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2308 Car Culture AF2A27BC-0FC0-405B-ADA9-628F6C91963F Thu, 4 Feb 2010 15:45:32 -0800
Guest Post: A Brief History of Japanese Classic Cars

One of the fastest growing segments of the automotive scene is vintage Japanese cars. When I first started introducing people to the notion of a Japanese classic on behalf of Japanese Nostalgic Car Magazine, I got nothing but looks of confusion. So, let's begin with a brief history.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2282 Car Culture 10725322-D133-41A0-897D-6235F87DEBCA Mon, 1 Feb 2010 14:48:09 -0800
Don't Battle Your Wax: Proper Best of Show Application

There's no questioning the remarkable finish Best of Show Wax gives, but occasionally we receive feedback from customers having difficulty removing the excess. For example... "Best of Show is a great product. The only down side is it takes a lot of elbow grease to get it buffed out perfectly." Fear not, the remedy is simple!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2267 Tech 550BBCD6-EBA3-40BA-ADA9-E0D8F9717DC1 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 11:34:53 -0800
A New Garage! Part 4: Momentum

If you've ever restored or customized a car, you know there's a tipping point where the project just takes off. Plans have been refined and committed to memory, the vision is clear, and the tedious groundwork has been laid. It's a satisfying time. Every night when you turn out the garage lights, you've made real, tangible progress.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2219 Griot's Garage 2AB3E3B1-016E-451E-8CD3-49FBA1AB909F Wed, 20 Jan 2010 16:42:32 -0800
New In My Garage "Links & Resources" Page

Warning! Your productivity is about to take a nosedive! Check out our just-added links page, a collection of our favorite auto news sites, blogs, and car guy pages. We'll be updating it regularly, so check back often. Heck, why not use it as your daily web surfing start page? Guaranteed fresh, always kosher.

Get some here...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2207 Randomness 349D6A9E-D9BE-4136-BFBF-325385231B91 Mon, 18 Jan 2010 14:28:06 -0800
Star Cars: Janis Joplin's 1965 Porsche 356c

It's hard to believe that, had she somehow found a way off the path of self-destruction, Janis Joplin would be turning 67 in a few days. America's first female rock superstar created a catalog of soulful music that has transcended generations. And, did you know, the singer who famously belted, "Oh Lord, won't you buy me a Mercedes-Benz" also left behind a pretty neat car?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2100 Columns E35C6053-C38B-43F5-A6AD-93EF36F40D4F Tue, 12 Jan 2010 11:52:22 -0800
Point/Counterpoint: What truck goes best with cowboy boots?

On this day in 1901, a large hole drilled into a small hill outside Beaumont, Texas exploded to life. The Spindletop derrick spewed 3,000 gallons of oil a minute that day and enabled an young auto industry to expand at breakneck speed. Cars (and Texas) would never be the same. So, In My Garagers... 109 years later, the critical question arises: What truck goes best with cowboy boots?

Dustin and Derek weigh in. What say you?

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2079 Columns 4C2ACEC3-872B-4CA0-8BAB-1D773BA3A0D6 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 07:50:04 -0800
A New Garage! Part 3: Rolling Up Our Sleeves

Anyone who's had a project car in the garage knows that it takes a certain "vision" to imagine what is possible. In our case, Richard Griot is the man with the vision... and the project is our garage! In the last update we gave you the history of our new digs. Since then, Richard has put his ideas into motion and the work has begun!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2043 Griot's Garage 323594A3-E95E-4351-BDED-343369B13C6E Tue, 5 Jan 2010 16:16:23 -0800
In My Garage 2009

As we prepare to ring in the New Year, we'd like to step back and thank all of you for reading, commenting, and sending us feedback. We launched In My Garage in 2009 to give you a peek inside Griot's Garage, to see the passion we have for cars, and to hopefully inspire you to have fun in your garage. Thanks for riding along... see you in 2010!

Some of our favorite posts from 2009...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2038 Car Culture 3D7237C1-FF72-48F5-B22C-2287FDFF30B5 Thu, 31 Dec 2009 12:27:05 -0800
Top 5 Cars Least Likely to be Stolen

Every year about this time, the National Insurance Crime Bureau releases its list of America's most stolen cars. I always chuckle at the predictable (but apparently desirable) array of sedans and SUV's that top the list. For 2009, the Honda Civic and Accord, Toyota Camry, and Ford F-150 sit atop the heap. It got me thinking... what modern cars would best repel would-be thieves?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2027 Columns D2EDE96E-C8A0-45B8-805D-A7DA910B6F31 Tue, 29 Dec 2009 12:43:00 -0800
Crossword Challenge: 1953 Siata 208CS Spyder

This beautiful 1953 Siata was Best of Show runner-up at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours. Its owner (a Griot's Garage customer) was generous enough to share the car for an upcoming Handbook cover (#304). Meanwhile, another friend of ours created a fun crossword puzzle with facts about the Siata and Griot's Garage products as clues. We have the best customers!

Enjoy the puzzle...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2015 Media 80443328-4D5C-497B-8070-18BDCC31EB3F Wed, 23 Dec 2009 14:12:15 -0800
Caption It! "Project Car" Edition

The release of our new Professional 3" Random Orbital has left a few of the first generation models lying around. Extra product like this can only mean one thing" it's time for a contest! Caption this photo in the comments, then we'll choose a winner next Wednesday (Dec 23) to win a FREE first-gen 3" Orbital. Enter as many times as you like!

You know the drill...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=2004 Columns 56CD29B1-1856-4ED8-8430-96D0C3B7098E Wed, 16 Dec 2009 09:18:04 -0800
Griot's Garage Donates to Festival of Trees

Each year the Mary Bridge Children's Hospital & Health Center puts on a fundraising "Festival of Trees". This year, over a hundred Christmas trees were decorated by volunteers and then auctioned off, with over $300,000 in proceeds supporting the hospital. The trees were displayed and enjoyed by hundreds of people over two days.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1997 Griot's Garage 3B452C54-B153-4455-8B05-215C424F2BBA Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:34:26 -0800
Porsche Guys' Night in the Man Cave

There's something about cars that turns total strangers into friends in mere minutes. When a Porsche guru from Portland asked Richard Griot to join he and a bunch of buddies for dinner recently, Richard's reply was, "Maybe you should all come over and hang out in my garage instead." How could any red-blooded car guy refuse?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1977 Car Culture AE383DC4-F53A-45B1-AC89-A557D3791B7D Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:33:11 -0800
On the Lot: 1948 Buick Roadmaster

Designed by Harley Earl, the 1948 Buick Roadmaster represented everything the American buying public wanted after World War II... style, power, and luxury. Our customer has owned this beautiful car for over 40 years! It's powered by a 320ci straight-eight, mated to Buick's famous Dynaflow transmission... and it is immaculate. We get all tingly inside whenever old iron like this pulls onto the lot.

See the photos...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1967 Car Culture 2727BB6E-3F19-44CD-A26F-55CF9AF3912D Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:31:33 -0800
From the Flickr Pool: Movement Edition

Ford Fiesta Movement Agent, Davey G. Johnson, knows it's all about lighting. He snapped this winner on a photo excursion through the streets of Denver. We dig the way he captured the late night lights bouncing off the chrome and glossy paint of this old Chrysler. Well done, Davey! You're our latest Flickr pool winner. Enjoy your prize!

See the winning photo...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1955 Media 03235873-9880-4459-B7F7-35460BF59196 Mon, 7 Dec 2009 09:06:31 -0800
What we're asking Santa Griot to bring this year...

In the whirlwind of Holiday shopping it can be frustrating to find the perfect gift for the petrol head on your list. Rest assured... We at InMyGarage are always looking out for you. I stayed late one night and snuck through some desk drawers to compile a list of a few employee favorites at Griot's Garage this gift-giving season.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1927 Griot's Garage 5C555C4E-3AB4-4289-8540-2BBC8DCACB33 Mon, 7 Dec 2009 09:01:40 -0800
5 Great Automotive Rivalries (and one "no-contest")

Horsepower or Handling? Ford or Chevy? NASCAR or F1? The rivalry is an integral part of the automotive experience. Gearheads everywhere are completely aware of the biggest grudge-matches in motoring, and I thought I would take a chance to expose a few. On which side of the fence do you fall, and which classic rivalries would you add to the list?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1908 Car Culture F3C2F815-61CA-48E5-9E03-3289F49E6F3A Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:04:19 -0800
Race on Sunday, Sell on Monday: Griot's GP Challenge in Photos

After experiencing Pacific Grand Prix, we just had to share it. So, this past weekend we hosted the Griot's Garage GP Challenge event. The local BMW and Toyota clubs made strong showings, trying to "Beat the Griot" time. Brian, the Toyota club's ringer, ended up finishing .1 second ahead of the best Griot's Garage time and walked home with a new 3" Random Orbital. Congrats Brian!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1887 Car Culture 0D85AA4C-7541-4B51-B9AB-B954C3C9CF34 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:57:03 -0800
5 Easy Steps to Prepare Your Vehicles for Winter Storage

The rain is falling and the temperature is beginning to drop here at IMG HQ, which can only mean one thing... Old Man Winter is knocking and it's time to button up our track toys and weekend cruisers. I'm going to give you 5 easy steps to make sure your baby is turn-key ready when spring rolls around.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1870 Tech DAF70612-A880-456C-BEC2-8F3E7756CA01 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:55:28 -0800
It's the 2009 SEMA Show Mega-Post!

Ok, so we can't promise this will actually be a "mega-post". We're not even sure what that means (though it does sound catchy). What we can say is that our man Steve is taking in the sights at SEMA 2009, and sending pics to make the rest of us jealous. Bookmark and check back to see the latest!


Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1808 Events 4F3A9085-7A74-44FD-89E7-9F0B66034785 Thu, 5 Nov 2009 15:47:37 -0800
Rat Rod RV: Crunk or Junk?

When is a car worth saving, and when is it just a pile (no pun intended) of metal? It's a question we constantly debate at IMG Headquarters. Here is the latest installment: We spotted this recreational vehicle revitalization in Frisco, Colorado. Now it's up to you to decide... Crunk or Junk?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1800 Columns B3E316EA-E61D-4141-A91C-25B0C0B058A4 Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:09:02 -0700
Track Day at Pacific Grand Prix

Paul Zalud's 11-year dream project was completed four months ago, bringing one of the coolest karting facilities in the world to the Pacific Northwest. Knowing a few of us at In My Garage might be interested (yeah, uh huh... "might"), he invited us out last Thursday for a little track time. This job is never boring, but days like that really stand out.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1787 Car Culture 2AE13587-F072-47C7-BDE4-603C4009C6E6 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:49:16 -0700
Top 5 Griot's Garage Covers - What's your favorite?

We recently mailed the 300th Griot's Garage Handbook, a milestone Richard Griot only dreamed of when he sent the first book in 1991. Over the years, we've had the opportunity to meet some great enthusiasts, and spend time learning about and photographing their prized cars. Here are the Top 5 Covers, as voted by our Associates.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1766 Griot's Garage 0D8F444F-B736-462C-B88F-3E0A73707D40 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:44:38 -0700
The Car Coozie: It'll Have You in Stitches

In 2006, English art student Lauren Porter took 10 months and used 12 miles of yarn to create a 1:1 Ferrari that really puts Grandma's tissue box covers to shame. We think she was on to something, and it's only a matter of time before someone markets "Car Coozies". Dress up that old Ford Probe! Cover your embarrassing Chevy Vega!

See the pictures...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1750 Randomness FDAB8B15-B5F0-489D-8B02-469665483A51 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 11:23:36 -0700
Point/Counterpoint: What was 1982's Awesomest Car?

On this day in 1982, John DeLorean was arrested on charges of drug trafficking, in an apparent attempt to keep his failing car company afloat. Econo-boxes ruled the day, and GM was bringing us bummers like the Cimarron and a 90hp Camaro. Times were not gnarly in the auto industry, but let's see if Derek and Dustin can find the awesome.

Gentlemen, make your points...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1731 Columns 23AE9E7C-4D1D-4469-B050-B79AAFAE88BE Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:14:48 -0700
On the Lot: 1967 Camaro RS/SS

Since we're having an amazing "Indian Summer" in the Pacific Northwest, the collector cars still keep showing up at Griot's Garage. A great customer showed up today with his 1967 Camaro RS/SS, a numbers-matching car with a 350ci and Muncie M21 transmission. It was painted over six years ago but looks like they just finished wet sanding!

Enjoy the pics...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1719 Car Culture 7F361CDC-24D9-44A2-BF50-0BCBA1D7CEB2 Thu, 8 Oct 2009 10:06:11 -0700
Dirty Pictures: The Art of Scott Wade

I’m sure you'll agree there's nothing quite like cruising in a freshly washed and detailed car. But there's also something about a dirty back window that awakens the inner child. Who hasn't written "wash me" on their parents' car after a road trip? Well, Scott Wade takes that classic scrawl to a whole new level. For him, dusty glass is an irresistible blank canvas.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1699 Car Culture 739E7486-8F9E-4B4A-A03F-82C7D5BFE054 Thu, 1 Oct 2009 10:26:17 -0700
Gearhead Hobbies: What's yours?

What does it take to call yourself a true car guy? For me, being a gearhead is an overall obsession with everything even remotely related to automobiles, and it comes out in my hobbies. Slot cars, scale models, memorbilia, books, vintage parts, tattoo's, vacations to car museums. Nevermind the weekly beg-and-plead with my wife to name our first daughter Lexus or Porsche. Sad, isn't it?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1688 Car Culture 870DEB72-0688-4187-8402-2CF0D6EE035E Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:27:12 -0700
Car Care Myth vs. Car Quotable: Daniel-san Edition

"Wax on, right hand. Wax off, left hand. Breathe in through nose, out through mouth. Wax on, wax off. Don't forget to breathe, very important." - Mr. Miyagi, in The Karate Kid (1984)

Old Miyagi knew crane kicks and bonsai trees, but his car care techniques leave something to be desired.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1669 Tech 87A6BECE-8C38-49D7-9F10-9BAB5F9C2E8C Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:39:53 -0700
A New Garage! Part 2: The Barn Find

Maybe you've experienced something like this... You hear a rumor that there is something special nearby - lying neglected, hidden, almost forgotten. You find the spot, and coax the owner into letting you take a peek inside. The barn doors creak open and there, waiting patiently in the dark and covered with years of dust, is your next project.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1646 Griot's Garage 7C69C67A-1F75-47A7-8C1F-5D4E0115ACF7 Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:38:07 -0700
Blackout 1942 Chevy Coupe

After the raid on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. entered World War II on December 8, 1941. Automakers were ordered to curtail the use of brightwork (chrome and stainless trim) within one month, and to cease production of passenger cars altogether within two. That first mandate led to a rare and interesting run of cars... the blackout specials.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1636 Car Culture 47F8E71B-F236-4E56-815E-F614BBFB30B7 Thu, 17 Sep 2009 16:29:18 -0700
From the Flickr Pool: Koenigsegg at Silverstone

Some shutterbugs will go to great lengths to get the perfect shot. Just ask Tim Scott of Fluid Images. To capture this moment at England's Silverstone Raceway, he rigged a camera to the side of the car and triggered the shutter by remote while following behind. You're our latest Flickr photo pool winner, Tim. Enjoy your car care prize!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1628 Media 5AD93BF7-734C-45A0-8E7B-B915BEC64464 Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:04:34 -0700
Guess What I Drove!

I am a fan boy. I'll be big enough to admit it. I love all things Ferrari. And although I know a new one is most likely a long shot for me (or never going to happen), I still feel a pounding in my heart and a gripping twist in my gut every time I see one... or hear the magical sounds of a Ferrari motor. So when the chance came for me to get behind the wheel last summer, I jumped with all 6 cylinders.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1617 Car Culture 61B7AA31-80D0-497C-97FC-5D0A4FD680D4 Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:03:03 -0700
Boys' Night Out: Thursdays in the Garage

There's a lot that goes on behind the scenes at Griot's Garage. Bringing the best Car Care, tools, accessories, and garage gadgets to market takes time and dedication. It also means some late nights out in the garage testing and perfecting. Here's the story of a time-honored research-and-development tradition... Thursday Boys' Night Out.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1585 Griot's Garage EBD39928-73B8-4190-8654-39A96421343F Mon, 14 Sep 2009 14:05:42 -0700
A New Garage! Part 1: The Announcement

In 1991, Richard Griot mailed the first Griot's Garage handbook from a small office in Vista, California. That catalog struck a major chord with automotive enthusiasts, and in 1994 Richard relocated the company to a large facility in Tacoma, Washington. Well, we’re still growing, and we're on the move again!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1566 Griot's Garage B2867D61-6D1B-49D8-925E-94B482A6B3FA Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:02:23 -0700
What's the best example of automotive "green marketing"?

Throughout the summer, Fiat created an oasis in the middle of Milan by using full-scale fiberglass models of the automaker's 500C cars as tree planters. The flora-toting Fiats were positioned on otherwise tree-less streets to "make the summer more liveable in the Lombardy capital." Is it genius, or greenwashing?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1569 Car Culture 6E5CA5D4-D311-4D6A-A482-03313E768E18 Thu, 3 Sep 2009 15:32:28 -0700
Caption It!

Our last "Caption It" contest drew some hilarious entries. So let's do it again! Hot rodders sure are an eclectic bunch, as evidenced by this shot we took at the Spokane, WA Goodguys event a couple weeks back. Caption it in the comments, then we'll choose a winner next Friday (the 11th) and award a car care prize. Dude! Free car care!

Go to the comments...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1537 Columns EADFAAFF-1254-44B4-A77E-08C09C4BF292 Tue, 1 Sep 2009 14:30:01 -0700
2009 Puget Sound Toyota Owners Festival

August 30, the quirky and passionate Toyota crowd came out to Griot's Garage for the 5th annual Puget Sound Toyota Owners Festival hosted by PSTOC. Over 150 cars swung by, representing everything in the Toyota family! The event was also a Toys for Tots fundraiser that filled the entire bed of a pickup with new toys for less fortunate kids.

Enjoy the pictures...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1506 Car Culture 1A4E91BA-4D8D-45F0-AC9E-66A6EC24580F Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:31:28 -0700
10 Things You'll Never Hear in My Garage

Our garages are a sanctuary. There are unspoken rules and codes passed down through the generations before us about proper conduct in the cave. And let's be honest, there are some things that just don't (or shouldn't) fly within those four walls, right? Here's my list... what are the things you'd never hear (or want to hear) in your garage?

Read the list...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1497 Car Culture CA922F0B-31AF-4BDC-B370-74E04DBEB67A Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:29:48 -0700
The 2009 BMW M-Car Day in Photos

August 23, enthusiasts of BMW's most exciting road cars gathered at the Griot's Garage shop for a celebration of all things M. 138 cars were in attendance, both old and new. It was a day of great food, friends, and family fun. Enjoy our photos, and drop a link in the comments if you've got some of your own!

See the pics...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1475 Car Culture 24D097A3-EE7A-4D62-A54B-F3BED1BA16BF Tue, 25 Aug 2009 14:49:35 -0700
Car Quotable - Jade Grenade Edition

"It wasn't a bad run, but after the third flip I lost control." - Don Roberts, professional drag racer.

New England Dragway, April 20, 1975. It would be Don Roberts' first ride in the top fuel dragster, "Jade Grenade"... and his last trip ever down the quarter-mile.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1456 Columns 8451C86B-1D2D-43C5-930C-1E24C892470D Mon, 24 Aug 2009 11:18:43 -0700
Car Care Myth: Dish Soap Makes a Great Car Wash!

Our previous Car Care Myth article cleared up the misconceptions about waterless car washes. Now, while we are on the subject of car washing, let's talk about dish soap as car wash. Let me begin by saying, hearing about this rarely gives me any joy, so I hope after this article there will be a new dawn of car wash understanding.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1449 Columns 4DC9AC65-EBE2-4090-ABB4-59CEDC2CF43E Thu, 20 Aug 2009 09:48:24 -0700
From the Flickr Pool: Fast Sitting Still

Got any cool car photos? Share 'em on the InMyGarage Flickr Group and you just might win a prize. Group member John Hietter was in the right place at the right time to get this shot of a city bus rolling past a Lamborghini LP640 Roadster. We love the way this Lambo creeps out of the shadows. Great capture... enjoy your car care prize!

See the winning photo...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1437 Media C0A3093C-3897-4E64-9FA6-10638C994061 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 09:22:58 -0700
Oddballs: Top 5 Three-Wheeled Vehicles

It's no secret that even-number-wheeled vehicles rule the streets. So, on the rare occasion when you see something with three, you've gotta take the time to give it a second look! I've dug through the oddball archive to bring you my Top 5 three-wheelers. What would you add to the list?

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1425 Car Culture D26F0B00-72D0-4473-9955-A877430E9983 Fri, 14 Aug 2009 10:56:49 -0700
Concours d'LeMons Set to Underwhelm at Monterey

"Tired of paying $150 to see 150 identical Ferraris? Concours d'LeMons costs 20 bucks and has 20 Pacers and Pintos." So reads the marketing teaser for a gathering of the automotive world's most abominably awesome creations. Heading to Monterey this weekend? Leave your straw hat in the Bentley and check out some real rides.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1404 Car Culture 769C8D64-CC06-4F2B-83A1-00313359DF93 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 10:30:19 -0700
Car Care Myth: Waterless car wash will damage my paint!

It's drought season, and with water restrictions becoming more common, I'm sure you've seen a flood (forgive the pun) of waterless car washes hitting the market. As you may be, I was very skeptical. Washing my car without water? Are you nuts?!?!! However, now that I understand and have used them, let me say... I am a believer!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1394 Columns 48E0CBA6-0751-4932-8752-E44BF2DE5729 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:54:08 -0700
Porsche 944 Trailer: Crunk or Junk?

When is a car worth saving, and when is it just a pile (no pun intended) of metal? This is the question under constant debate at InMyGarage. Here's the latest installment submitted for your consideration: Spotted at the Porsche Parade in Keystone, Colorado, it's a Porsche 944 pulling a trailer built from... uhh, another 944.

See the beauty, the majesty...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1385 Columns BE527C9B-A110-4FE7-B6D1-4ACBFA2FC927 Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:52:18 -0700
Car Quotable - War on Speed Edition

The Internet's been buzzing about Jeremy Clarkson's final segment on this week's episode of Top Gear. With the so-called "War on Speed" raging strong, this older quote from him falls right into place: "You can't rationalize cars like these. They're not something you buy with your head, you buy them with your heart because you love them, and who can explain love?"

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1376 Columns E08D28F7-143C-4428-A8A8-BF8CC1840798 Wed, 5 Aug 2009 11:12:28 -0700
Report from the Road: Intermeccanica Tour 2009

Intermeccanica has been building specialty cars for the past 50 years. Founded by Frank Reisner in Turin Italy, their history is vast and interesting. Frank's son Henry runs the company now, and every summer hosts a tour and BBQ to thank customers and friends for their business. This was the second tour I've attended, and the event was definitely one to remember.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1354 Car Culture D4667764-CD43-40FB-B40F-EFAE13BEE00E Tue, 4 Aug 2009 14:48:25 -0700
My Great American Road Trip

We've all been on one. I'm sure if you think about the road trips you've taken, you can't help but crack a smile at the adventures. What better thing to do in these challenging times than get back to enjoying simple pleasures, close to home, with family and friends? That's what I was thinking when a late night eBay purchase led to one of my favorite family vacations with my four children!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1336 Car Culture 1E0203C3-8257-4381-A14F-668D82580B8D Fri, 31 Jul 2009 15:56:47 -0700
Eduardo Venegas: A Passion for Porsche

As I was walking around the Porsche Parade in Keystone, CO this year, I was asked by a kindly gentleman to take a peek at the 911E he would be presenting at the concours the next day. Little did I know I was meeting an enthusiast who has the attitude and passion to reignite anyone's love of automobilia.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1319 Car Culture 3F21F965-57E7-4C93-AEC5-819F17EC54E4 Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:31:10 -0700
Car Care Myth: All 100% Cotton Towels are 100% Cotton

In the last installment of our Car Care Myths series, I cleared up the differences between polish and wax. Are you ready for some more myth busting? Okay... save the bath towels for your morning shower, step away from the old t-shirt, and for the love of all that is sacred in car care, leave the diapers on your babies. It's time to dispel the myth that all cotton towels are created equal.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1310 Tech 8DC3078D-E55D-4114-8B8C-2873E488EB7D Tue, 28 Jul 2009 14:40:01 -0700
Aces: Cars of The King's Men Poker Run

They were lined up around the block most of the morning. Hot rods, customs, and classics of every flavor descended on the Griot's Garage shop this morning for a poker run hosted by the King's Men Car Club. Enjoy the photos, and be sure to check out the Goodguys show this weekend to see these (and tons of other) awesome rides.

See the Photos...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1285 Car Culture 08E9523E-56C6-4EF4-809F-BB1757D53C26 Fri, 24 Jul 2009 15:17:49 -0700
Caption It!

We snapped this photo during the recent Porsche 356 Club show-n-shine at Griot's Garage... and it needs a caption. This is where you come in. Submit as many as you'd like in the comments. We'll pick the best one next Friday (July 31) and give the winner a cool car care prize. Yes, it's true... people really do win at InMyGarage!

Click through leave your caption...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1263 Columns FC7C69C8-680E-45FF-A13C-3B48C252469B Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:25:11 -0700
Introducing: The New Griot's Garage Random Orbital

The original Griot's Garage Random Orbital (left) was an instant classic. It represented Richard Griot's life's work, and gave thousands of customers an easy and safe way to polish their paint to perfection. So with the recent launch of an all-new machine, you might be wondering, "What makes this latest version so much better?" Well, I'll tell you!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1252 Tech DEC1E56B-4539-4340-AEA6-613799A6224B Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:59:57 -0700
Relics - 1972 Maserati Ghibli

We spotted this rare Maserati Ghibli at last year's Seattle Italian Concours. What initially struck us were the big, bold lines and curves! Ghibli's were built to be a comfortable "gentlemen’s GT", competing with the raw track power of the Ferrari Daytona. We love the statement this car makes... you don't see curves like this on your Mom's minivan. Let us know what you think!

See the photo...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1208 Car Culture EC6EBF04-8055-4853-B5C1-55EB5D8A1A12 Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:52:13 -0700
Porsches 2 Oxford Preview: It's a casual Porsche party!

Griot's Garage is pleased to be involved with Porsches 2 Oxford, taking place July 25. "A casual Porsche party", this event gives attendees the opportunity to hang out in a great uptown area with like-minded enthusiasts. P2O is a "can't-miss" for Porsche lovers. In My Garage spoke with key player Brice Kadel about what makes the event special.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1179 Car Culture B973A745-0E68-49D5-860D-6DC08F5DA173 Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:48:36 -0700
Car Quotable - Then & Now Edition

In 1909, Scientific American said, "That the automobile has practically reached the limit of its development is suggested by the fact that during the past year no improvements of a radical nature have been introduced."

We reached the peak of automotive achievement in 1909?  Somebody forgot to tell Colin Chapman and Pinin Farina.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1164 Columns 9494C9EB-92AE-4A59-BACE-AE72A41FA491 Thu, 16 Jul 2009 09:23:16 -0700
SoCal or Bust Part 6: The Finish Line

Day 5 started early. We had gotten a good night's sleep and woken to the sounds of splashing water. Yep, the pool would be where we spent this day. Now, when a bunch of sunburned car nerds (in an appropriately grown-up manner, of course) test the  effects of grain alcohol, stories will result. Some of those stories cannot be shared on the Internet. Let's move on to Day 6.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1143 Car Culture 159CC3D5-8930-4F66-849A-A63B9456851F Wed, 15 Jul 2009 15:13:47 -0700
Night Chariots: The Top 5 Cars of Pizza Delivery

It's 11:00pm on a Saturday, and you're being overwhelmed by a creeping hunger. A call to your favorite pizza joint brings the dreaded, "about 45 minutes". Time slows, hunger pangs tear you apart. Just as you think hope is gone, you hear the familiar rumble of a neglected engine, the squeal of barren brakes against warped rotors.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1124 Columns 8C5402A9-6DFD-4B07-BCFA-2C61ED582CD3 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 10:40:59 -0700
Car Care Myth: Wax is Polish is Wax

In my first Car Care Myth article, I shed some light on what's in your carnauba wax. Now, let's look at one of the more baffling terminology distinctions in the world of care care... polish vs. wax. These two words have been confused and misused longer than Audi and Mercedes have been trying to build a car better than the M3.

Let's put the battle to bed...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1116 Tech 68B83146-2E82-418E-AC4F-69211E655191 Tue, 30 Jun 2009 08:39:14 -0700
From the Flickr Pool: Low-Down, Dirty Rat

There's just so much that's right about this shot from our Flickr Group member, Chad Lunn. Great perspective and composition, awesome contrast, and just enough black to let us know this menacing hot rod is not to be trifled with. Thanks for being part of our group, Chad. Enjoy your car care prize!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1096 Media 733CE22C-0B7F-4C4B-B8D5-74663FE428C2 Thu, 25 Jun 2009 12:01:57 -0700
5 Must-Have Car Goodies for Kids. Okay, 4.

The birthing classes are over, the baby showers have been completed, and with a month to go, it's finally time for me to take care of the real priorities... scouring the internet for all the necessities my son will need during his first few years in the pits. Here are 4 ridiculously awesome car gifts for kids (and 1 that's just plain ridiculous).

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1085 Car Culture A0654BA2-A08B-40C3-BE5F-1E833DEA68D9 Wed, 24 Jun 2009 10:17:14 -0700
SoCal or Bust Part 5: The Reason For Our Trip

Day 4 was supposed to start at 5:00am with us taking care of the last few details on Don's Celica. It kind of did. I think a few of us were just-then closing our eyes (from the night of one too many libations) and others were just plain lazy and slept in. No matter, we were on the road by 5:45am (only a little late) and ready to take Southern Cali by storm.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1069 Car Culture 44298358-7851-40B6-895D-77E0A2EECCFD Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:11:23 -0700
BAM! POW! A Father's Day Bat Story!

When I was growing up I had two fathers. One drove my Great Grandfather's Medium Green Ford LTD; the other woke me up every morning with his 1975 Ferrari 308GT4. Now before you go thinking that I was raised in an automotive household surrounded by cool cars, my Real Father will admit quite the opposite was true.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1059 Car Culture F328AEB5-D98E-4ADF-BD5C-C938CEB9BD68 Fri, 19 Jun 2009 15:16:38 -0700
Satch Carlson Sounds Off

I'm a BMW fanatic. So when I heard Satch Carlson (outspoken Editor-In-Chief of Roundel) would be attending our annual E30 Picnic, I jumped at the chance to talk with him. I also tossed out an opportunity for you to join in the conversation with this BMW icon.

I hope you enjoy the article!

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1018 Car Culture 32A0791C-3CFC-440D-8C04-A87A21995982 Thu, 18 Jun 2009 18:03:50 -0700
SoCal or Bust Part 4: Sun, Fun, and Slowing Down

In Part 3 of our road trip to ToyotaFest, you'll recall that I didn't have the good sense to stay out of San Francisco Bay. Well, on this day we'd all end up wet (and not regret it for a second). We got to the house where we were crashing about 1:45am, so day 3 didn't get moving until 10. And even then, it never really got moving too fast. Perfect.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1007 Car Culture B4D4810E-904B-4C19-9B85-E8C33D48F71A Wed, 17 Jun 2009 17:17:09 -0700
What's the best vehicle for summer road trips?

Richard Griot built this bitchin' 1972 Suburban, loaded up his kids, and hit the road bound for Yellowstone Park. My dad once bought an old V-dub Westfalia just for a road trip to Frisco, then sold it when we got home. It's an age-old tradition, from the Grapes of Wrath, to the Griswolds, right down to you and me. So...

What's your ultimate rig for summer road-tripping?

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=991 Columns 88DAF55C-CC2D-4853-A706-E7E2177C6290 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:35:20 -0700
Date with a Rolls-Royce, Part 1: Life Before Photoshop

Just before I graduated from college I fell into the perfect job, as print advertising manager for the old Nationwise Auto Parts based in Columbus, Ohio. If you lived anywhere near I-75 from Ohio to Florida between 1965 and 1990 you must have visited one of our stores to change your oil, or buy a rebuilt alternator.

Read on...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=982 Columns 482AC798-85A0-40C2-BBFA-7CB491730B25 Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:04:00 -0700
Commenter of the Week - Aww Shucks Edition

For sharing "27 years worth of mom advice" with our own IMG blogger, Dustin (and the world, on the Internets)... and for reminding us that mother is always watching, this week's star commenter is Dustin's mom. Now, about that homemade soup... Monday's good for us.

Readers, don't forget to give Mom a hug this Father's Day!

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=944#comments Columns D9616BCB-D23D-426B-B4AC-73D24EB15350 Fri, 12 Jun 2009 16:31:03 -0700
The E30 Picnic is over...

and I'm already thinking about next year. My life revolves around the first weekend in June. The E30 Picnic is December 31st on my automotive calendar. It's the target date for project completion, followed shortly thereafter by 'resolutions' for where my car will be next year (I'd like to see mine lose a little weight and quit smoking).

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=960 Car Culture 409A088C-4E22-48BC-9729-9AF518F8E4AA Thu, 11 Jun 2009 14:55:27 -0700
SoCal or Bust Part 2: That Portland Voodoo

Part 2 of this car show road trip saw us drifting off to Sleepyland with visions of peacocks and shotguns dancing in our heads. The next morning, however, would come with a bluebird on our shoulders. The first Wired of the day was downed before dawn, and we were itching to find a car wash to brush the bugs from our cars' teeth.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=944 Car Culture 8D1CBAE8-DF8C-4C5D-A744-1BA6A339181F Tue, 9 Jun 2009 08:02:49 -0700
SoCal or Bust Part 2: That Portland Voodoo

When I left you in Part 1, our crew was setting out from Tacoma in the early morning hours, bound for the City of Roses, Portland... and eventually, Long Beach.

The rain had timed itself perfectly for our departure. Typical. Spend hours and hours and hours detailing, pull the car out of the garage, and it starts pouring.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=924 Car Culture A0E94685-1AD3-4E41-8DBC-852976709455 Fri, 5 Jun 2009 10:33:00 -0700
Ask Satch and win a car care prize!

If you've never heard of Satch Carlson, you are missing out on one of the most entertaining and opinionated car guys out there today (think Jeremy Clarkson without the curly hair and English accent). This Saturday, I'll be sitting down to chat with Satch and want to know...

What would you ask this fixture of automotive world?

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=910 Car Culture 7A8EA390-F34D-461D-8E5E-201B7F384EB0 Wed, 3 Jun 2009 11:38:32 -0700
Car Care Myth: My Wax is 100% Carnauba!

Exaggerated marketing and plain old misinformation have created a confusing bunch of car care assumptions. I’m here to bust some of the most common myths, and give you the information you need to make informed decisions about caring for your prized possessions.

First stop on the truth train: Carnauba wax content!

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=899 Tech E38E832F-FED0-45F6-AD41-D160F02F755B Wed, 3 Jun 2009 09:27:54 -0700
SoCal or Bust, Part 1: Saddling Up

I don't often drive 1,800 miles for a six-hour car show, but that's what happened recently when, along with several other members of the Puget Sound Toyota Owners Club, I decided to make the trip to Long Beach for the Toyota Owners and Restorers Club 14th annual ToyotaFest.

Say it along with me now... Road trip!

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=859 Car Culture 0A40FA92-E365-4147-802A-6C90621E1F59 Tue, 2 Jun 2009 14:20:06 -0700
1979 Chrysler Cordoba: Crunk or Junk?

When is a car worth saving, and when is it just a pile (no pun intended) of metal? This is the question we were debating this morning at IMG Headquarters when, lo and behold, one of our customers sent in a photo of his beloved 1979 Cordoba.

So, what do you think? Is this 'Doba crunk... or junk?

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=846 Columns 3B46799F-F792-474B-8CA3-7F21AD93E28D Mon, 1 Jun 2009 08:52:36 -0700
Scrappy little fella, aren't ya?

A walk through the local Mini dealer today revealed one customer’s attitude toward big blocks! To be fair, and with apologies to the continental owner of the marque, when did the UK ever produce a V8 worth it’s weight in tea???

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=838 Randomness 9C5335FC-233F-4B0A-A03C-6ABC533BB523 Mon, 1 Jun 2009 08:50:51 -0700
Car Quotable

"Racing is a matter of spirit, not strength." - Janet Guthrie

The first woman to compete in the Indy 500 and Daytona 500 races, Janet Guthrie knows a thing or two about the racing spirit. Her diverse background led to great achievements both on and off the track.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=808 Columns 9FCF6B07-F785-49C7-BD9E-DFD8C0122FDD Mon, 1 Jun 2009 08:49:08 -0700
On the Lot: Superformance Cobra

I had to grab the camera when I heard this '66 Cobra replica roaring in. I took my time enjoying all the angles while the owner shopped in our retail store. Superformance did an excellent job replicating the handiwork done by the original builders back in '66... had me fooled until the owner, John, shared the car's story.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=790 Car Culture 2997006A-79AA-4C42-81C4-393CEE86F8A1 Thu, 28 May 2009 08:49:51 -0700
Tire Care Secrets Part 2: Dressing

You've all cleaned your tires after yesterday's Tire Cleaning article, so let's get to the fun stuff... tire dressings! The importance of dressings is two-fold; 1) protect the tires, and 2) make them look great. The definition of protection is pretty consistent, but we all have our own ideas of what finish looks good on a tire.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=762 Tech 14D8F89B-277D-4F35-8F31-3B77A35E3238 Thu, 28 May 2009 08:47:17 -0700
From the Flickr Pool...

Have some car pics you'd like to share? Head over to flickr, join the new In My Garage photo pool, and upload your best. Every month we'll pick one and give the photographer a prize! This month's winner is Schrementi, for a cool shot of his Porsche basking in sunshine and blue skies. Congrats, and keep 'em coming!

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=748 Media 69709FC8-D398-4372-AD18-798776729ACD Thu, 28 May 2009 08:45:05 -0700
Tire Care Secrets Part 1: Cleaning

"I spent hours detailing my car. Everything looks great except the tires, which are still brown and grungy. What can I do to make them look as good as the rest of the car?"

Great question (and one I hear often). The answer breaks down into two parts, which I'll cover in detail today and tomorrow" Part 1, Tire Cleaning!

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=467 Tech C37A64CC-6C66-4C8C-A286-299C4D139069 Thu, 28 May 2009 08:43:41 -0700
Rising Sun: Top 5 Vintage Japanese Speed

The words "vintage Japanese sports car" may not fit together in some peoples' minds, but it's a category near and dear to my heart. Ask again tomorrow and I'm sure the list would be different (there are too many I love), but here are the 5 coolest vintage Japanese sports cars, as decided by me, this particular minute of this day.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=582 Columns A9C8BD14-5119-4463-BA59-9213285363E1 Tue, 26 May 2009 08:34:33 -0700
Steve Anderson: Pictures of Perfection

Is it possible to capture the essence of an automobile with mere ink and paint? For artist Steve Anderson, it's an everyday thing... this magician of the marker creates fantastic, gallery-worthy automotive illustrations. Let’s hear what he has to say about cars, the creative process, and the future of the automotive industry.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=698 Car Culture 1A3BA14C-EC8E-4661-93AF-7227FCC9ED7D Tue, 26 May 2009 08:31:59 -0700
Burnout at 1000 Frames Per Second

Carfilms has unearthed this awesome dragster footage from 1969, filmed at 1000 frames per second. Watch for exhaust pulses hitting the tire smoke as the big rubber spins around like it's on crisco. Unreal!

Turn up the speakers for this one, kiddies.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=154 Media BEEF7D8E-0C22-466B-B545-6ED67A647E0F Tue, 26 May 2009 08:18:20 -0700
Tire Care Secrets Part 1: Cleaning

"I spent hours detailing my car. Everything looks great except the tires, which are still brown and grungy. What can I do to make them look as good as the rest of the car?"

Great question (and one I hear often). The answer breaks down into two parts, which I'll cover in detail today and tomorrow... Part 1, Tire Cleaning!

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=467 Tech D012FB10-D7AB-4317-8176-3945EE50D0EE Tue, 26 May 2009 08:16:06 -0700
What's your low-budge dream machine?

Here's a variation on a question we've all debated on elementary school playgrounds. Back then, it was simple: "What's your dream car?" Ah, to be so care-free again.

Ok, grownups, tighten your wallets for the 2009 version: "If you could own any car under $30k, what would it be?"

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=434 Columns 3E335848-D1B9-42F3-96A0-DB44A86B8968 Tue, 26 May 2009 08:13:31 -0700
Parts as Art

You know a true car guy when everything is a reflection of the motor oil that runs through his blood. Where some people see junk and scrap metal in old parts, a car guy sees soul and maybe even art.

My piston business card holder tells a thousand stories.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=318 Car Culture 20ECF260-BDB2-47AE-831C-F4A59A3F8978 Tue, 26 May 2009 08:07:31 -0700
Redline Coffee: Fuel for Gearheads

Roasted beans are big business, and it seems like a new coffee is born every day. In fact, sifting through the infinite combinations of brands, blends, and roasts (not to mention clever packaging and marketing) can be intimidating.

But a coffee for car guys? Ok, I'll bite. Err... sip.

Read On...

Have fun in your garage!®]]> http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=373 Reviews 1C8D70E2-6917-4B38-8B42-567BE0DC344C Tue, 26 May 2009 09:41:18 -0800