This magazine originally started as Speed & Auto Equipment Advertiser (S&AE Advertiser). It was published by Jack Chappell and Jerry Burton under Chappell Publishing in Southern California. An 8 page, newspaper style publication on 11-1/2" by 16" paper, content was advertiser ads and reader classified ads. It cost $.25 per issue or $5.00 per year.
The title became simply Parts Illustrated in June 1963, and this is when it likely went to a traditional magazine format. Another title change occurred in August, 1963 when it became Hot Rod Parts Illustrated. And, finally, it was re-titled a last time as Drag Parts Illustrated in April, 1967. Volume and series numbering carried over through each title change.
Funding appears to have come from both classified and traditional vendor advertising.
A total of 67 issues was printed from June 1, 1963 through to May 1969.
