Product Showcase: Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion 2026
August 25, 2026
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THE AUTO BUILDER
Featured
TRUCK OF THE YEAR
While attending the Goodguys Nashville Nationals, we happened upon this stunning Studebaker. Its owner, Jeff Wingo, informed us that during his high school years this same Studebaker served as his daily driver, providing him a ride to and from school and around town. Now a fast-paced computer consultant, Wingo travels around the world, which has allowed him a better lifestyle compared to his teen years. He also has two young sons, Grant and Jack, who love their dad’s cool truck. Let’s rewind to the summer of 2000, when Wingo made the decision to resurrect the tired and worn pickup.
Product Spotlight: DIESELSITE 17-Row COOLERMAX Transmission Cooler
Rated at a monster 59,000 BTUs, this cooler doesn’t just compete—it sets the bar. Standard factory units limp along at 15k–30k BTU. Even most “heavy-duty” aftermarket coolers top out well below the COOLERMAX’s rating. That extra capacity can mean the difference between cruising safely at 180° or cooking at 240°. In the real world, that translates into drops of 50–60°, longer fluid life, and transmissions that simply last.
HOW TO SHOW YOUR CAR
WHAT DO YOU do when you have one of the hottest show cars in the country and need something to take you to the next level? What do you do if you have a very nice modified car, but want something more? How about a true show display setup? We have talked to a number of people in the industry, including some of the most qualified judging sanctioning bodies, and they have given us plenty of insight into what’s hot and what’s not in the world of show car displays.
Spotlighter
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: BellaTilt Microsteer Roadster Column by Flaming River
A Revolution in Steering for your Roadster
Top-tier quality and a solid three-year warranty set Flaming River apart as the best in the business. Their tilt steering columns come fully equipped with an aluminum dress-up kit, featuring a turn signal arm with a Phillips screw, a tilt lever, a hazard knob with a screw, and a steering wheel hold nut. Additionally, Flaming River offers a comprehensive array of steering column accessories, including steering wheels, custom wheel adapters, floor mounts, and column drops.
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Photos Courtesy of Flaming River
In the world of custom roadster builds, a steering column is more than just a mechanical necessity—it’s a declaration of style and technological advancement. Enter the Flaming River 30-inch Roadster BellaTilt Microsteer Column, a perfect embodiment of this ethos, merging sleek aesthetics with state-of-the-art innovation.
Design & Aesthetics
The BellaTilt Microsteer Column stands as a testament to modern engineering. With its 30-inch length and 1-3/4 inch diameter, this stainless steel marvel not only enhances the visual appeal of any roadster but also provides 3 choices of finish: Black Powdercoat, Polished, and a paintable finish for ultimate customization. This attention to detail ensures it can seamlessly blend with or accentuate any roadster’s unique style.
Functionality Meets Elegance
What truly sets the BellaTilt apart is its neatly concealed power steering assist. This feature transforms the driving experience, making steering effortless and enjoyable. Moreover, its compatibility with the Vega Steering Box makes it an impeccable choice for any roadster setup, marrying elegance with performance.
Ease of Installation
Flaming River has engineered the BellaTilt Microsteer Column with user-friendly installation in mind. Designed to complement existing manual steering systems, it offers a straightforward upgrade path for both seasoned builders and enthusiastic hobbyists. It’s important to note, however, that universal joints are sold separately, ensuring you get precisely what you need for your specific build.
Proudly Made in the USA
Craftsmanship is at the heart of Flaming River’s philosophy, and the BellaTilt Microsteer Column exemplifies this commitment. Proudly manufactured in the USA, it stands as a beacon of quality, supporting domestic engineering and production. Each unit is a reflection of meticulous design and superior manufacturing standards, ensuring it meets the high expectations of custom roadster builders.
Specifications at a Glance
- Column Length: 30 inches
- Tube Diameter: 1.75 inches
- Shaft Size: 1 inch DD
- Column Style: Roadster
- Column Finishes: Paintable Mill, Black Powdercoat, and Polished
- Key or Non-Key: Non-Key
- Warranty: 3 Years
The Flaming River BellaTilt Microsteer Column is more than just a steering column; it’s a fusion of form and function that takes your driving experience to the next level. With its easy installation, elegant design, and advanced features, it stands out as a premier choice for roadster enthusiasts seeking the best in steering technology.
CLICK HERE to learn more or head on over to the Flaming River website for all your aftermarket steering needs.
ARTICLE SOURCES
Flaming River
800 Poertner Drive
Berea, OH 44017 USA
(800) 648-8022
