Hundreds Gather to Honor Legendary Camshaft Pioneer Ed "Isky" Iskenderian

The automotive icon who revolutionized camshaft design was celebrated by the racing community he helped build.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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More than 500 friends, family members, and admirers gathered to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Ed "Isky" Iskenderian, the renowned camshaft designer and manufacturer who passed away at the age of 96. Iskenderian, known as the "Father of the Aftermarket Camshaft," was celebrated for his pioneering work that transformed the hot rod and racing industries.

Why it matters

Iskenderian's innovations in camshaft design and manufacturing helped enable the rise of the high-performance aftermarket, fueling the growth of hot rod culture and motorsports in the mid-20th century. His company, Isky Cams, became an iconic brand synonymous with power and performance in the automotive world.

The details

The memorial service featured personal anecdotes, tributes, and remembrances from Iskenderian's closest friends and colleagues, highlighting his technical brilliance, entrepreneurial spirit, and generous mentorship of younger gearheads. Attendees shared stories of Isky's hands-on approach, his relentless pursuit of engineering perfection, and his unwavering passion for the automotive industry that he helped shape over his 70-year career.

  • Ed "Isky" Iskenderian passed away on March 1, 2026 at the age of 96.
  • The memorial service was held on March 5, 2026 in Los Angeles.

The players

Ed "Isky" Iskenderian

The renowned camshaft designer and manufacturer known as the "Father of the Aftermarket Camshaft" who revolutionized the hot rod and racing industries through his innovative engineering.

Mark Vaughn

An automotive journalist who has been writing for Autoweek magazine since 1989 and covered the memorial service for Iskenderian.

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What they’re saying

“Isky was a true pioneer who changed the game for all of us. His contributions to the sport we love are immeasurable.”

— John Force, NHRA Funny Car Champion (Autoweek)

“Without Isky's innovations, the hot rod and racing industries wouldn't be what they are today. He left an indelible mark that will never be forgotten.”

— Vic Edelbrock Jr., President, Edelbrock Performance (Autoweek)

The takeaway

Iskenderian's legacy as an engineering visionary and mentor to generations of gearheads solidifies his place as one of the most influential figures in automotive history, inspiring countless enthusiasts to pursue their passions in the world of high-performance.