
THE AUTO BUILDER
Featured

Well Worth The Wait
Is a love for fast cars—specifically those that are Chevrolet-powered—hereditary? If you were to ask C.A.T. Operations Engineer Kevin Christensen of Castaic, California, he would definitely say that it is.

20 NEW Product Innovations at the 2023 NSRA “Nats”
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.
Throughout the years, we’ve seen a wide variety of products gain widespread recognition and become essential tools that greatly aid in building cars and making driving safer. Now, let’s take a look at some of the groundbreaking new products featured at this year’s event.

Beyond the Lift: Navigating New Heights with Upgraded Steering
Steering is one of the two most important systems on any vehicle, along with the brakes. Unfortunately, steering is often neglected for modifications that yield more visual impact, such as suspension lifts and larger tires. These are the exact modifications, however, that make attention to steering so important. Suspension lifts can alter steering geometry while big, heavy tires may cause increased wear to steering components, particularly if the tires are out of balance.
After a springover conversion was performed on the Dana 44 front axle in our ’67 Toyota Land Cruiser, the new spring location interfered with the steering geometry. The draglink was then bent as a temporary fix, but this sacrificed strength and resulted in poor steering angles.
Spotlighter
POPULAR READS
-
Product Spotlight: Bill Mitchell Products Aluminum LS Engine Block
-
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: 60-66 Chevy C10 Fresh Air Vent Block Off Plate
-
Product Spotlight: Pyramid Optimized Design Sequential Aurora Taillight for 1964½–1966 Mustang
-
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Cam Covers for GEN/3 Coyote from Pyramid Optimized Design
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: BellaTilt Microsteer Roadster Column by Flaming River
A Revolution in Steering for your Roadster
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Photos Courtesy of Flaming River
In the world of custom roadster builds, a steering column is more than just a mechanical necessity—it’s a declaration of style and technological advancement. Enter the Flaming River 30-inch Roadster BellaTilt Microsteer Column, a perfect embodiment of this ethos, merging sleek aesthetics with state-of-the-art innovation.
Design & Aesthetics
The BellaTilt Microsteer Column stands as a testament to modern engineering. With its 30-inch length and 1-3/4 inch diameter, this stainless steel marvel not only enhances the visual appeal of any roadster but also provides 3 choices of finish: Black Powdercoat, Polished, and a paintable finish for ultimate customization. This attention to detail ensures it can seamlessly blend with or accentuate any roadster’s unique style.
Functionality Meets Elegance
What truly sets the BellaTilt apart is its neatly concealed power steering assist. This feature transforms the driving experience, making steering effortless and enjoyable. Moreover, its compatibility with the Vega Steering Box makes it an impeccable choice for any roadster setup, marrying elegance with performance.
Ease of Installation
Flaming River has engineered the BellaTilt Microsteer Column with user-friendly installation in mind. Designed to complement existing manual steering systems, it offers a straightforward upgrade path for both seasoned builders and enthusiastic hobbyists. It’s important to note, however, that universal joints are sold separately, ensuring you get precisely what you need for your specific build.
Proudly Made in the USA
Craftsmanship is at the heart of Flaming River’s philosophy, and the BellaTilt Microsteer Column exemplifies this commitment. Proudly manufactured in the USA, it stands as a beacon of quality, supporting domestic engineering and production. Each unit is a reflection of meticulous design and superior manufacturing standards, ensuring it meets the high expectations of custom roadster builders.
The Flaming River BellaTilt Microsteer Column is more than just a steering column; it’s a fusion of form and function that takes your driving experience to the next level. With its easy installation, elegant design, and advanced features, it stands out as a premier choice for roadster enthusiasts seeking the best in steering technology.
CLICK HERE to learn more or head on over to the Flaming River website for all your aftermarket steering needs.
ARTICLE SOURCES
Flaming River
800 Poertner Drive
Berea, OH 44017 USA
(800) 648-8022







