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Barn Fresh
Building a vintage hot rod wrapped around a modern chassis and body is a popular segment of the hobby today. Over 10 years of parts collecting went into the construction of this hot rod. The finishes on this car all look 50 years old, but in reality, the car has only been built for 5 years. It is a masterful blend of the old and the new.

StreetFighter Trans
Discover the critical role of a properly matched transmission in your truck’s performance and longevity. This article delves into the signs of transmission failure, emphasizing the impact of driving habits on transmission health. Explore an alternative to the common flatbed trip to the dealership by learning about TCI Automotive’s StreetFighter transmission. With its robust build, enhanced performance features, and no-core-charge policy, TCI offers a convenient and reliable solution for truck owners. Follow a detailed account of a 4L60E StreetFighter transmission installation, providing valuable insights for DIY enthusiasts and a glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship at TCI Automotive’s Mississippi facility.

AN AMERICAN TRADITION
Here in the United States, we have been conditioned to find vintage tin in many places. The availability of good cars to build into street rods has become more limited as the years have passed, but depending upon your choice of bodies, there are still quite a few options. Of course, the advent of reproduction bodies has added to the choices. Now put yourself in a foreign land and think about how hard it would be to find a good 70-plus-year-old imported American car to build. That is what Wayne Streams faced as a native of the United Kingdom. Building street rods has grown in both popularity and participation in the UK. There are many vintage English vehicles available, but American cars are the most cherished among British rodders.
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PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Flaming River’s 88-98 Chevy/GMC 1500 Series Power Rack & Pinion Cradle Kit
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Images Courtesy of Flaming River
We can’t get enough of the incredible people at Flaming River and their cutting-edge products, all proudly made in the USA and built to the highest standards. This latest product is no exception. If you’re looking to take your Chevy/GMC OBS truck’s steering to the next level, you need to check out the Flaming River Power Rack and Pinion Cradle Kit for 88-98 Chevy/GMC 1500 series pickups. This power rack and pinion cradle kit is a total game-changer, designed for a direct bolt-in installation. Ditch that outdated steering and get ready for the precision and modern handling you’ve been dreaming of.
Key Features
- Rock-Solid Cradle: Crafted from a sturdy 3/8″ steel plate, this cradle guarantees rigidity, cutting out any flex.
- Original Steering Column Compatibility: No need to worry about compatibility issues—this kit integrates seamlessly with your truck’s original steering column.
- Smooth Operation Slip Shaft: Equipped with a new slip shaft and universal joints, expect nothing but smooth steering.
- Compatible with Original Power Steering Pump: This kit plays nicely with your truck’s original power steering pump, ensuring a hassle-free upgrade.
- Geometry Retention: Thanks to the travel bar, the original steering geometry is preserved, keeping your ride’s handling spot-on.
- Easy Bolt-In Installation: No cutting, drilling, or welding required—just bolt it in and go.
- Front Steer Power Rack and Pinion: Featuring a .98-inch rack shaft for enhanced strength and a billet servo valve to keep things cool.
- Proudly Made in the USA: Built with quality and craftsmanship you can count on.

Compatibility
- Perfect for factory ride height or with a 4/6 lowering kit.
- Bolts directly in place of the steering box and idler arm using original equipment mount locations.
What’s Included
- Mounting hardware
- Universal joints and shafts
- Rack and pinion cradle system
Warranty
SEMA 2023 Unveiling
Cherie from The AutoBuilder caught up with Brett Domin, Sales Manager at Flaming River at SEMA 2023 where they discussed the NEW ‘88-’98 Chevy C1500 Truck Power Rack and Pinion Cradle Kit as well as other new products.
Level Up Your OBS Chevy/GMC Pickup’s Performance Today!
Don’t settle for anything less than the best for your Chevy/GMC C1500. With Flaming River’s power rack and pinion cradle kit for OBS Chevy/GMC 1500 Series, you’ll experience unparalleled quality and innovation that’s proudly made in the USA. Upgrade your steering game today and feel the difference in every turn. Head over to Flaming River now and elevate your driving experience with precision and modern handling. Your truck deserves it!
CLICK HERE for more details or to purchase from the Flaming River website.
ARTICLE SOURCES
Flaming River
800 Poertner Drive
Berea, OH 44017 USA
(800) 648-8022

