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NO HAND SIGNALS
Rearview mirrors with LED turn-signal indicators are relatively new, but you will be seeing more and more of them, especially on luxury SUVs and pickups. They are already standard equipment on some models, and probably part of an upgrade premium package on others. They are also now available in the aftermarket.

Toyota RF1A Level Up
The gear driven RF1A Toyota transfer case found in 1979-1995 4 cylinder pickups and 4Runners fits the needs of many wheelers. It offers a strong, lightweight package with growing aftermarket support. These transfer cases have been used in numerous pickups, 4Runners, buggies, and even Jeeps! Everything from dual transfer case adapters, low range gear sets, twin sticks, and low profile crossmembers are available for Toyota transfer cases from a bevy of aftermarket sources. The RF1A is lighter and less expensive than a Dana 300, though they are not as easy to “clock” and do not allow front wheel drive operation.

CIMTEX RODS SUPER CAMEO: PART 1
While attending the 2003 SEMA Show, we ran across Darrel and Tim Cimbanin from Cimtex Rods in Jarrell, Texas. The Cimbanin brothers were there to drum up support and showed us some sketches of their latest truck building project, and what a project it is!
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Product Spotlight: Bill Mitchell Products Aluminum LS Engine Block
Lightweight Muscle for Serious Builds
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Photos Courtesy of Bill Mitchell Products
Precision Dimensions for Big Performance
The block sports a 9.240″ deck height with 4.115″ cylinder bores and 4.400″ bore centers, perfectly engineered for aggressive builds while maintaining true LS compatibility. Five billet steel main caps, all four-bolt and cross-bolted, keep the crank planted no matter how hard you push. Torque the studs to 75 ft-lbs, the cross bolts to 30 ft-lbs, and you’ve got a bottom end that laughs at high RPMs and boost alike.
Rebuildable and Engineered for Longevity
Each cylinder comes with a replaceable dry ductile steel sleeve, pressed to exact tolerances for maximum durability. Builders can safely bore up to 4.165″, opening the door to serious displacement upgrades. And with priority main oiling and dry-sump provisions, this block ensures your engine gets the lubrication it demands under even the harshest conditions. Screw-in freeze plugs, cam plug, all dowel pins, and pipe plugs come included—this block is ready to go straight from the box to your build.
Built for Builders
Every detail of the BMP‑086515 is designed with the engine builder in mind. Standard GM LS bearings, camshaft placement, and lifter bores make assembly predictable, while the block’s LSX head bolt pattern and drilled-and-tapped motor mounts give you flexibility for retrofits or high-performance swaps. From oil passages to bearing alignment, Bill Mitchell has dialed in the details so your build goes smooth and fast.
Quick Specs
Application: High-performance GM LS replacement
Material / Weight: 357T6 Aluminum, 135 lbs w/ caps & sleeves
Deck Height: 9.240″ (standard) | Bores: 3.990″ or 4.115″, replaceable dry sleeves
Main Caps: 5 × 4-bolt billet steel, cross-bolted
Cam / Lifters: Standard GM placement & tie-bar lifters
Oil System: Priority main, dry-sump provisions
Stroke Clearance: Up to 4.250″ steel rods
Head Bolt Pattern: LSX standard | Motor Mounts: OEM & SBC retrofit-ready
Freeze Plugs / Starter / Water Pump: Stock
Why the BMP Aluminum LS Engine Block Stands Out
This isn’t just another LS block—it’s a high-performance weapon. Lightweight, rigid, and engineered for serious horsepower, it’s perfect for boosted monsters, high-revving naturally aspirated screamers, or retro LS swaps into classic rides. If your goal is power, precision, and bulletproof reliability, this block won’t just meet expectations—it will crush them.
Classic engineering. Modern muscle. Builder-approved.
👉 Ready to turn your LS vision into reality? Grab the BMP Aluminum LS Engine Block today at BillMitchellProducts.com












