FERRAMBO
July 31, 2024
THE AUTO BUILDER
Featured
Back In Black
Jerry McMullan is a long-time Chevy fan, and when he wanted to find a cool daily driver, he knew two things. The first was that the vehicle would be a Chevy, and the second was that he knew it had to be black. Having been the proud owner of a couple of previous ’67-’72 Chevys (a ’70 Chevelle SS and a ’70 El Camino SS), he knew that that the style suited him, so he thought that a pickup from those years would be just right for what he had in mind. After a little searching, he came across this ’71 Chevy Cheyenne. McMullan says that the truck was in fair condition when he purchased it (for the now-reasonable, though still hard to believe, price of $11,000), and thus began his three-year odyssey of building his perfect pickup.
Rearend Upgrade
This article delves into the process of upgrading a ’40 Chevy truck, focusing on swapping the original torque tube differential with a ’69 Camaro axle assembly and enhancing the rear suspension. It provides a comprehensive guide on reusing the leaf springs, installing new bushings, and incorporating a strong shock mount for rear frame strengthening. Essential tools like a bushing removal tool, MIG welder, and an oxy-acetylene torch are highlighted, demonstrating the intricate steps involved in modernizing early Chevy trucks.
BARKER WITH A BITE
When a good portion of your life has been immersed in Pro Mod, Pro Stock, Top Sportsman and other forms of drag racing, it’s likely those interests will carry over to other, similar interests. And so it is that many legendary racers end up building what often turns out to be milder versions of the vehicles and engines that were so instrumental in their lives. Just imagine the knowledge they could apply.
Spotlighter
Product Spotlight: Proform’s Super-Street GM LS Aluminum Roller Rockers
Unlock Maximum LS Power with Super-Street Roller Rockers
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Photos Courtesy of Proform Specialty Auto Parts U.S.A.
When you’re chasing horsepower, every ounce of wasted motion is power left on the table. That’s why the Super-Street GM LS Aluminum Roller Rockers are worth a hard look. Proform went back to the drawing board and rebuilt their rocker lineup from the ground up—stronger, smoother, and better-looking than ever.
These beauties are machined from lightweight aluminum, anodized in that unmistakable deep blue, and laser-etched with the Proform “P” and 1.7 ratio. But the real magic is inside: full cage bearing trunnions keep things planted at high RPM, while steel roller tips slice friction like a hot knife through 10W-30. The result? More efficiency, more valve lift, and more of that glorious LS top-end pull.
Designed for Gen III LS1/LS6 (1997–2004) and Gen IV LS2/LS4 (2005–present) V8 engines, these self-aligning rockers are a straight bolt-on with the included M8 hardware and pedestals. They’ll even clear valve springs up to 1.400 inches in diameter, giving you room to get rowdy with your cam choice later.
Why We Love Them: Race Tech for the Street
Because it’s not just about making power—it’s about making power reliably. These rockers reduce friction, sharpen valvetrain response, and look good doing it. They’re engineered to handle the abuse of big cams and high RPM, yet still right at home in a street-driven LS. In short: race-bred tech without the “only on Sundays” attitude.
Key Features & Highlights
- 1.7 Ratio for increased valve lift and flow
- Cage Bearing Trunnions = rock-solid stability
- Steel Roller Tip for minimal friction and wear
- Blue Anodized Finish with etched Proform logo & ratio
- Complete Set of 16 with M8 mounting bolts included
Ready to Upgrade Your LS Valvetrain?
To learn more, CLICK HERE to head over to the Proform to get the full scoop.
