Grumpy's Toys

Overview

Bill "Grumpy" Jenkins’ drag racing career began in the late 1950s and continued until his death in March 2012. Grumpy's Toys chronicles the development and competition history of 17 vehicles bearing the 'Grumpy's Toy' name.

The book presents Jenkins' career through the lens of these vehicles, which were authorized by Jenkins himself, and he also contributed to the foreword. Firsthand commentary from Jenkins is included throughout, addressing his stories and clarifying factual details about his cars and career.

The book begins with Jenkins’ early upbringing and early interests in life. Jenkins gained early recognition for his tune-up service, which in 1961 led to a partnership with Dave Strickler that lasted until 1964. The book covers all of Strickler's 'Old Reliable' cars, incorporating commentary from Jenkins and photographs sourced from the Strickler family archive.

The narrative covers Jenkins' work with Dodge vehicles, the conclusion of his partnership with Strickler, and his later role with the Black Arrow Plymouth. Jenkins secured his first NHRA national title in 1965 using this car, which marked his only win with a non-Chevrolet vehicle. The book also covers Jenkins' attempt to secure a Chrysler contract and presents details of the Black Arrow controversy, supplemented by input from Doc Burgess.

Later chapters examine Jenkins’ long-standing association with Chevrolet, beginning in 1966 when Vince Piggins facilitated factory support. Vehicles including the Chevy II, Camaro, Vega, and Monza are explored, as are Jenkins' technical relationships with Vince Piggins, Paul Prior, and Ron Sperry.

The final chapter, titled Beyond the Toys, outlines Jenkins’ activities following the sale of his last Grumpy’s Toy in 1983. After stepping back from maintaining his own race cars, Jenkins continued to work with Chevrolet and build engines for clients.

The book also features national event coverage and includes an appendix listing Grumpy's Toys wins and runners-up, as well as customer vehicles prepared by Jenkins Competition.

Contributors included Jere Stahl, Mike Strickler, Bud Faubel, Pete Preston, Doc Burgess, Bruce Tucker, Pete Hutchinson, Derrick Von Bargen, Ed Quay, Ken Dondero, Steve Johns, Joe Lepone Jr, Darwin Doll, and John Jadauga.

The book includes more than 300 photographs, with roughly 95% appearing in print for the first time. These include images from Jenkins’ personal collection, as well as previously unseen build photographs of the first tube-chassis Pro Stock car, provided by Pete Hutchinson of the now-defunct SRD Racecars.

Slideshow

A promotional video was made for Grumpy's Toys prior to its release date, featuring a slideshow of Bill Jenkins and his many toys. Set to the instrumental song Rise by Herb Alpert.

References

References

1. (2011). "Grumpy's Toys: The Authorized History of Grumpy Jenkins' Cars". CarTech, Incorporated.
2. "Grumpy's Toys: The Authorized History of Grumpy Jenkins' Cars – Drag Racing – Racing".
3. "Grumpy's Toys".