Setto Postoian
One of drag racing’s first Eastern heroes, and early idle of the teenager Don Garlits, was Serop “Setto” Postoian. Before being drafted into World War II, Setto worked in the engine rebuilding division of Ford Motor Company in Detroit. After serving three and a half years overseas, the young veteran learned frame and fronting repairs from a former instructor of the Bear Manufacturing Company. That relationship led to a pit crew stent at the Indianapolis 500, and his first ride in a real hot rod the “Full House” the 1932 Ford roadster of Jack McGraph a racing mechanic from Los Angeles. Setto stayed six weeks, absorbing everything he saw. Returning to Michigan, Postoian opened Farmington Speed Shop and built a flathead roadster for the drags. Next came and ublown dragster, powered by a Desoto Hemi the first overhead engine Setto had. After switching to a 392 Chrysler, Setto won back to back Top Fuel titles at the prestigious World Series of Drag Racing in 1957 and 1958. Turning pro, Setto received top appearance money to race as far away as Florida, California, and New England. In 1960 this rising star was seriously injured at Detroit Dragway, and never raced again. He would go on to work for and retire from General Motors Technical Center.