Olive Branch, MS, 09.14.23 – Lunati Cams, a leading manufacturer of performance camshafts and engine components, is deeply saddened to announce the passing of its founder, Joe Lunati, on September 13, 2023.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1935, Joe began drag racing with the Memphis Rodders in the early ’60s. Joe went on to become a five-time NHRA national champion title holder in AM/SP, putting himself on the map by winning Indy in 1964. He won the U.S. Nationals twice and was inducted into the National Drag Racing Hall of Fame, the Hot Rod 50th Anniversary Hall of Fame, and the Don Garlits Hall of Fame. He was also awarded the World Karting Association Mechanic of the Year award.
A production engine rebuilder by day, Lunati began experimenting in the evenings with different cam grinds using the shop’s cam grinder and found his calling. In 1968, Lunati made the leap to open his own cam shop offering one-on-one personal service to his customers. He quickly added crankshafts, rods, pistons, piston rings, and complete engine rotating assemblies to its product line, ready for assembly into the customer’s prepared block. By 1970, Lunati Cams created its niche in the racing cam market, catering primarily to weekend sportsman drag racers and local Memphis area circle track racers.
By the mid-1990s, Lunati Cams had grown into a sizeable, profitable operation with a shop filled with high-quality machinery and a stable, highly skilled workforce. Lunati received an offer he couldn’t refuse and sold the company to Holley, eventually selling it again to COMP Performance Group in 2007. Lunati was run as a separate entity to keep its identity until it was announced this year as Edelbrock Group’s sixth power brand.
Joe Lunati was a true pioneer in the performance aftermarket industry. He started Lunati Cams with a vision to create high-quality camshafts to help enthusiasts get the most out of their engines. Over the years, Lunati Cams became one of the most respected names in the industry, and Joe’s products have helped power countless race cars and street machines.
Joe was a passionate advocate for the performance aftermarket industry and drag racing. He was always willing to share his knowledge and expertise with others. Joe was also a generous supporter of charitable causes and was always willing to give back to the community. He kept up with his Memphis Rodders pals over the years and was a regular at reunions until his health declined. Joe will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and the motorsports industry. He was a true legend in the performance aftermarket and drag racing. His legacy and the Lunati name will live on for many years to come.
