The End of an Era: William Porker's Farewell to 'Dirty Stuff'
A legendary automotive columnist hangs up his hat. After 40 years of sharing captivating stories and technical insights, William Porker bids farewell to his beloved 'Dirty Stuff' column. But it's not without a heavy heart and a few explosive tales to leave us with.
William, now 86, reveals his deteriorating eyesight as the reason for this decision. He humorously notes that even a 30-inch monitor couldn't save him from the inevitable.
The journey began in the February 2026 issue of Street Machine, where Porker's column first graced the pages. Recruited by the then-editor Phil Scott, who was aware of Porker's 'Dirty Wheels' column in Wheels magazine, the partnership was destined for greatness.
And what a ride it's been! From the tale of Barry Bromhall's fiery Mini, where a backfire set Porker's hair ablaze, to the superstitious Irishman's EH Holden Premier, whose distributor cap kept flying off due to a simple vacuum advance issue. These stories, and thousands more, have kept readers enthralled and informed.
But here's where it gets controversial—Porker's writing style is as bold as the content. He doesn't shy away from detailing his own mistakes, like the time he almost overlooked a broken link in a roller cam setup, which could have caused significant engine damage. His honesty and self-deprecating humor are what make his writing so engaging.
Behind every great man is a supportive partner, and Porker acknowledges his wife Jan's patience with his colorful language and her invaluable help with the paperwork. He also thanks Editor Broads for their gentle nudges when deadlines loomed.
As the garage door closes on this chapter, Porker expresses his gratitude to the Street Machine audience. He claims that writing 'Dirty Stuff' has kept him from more exotic culinary adventures, but we know it's given us all a front-row seat to automotive adventures and misadventures.
And this is the part most people miss—the impact of Porker's work extends beyond entertainment. His columns have educated, inspired, and perhaps even saved a few engines along the way. So, was it all 'dirty stuff' or a treasure trove of automotive wisdom? You decide. Share your favorite Porker moments and your take on his legacy in the comments below!
