Ed Iskenderian, a pioneering force in American motorsports and founder of Isky Camshafts, died Feb. 4, 2026, at the age of 104, leaving behind a legacy that shaped generations of racers, builders, and performance enthusiasts.
Known widely as “The Camfather,” Iskenderian played a central role in the early development of hot rodding and professional racing. His camshaft designs powered stock cars, dragsters, Indy cars, and land-speed machines, influencing competition across multiple disciplines. His work was present in supercharged engines, record-setting vehicles on the Bonneville Salt Flats, and high-profile racing programs spanning decades.
Iskenderian was born July 10, 1921, in Tulare County, California, to Armenian immigrant parents. His family later moved to Los Angeles, where he developed an early fascination with mechanical work and speed. He began experimenting with modified cars as a teenager, building and racing a roadster on Southern California’s dry lake beds and reaching speeds exceeding 120 mph.
During World War II, Iskenderian served in the U.S. Air Force. After returning to California, he purchased a cam-grinding machine and began reworking camshafts in pursuit of improved power, higher engine speeds, and more efficient fuel delivery. His work quickly gained attention among stock car and drag racing communities.
Through both engineering and marketing, Iskenderian helped elevate performance parts into a recognizable industry. His company’s products were used by prominent racers across American motorsports, including drag racing, stock car competition, and land-speed racing. He also played a role in building industry infrastructure as one of the founding members of the Speed Equipment Manufacturers Association, now known as the Specialty Equipment Market Association.
Iskenderian remained active in the performance world throughout his life, witnessing the evolution of the industry he helped establish. His influence extended beyond racing, shaping the aftermarket performance movement and inspiring generations of enthusiasts working on their own vehicles.
He is survived by his children, Richard, Timothy, and Amy; eight grandchildren; his brother Ben; his company, Isky Racing Cams; and a broad network of racers, builders, and industry figures connected through decades of innovation and collaboration.
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