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445HP GM TARGETMASTER
Some Years Ago, Chevrolet Began Lowering Engine Compression (To 8.50:1) In An Effort To Meet Tailpipe Emissions Numbers. It Also Retarded Camshaft Timing In An Effort To Lower NOX (Nitrides Of Oxygen/Unburned Particulates). By 1974, Horsepower, Torque And Overall Engine Efficiency Had Dropped Some 30 Percent To 50 Percent. Chevy’s RPO L48 And LM1 350 Small-Block V-8s Then Got A Flow-Restrictive Catalytic Converter In 1975, And Finally In 1985, A New Monolith Catalytic Converter, As Well As Direct-Port Fuel Injection And Improved Camshaft Timing, Boosted Horsepower, Torque And Engine Efficiency.

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Most car guys know all about rare cars, and this certainly is one of the rarest Ford Mustangs on the road. In what some may consider an odd collaboration, Carroll Shelby International Inc. and celebrity customizer West Coast Customs (WCC) have teamed up to produce a line of limited-edition high-end 2006 Ford Mustangs. Starting with only 25 stock 2006 Ford Mustang GTs, the Shelby/West Coast Customs team has a solid foundation on which to build, and build it did.

Remembering the Life of Andy Brizio
Andy Brizio, the man known as “The Rodfather,” has left an indelible mark on the world of hot rods and custom cars. On August 1, 2023, Brizio’s journey came to an end, leaving behind a legacy of passion, creativity, and innovation that will forever be cherished in the hearts of car enthusiasts around the globe. Let us take a moment to reflect on the incredible life of Andy Brizio and the enduring impact he has made on the automotive industry.
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: BTR’s 4130 Chromoly Steel Pushrods
Why BTR Pushrods Are a Must for Your LS Engine Build
Author
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.





