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Spotlighter
20 NEW Product Innovations at the 2023 NSRA “Nats”
Innovation on Display at the 54th Annual NSRA Street Rod Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Every year, the NSRA Street Rod Nationals hosts an event to showcase the newest and most advanced automotive products. These products compete for the title of “New Products of the Year,” and one exceptional item is awarded the NSRA “New Safety-Related Product of the Year.” These innovations have played a crucial role in making car construction simpler and improving driving safety, and they have become industry standards over time.
Congratulations go out to Flaming River who walked away with three of the four prestigious awards. In the Group B category, they clinched the victory with their VDOG Variable Angle Gear. The Microsteer secured them the win in Group C, and they also took home the Best Safety award for their Slip Shaft Kit. However, it was the Holley (Classic Instruments) Easy Level Universal Fuel & Fluid Laser Level Sender that managed to break Flaming River’s winning streak, adding some variety to the list of winners.
Over the years, we’ve witnessed a wide range of products gaining widespread recognition and becoming essential tools for building and customizing cars while enhancing driving safety. Now, let’s explore some of the innovative new products showcased at this year’s event.
01. Flaming River Industries
www.flamingriver.com
VDOG Variable Angle Gear
NSRA NEW PRODUCT OF THE YEAR WINNER: GROUP-B
The VDOG™ Variable Angle Gear from Flaming River showcases a robust cast aluminum housing and a ¾-36 output shaft, ensuring compatibility with universal joints. This gear-driven unit operates devoid of chains or sprockets, promising reliability and durability. Its versatility extends to horizontal and vertical mounting options, making it an excellent choice for Cab-Over vehicles, T-Buckets, and custom builds featuring powerful engines and tight firewall clearances.
Designed and manufactured in the USA, the VDOG™ features a 90° gear box with a 35° variable angle shaft, providing maximum adjustability with an articulating ball design. With a 1:1 ratio, it maintains the rack and pinion or steering box gear ratio seamlessly. Furthermore, its multiple mounting options offer flexibility, while its chainless and sprocket-free design enhances longevity. For those seeking additional style and customization, a Billet Housing Option is available, and the cast model can be powder coated in any color from their RAL deck, all proudly made in the USA.
2. Flaming River Industries
www.flamingriver.com
The Flaming River Custom Steering Column with Microsteer
NSRA NEW PRODUCT OF THE YEAR WINNER: GROUP-C
The Flaming River Custom Steering Column with Microsteer Electric Power Assisted Steering seamlessly blends classic automotive aesthetics with modern technology. It retains a vintage charm while enhancing steering precision, resulting in a smoother driving experience and reduced driver fatigue. This product offers various stylish finishes, including polished stainless, sleek black powder coat, or paintable mill for customization. It also includes a one-year warranty and comes with essential components like a paintable column with an integrated Microsteer Unit, an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), a Tuning Box with a Potentiometer, and a Wire Harness for a hassle-free steering system upgrade in your classic car.
3. Flaming River Industries
www.flamingriver.com
The Flaming River Custom Slip Shaft Kit
NSRA NEW PRODUCT OF THE YEAR WINNER: SAFETY
This new slip and collapsible steering shaft kit is designed to eliminate any play in the factory system and to accommodate lift applications. It features three inches of slip and collapsibility. Includes two sealed needle bearing universal joints, protective bellow and slip-shaft. Ideal for off-road use or for daily drivers.
4. Studleys Independent Rods Inc.
www.hotrodit.com
704.296.9036
1953 – 1962 Complete Bolt-in 4 Bar Rear Suspension
1953 – 1962 Complete bolt-in 4 bar rear suspension which can be used with original rear end or a 9” Ford rear end. Kit includes 4 bars with track locator along with all bolts and brackets.
5. Vintage Air Inc.
www.vintageair.com
A/C Temp Control Panel, 1964.5-66 Ford Mustang
NOW AVAILABLE in a new black finish, this bolt-in replacement control panel is specifically tailored to fit 1964-1/2 to 1966 Ford Mustangs, offering seamless integration with Gen IV and Gen 5 air conditioning systems. Crafted from high-quality 6061-T6 billet aluminum and exquisitely triple chrome plated, it showcases laser-etched lettering for a sleek appearance. Noteworthy features include an LED “A/C on” indicator and adjustable sliders for fan speed, temperature, and air delivery selection. Installation is a breeze, as it conveniently installs in the OEM dash location using the included hardware. This control panel not only enhances functionality but also adds a touch of sophistication to your classic Mustang’s interior.
6. Vintage Air Inc.
www.vintageair.com
1955-57 Chevrolet Full-Size ProLine Chrome Louver Kit
Elevate your system’s aesthetics with the Vintage Air ProLine chrome dash louver set, meticulously crafted for a tailored fit in 1955-57 Chevrolet full-size models, ensuring a truly custom installation. These premium louvers are precision machined from billet aluminum, meticulously chrome plated, and come as a comprehensive kit that comprises driver and passenger side louver bezels with chrome louvers and all the necessary mounting hardware. Crafted with pride in the USA, these louvers not only add style but also ensure exceptional quality and durability for your vehicle’s interior.
7. Vintage Air Inc.
www.vintageair.com
GEN 5 SureFit Kit for 1982-1992 Chevrolet Camaro & Pontiac Firebird
Vintage Air has launched its Gen 5 SureFit Climate-Control System for 1982–92 Chevrolet Camaros and Pontiac Firebirds, offering modern comfort to these classic cars. The system features industry-first OEM-quality injection-molded cases and block-type expansion valves and is designed for vehicles originally equipped with factory air conditioning. It can be purchased as a Complete Kit or an Evaporator Kit, and installation requires minimal modifications to the original firewall. The Gen 5 SureFit Kit replaces original components with electronically-operated ones, delivering superior performance while saving engine compartment space. It includes a powerful blower motor, LED-backlit control panel, and offers variable blower fan speed adjustments and high-volume dehumidified defrost. Vintage Air SureFit Kits are made in the USA and backed by a three-year warranty.
8. Vintage Air Inc.
www.vintageair.com
GEN 5 SureFit Kit for 1988-1994 Chevrolet/GMC OBS Pickups
As OBS (Old Body Style) Chevy and GMC trucks become increasingly desirable among enthusiasts, Vintage Air has introduced the Gen-5 SureFit climate control system to cater to their needs. This advanced system, featuring the Gen 5 Super Magnum blower, is meticulously designed as a seamless replacement for 1988 to 1994 Chevy and GMC C/K trucks and select SUVs, effectively addressing the common shortcomings of the factory climate control systems in these classic vehicles. With its high-quality components, including an injection-molded case assembly, robust actuator motors, and the powerful Gen 5 Super Magnum blower that delivers 20% more airflow than standard blowers, this system ensures efficient and powerful climate control. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for cables or vacuum connections with its fully electronic microprocessor control system, offering both improved performance and a factory-style appearance with LED-backlit control panels. All of these features make it an ideal solution for enhancing the climate control in these sought-after vintage trucks.
9. Master Power Brakes
www.mpbrakes.com
1955-57 Front Disk Brake Conversion Kit
Master Power Brakes now provides a comprehensive brake system tailored for your Tri-Five Chevrolet car, enhancing your drum brakes with the dependability and performance of disc brakes. These kits include cast-iron calipers and vented rotors fashioned in an OEM style. The Legend Series stands out as our most budget-friendly option, offering a fantastic enhancement for your vintage vehicle. The installation can be completed over a weekend and promises long-lasting benefits. A variety of performance levels are available to cater to your preferences.
10. Wilwood Brakes
MOPAR 4 Bolt Flange Compact Tandem Master Cylinder
Mopar vehicles with a dedicated flange for their unique four-bolt pattern, are a standout. The Mopar Compact Tandem master cylinder offers a rectangular mounting flange compatible with A-body, B-body, and E-body firewall mounts from the 1960s and 70s. Available in bore sizes of 15/16″, 1.00″, and 1-1/8″, with or without a pushrod, and even featuring a Mopar style eyelet. Choose between a chrome powder coat or glossy black E-coat finish to suit your engine bay aesthetics. Optional kits include a combination valve with a hydraulic brake light switch, an adjustable proportioning valve, bracket, and plumbing for an enhanced braking system performance.
11. Tanks Inc.
www.tanksinc.com
1967 Chevy Impala Fuel Injection Gas Tank by Tanks Inc.
The 1967 Chevy Impala, Bel Air, Biscayne, Caprice Fuel Tank offered by Tanks Inc. is a versatile upgrade for a range of classic Chevrolet models. Designed to be fuel injection ready, it boasts a two-piece neck design that connects with provided rubber hose and accommodates aftermarket 5-bolt senders with multiple Ohm ranges. This tank incorporates EFI-style internal baffling with a substantial 4.8-liter dual-tube baffled fuel tray, preventing fuel pump starvation, making it an ideal choice for Pro-Touring, Autocross, or Road Racing applications. The tank is designed to seamlessly fit into your vehicle, as the fuel pump and sender are recessed within it, requiring no modifications to your car’s structure. With a 24-gallon capacity, it offers 3/4″ more depth than the stock tank and works perfectly with factory straps. Its dimensions measure 37-1/4″ x 30″ x 7-3/4″, and the tank is coated with galvanized steel and powder-coated in silver, ensuring durability and a sleek appearance that resembles an OE tank when installed.
12. Tanks Inc.
www.tanksinc.com
1969-72 Chevy Blazer Gas Tank by Tanks Inc.
The 1969-72 Chevy Blazer and GMC Jimmy Frame Mount Gas Tank offered by Tanks Inc is a versatile fuel tank designed for easy installation. It can be securely attached beneath the frame rails, but it also provides flexibility for alternative mounting configurations, such as on top or even in-between the rails, depending on the installer’s preference. However, it’s important to note that the installer is responsible for drilling and positioning the necessary mounting holes, as the tank does not come with mounting hardware.
Constructed from die-stamped galvanized steel and powder-coated in silver, this tank is not only durable but also fuel injection ready, making it compatible with Tanks Inc’s GPA series fuel pumps, available in various flow rates. It utilizes aftermarket 5-bolt senders with multiple ohm ranges, enabling compatibility with both factory and aftermarket gauges. Additionally, the tank features EFI-style internal baffling, incorporating a substantial 4.8-liter dual-tube baffled fuel tray to prevent fuel pump starvation. For carbureted applications, Tanks Inc offers a specific part, PTA-G. With an 18-gallon capacity, the tank’s dimensions measure 32-1/4″ x 20-1/2″ x 9-3/4″ with the mounting flange included, and 28″ x 20-1/2″ x 9-3/4″ without it.
13. Old Air Products
SuperKool Condenser Upgrade Kits for 1973-1980 & 1981-1987 Chevy/GMC “Squarebody” Trucks
The Old Air Products Custom SuperKool Condenser assembly kit is a specialized cooling system component designed for Squarebody Chevrolet and GMC Trucks. It’s crafted to work seamlessly with trucks that have their original factory air conditioning (A/C) system and are being modified to use 134a refrigerant. This assembly is an ideal option for custom trucks that have undergone engine swaps to the LS Series and have upgraded their under-hood components, including the compressor, alternator, and accessory drive systems. These assemblies are available for trucks with compressors mounted on driver or passenger side of engine.
14. Powermaster Performance
www.powermastermotorsports.com
SuperKool Condenser Upgrade Kits for 1973-1980 & 1981-1987 Chevy/GMC “Squarebody” Trucks
The Powermaster PowerGEN 1932-38 Flathead Ford alternator is a remarkable automotive component designed for vintage Ford vehicles manufactured between 1932 and 1938. It boasts a set of features that make it stand out among classic car enthusiasts. Notably, it comes equipped with new cast iron front and rear covers that not only enhance its durability but also provide critical support for the original equipment (OE) cooling fan. This ensures that the engine remains at an optimal temperature during operation, contributing to the longevity of the vintage flathead engine.
Furthermore, the PowerGEN 1932-38 Flathead Ford offers versatility with two housing options: a Long model suitable for original builds and a Short model ideal for dual carburetor setups. Whether you’re looking to maintain the authenticity of your classic Ford or enhance its performance, this alternator has you covered. It’s available for both 12-volt negative ground systems and OEM-style 6-volt positive ground systems, accommodating a range of electrical configurations. Additionally, it comes supplied with a pulley machined to accept an OE-style fan (fan not included), making it a convenient and comprehensive solution for vintage Ford enthusiasts. It’s worth noting that this PowerGEN alternator also fits 1939 Standard Ford models, offering even broader compatibility for classic car restoration projects.
15. Phoenix Machine
www.phoenixmachinellc.com
1934 Chevrolet Master Engine Turned Dash Components
Introducing Phoenix Machine’s exquisite line of engine turned dash parts specially designed for the 1934 Chevrolet. These meticulously crafted components are the perfect enhancement for your vintage masterpiece. Proudly made in the USA, Phoenix Machine is renowned for their top-tier hot rod components. Their collection includes polished billet aluminum dash inserts, Optima battery mounts tailored for street rods, and a wide array of stainless steel engine turned panels and cast aluminum interior parts, including engine components ideal for traditional rods and customs. Elevate your 1934 Chevrolet Master’s interior with the timeless elegance of engine turned dash parts from Phoenix Machine – where quality meets classic style.
16. Martin Custom Autobody,llc
www.martincustomautobody.com
Classic Side Emblem Camera
Introducing Martin Custom Autobody, LLC’s innovative hidden camera, elegantly concealed within a personalized side emblem, blending classic aesthetics with advanced technology. Carefully crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the custom emblem not only offers many personalization options but also discreetly hosts a camera that you can activate whenever you like, capturing the essence of every journey. Whether you desire heightened security or want to document your classic car adventures, our hidden camera emblem represents a fusion of sophistication and functionality, showcasing our expertise in automotive customization.
17. Alumicraft Street Rod Grilles
www.alumicraft.com
1970-1973 Chevy Camaro Standard or Z/28 Aluminum Grille Insert
The Alumicraft Grille is custom-made to fit 1970-1973 Chevy Camaro Standard and Z/28 models. What sets Alumicraft Grilles apart is the use of advanced CNC machining to create aluminum inserts, making installation super with a simple direct bolt-on process. What’s even more impressive is how the grille panels are carefully designed to align the hexagonal openings with the car’s direction, instead of having them run at a right angle to the grille’s surface.
18. Alumicraft Street Rod Grilles
www.alumicraft.com
1973-1974 Chevy C/10 Truck CNC Aluminum Grille Insert
Squarebody owners rejoice. Alumicraft’s latest offering is specifically designed for 1973-1974 Chevrolet C/10. The insert is fully CNC machined aluminum designed for easy installation for a direct bolt-in application once the original insert is cut out.
19. Johnson’s Radiator Works
www.johnsonsradiatorworks.com
1973-1974 Chevy C/10 Truck Chevy Truck Dual Cross-Flow radiator
Johnson’s Radiator Works is excited to introduce their latest innovation: the 1973-87 Chevy Truck Dual Cross-Flow radiator tailored for LS engines. Engineered for seamless installation, this radiator serves as a direct fit stock replacement, ensuring a straightforward upgrade for Chevy truck owners without the need for modifications. Also available for small bock and big block applications.
20. Billet Specialties
www.billetspecialties.com
Gen 4 LS Valley Cover With Oil Fill Tube
Give your Gen 4 LS engine that classic style with the Billet Specialties Valley Cover, which comes with an adjustable breather tube. The billet oil filler tube and cap are versatile, meaning you can position them just right for the perfect look and fit. The valley plate, precisely machined, uses the original GM-engineered gaskets (not included) and still has a port for the oil pressure sensor, making it easy to use. The billet cap makes oil filling a breeze and keeps oil vapors away from your engine, all while allowing your breather system to do its job correctly.