Inside this month's Unique Cars gearbox
1. Last Monaro model
Classic Carlectables has released a 1/18 replica of the last of the Monaro line, aka the HZ GTS. And yes, we know that this model didn’t actually have Monaro badges on it, but the factory material of the day nevertheless listed it as a Monaro GTS. Controversy aside, we reckon this is a bit of a stunner. The production of the highly-detailed car is limited to 550 and we’re seeing hobby outlets advertising them for around $280.
2. Plug and play
Those of you who own a seventies-eighties Holden may be familiar with the combination stalk off the steering column that seems to control everything. Lights, indicators, washer/wiper – you name it. Of course when it comes to restoration time, this can be head-spinner to sort out. A mob called Bluewire Automotive in South Australia is offering what it says is a plug and play solution. The same company has a big range of electrical gear for all sorts of builds.
3. Skaifey bio
Mark Skaife is one of those names in motorsport that brings some instant images to mind, particularly of an HRT Commodore hurling through the top of the mountain at Bathurst and in with a big chance of winning. This isn’t the first bio on one of Australia’s racing greats – another was done about a decade ago. However this is the first with his name as author and includes a fair bit about his post-racing adventures. Generously illustrated, it’s produced by Affirm Press and is well worth a look. $45 in hardback.
4. Holden charm
Something for the Holden-owning missus or girlfriend? Or both? Bradford Exchange has come up with a bracelet it describes in this way: The current vogue for generously proportioned charms has inspired 13 beautifully-crafted charms capturing the icons of Holden’s six-decade heritage. Along the 18cm rope-style bracelet, you’ll discover a 1950s steering wheel, a sporty FB and that generation-defining first Holden emblem.” $300.
5. LED lamp
While you can pick up an LED lamp for two-fifths of not much, this one from Wurth looks like it could be a handy gadget around the workshop. It has a wrist strap, a built-in stand, plus magnets in the casing, offering a pretty wide range of options for usage. It also has several lighting modes, is rechargable, comes in a robust casing and promises a long battery life. Anyone who’s fumbled around in the gloom looking for obscured bolt heads or missing nuts will understand the value of all that. $124.
6. Falcon bag
If you happen to be the proud owner of an early Falcon, this strikes us as being a must-have. It’s a tote bag (in plaid, of course!) with the Falcon symbol.
One of a range produced by Scott Drake, this one is billed as the large tote bag measuring 21 inches (54cm) in length. Construction is felt-backed vinyl and they’re made in the USA.$55
From Unique Cars #445, November 2020