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CAMARO MAN
If you ask car enthusiasts to identify their favorite ’60s Chevy, most will say a Camaro. If you want a more specific answer, you probably will get mixed responses between the ’67-’68 models and the ’69. Troy Leiphart is one of those enthusiasts who like the early models, because they are smoother looking than the ’69 and look meaner when done right. That love affair with ’68 Camaros started when he was a kid. His older brother Ernie owned a maroon ’68, and Leiphart thought it was the coolest car around. After awhile, money got tight for Ernie, so Leiphart purchased the car from his brother. Leiphart drove the cool Camaro with much pride, fixed it up and spent time at the drag races, where the car did well. Eventually the engine blew and he couldn’t afford to fix it, so he sold the car back to his brother.

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BACK IN BLACK: Jamie Musselman’s ’33 Ford Roadster
Forty-four years have passed since Musselman teamed with Boyd Coddington in creating one of the most amazing rods of its day, an excetpional car that took its place in history as the Oakland Roadster Show’s “America’s Most Beautiful Roadster” in 1982. This was also due, in part, to the efforts of many top fabricators including Lil’ John Buttera, Dan Fink, Steve Davis, Thom Taylor who designed the car.
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Watch Dog Automatic Battery Disconnect Safety Switch by Flaming River
Smart Battery Control for Unmatched Peace of Mind
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Photos Courtesy of Flaming River
In the realm of automotive care, ensuring the safety and longevity of your vehicle’s electrical system is paramount. The Watch Dog Automatic Battery Disconnect Safety Switch by Flaming River stands out as a premier solution for managing battery power with unmatched reliability and innovation. Whether you’re fine-tuning a classic car, gearing up for a race, or navigating rugged off-road terrain, this switch is engineered to protect your battery and electrical components under all conditions.
Key Features
Bistable “Magnetic Latch” Technology
The cornerstone of the Watch Dog’s design is its use of bistable technology. This sophisticated mechanism ensures the switch maintains its ON/OFF positions without drawing current, thereby enhancing energy efficiency. With the ability to mechanically separate contacts using over 80G of force, this switch exemplifies durability and dependability.
High International Protection Ratings
- IP67: This rating signifies the switch is dustproof and can withstand immersion in water up to one meter deep.
- IP69K: This rating further guarantees protection against high-pressure water jets, ensuring the switch performs flawlessly even in the most demanding environments.
Versatility
The Watch Dog is designed to handle up to 300 amps of current continuously, supporting both 12V and 24V systems straight out of the box. This flexibility makes it suitable for a wide range of vehicles and applications.
Programmable Time Delay Settings
One of the standout features is the ability to set custom time delays for automatic battery disconnection. This simplifies shutdown routines and enhances safety by ensuring the battery disconnects at appropriate intervals.
Emergency Toggle Switch
Safety and control are further enhanced by an included manual emergency toggle switch equipped with a system status LED indicator. This feature provides immediate manual control, essential in unexpected situations.
Installation
The Watch Dog system is an electromechanical battery disconnect switch designed for straightforward installation. It includes an emergency external switch that disconnects the battery from the electrical system, but it does not deactivate the alternator or completely shut down the vehicle. This design consideration ensures that while the electrical system is protected, critical functions remain operational.
The Flaming River Watch Dog Automatic Battery Disconnect Safety Switch is a pinnacle of innovation, robust construction, and user-centric design. Whether you are a seasoned mechanic or an avid DIY enthusiast, this switch offers unparalleled peace of mind by safeguarding your vehicle’s electrical system.
To learn more, CLICK HERE or go to Flaming River’s website.
ARTICLE SOURCES
Flaming River
800 Poertner Drive
Berea, OH 44017 USA
(800) 648-8022







