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TRI-FIVE FEVER TAKES OVER BOWLING GREEN

August 17, 2026

Here in the United States, we have been conditioned to find vintage tin in many places. The availability of good cars to build into street rods has become more limited as the years have passed, but depending upon your choice of bodies, there are still quite a few options. Of course, the advent of reproduction bodies has added to the choices. Now put yourself in a foreign land and think about how hard it would be to find a good 70-plus-year-old imported American car to build. That is what Wayne Streams faced as a native of the United Kingdom. Building street rods has grown in both popularity and participation in the UK. There are many vintage English vehicles available, but American cars are the most cherished among British rodders.

Fade to Black

Sitting slightly nose-high and looking that much more restrained with dog dish hubcaps framed in bias-ply blackwalls, this ’62 Chevy bubbletop is as sinister as it is subdued. In fact, as smooth as these panels are, one has to wonder if this car has ever broken a sweat or even turned a wheel with aggression since it rolled off the showroom floor.

Flow Control

When this Cole 22 Nighthawk sank after a stormy night, a lot of things needed to be replaced. The fuel tank selector valve was toast, and the original equipment was no longer available for purchase. The owner of this boat decided it was a good time to upgrade to an Eddie Marine Total Flow Control high-volume fuel valve. The three-port model (PN SF-100) used here is a safe and efficient fuel valve that is ultra reliable and will flow 240 gallons of fuel per hour. Operated by a 12-volt motor, it meets all U.S. Coast Guard requirements, including the ability to be manually operated should the motor fail for any reason. A six-port model is also available with fuel return provisions for fuel-injected applications (PN SF-200).

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Epic Adventurer

Hypertech's Ultimate Ford Bronco Sport Overlander is More Than Capable

Author

The AutoBuilder Staff

Words & Photography

In the realm of off-road adventures, few vehicles command the same level of respect and admiration as the Ford Bronco. Harking back to its origins over half a century ago, the Bronco has remained synonymous with rugged exploration and uncompromising agility. Now, in a bold move that redefines the off-road experience, Ford reintroduced the Bronco Sport SUV, marrying heritage with modern innovation. Many people consider the Bronco Sport to be the baby brother of the full size Bronco. This build by Hypertech and LeachCo looks more than capable of keeping up with its big brother.

The journey to create the ultimate off-road vehicle was one of passion and dedication. “We were excited to be able to create the ultimate off-road experience with a modern version of this heritage off-roading vehicle brand,” expressed the team behind the project. Their goal was clear: to capture the essence of the iconic Bronco while elevating it to new heights, making the adventure accessible to all.

Enter the Custom Ford Bronco Sport Badlands edition, a marvel of engineering and design that pushes the boundaries of off-road capability. At its core lies the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands, powered by a robust 2.0L I4 EcoBoost engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. But what truly sets this vehicle apart is the meticulous customization that transforms it into the Ultimate Base Camp vehicle.

From its exterior enhancements to its interior comforts, every aspect of the Custom Bronco Sport Badlands has been carefully curated to deliver an unparalleled off-road experience. Ford Performance off-road underbody rock lights illuminate the path ahead, while a LockNLoad roof rack system by Yakima provides ample storage for all your adventure gear. With a SkyRise HD tent and an awning also by Yakima, the vehicle becomes a sanctuary amidst the wilderness, offering refuge after a day of exploration.

But it’s not just about conquering rough terrain; it’s about doing so in style. Custom vinyl wrap color enhancements and unique pinstripes add a touch of flair, ensuring that the Custom Bronco Sport Badlands stands out wherever it roams. Meanwhile, Ford Accessories such as neoprene seat covers and a first aid kit prioritize comfort and safety, underscoring the vehicle’s versatility. A custom Borla cat-back exhaust system with black chrome tips delivers enhanced performance, while RIGID Industries Lighting ensures visibility in even the most challenging conditions. From Radiance+ LED light bars to SAE fog lights, the Custom Bronco Sport Badlands leaves no corner of the trail unexplored.

This extraordinary vehicle is the culmination of collaboration and innovation, brought to life by LeachCo of Dayton, Tennessee. Their commitment to excellence shines through in every detail, from the rugged exterior to the comfortable interior amenities. As a result, the Hypertech Bronco Sport Badlands redefines what it means to embark on an off-road adventure, inviting enthusiasts of all backgrounds to experience the thrill of exploration like never before.