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ONE FREAKY RIDE!
Question: What has 861 all-wheel-drive horsepower and 773 lb-ft of torque-driven “grunt,” which can carry around an object the size of a grand piano? The answer? John Frey’s Loveland, Colorado-based twin-turbo 1991 GMC Syclone pickup truck, that’s what! Ah, better cancel that piano—this light-duty sport utility vehicle’s hauling days are over. The only thing Frey (who’s the CEO of Bully Racing Enterprises) is interested in hauling is—well, you know what we mean.

THE SNOWBALL EFFECT
The Fox-body Mustang is undoubtedly becoming one of the most popular Fords of all time, and the abundance of aftermarket components is its main attraction. Every aspect of the ’79-’93 Mustang is upgradeable, and whether you want a killer street car or an all-out drag car, the Fox-body Mustang proves to be a great platform for all kinds of performance goals. B.C. Happach of Pekin, Illinois, recognized this great potential and bought a ’91 Mustang hatchback back in March 1996. Small upgrades here and there, including a NitrousWorks plate kit, gave Happach a street-friendly Mustang that consistently ran in the high 12s with the stock suspension.

LOWERING A 4WD FORD F-150
The suspension of stock four-wheel-drive vehicles is deliberately set very high to provide improved ground clearance. For years the trend in serious off-roading has been to “lift” the vehicle even higher. The OEs suspend their four-bys high enough to clear rocks, traverse gulleys and fallen trees and most anything else that one might encounter in more serious off-roading. Nevertheless, there are four-by owners who would like to lower their vehicles, as they spend more time on-road than off. Recently we met just such an owner, and we couldn’t resist questioning him about his desire to drop this ’04 Ford F-150 four-by-four.
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The Auto Builder’s Hottest Product Picks from The Triple Crown of Rodding 2026
PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Smeding Performance’s 408″ LS3
A Complete, Ready to Drop In, 500HP Turnkey LS Engine Package
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Photography Courtesy of Smeding Performance
One Block, Two Personalities
The foundation of both options is the same: a rock-solid 408 cubic-inch LS3, crafted with Smeding’s heavy-duty 6-bolt main block and forged internals. This isn’t just an LS with extra cubes—it’s a precision-built masterpiece ready to take abuse and deliver power mile after mile. From there, it’s your call:
- 500HP Hot Rod Version: Perfect for street cruisers who want big horsepower without sacrificing smooth drivability. It’s balanced, efficient, and tuned for builders who demand power without giving up daily-driver manners.
- 560HP Extreme Version: Crank it up to 11. This version brings a rowdier camshaft and aggressive tuning to pump out 560 horsepower. It’s the engine for hot rodders who want to dominate the boulevard and be the showstopper that leaves everyone talking.
Built Tough, Built Right
Both the Hot Rod and Extreme versions share the same bulletproof base: a 408-cubic-inch stroker built for punishment. Inside, the 4340 forged crankshaft, H-beam rods, and Icon forged pistons form a fully forged rotating assembly designed to handle all the abuse you can throw at it. Smeding’s CNC-ported 11° LS3 heads top it off, featuring 255cc intake runners and high-flow 2.165” valves for maximum airflow.
The 500HP Hot Rod version gets a custom hydraulic roller cam for smooth, street-friendly power, while the Extreme cranks it up with a rowdier grind to wring out every bit of performance. It’s the same sturdy foundation, just tuned to your style.
Modern Power with Classic DNA
Smeding’s 408 LS3 engines don’t just pack power—they bring hot rods into the 21st century. Both versions feature Edelbrock’s Pro-Flo 4 EFI system: a sequential port injection setup that’s dyno-tuned and ready to go out of the box. Say goodbye to fiddling with carbs or throttle-body systems. With Pro-Flo 4, you get modern drivability and efficiency in a system even first-time builders can install.
Fully Turnkey, Hassle-Free Installation
Smeding delivers more than an engine—they deliver a complete solution. Every 408 LS3 comes pre-fitted with the Holley Mid-Mount serpentine system, including an LT1-style water pump, 1-wire alternator, SD7 A/C compressor, and Type II power steering. No custom brackets. No guesswork. Just drop it in, bolt it up, and fire it.
Power and Peace of Mind
These engines don’t just make dyno numbers—they’re built to last. Backed by a 3-year, unlimited-mile warranty, Smeding’s 408 LS3 packages give you the confidence that comes with unmatched engineering and testing.
Which One Fits Your Build?
The 408” LS3 Hot Rod offers 500 horsepower with smooth drivability, ideal for builders who want muscle without compromises. The 408” LS3 Extreme adds an extra 60 ponies and plenty of attitude for those who demand more power and performance.
Your Hot Rod Deserves This Engine
Why settle for almost right? The 408” LS3 from Smeding Performance is a turnkey solution that takes your build from good to legendary. Whether you go for the 500HP Hot Rod version or the 560HP Extreme, this is the engine to make your hot rod unforgettable.
Don’t just build a car. Build a legacy. Drop in a Smeding 408 LS3 and let the horsepower do the talking.
Tech Specs
• Block: Smeding Heavy Duty 6 Bolt Mains, 9.240″ Deck Height, 4.000″ Bore
.615”/.610” Lift, 229°/232° Duration @ .050” (Hot Rod)
• Serpentine Kit: Holley Mid-Mount w/ A/C – Installed
• Torque Converter:
1,800-2,200rpm Stall Recommended (Hot Rod)
2,200-2,600rpm Stall Recommended (Extreme)
Ready to take your hot rod to the next level?
Don’t wait any longer—head over to the Smeding Performance website now and explore the full lineup of 408” LS3 engines. Whether you’re after a reliable 500HP cruiser or a wild 560HP Extreme, Smeding has the perfect turnkey solution for your build. With unbeatable performance, reliability, a hassle-free installation, and a 3-year, unlimited mile warranty, you can trust that your engine will perform at its best for the long haul. It’s time to make your engine swap easier and more powerful than ever. Visit SmedingPerformance.com today and start building your legend!





