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Significant Parts At The NATS
Delve into the world of street rodding with a glimpse into the NSRA Street Rod Nationals, where cutting-edge products steal the spotlight. From Lokar’s award-winning lighting solutions to Speedway Motors’ stainless steel exhaust manifolds, find out which new releases are revolutionizing the street rod scene.
In Memory of Tom Prufer (1940–2025): A True Craftsman of the Hot Rod World
On May 19, 2025, the hot rod community lost one of its most respected and beloved figures—Tom Prufer. For those familiar with polished frames, hand-fabricated parts, and the unmistakable smell of hot oil on cold mornings, Tom was more than just a builder—he was a quiet giant in the world of traditional rods and custom craftsmanship.
CONCEPTUALLY ’40
It was a sketch published in another street rod title, and while it brought many interesting comments, to our knowledge no one acted on the sketch to convert it to a real roadster. Enter Sam Magarino of Sussex, New Jersey. Now, Magarino likes hot rods, and lately he has enjoyed building some pretty outrageous hot rods with the help of Barry Lobeck and his crew at Lobeck’s. This would be a project of great magnitude, and that was the name aptly applied to this car for the show season.
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: BTR’s 4130 Chromoly Steel Pushrods
Why BTR Pushrods Are a Must for Your LS Engine Build
Let’s talk about something that doesn’t always get the glory it deserves but is crucial for any high-performance build—pushrods. And who better to get the job done right than Brian Tooley Racing (BTR)? These guys know their stuff, and their pushrods are proof.
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The Auto Builder Staff
Images Courtesy of Brian Tooley Racing
Precision at Its Finest
BTR pushrods aren’t just any old sticks of metal. These bad boys are crafted from 4130 chromoly steel, making them strong enough to handle whatever your engine throws at them. Each one is meticulously inspected to meet BTR’s stringent standards, ensuring they perform flawlessly under the harshest conditions.
Designed for Performance
Let’s face it, if you’re building an engine, you want it to perform. BTR’s pushrods are engineered for just that. With options like the 3/8” x .080” wall and 5/16” x .080” wall pushrods, you can find the perfect fit for your setup. They’re built to handle high-lift camshafts and high-RPM conditions, giving your valve train the stability it needs.
Versatility and Compatibility
No matter what kind of LS engine you’re working with, BTR’s got you covered. Their pushrods are versatile and compatible with a wide range of Gen III and Gen IV LS engines. Whether you’re running a naturally aspirated setup or boosting your ride to the moon, these pushrods will keep everything in check.
Rigorous Testing
BTR doesn’t just slap their name on anything. Every pushrod goes through rigorous testing, from dyno pulls to real-world racing scenarios. These pushrods have proven their worth time and time again, so you know you’re getting a reliable product.
Easy Installation
No one likes downtime. Luckily, BTR pushrods are designed for easy installation. With precise measurements and clear labeling, you can get them in and get back to what you love—driving. And with BTR’s comprehensive support, even first-timers can install these with confidence.
In the world of high-performance parts, pushrods might not be the flashiest component, but they’re absolutely essential. With Brian Tooley Racing’s pushrods, you get the precision, strength, and reliability your build needs. CLICK HERE to check out their full range of pushrods.
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