MERC-O-MATIC MAKEOVER
April 23, 2026
THE AUTO BUILDER
Featured
Golden Anniversary Special
Just about any gearhead would be thrilled by the opportunity to work with legendary automotive collector and all-around funny guy Jay Leno. Dave Killackey, owner of Performance Transmissions in Azusa, California, not only had the opportunity to work on a number of Leno’s projects, but along the way he’s developed a friendship with the late-night TV host. It’s a close enough friendship that Leno teamed with automotive designer Chip Foose and his “Overhaulin’” TV show to completely transform his rusted-out ’56 Chevrolet Nomad. So yes, you did read this correctly; Dave Killackey is indeed one of the luckiest car guys on the planet—he’s friends with Jay Leno, and he owns a ’56 Nomad that has been overhauled by Chip Foose and the rest of his team.
FOX-BODY SPOTTER’S GUIDE
Fox-body cars changed over the years, usually for the better. So, while everyone can spot a Fox Mustang, we decided to take the time to compile photos of some of the more popular Fox variations so that you can tell just what you’re looking at the next time you head to a car show or dragstrip. Sadly, we can’t provide an absolutely comprehensive guide to spotting every Fox-body model produced. Some of these cars, such as the Mercury Marquis, are just too rare in enthusiast circles for us to have a single example of one in our photo library. We’ve also included a few pictures of historic Fox-platform racecars, for no other reason than we like them, and thought you would, too. So, if you don’t know an SVO from a Turbo Coupe from an XR7, study this guide so that you, too, can become a true Fox fan.
BIG-MOUTH FORD SMALL BLOCKS
Ford engines are hot, and everyone—even non-Ford guys—are talking about it. The small-block Ford is an awesome package that is made even more awesome by Ford Racing and aftermarket parts. It has continually gained popularity as a high-performance buildup, as a Ford In A Ford engine transplant and as a replacement performance engine for vehicles that were optioned as such but were less equipped when new. With all of this activity surrounding the small-block Ford engine, it is safe to say that it is quickly becoming the small block of choice.
Spotlighter
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: 1973–1979 Ford Truck LED Digital Gauge Panel by Intellitronix
A Direct-Fit Digital Dash Upgrade for 1973–1979 Ford Trucks
Time to stop staring at that dusty old dash and upgrade your cockpit like a boss. The Intellitronix 1973–1979 Ford Truck LED Digital Gauge Panel isn’t just a swap—it’s a straight-up modern takeover for your classic Ford. Clean, mean, and screaming tech.
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Photos Courtesy of Intellitronix
Direct-Fit, Zero Drama
No hacks. No cutting. No guesswork. This panel plugs right in and owns that dash like it was born there. Every sensor you need—speed, temp, oil pressure—is built in and ready to throw down, so you can install it fast and hit the road even faster.
All the Tech, None of the Fluff
Digital speedo? 255 MPH readout, odometer, trip meter, 0-60 times, quarter-mile times, and high-speed recall—all at your fingertips. Want next-level accuracy? Add the optional GPS speedometer sending unit, a true plug-in solution with a simple 3-wire hookup and built-in GPS that works with 4,000 / 8,000 / 16,000 PPM speedometers, eliminating errors from tire or gear changes altogether. Tachometer? Sweeps 0-9900 RPM like it’s nothing. Water temp, oil pressure, volts, fuel level—check, check, check, check. Turn signals and high-beams? Still there, but now LED sharp and impossible to miss.
Style That Commands Attention
White, red, blue, teal, or green—pick a color that matches your swagger. This isn’t a subtle upgrade; this is a dash that makes people stop and stare. Whether you’re finishing a resto, building a show truck, or tricking out your daily driver, this panel gives your ride all the tech with zero compromise. Lifetime warranty? Yeah, they’ve got your back.
Why This Panel Crushes
Stop pretending your classic Ford is modern. This digital dash injects life, precision, and pure street cred into your cockpit. It’s sleek, it’s smart, and it tells everyone who walks by: you didn’t just show up—you leveled up.
Lifetime Coverage You Can Count On.
They come with a Lifetime Guarantee and are made in the USA! If you’re not 100% completely satisfied, then just arrange to send it back!
Upgrade Your Dash. Upgrade the Drive.
Ready to ditch the outdated gauges and bring your Ford truck into the modern era? The Intellitronix 1973–1979 Ford Truck LED Digital Gauge Panel delivers clean looks, serious tech, and a true direct-fit install that doesn’t compromise your build. Whether you’re finishing a full restoration or dialing in a restomod, this is the kind of upgrade you’ll appreciate every time you turn the key. Upgrade the dash, sharpen the drive, and let your classic Ford read like it means business.
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