From Autoweek · Mark Vaughn · · 1m 10s
Isky Documentary Celebrates Hot Rod Pioneer
New documentary reveals how Ed Isky transformed hot rodding with his camshafts.
In brief
New documentary reveals how Ed Isky transformed hot rodding with his camshafts. Ed Isky's camshafts boosted engine performance without penalty, becoming essential for drag racing and hot rods. Originally reported by Autoweek.
Isky Documentary Release
The documentary Isky, an hour and nine minutes long, celebrates Ed Isky's impact on hot rodding and the American century.
Ed Isky's Early Life
Ed Isky was born before the Great Depression; his family lost their vineyard in California after frosts, moving to Los Angeles instead.
World War II Service
Ed served in the Army Air Corps during World War II and returned to find few performance camshafts for hot rods.
Camshaft Innovation
Isky converted a used cylindrical grinder into a cam-grinding machine, creating cams that boosted engine power without penalty.
Performance Impact
A small-block Chevy with Isky's cam made more than 1 hp per cubic inch, the first to exceed this benchmark.
Sponsorships and Legacy
Isky sponsored drag racing legends like Don Prudhomme, Don Garlits, and Mickey Thompson, and co-founded SEMA.
The essence
Ed Isky's camshafts boosted engine performance without penalty, becoming essential for drag racing and hot rods.
