
THE AUTO BUILDER
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Project BRONCAROO
Today’s 4x4s have become extremely specialized. At one end of the spectrum are one-off, purpose-built, non-street-legal rock buggies. These are the cream of the rock crop. Most have tube chassis with what seems like nearly 360 degrees of axle articulation. Often the transfer cases are doubled up to produce crawl ratios way beyond the once magical 100:1. They’re obviously awesome, and capable of handling boulders as if they were speed bumps.

WATT UP: Hemi Powered ’55 Chevy
As we’ve come to learn, there’s something special about a ’55 Chevy, particularly when it is fitted with one of the popular Chevy engines that have become so common today. But that’s not the case when the hood is opened on this ’55. It is not the celebrated 265, or one of the more respected LS engines, or even a Chevy big block that captures your attention here. This is something different, and not a Bow Tie at all.

THE DODGE BROTHERS
John and Horace would be proud of the impact their namesake car has made on so many auto enthusiasts. Even 85 years after their demise, younger generations are still discovering the styling and performance of this proud old brand. By 1970, that performance and pride culminated in some very enticing streetcars. This Challenger and Dart are two excellent examples of the machinery, while Tony and Phillip Peck are perfect examples of that younger generation.
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Dress Up Your 496
The Vortech 496 Kit Solves Visual Issues
Author
Bob Carpenter
Words & Photography
There’s no denying that the MerCruiser 496 has been a success. But no one is claiming that it’s a sexy beast. The plastic engine cover has been referred to as a George Foreman Grill or a turtle back. Vortech Engineering thought it could help out in the visual area, and the company’s new dress-up kit is a big improvement.
Included in the kit is a Vortech flame arrestor as well as a new polished billet engine cover that transforms the look of the 496. Maveric Marine had a 25-foot Cole in the shop that was darn good-looking, but the owner hated the black plastic engine cover. As soon as Maveric owner Eric Bortman heard about the new Vortech kit, he made plans to install one.
It’s not a complicated deal at all. Simply remove the stock cover, remove the stock flame arrestor and install the Vortech parts. That’s it. We’re talking about maybe 20 minutes if you take your time. Your pals will be impressed, though.
ARTICLE SOURCES
Vortech Superchargers
1650 Pacific Ave.
Oxnard, CA 93033
805/247-0226







