Cars are often more than a hobby – they become a way of life for many men and women. Many racers become involved in the sport early, and it continues to be a lifelong passion that they often pass down to the next generation. Ron De Hoop has combined his passion for cars, racing, and family, to make his hobby a lifestyle. Ron created “CROSSmembers” Racing Products to share his love for drag racing and enthusiasm for cars. Thanks to his relationship with Lucas Oil, Ron takes his ’67 Chevrolet Chevelle to multiple events throughout the year.
Ron is a serious competitor while behind the wheel of his Chevelle. Over the years, he has participated in the Pacific Street Car Association as well as the NMCA West event series. Earning victories and championships has been the pay off for his hours of hard work and years of experience. The Chevelle has been in its current form for approximately five years. There are always plans for future modifications or something that may require attention, so things are never completely finished. “It’s a somewhat an ongoing process in someway or another,” added Ron.
During the two decades Ron has owned the car, it has undergone various changes and upgrades. “I’ve had many racecars over the last 45 years, but I aways wanted a ’66 or ’67 Chevelle,” said Ron. When he first purchased the ’67 , it was set up as Pro Street car, but that soon changed. He performed most of the work himself during the car’s evolution from a Pro Streeter to its current form. Fortunately, he has not had to do much work to car in recent years.
Currently the car is powered by a 434ci small-block engine, but that powerplant may soon be retired as he has a new engine in the works. All Ron would say about this new engine, is that it is an all-aluminum small-block Chevrolet. With that in mind, the Chevelle will continue to be a force to contend with for anyone who lines up next to it. His current combination transfers power through a Hughes Powerglide transmission to a 9-inch rear differential complete with Moser axles and Richmond gears. Mickey Thompson wheels and tires help this vibrant Chevrolet make it down the dragstrip. On average, he participates in six to eight racing events each season, as well as showing the car at an additional six to eight events.
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