THOROUGHLY MODERN MUSTANG
January 9, 2026
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THE AUTO BUILDER
Featured
Light at the End of the Camaro
There are many reasons why the icon cars have achieved the lofty status they now enjoy, but one of the more obvious reasons is the simple fact that they were finished. Their existence and subsequent high-level exposure have inspired many a young lad to undertake similar projects, and for every famous car built in the early years, probably two others were started in an attempt to either copy or outdo it, but they never saw the light of day.
Rearend Upgrade
This article delves into the process of upgrading a ’40 Chevy truck, focusing on swapping the original torque tube differential with a ’69 Camaro axle assembly and enhancing the rear suspension. It provides a comprehensive guide on reusing the leaf springs, installing new bushings, and incorporating a strong shock mount for rear frame strengthening. Essential tools like a bushing removal tool, MIG welder, and an oxy-acetylene torch are highlighted, demonstrating the intricate steps involved in modernizing early Chevy trucks.
Breaking The Ridler Code
It occurred rather quickly—in just a decade or so, the Ridler award has risen to the top of the list of awards for hot rods. Sure, it all started more than 60 years ago, but back in the 2000’s, the competition intensified for this coveted award. The Auto Builder was intrigued by the award’s newfound popularity, and we did everything in our power to bring proper recognition to these grand automobiles. We also dedicated ourselves to help popularize “The Great Eight,” which each car must win to qualify for Ridler competition. Being selected in the Great Eight is a feat in its own right, but the road to winning the Ridler is as mysterious as the final award itself.
Spotlighter
Axle Conversion: One Less Nut
Swapping Over From Six- to Five-Lug Axles
Author
Josh Kaylor
Photography by Will Smith
The Need for a Lug Conversion
When updating an early truck to five-lug disc brakes up front, the six-lug rear bolt pattern should be changed to match, as this directly affects the wheel selection and fitment for the truck. Many wheel manufacturers offer three times as many five-lug wheels as six-lug. They look better, and the available styles and offsets are generally more accommodating for slammed pickups.
Converting an Old International Truck
We recently converted an old International, a truck we affectionately think of as farm fodder. We updated the truck with a Fat Man Fabrications Mustang II with a five-on-five pattern, but we still needed to match up the rears.
Choosing the Right Parts
We called the folks at Classic Performance Products in Anaheim, California. Since we have a ’65 Chevy frame hiding under our ’47 body, they had just what we needed. The ’64-’65 Chevrolet axle conversion kit comes complete with everything needed to swap your axles to a five-on-five pattern, including a brand-new set of axles, drums, wheel studs, and a rear differential gasket. The kit includes everything to complete the installation except two quarts of gear fluid.
Step-by-Step Guide
In just a few hours and with a 50-pound bag of Oil-Dri, we had the rear completed. Should you face a similar problem, check out the highlights of our swap.
ARTICLE SOURCES
Classic Performance Products, Inc. (CPP)
378 E Orangethorpe Ave.
Placentia CA 92870
Tech Line 714-522-2000
