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Rugged Baby Buggy Bumpers
Serious off-roading is rough on equipment. Only the toughest gear will stand up to the hardcore bashing and thrashing of rockcrawling, mudding and desert running. Even the toughest equipment, however will not last forever under these conditions. Once a part or component has been hammered on enough times, it must be replaced. Fortunately, with the rapid evolution of off-road engineering, the replacement is often much stronger and will withstand more abuse. In the case of the 1985 Toyota 4-runner in our story, we are replacing it’s fourth front bumper. Yeah, this rig has seen some serious trails from Moab to the Rubicon over the past ten years.

HARD CHARGER
We were talking to Devin Meucci when the topic came up about how difficult it is to find a ’69 Dodge Charger in Southern California, because most were gobbled up by the studio when “The Dukes of Hazzard” show was on television. I also mentioned that two of my friends were in charge of the transportation department of the show when the cars were being scrapped out, and described how they made the 383 and 440 engines available to members of my car club. Meucci said he and his brother watched the show religiously, and that’s when their love for Chargers began. Fortunately, in Washington state, Chargers were plentiful, so, in 1990 his brother bought a matching-numbers ’69 RT/SE. Two years later, Meucci purchased his own Charger and drove it in high school during his senior year, and to college after that.

SHOP PROJECT
When you attend a Mustang & Shelby event, especially one the magnitude of the Rocky Mountain Mustang Roundup in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, it can become kind of a mind-boggling process to pick a “favorite” Mustang among the more than 750 entries. Nonetheless, it’s an assignment we relish. And at the 2006 RMMR, there were plenty of outstanding Mustangs and Shelbys to choose from.
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Flaming River’s 88-98 Chevy/GMC 1500 Series Power Rack & Pinion Cradle Kit
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Images Courtesy of Flaming River
We can’t get enough of the incredible people at Flaming River and their cutting-edge products, all proudly made in the USA and built to the highest standards. This latest product is no exception. If you’re looking to take your Chevy/GMC OBS truck’s steering to the next level, you need to check out the Flaming River Power Rack and Pinion Cradle Kit for 88-98 Chevy/GMC 1500 series pickups. This power rack and pinion cradle kit is a total game-changer, designed for a direct bolt-in installation. Ditch that outdated steering and get ready for the precision and modern handling you’ve been dreaming of.
Key Features
- Rock-Solid Cradle: Crafted from a sturdy 3/8″ steel plate, this cradle guarantees rigidity, cutting out any flex.
- Original Steering Column Compatibility: No need to worry about compatibility issues—this kit integrates seamlessly with your truck’s original steering column.
- Smooth Operation Slip Shaft: Equipped with a new slip shaft and universal joints, expect nothing but smooth steering.
- Compatible with Original Power Steering Pump: This kit plays nicely with your truck’s original power steering pump, ensuring a hassle-free upgrade.
- Geometry Retention: Thanks to the travel bar, the original steering geometry is preserved, keeping your ride’s handling spot-on.
- Easy Bolt-In Installation: No cutting, drilling, or welding required—just bolt it in and go.
- Front Steer Power Rack and Pinion: Featuring a .98-inch rack shaft for enhanced strength and a billet servo valve to keep things cool.
- Proudly Made in the USA: Built with quality and craftsmanship you can count on.

Compatibility
- Perfect for factory ride height or with a 4/6 lowering kit.
- Bolts directly in place of the steering box and idler arm using original equipment mount locations.
What’s Included
- Mounting hardware
- Universal joints and shafts
- Rack and pinion cradle system
Warranty
SEMA 2023 Unveiling
Cherie from The AutoBuilder caught up with Brett Domin, Sales Manager at Flaming River at SEMA 2023 where they discussed the NEW ‘88-’98 Chevy C1500 Truck Power Rack and Pinion Cradle Kit as well as other new products.
Level Up Your OBS Chevy/GMC Pickup’s Performance Today!
Don’t settle for anything less than the best for your Chevy/GMC C1500. With Flaming River’s power rack and pinion cradle kit for OBS Chevy/GMC 1500 Series, you’ll experience unparalleled quality and innovation that’s proudly made in the USA. Upgrade your steering game today and feel the difference in every turn. Head over to Flaming River now and elevate your driving experience with precision and modern handling. Your truck deserves it!
CLICK HERE for more details or to purchase from the Flaming River website.
ARTICLE SOURCES
Flaming River
800 Poertner Drive
Berea, OH 44017 USA
(800) 648-8022





