Contest #160

Counterman’s “Guess the Car” contest challenges our readers to solve an automotive riddle, for a chance to win $100. And each month, we receive hundreds of responses from aftermarket professionals trying to guess the model of the vehicle depicted.

The correct answer for the June/July contest is the Ford Escape. The winner is Travis Cashman, parts manager at Glavan Ford of Clay Center in Clay Center, Kansas.

Now, let’s get to know the “Guess the Car” champion.

CM: How long have you been working in the auto parts business?

TC: Since October of last year.

CM: What were you doing before then?

TC: I was a welder.

CM: What do you like most about your job?

TC: I like interacting with people.

CM: What’s the strangest question a customer has asked you?

TC: That’s a tough one. We’ve had people ask for blinker fluid and muffler bearings, as a joke. But I’d have to think about this one.

CM: What’s the coolest car you’ve ever owned or worked on?

TC: Does it have to be street legal?

CM: Not necessarily.

TC: I had an ‘86 Monte Carlo SS dirt-track racer, street stock, had a 383 stroker and a three-speed transmission. Full-floater 9-inch rear end.

CM: Do you have any interesting hobbies? What do you do for fun?

TC: Ride my motorcycle, go hunting and fishing.

CM: What’s your dream car?

TC: A ‘63 corvette with a split window, four-speed transmission, and I know they didn’t make it in 1963, but it would be the 427 big block that came out in ’66. Hunter green with tan leather interior.