The era of "muscle cars" began more than a half-century ago, but its spirit and its cars live on through enthusiasts nationwide. The Midwest Blue Oval Club cherishes Ford cars old and new, and members share their passion through car shows that have raised more than $70,000 for charities across Missouri, Kansas, and Arkansas since 2015.
This year, Chicago Pneumatic supported the largest of the Club's shows, the Eureka Springs Mustang Days in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, by donating a CP7727 3/8" Angle Air Impact Wrench for one lucky patron. The impact wrench was given as a door prize at the four-day event's formal dinner at historic Castle Rogue's Manor. Bobby Robertson from Tahlequah, Oklahoma was that lucky guy.
"He was excited to get it," says Al Rutherford, President of the Midwest Blue Oval Club. The ultra-compact angle air impact wrench is perfect for getting controlled power into tight spaces. "He thought it was a great gift!"
Rutherford reached out to Chicago Pneumatic after seeing the company on a contact list for the Specialty Equipment Market Association, or SEMA, of which the Midwest Blue Oval Club is a member. Chicago Pneumatic was happy to help.
“The CP7727 is compact, lightweight, and powerful,” said Omar Macon, Chicago Pneumatic Product Marketing Manager for Vehicle Service. “The innovative design puts the motor right in the head of the tool, putting maximum torque right at the point of contact.” At less than two and a half pounds, this angle impact wrench is a clear winner in the power-to-weight ratio.
Photograph by Kevin Clark
Photograph by Jeff Martin
Total proceeds from the four-day event, which included shows, cruises, a parade, and the fundraising dinner at the Castle, totaled $8,455. The Club donated $4,400 of their earnings to the local volunteer fire department to buy two complete sets of turnout gear. The Club is working with the Mayor's office in Eureka Springs to determine which local charity will benefit from remaining donations.
Rutherford says the Blue Oval Club is grateful for the donations like the angle air impact wrench that help them support local charities.
"We appreciate it," he said. "We can't do what we do without the help of companies like Chicago Pneumatic. It makes a big difference for people who come to the shows, and the charities that benefit."