The End of an Era: William Porker's Final Words in 'Dirty Stuff'
The legend retires. After four decades of sharing his automotive adventures, William Porker bids farewell to his beloved column, 'Dirty Stuff'. At 86, his vision has become a challenge, making it difficult to continue his writing journey. But what a journey it's been!
Back in February 2026, Porker announced his departure in the pages of Street Machine, a magazine he had been contributing to since its early days under editor Phil Scott. Porker's column began in the November-December 1985 issue, captivating readers with his unique experiences.
And what stories he told! From the near-disastrous ride in Barry Bromhall's Mini, where a backfire set his hair ablaze, to the superstitious Irishman's EH Holden Premier and its distributor cap-launching tendencies. Porker's tales were always entertaining and often educational.
But here's where it gets technical... Porker's expertise shone when he diagnosed the EH Holden's cap-blowing issue as a simple hole in the vacuum advance unit, caused by a rich fuel mixture. His ability to solve complex problems was legendary, as he often found himself fixing issues others couldn't.
In one instance, Porker's keen ear saved the day. While tuning a Ford Galaxie's 427 engine on a chassis dyno, he heard a peculiar rattle. His intuition proved right; a broken link in the roller cam system had likely damaged a cam lobe. This attention to detail is what made his column so trusted.
For 40 years, Porker entertained and informed, all while battling his own challenges. His wife, Jan, patiently endured his frustrations with bad language, and her assistance with paperwork was invaluable. The editor, too, played a supportive role, ensuring Porker's column met its deadlines.
And this is the part most people miss—the impact of Porker's writing. His column not only entertained but also kept him grounded, away from exotic culinary adventures like barbecued bandicoot! It became a staple for automotive enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of humor and technical insight.
As Porker closes the garage door on this chapter, it's hard not to feel a sense of loss. But his legacy lives on in the hearts of his readers and the pages of Street Machine. So, was Porker's column just about cars, or did it offer something more?
What do you think? Was 'Dirty Stuff' a simple automotive column, or did it capture the essence of a bygone era, where mechanical adventures were a way of life? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's celebrate the life and work of William Porker.
