New-Age ‘Cuda
May 21, 2025
THE AUTO BUILDER
Featured
From Factory to Fierce: Must-See Upgrades at the 2025 Bronco Stampede
If your Bronco is still stock, it’s time for an upgrade. At the 2025 Great Smoky Mountain Bronco® Stampede in Pigeon Forge, the LeConte Center was transformed into a playground for anyone who refuses to settle for factory specs. First-gen classics mingled with lifted Sasquatch Editions, chopped customs, and wild builds that looked like they might break a few laws—on purpose. Every aisle was stacked with vendors showing off suspension systems, armor, lighting, audio, and off-road gear—everything needed to turn a perfectly nice stock Bronco into a beast that dominates the trail and turns heads everywhere it rolls.
Let’s Look
The growing popularity of nostalgia and rat rods, along with the aging of street rodders, has meant the rebirth of vintage engines. Rocket Oldsmobiles, Buick nailheads, Y-block Fords and Chrysler Hemis are being chosen over the “bellybutton” Chevrolet small-block. Even some small-block Chevrolet engines are getting old-time flavor by using generators–some of which have been internally modified as alternators–early blocks and heads, three-deuce setups and even adapting Oldsmobile valve covers to look like something they are not.
IFS Install on Chevrolet C-10 Pickup Trucks (1960-1987)
Let’s face it: The new, hot truck of the hobby is the 1960-1972 Chevy. With the amenities available for these trucks they have become modern classics. The Chevy truck was available with power steering, A/C, IFS and a host of other great goodies, including power disc brakes. While still not up to today’s standards, with a little tweaking they make really great options on a classic truck without having to break the bank to have cold air and comfortable seats. The only downfall to this is that they are outdated.
Spotlighter
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Proform’s Lightning-Bolt™ 100 AMP Mini-Alternator
Lightning in a Bottle Performance for Street and Strip
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Photos Courtesy of Proform Specialty Auto Parts U.S.A.
Unleash the Power of the Proform Lightning-Bolt Alternator
Here’s the deal: If you’re wrenching on your ride and you’re still running an outdated alternator, you’re leaving performance on the table. That’s where the Proform Lightning-Bolt Alternator comes in to save the day. Built for the gearhead who wants nothing less than peak performance, this beast delivers rock-solid reliability and power when you need it most—whether you’re ripping down the quarter-mile or cruising Main Street on a Saturday night.
Power That’ll Make Your Head Spin
Let’s talk numbers. The Lightning-Bolt cranks out over 80 amps at idle and a whopping 100+ amps when you’re giving it the beans. Translation? This alternator laughs at high-demand setups, keeping your lights bright, your stereo thumping, and your ignition firing hot even when your rig’s electrical system is pushed to the limit.
Key Features
- PROFORM Quality: PROFORM Alternators are made with 100% NEW components, not re-man or refurbished parts.
- BIG AMPS: Over 80 amps at idle and 100+ amps at top end, delivering exceptional performance for demanding setups.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Weighing only 7 pounds, it’s 40% (4.6 lbs.) lighter than a full-size 10SI alternator.
- SMALL SIZE: Compact 98mm stator size makes it ideal for tight engine bays.
Built Tough for Real-World Abuse
You’re not the type to baby your car, and the Lightning-Bolt isn’t the type to back down. It’s built with high-quality components designed to handle the abuse of real-world driving—from stop-and-go traffic to full-throttle blasts. Plus, with its unique aluminum housing, this alternator doesn’t just perform; it’ll look killer under your hood.
Perfect for Street and Strip
Whether your ride is a daily driver, weekend warrior, or dragstrip dominator, the Proform Lightning-Bolt Alternator fits the bill. It’s the perfect upgrade for anyone looking to ditch their factory unit and step up to serious performance. Easy installation? Check. Reliable power delivery? Double-check. What more could you ask for?
Bottom Line
The Proform Lightning-Bolt Alternator isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a no-brainer for anyone serious about their car. So, what are you waiting for? Swap out that tired old alternator and let the Lightning-Bolt bring your electrical system to life. Trust us, your ride will thank you for it.
CLICK HERE to check out the Proform Lightning-Bolt Alternator on Proform’s website
