I bought as much Big block Chrysler parts and HASTINGS brand parts and tools I could. I also bought the Hastings oil filters catalog rack and a great selection of catalogs to compliment it. I bought a Chrysler 413 block and a set of closed chamber heads from upstairs on south end the guys don't remember them being put up there! There were also a couple Buick Nailhead blocks there also. Good on you Nixon for saving what you could just like me! Ken had offered me the Babbit bearing service machinery but I couldn't afford it.
That’s great! I remember that 413 block sitting there for a long time and then one day it was gone. I figured it went to the scrapper. Glad you got it! I never checked the numbers, is it from an Imperial or a more performance engine? Hastings stuff is cool 👍
@NIXONGarage getting that block down the stairs with Ken's dolly (and Ken too) was a challenge to say the least. Gene sold me hastings sparkplugs that have yellow porcelain on them. Also when I bought the catalog rack from Lenny Gene and Ken both made me care packages if i bought the rack i got the care packages free. GENE gave me 176 champion sparkplugs and some newer Hastings sparkplugs with white porcelain (Hastings stopped plug MFG in the 50s) and Ken gave me a Hastings electrical tester from '69 in original packaging but used and a Hastings dwell meter/tachometer. They treated me wonderfully and I know they did you too! I'll look at the ID pad on the 413 block
I am in the heavy duty truck parts business for over 35 years. I started in a small Mom and Pop store. It's sad for me to see, brings back a lot of memories. Employees raised families working at that store. If only the walls could talk.
The whole crew at Northwestern were just wonderful to deal with, I miss going in to see them. Gene and the guy’s treated me very well. I miss Ken’s stories and talking music with Leonard too
Ken had been doing carburetor work from his house. I assume he still is but I’m not certain. Steve’s Antique Auto Repair in Muskegon should be able to do that work also.
