
THE AUTO BUILDER
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SPLIT-LINER
Ronnie Staples has been enjoying custom cars for more than five decades, which not only dates him but also makes him somewhat of a well-versed enthusiast who knows what he wants in a modern super rod.

As Luck Would Have It
It’s a scenario we all dream about. We don’t mean dreaming about winning the lottery or dating Eliza Dushku; we mean one that can actually happen, like finding your dream car and being able to take it home.

THE RIGHT WAY
Join installer Eric Leopold as he meticulously upgrades a white ’04 Tundra with a Street Scene (SS) Speed Grille. Follow along as he navigates the challenges, highlighting the careful process of installation, and witness the transformation of this well-converted street truck in Atascadero, California. Discover the ‘rightest’ way to upgrade with precision and attention to detail in this step-by-step showcase. Photos included for a closer look at the seamless transformation.
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“Gray Madder” Takes Home the 2025 Ridler Award
A '55 Nomad That’s Pure Hot Rod Perfection






Built to Win by Southern Comfort Customs
Hailing from North Carolina, the crew at Southern Comfort Customs knocked this build out of the park. The Nomad sits on a rock-solid Art Morrison chassis with a trick hydraulic suspension setup, which means it’s got the stance and the ride to match. And let’s talk about power—because this thing’s got plenty.
LS3 Power with a Nod to the Past
Under the hood, you’ll find a rowdy LS3 pumping out serious power, breathing through Ultimate Headers and managed by a Holley EFI system. A 6L90E six-speed automatic backs it up, making sure all that horsepower gets to the pavement. And in a genius move, they worked in a custom billet air cleaner using pieces from an old-school 265 small-block unit, blending modern tech with classic vibes.
Custom Styling That Nails It
This isn’t just a go-fast machine—it looks insane too. The body is covered in Glasurit 55 paint, and the one-off billet grille sets the tone up front. Chrome and billet details are everywhere, giving it that perfect mix of class and aggression. The wheels? Full custom from Evod Industries—18x10s in the front and 20x12s in the rear, wrapped in Diamond Back Classic rubber. It’s got the stance, it’s got the style, and it just flat-out works.
Inside the Cabin—Modern Comfort Meets Classic Cool
Step inside, and the details keep coming. Dakota Digital gauges sit in a slick custom dash, with a one-off steering column by Kevin Fugate. The leather interior? Hand-stitched perfection by Jeff Shores. And because no hot rod should be a sweaty mess, it’s got Vintage Air to keep things cool.
A Well-Earned Spot in Hot Rod History
The Bresnahan family and the mad scientists at Southern Comfort Customs didn’t just build a car—they built a legend. The “Gray Madder” Nomad is everything a Ridler-winning hot rod should be: wild, innovative, and straight-up badass. Congrats to the team for bringing this one to life and taking home the biggest award in the game!





