Is Ed Pink Still Alive? Yes, Ed Pink is still alive and continues to be actively involved in the automotive industry, overseeing his modern shop and consulting on engine development.
Ed Pink, a name synonymous with high-performance racing engines, has spent his life mastering the art of automotive engineering.
Known as “The Old Master,” Ed Pink’s contributions to motorsports are legendary, and his story is one of passion, innovation, and unwavering dedication.
At 92 years old, Ed Pink is still alive and remains actively involved in the automotive world, overseeing his modern shop and consulting on engine development.
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Early Life and Beginnings
Born in Los Angeles in 1931, Ed Pink was immersed in the world of cars from a young age.
His father owned J.J. Pink’s Paint Co., and his uncle founded the iconic Pink’s Hot Dogs. Ed’s passion for cars ignited early on, and by the age of 14, he had purchased his first car, a 1922 Model T.
This initial foray into the automotive world set the stage for a lifetime dedicated to racing and engine building.
Learning the Trade
In 1946, at just 15 years old, Ed began working for legendary hot rodder Lou Baney.
Here, he learned the basics of building racing Ford flathead V-8 engines and began racing at El Mirage Dry Lake.
Ed’s education continued under the mentorship of industry greats like Vic Edelbrock, Sr., Bobby Meeks, Don Towle, and Fran Hernandez.
Their teachings helped shape Ed into a meticulous and skilled engine builder. [Is Ed Pink Still Alive?]
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Military Service and Early Career
After serving two years in the Army during the Korean War, Ed returned to the U.S. and worked with several pioneers of speed equipment, including Frank Baron and Eddie Meyer.
In 1953, he opened a small garage called Pinkland with a friend, but the partnership wasn’t successful.
Ed then worked for Eddie Meyer, gaining valuable experience before finally opening his own shop in 1961.
Rise to Prominence
The 1960s and 1970s were transformative years for Ed Pink. He partnered with Don Long to build an innovative dragster, which led to significant success and recognition in the drag racing community.
Ed’s engines became the gold standard, powering the vehicles of drag racing legends such as Don Prudhomme, Shirley Muldowney, and Gene Snow.
By the 1970s, Ed Pink Racing Engines was producing top-tier engines for both Top Fuel and Funny Car categories. [Is Ed Pink Still Alive?]
His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality made his engines highly sought after.
During this time, his engines were dubbed “Pink Elephants” and were essential for any racer aiming for victory.
Diversification and New Challenges
As the dynamics of drag racing changed in the late 1970s and 1980s, Ed shifted his focus to other forms of motorsports.
He began building engines for Indy cars, including the renowned Cosworth DFX engines, which powered multiple Indy 500 winners.
His expertise extended to the IMSA Spice Car Series, Porsche 962 engines, and various other racing formats. [Is Ed Pink Still Alive?]
One of Ed’s most challenging projects was developing the Nissan Infiniti IRL engine.
Despite budget constraints and limited resources, Ed and his team managed to create a competitive engine, showcasing his resilience and ingenuity.
Later Years and Continued Influence
Even after selling Ed Pink Racing Engines to Tom Malloy in 2008, Ed didn’t retire. He partnered with Bob Brandt to launch Ed Pink’s Garage in Newbury Park, California.
This new venture focused on providing custom engine solutions and consulting services, leveraging Ed’s decades of experience and unparalleled knowledge.
Legacy and Ongoing Contributions
Ed Pink’s legacy in the automotive world is monumental. His engines have won numerous championships across different racing disciplines, and his impact on motorsports is immeasurable.
Despite the technological advancements in modern engine building, Ed’s foundational principles of meticulous preparation and uncompromising quality remain relevant.
Today, Ed Pink continues to be a vital figure in the industry. His shop is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including 15 desktop computers, several laptops, and two dynos.
Ed’s ability to adapt to new technologies while maintaining his core values has kept him at the forefront of automotive engineering.
FAQs
When Was Ed Pink Born?
Ed Pink was born in 1931 in Los Angeles, California. [Is Ed Pink Still Alive?]
Who Owns Ed Pink Engines?
Ed Pink Racing Engines is currently owned by Tom Malloy, who purchased the company in 2008.
What Is Ed Pink’s Most Challenging Project?
One of Ed Pink’s most challenging projects was developing the Nissan Infiniti IRL engine. Despite budget constraints and limited resources, Ed and his team managed to create a competitive engine, showcasing his resilience and ingenuity.
Conclusion: Is Ed Pink Still Alive?
Ed Pink’s story is one of passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
From his early days sweeping floors in a gas station to becoming a revered engine builder, Ed’s journey is an inspiration to many.
At 92, Ed Pink is still alive, actively contributing to the world of motorsports, and his legacy continues to thrive.
Whether it’s building engines for drag racing, Indy cars, or midget racing, Ed Pink’s name remains synonymous with power, precision, and performance.
His life’s work is a testament to the enduring spirit of innovation and the pursuit of perfection in the automotive world.