Crane Cams R.I.P.

[prototype]

February 24, 2009

Crane Cams shuts down, workers laid off

By JIM WITTERS
Senior Business Writer

DAYTONA BEACH — Crane Cams, a 56-year-old auto parts manufacturer, closed its doors this week and laid off its employees, a worker said today.

The news took Volusia County’s top economic development officer by surprise. City, county and state officials were working with Crane Cams and officials from its New Jersey parent, Mikronite Technologies, to keep the company open and in the community.

“We were trying to help them through this transition,” said Rick Michael, Volusia County economic development director. “They were considering a transfer of ownership. We were not expecting any closure.”

An automated voice mail system at Crane’s plant on Fentress Boulevard announced at midday today the company was closed and suggested calling back during business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A call to Mikronite’s New Jersey offices produced similar results. Six cars sat in the parking lot early this afternoon at the local plant, which employed 220 just three years ago.

Inside the lobby, a reception desk sat empty. A call from the lobby phone got an answer from Dennis Burgess, who declined to comment and said no one at the plant could provide information.

In the parking lot, 14-year employee Ronald Dorn was leaving the plant for what he believed was the last time

He said workers were told during the past week that layoffs were likely, but he didn’t expect the plant to close.

Mikronite received approval in 2006 to receive tax rebates from the state and the county amid discussion about moving its New Jersey operations here. But the company ended its contract with the state in 2008 due to nonperformance, Michael said.

“Crane has gone through a series of small layoffs recently,” he said.

Crane Cams and Crane Technologies Group were founded by Harvey J. Crane Jr. in 1953 as Crane Engineering Inc. in Hallandale. The company is well known in high-performance and racing circles for its line of camshafts and engine valve train components.

In 1979, Crane Cams became an employee-owned company. Some operations moved to Daytona Beach in 1981, with the remainder of the operation and employees relocating here in 1985.

Mikronite, an industrial technology firm, bought Crane in 2006.

In March 2007, Mikronite sold its property on Fentress to STAG Capital Partners of Boston, then signed a 10-year lease.


http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[Salvatore]

Nothing is like it used to be! A shame for us and a bigger shame for the workers. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/no.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif

[Mr70]

We are now living on Mars..

[68 Vert]

My office window faces their building, it's literally right across the street...they've been having financial trouble for sometime. I guess it finally caught up to them.

Sad to see them close http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[Chevy454]

Dude, run over and grab an armful of '143' blueprint cams!

[ORIGLS6]

Sad news, but I'm afraid we're gonna see a lot more of this.

[Norm reynolds]

It is a sign of the times My old company DHL were I got hurt on the job closing it doors by the end of February
There will be a lot of yellow trucks for sell

[Lynn]

Scoggin Dickey still has the GM performance parts cam kits, made by Crane.

Link:
http://www.sdpc2000.com/categories/engin...rtsCamKits.aspx (http://www.sdpc2000.com/categories/enginecomponents/camshaftsandaccessories/GMPerformancePartsCamKits.aspx)

Click on "BB Cam Kits" or SB "Cam Kits".

[SSRSBOB]

They were around since I was a kid, will miss their products,
Bob

[prototype]

You gotta think there is value in the name. They have been around for way to long. I'd bet another manufacturer buys the name.

[Chevy454]

[ QUOTE ]
Scoggin Dickey still has the GM performance parts cam kits, made by Crane.

Link:
http://www.sdpc2000.com/categories/engin...rtsCamKits.aspx (http://www.sdpc2000.com/categories/enginecomponents/camshaftsandaccessories/GMPerformancePartsCamKits.aspx)

Click on "BB Cam Kits" or SB "Cam Kits".

[/ QUOTE ]
Have you called them to see if they have them in stock? I'm pretty sure they were the first folks I called about a month or so ago looking for a cam for Chris Teed...I called all over the country, and finally found a small warehouse in Tennessee that had *1* sitting on the shelf...

[JJEH]

Unbelievable any very sad http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif

[VintageMusclecar]

I can't go into details, but I just got a very encouraging phone call from someone who's had ties with Crane for a very long time.

All isn't lost yet!

[Lynn]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Scoggin Dickey still has the GM performance parts cam kits, made by Crane.

Link:
http://www.sdpc2000.com/categories/engin...rtsCamKits.aspx (http://www.sdpc2000.com/categories/enginecomponents/camshaftsandaccessories/GMPerformancePartsCamKits.aspx)

Click on "BB Cam Kits" or SB "Cam Kits".

[/ QUOTE ]
Have you called them to see if they have them in stock? I'm pretty sure they were the first folks I called about a month or so ago looking for a cam for Chris Teed...I called all over the country, and finally found a small warehouse in Tennessee that had *1* sitting on the shelf...

[/ QUOTE ]

Hi Rob:

I didn't call, but did place an order for two Z/28 cam kits. My order was confirmed, which normally doesn't happen unless they have the parts in stock. It was late last night, so I couldn't call. No big deal if my order gets canceled, but figured it wouldn't hurt to try.

Of course, a phone call during business hours is still best to check on availablity.

Lynn

[Chevy454]

Lynn: you'd better check on your order, 'cause the guy I talked to on the phone just now said they hadn't had those kits for some time. Of course they didn't have any of the '143' bbc cams either [GM part # 12364057...Crane part # 19038], and he said the number has been purged from the system...!

Friggin' shame...that was one of those cams that you *knew* was a good cam, and you wouldn't have to worry if someone guessed at the specs correctly.

[68 Vert]

[ QUOTE ]
I can't go into details, but I just got a very encouraging phone call from someone who's had ties with Crane for a very long time.

All isn't lost yet!

[/ QUOTE ]

I agree, looks like current management is trying to make something happen and get things back up and running.

It's strange seeing the parking lot virtually empty....http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shocked.gif

[SMGCO]

Sorry to see them go. Crane was a respected name. I'm sure there are other companies that have good GM " blueprint " cams though.

[VintageMusclecar]

Crane ain't dead yet.

Sit tight.

[1970Bluel78]

They are selling and moving to China. Will re-open Summer and new name is Clane Cams............sorry I couldn't help myself! This is sad and I hope they do get back to business soon.

[69z2x4]

Had many a Crane cam in my old Chevys

[JRSully]

The more I hear this, the more I want to find a way to use my old 143's in my basement...

[DarrenX33]

They have my business when they get back up and running. I have been waiting for a 143 for my L78 for 2 months now.

[Lynn]

Thanks Rob:

I will wait and see. Worst that happens is they refund my CC.

[Lynn]

[ QUOTE ]
The more I hear this, the more I want to find a way to use my old 143's in my basement...

[/ QUOTE ]

There are independent cam grinders out there who can regrind your old cams. Some of them will build up the lobes so they don't have to drastically reduce the "circle" and then heat treat. If done properly, it will be better than new.

[Chevy454]

Darren: you called around? I tried over a dozen places before I found Chris' 143, but there's gotta be some sitting on a shelf somewhere...just dump the part # in Google and start dialing!

[DarrenX33]

I have to double check with my builder to see if he has any leads. I was watching the Summit site but I noticed last week that they are now listing it as N/A. I shoulda known something was up.

The 143 was the one thing that I requested for the motor. The rest I let him decide. If he doesn't have any leads I will start searching myself. Hoping the motor will be done sometime soon so I can install it before cruising season begins..

[David Billingsley]

I have dealt with Comp Cams for many years, And always received great service and quality products,ask for,
Tim Cole @cam help 1-800=9990853
DB

[Lynn]

http://www.compcams.com/Products/212-225.PDF

[Lynn]

his guy has a used 143 he might sell. Check out post #4

http://www.chevelles.com/forums/showthread.php?p=2219071

[larry_csa]

A little triva.
Who did Harvey Crane work for befor opening Crane cams??
ED Isky.
Who worked for Harvey before opening his owne cam company??
Mark Heffington. He opened Cam Dynamics in 1969/1970 with the help of???? Raceing Head Service. Ivar/John/scooter.
In 1976 What cam company opened uped. Compention Cams. John/& company had a falling out with Mark. Cam Dynamics first location was?? The Sun Studios off Union. Elvis/ jerry Lee/& Johnny started there too.
In 1985/1986 Harvey buys Cam Dynamics from Mark. Mark Opens HYPER-TECH. A lot more could be said but it's late.
IF you want your 143s done your way Call john Partrage at Bullett Cams in Olive Branch MS. John can and will do thing your way. Comp Is tooooo Big to do small orders. You can even tell John I sent you. We don't get to get to gether but about twice a year now. I see Cole Every Monday at Lunch. I use Comp Stuff.
Larry

[1970Bluel78]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
I can't go into details, but I just got a very encouraging phone call from someone who's had ties with Crane for a very long time.

All isn't lost yet!

[/ QUOTE ]

I agree, looks like current management is trying to make something happen and get things back up and running.

It's strange seeing the parking lot virtually empty....http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shocked.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

It may be hard. When Micronite bought Crane they sold off all the property to an investment group in Boston. Crane rented from them. Maybe Bankrupcy or Chapterb 7 is likeley. I guess someone could buy the name and start over

[Chevy454]

This is gonna sound silly to most folks, but the Crane/GM '143' blueprint is the best of the breed in regards to blueprint cams...myself & others have tried blueprint cams from other companies and they've all fallen short...why, I don't know, but in "Pure Stock" the Crane/GM piece has proven itself.

[1970Bluel78]

[ QUOTE ]
Crane ain't dead yet.

Sit tight.

[/ QUOTE ]

If you are referring to the deal from Dubai that fell through http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif

[JoeG]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
Crane ain't dead yet.

Sit tight.

[/ QUOTE ]

IMO---I've got to agree

On a lighter note Crane Cams promoted the best/humorous ads for cams back in the day--I'm sure some of you fellas know what I'm talkin' about----if I can get this #$%@& scanner to scan I'll post a few--

[Tommy]

I waited for several months for a 143 from Crane but they kept telling my builder they had no cores.. We had to do something so I finally gave in and let the builder order the cam from Comp. I have looked at the specs on both cams and there is a difference. I am sure Rob is correct in saying the Crane is dead on GM specs. I have talked with a couple of people that told me that Crane was licensed or had authority to build cams to exact factory specs while other companies couldn't. I don't know how true this is but I would think that Crane may have been the company building the GM pieces that were available at one time. I am sure a company can grind anything you want but as far as an advertised production cam, it may have been true that Crane had rights no one else had... Anyone know ?


Tommy http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif

[BUIZILLA]

COMP is perpetually stock on this 110* centers phenominon...

[1968 nova ss]

rob clary is correct; the crane blueprint cam was the cam for pure stock drags.luckily rob,found me a cam a few months back.I know Mr.Obama said a change was coming;it seems to me ;that the economy is getting alot worse..chris 396/375 hp 68 nova ss coming soon

[Smokey]

Why not take the prints from the Crane came and have someone make them??? Doesn't Howards make custom one offs? Even Berry Cams will make one a one off.

[nuch_ss396]

[ QUOTE ]
They are selling and moving to China. Will re-open Summer and new name is Clane Cams............sorry I couldn't help myself! This is sad and I hope they do get back to business soon.

[/ QUOTE ]

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif That's too funny! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif It's truly sad, but we gotta see the humor or we'll all go crazy.
I agree, there will be a lot more of this before it's over. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif

Nuch

[JoeG]

Here's a http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/cool.gif ad from Crane Cam from back when....With a little history of Crane Cams,, http://http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii145/PICCARY/cranecavemen.jpg

[JohnZ]

[ QUOTE ]
I am sure Rob is correct in saying the Crane is dead on GM specs. I have talked with a couple of people that told me that Crane was licensed or had authority to build cams to exact factory specs while other companies couldn't. I don't know how true this is but I would think that Crane may have been the company building the GM pieces that were available at one time.

[/ QUOTE ]

Crane made all the GM Performance Parts cams - wonder where GMPP will go for them now?

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[BARNFOUND YENKO]

Crane Cams says it plans to reopen after restructuring.

Crane Cams says it could reopen in 30 days.Well-known cam shafts company Crane Cams shut down Feb. 24 for restructuring but says it plans to reopen, likely sometime in March.

All of the company’s 280 workers were laid off, though about 25 remain to work on military contracts. The closure was in response to the global economic problems, said vice president Steve Leva. He said the Daytona Beach, Fla., company planned to reopen in as soon as a week, or it may take up to 30 days

[Chevy454]

[ QUOTE ]
Crane made all the GM Performance Parts cams - wonder where GMPP will go for them now?

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[/ QUOTE ]
John: do you know who made the original cams for GM back in the day? I read where supposedly Melling made the cams for the Pontiacs, was that true for the other divisions as well??

[JoeG]

I got a call-back this morning from Jegs that the '143' blueprinted Crane cam has been discontinued......for now at least..

[DarrenX33]

I did some googling and called the few places that I could find. Every place is out of stock. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif Looks like I need to go with Comp. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[ANDY M]

Try Clevite. That's where mine came from. They do more than just berings.

[TDW]

Give the folks at Howards Cams a call. American made, high quality parts. I am pretty sure they will grind anything you need. A year or 2 ago anyway.

http://www.howardscams.com/index-2.html

[Chevy454]

[ QUOTE ]
I did some googling and called the few places that I could find. Every place is out of stock. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif Looks like I need to go with Comp. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif

[/ QUOTE ]
Darren, you won't like the Comp piece, trust me...lemme see if I can do ya any good. If nothing else, we need to get a Crane/GM & cam doctor it then grind our own...

[DarrenX33]

Thanks Rob.. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

[68 Vert]

Looks like Crane Cams will be bought by Scorpion Performance a mfg. company based in Florida.
They're having a job fair on Thursday...there's been quite a bit of activity this week on the property.

Article in local paper: Crane article (http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Business/Headlines/bizBIZ02032509.htm)

Good news for sure...http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[goinforbroke]

Link to video on scorpion's website: (http://www.scorpionracingproducts.com/video/jobs.html)

[prototype]

http://harveycrane.com/ web page (http://harveycrane.com/)

http://liquitec.gsdesign.com/auctions/crane-cams-inc/index.php

[70 Forest Green Zee]

I'm now confused...is Scorpion going to re open Crane Cams like the job fair video suggests or are they now going to auction off all of Crane's assets, patents, and machinery??? http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif

[68 Vert]

According to the local paper, Scorpion wasn't aware of the auction. IMO, I think the auction was scheduled before Scorpion got involved in negotiations to purchase Crane Cams.

Mike

[Dog427435]

Received this e-mail today




PUBLIC AUCTION & WEBCAST

Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. EDT



High Performance Camshaft Manufacturer





One of the world’s largest independent manufacturers of camshafts, valve train components and electrical ignition systems for the performance industry. Product applications include automotive, motorcycle, marine, aircraft and other specialty markets.

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[rpoz11]

DAMN!!!

I used many Blue Racer Cams in my street motors!

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif