STEVE MAGRIN
For two minutes you forget about the bills and the customers; it’s just the car taking you for a ride
STEVE Magrin’s passion for motor trimming and qualification in electrician-ing combined to secure him a livelihood. But it’s Summernats that brings him the most joy…on the skidpan.
How long have you been trimming?
About 20 years, mate. I did work experience with Joe from Advanced Motor Trimming in Sydney and I loved it, but my dad said I couldn’t work on cars, that I needed a proper trade. Mate, as soon as I was qualified as an electrician, I was back working with Joe! He taught me everything I know and has been like a mentor to me. Without him, I wouldn’t be where I am now.
What made you combine your passion with your trade?
Back in the late 90s and early 2000s, I decided I didn’t want people hacking up my nice trim jobs to fit big stereos for Auto Salon and all that, so I suggested to Joe that we start doing stereo installs. When I moved to Adelaide about 10 years ago, I decided I could either get a job in the real world or start my own business, so I started Stitches & Sounds.
Work on any big-name cars we’d know?
For sure, I handled plenty with Joe at Advanced, including Sal Mancuso’s FORZA HR sedan and Joe Pegano’s IMXITD blown VS burnout ute. At the moment I’m doing something special for Dwayne Vaccaro who skids the chopped Benz.
Speaking of burnouts, what kicked off your obsession with skid sessions?
Summernats has always been my once-a-year vacation. Back in the day, we’d be broke and sleeping in the car park, saying that we’re gonna build something one day. I met my mate Karl Haining when he was doing the same thing; he just pulled in next to me at Summernats one year, then after that we’d meet up every time. He built FAT LX and he kept pushing me to build my own car. I had a Datsun 1200 coupe shell sitting there that I was going to restore, but it had a sunroof in it. He suggested I just throw an LS in there, so I did!
Sweet! What are the details?
FRY RYE runs a bog-stock, wrecker-spec Crewman LS1 donk and Turbo 400 trans. Down the back is a standard 1200 rear end. It held up perfectly until I powerskidded at Whyalla and popped an axle. I replaced both the axles as the other was bent, but it’s still the same welded centre. I’ve done a few skids since, no more problems. I have to thank my old man for helping me build it and my mum for putting up with us.
How did it go at Summernats?
Ah man, Summernats 30 was a bust; we had probs with the LS’S serpentine belt, but we ripped a good one at number 31. Can’t wait for Summernats 32; the new Tuff Street area is right near our campsite so I’m psyched. As for skid life, man; for two minutes you forget about the bills and the customers; it’s just the car taking you for a ride.