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Camfather's Legacy: Engine Innovator Dies at 104
1 Mar
Summary
- Ed Iskenderian, 'the Camfather', revolutionized engine camshafts.
- His innovations fueled iconic racing achievements, including 400+ mph runs.
- He transformed the hobby of hot-rodding into a multi-billion dollar industry.
Ed Iskenderian, a legendary hot-rod pioneer and innovator of engine camshafts, passed away on February 4 at the age of 104. Known widely as 'the Camfather,' Iskenderian's influence permeated every facet of modern motorsport. His work began in the 1930s as a Los Angeles teenager racing modified cars on desert lake beds.
He established his camshaft production company in 1946, addressing a significant delay in high-performance parts. Iskenderian's early enhancements for Ford Flathead V8s allowed engines to produce more horsepower by optimizing valve timing. This innovation was critical for racing engines of the era.
Iskenderian's camshafts were integral to groundbreaking racing achievements. They powered Mickey Thompson's Challenger 1 to exceed 400 mph in 1960 and Johnny Rutherford's winning Cosworth DFX engine at the 1980 Indianapolis 500. His company, now a major player, also embraced technology, pioneering computer-assisted camshaft design.
Beyond his technical prowess, Iskenderian was a clever promoter, using branded merchandise and early sponsorship deals to market his innovations. He was instrumental in turning the hot-rod hobby into a significant industry, serving as the first president of the Specialty Equipment Market Association. His legacy continues to shape automotive racing.
