Vintage Air Partners With LFM Capital
A s Vintage Air, a premier manufac- turer of complete performance air-conditioning systems for clas- sic cars and trucks prepares for its 50th anniversary in 2026, they are also making
ing with LFM Capital gives us the support we need to scale with confidence. Its operational experience will help us serve customers and builders across the country even better. What’s most reassuring is that we can keep operating as we always have, with a world-class partner just a phone call away.
plans for much further down the road. To accom- plish their goals they have partnered with LFM Capital, a Nashville-based firm that supports and invests in American and Canadian manufacturing companies. It was founded in 2014 by experienced engineers and operators who work closely with part- ners to offer businesses continued autonomy, com- plemented by LFM Capital’s expertise in sales, market- ing, product development, supply chain manage- ment, distribution, and manufacturing to provide robust support and ensure ongoing success. In 2025 Vintage Air expanded its capabilities with the acquisition of California-based A/C Solutions, fur- ther strengthening its product range and manufactur- ing depth, including “SureFit” bolt-in systems designed for popular classic platforms to the fully cus- tomizable “Builder Series” tailored to unique builds. Rick Love, Vintage Air President said: “We remain committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions for custom and classic vehicles alike. As we continue advancing our technology and product line, partner-
Dan Shockley, LFM Capitol Managing Director com- mented: “We’re very excited to add Vintage Air to our portfolio. With 50 years in business, Vintage Air has proven they’re a leader in developing air-conditioning technology and pushing for continual development. We look forward to collaborating with the Vintage Air team on continued growth.” Founded in 2014, LFM Capital invests in private, lower-middle-market manu- facturing companies. The firm brings hands-on shop- floor experience and access to world-class operating talent. LFM’s philosophy emphasizes collaborative part- nerships, supporting management teams with opera- tional expertise while preserving autonomy and com- pany culture. By aligning across manufacturing, sales, marketing, supply chain and product development, LFM helps companies unlock sustainable growth levers. Its core principles—integrity, accountability, leadership and stewardship—guide its work in build- ing lasting legacies in U.S. manufacturing. National Rod & Custom Car Hall of Fame Honors Industry Icons for 2025
By Tim & Carrie Strange
T he National Rod & Custom Car Hall of Fame Museum was established, built and funded by Darryl and Donna Starbird in 1995. Set up as a national nonprofit foundation, the museum’s Hall of Fame has been recogniz- ing leading street rod and custom car builders throughout the country for the past 30 years. Industry legends Gene Winfield, George Barris, Ed Roth, Darryl Starbird, Boyd Coddington, the Alexander Bros., Neil Emory, Bill Cushenbery, Joe Bailon, Dick “Magoo” Megugorac, Carl Casper, Roy Brizio and Ken “Posie” Fenical were the first Charter Members inducted. Since the museum and its contents were purchased and moved to Lincoln, Nebraska, to the American Museum of Speed several years ago, on August 23 they hosted the 2025 Hall of Fame induction ceremony and they have real- ly stepped up with a nice display of Starbird’s cars from his museum and they have quite a stash of his creations to keep things fresh. The new display even includes a digital kiosk for searchable pictures and information about past National Rod & Custom Car Hall of Fame members.
The National Rod & Custom Car Hall of Fame votes in a new crop of inductees each year and this year’s inductees were joined by the man behind it all, Darryl Starbird. The inductees were (L-R) “Builder of the Year” Roger Burman, “Manufacturer” Ken Callison from IDIDIT (daughter Kimberly accepting), “Custom Auto Painter” Mitch Lanzini, “Rod & Custom Builder” Cody Walls, and the first-ever inductee into the new “Upholstery” category was Sid Chavers.
14 DECEMBER 2025
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