Phil Weiand
One of the true pioneers of the performance industry Phil Weiand was a familiar presence at hot rotting events in the 1930’s. A racing accident left him a paraplegic, but confinement to a wheelchair only heightened his desire to make a meaningful impact on racing. In 1939 he introduced the “High Weiand” manifold, the forerunner of tunnel ram intake technology. When drag racing was in its infancy, Phil developed a multiple of manifolds for engines of the day, including the popular Weiand “Drag Star” used on Don Garlits trendsetting “Swap Rat I”. Recognizing the potential of the performance industry, Weiand opened his own foundry in 1955 and charted a course of total in-house quality control a visible part of the Weiand Company. Phil was also a pioneer in the adaptation of superchargers to drag racing applications. His manifold and blower drives for 6-71 superchargers became a virtual industry standard and enjoyed tremendous popularity. Weiand’s tunnel ram manifolds also became a mainstay of the Pro Stock class in its formative years, used by stars like Bill “Grumpy” Jenkins. Phil was instrumental in starting the industries Credit Managers Association and later very involved in the founding of SEMA. In fact, the original SEMA logo was done in-house at Weiand. Phil Weiand passed away in 1978, having left behind a legacy of innovation and dedication. His wife Joan took over the helm of the company Bill had founded 45 years prior. In 1992 when Automotive Industries Inc. approached its 60th year as a major cornerstone of the performance industry. Phil Weiand has left an indelible mark in racing to be sure.