By SEMA News Editors
Content Creator Spotlight: Kaikea Wilinski
Instagram: @ranchero_racing_co._
Facebook: @ranchero_racing_co._
Follower count: 22.5k on Instagram
Focus: Hot-rodding, motorsports, surf culture, Mustang builds
SEMA News: How did you get into the automotive industry?
Kaikea Wilinski: What really got me into my passion for cars was my grandfather. His name was Henry "Hank the Crank" Bechtloff, and he was once the world's largest crankshaft manufacturer and the "godfather" of the performance crankshaft. He supplied some of the most powerful and durable cranks on the market. He sold not only to hot rodders, but he also became a significant influence in motorsports. When drivers used his crankshaft, they knew it meant winning.
His career spanned more than 50 years and was involved in NASCAR, IndyCar, sports cars, GT racing and even Formula 1. So as a little kid who grew up watching the races with my grandpa, his own passion for the automotive industry was reflected in my own upbringing. His compassion and support was the driving force behind my career and education, and if not for him, I would not be the ambitious and passionate individual I have become today.
This is why I have included him in some of the videos documenting my build because I'd like to recognize him as one of the pioneers of the industry. He unfortunately passed away a few years ago and his business unfortunately did not last, but I am determined to continue keeping his legacy alive by sharing his story.
SN: What's been your favorite part of being a part of the automotive community?
KW: As someone who regularly attends car meetups and club functions, having that sense of belonging is an amazing feeling. You get to enjoy your passion with other fellow enthusiasts and aren't afraid to share your story with others. It doesn't matter who we may be; we are all united by this love for cars.
Plus, if problems arise, they are the first ones to go to your house and bring a set of tools to get you back on the road. These are the types of friends who aren't afraid to get their hands dirty to help out another car owner. Just the other day, my car battery died and, of course, someone in the club had jumper cables in their trunk. We all want to feel like we belong and being a part of such a large, tight-knit community of like-minded individuals is why I'll always love being a part of this culture.
SN: As a content creator in the industry, how do you hope to make an impact on your audience?
KW: I hope my content is engaging for my audience. Going out to a number of motorsports events, posting the progress I've made on my own project cars and paying tribute to the past are what my content is focused on, and I hope people are enjoying this automotive lifestyle.
Also, I have so far been telling stories about automotive performance history by showing the process of my current Mustang build. It is a tribute to the legends of engine performance, and I have been explaining this through some of the engine parts I'm using that represent specific manufacturers and engine builders of the past. Many of our industry leaders and innovators have been forgotten with time, and I feel it is necessary to keep their stories alive and heard for the next generations to appreciate and respect.
SN: What's been the biggest moment of your career thus far?
KW: My biggest moment in my life in regard to my content creator career was being able to visit my state's capital to advocate for SEMA and sit in meetings with lawmakers to voice my concerns directly with them about how to protect car owners. It was an amazing feeling to know that I am being heard.
Seeing firsthand how our legislative process works and how much of an impact political advocacy makes on the state's legislative agenda is something I have always wanted to experience. It is amazing to be able to meet and speak with the legislators I voted for and I am grateful to SEMA for allowing me the opportunity to see a behind-the-scenes look and their support of the initiatives affecting the car community.
This is why advocacy is very important, because without a means to voice our frustrations to the people we trust, we may not be able to protect our rights as not only car owners but also as citizens. Constant engagement is crucial for our democracy, and I feel obligated to speak freely about why car owners and advocates need to be represented in the legislative process.
Are you a passionate automotive or racing content creator? Do you want to get involved with SEMA/PRI and spread the word about important advocacy initiatives? Contact Lauren Wilbor from the SEMA Washington, D.C., office at laurenpw@sema.org.
