Inversely Proporsional
November 30, 2022
THE AUTO BUILDER
Featured
Inferno
Builders Joe Keenum and Dan Ehle are best friends and business partners. Initially drawn together by their love for classic cars and trucks, the two have created a number of super rods and classic trucks over the years out of their shop in Leighton, Alabama. Keenum and Company has built trucks that compete with the best of the top-name builders in the country. Producing upwards of a dozen custom vehicles a year, the duo decided it was time to go it a bit further and build a radical shop truck that would showcase the expert craftsmanship the shop is capable of producing.
After running across this 1972 Chevrolet 1/2-ton pickup in early 2006, they felt this was the classic truck that would make the ideal candidate for the project they had in mind. 0nce Keenum and Ehle acquired the truck, they began the extensive build. The truck was a nice driver, and the previous owner performed a rather simple hot rod restoration, leaving the truck on the frame and updating a few of the components here and there. However, Keenum and Company had other plans for this classic.
Hold It Right There!
Unlike a regular car door, the back door of a sedan delivery is often left open for loading, unloading and so on. With nothing to hold it open, the slightest breeze will slam it because when a delivery is dumped in the front as ours is, gravity lends a heavy hand to the slam. We’ve never been knocked unconscious, but we’ve suffered some nasty lumps on the noggin. Worse yet, with no mechanism but the hinges, you never hear or see it coming.
MONEY-SAVING, BIG-VALVE PERFORMANCE UPGRADE
You can’t throw a stone these days without hitting an aftermarket aluminum cylinder head. They perform as good or better than anything the factories put out, and then some. They are much lighter than iron heads, and they’re now extremely affordable. Thanks to competition in the aftermarket, it could easily be said that for the performance and price benefits of a new set of aluminum heads, why would anyone bother refurbishing a set of iron castings?
Spotlighter
Road Warrior Tips for Surviving Bad Weather Driving
Essential Advice for Staying in Control During Harsh Weather Conditions
When the weather takes a turn for the worse, being prepared can make all the difference between a safe journey and a stressful one. From navigating slippery roads to maintaining visibility in heavy rain or snow, driving in bad weather demands extra caution and the right strategies. Whether you're facing icy highways, foggy mornings, or downpours that limit your view, knowing how to prepare your vehicle and adjust your driving habits is key. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to stay safe and confident on the road, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.
Author
Jamie Dent
Creative Director
When the skies turn angry and the roads get slick, it’s time to bring your A-game to bad weather driving prep. Whether you’re battling torrential rain, snowstorms, or ice that could rival a hockey rink, getting your ride and yourself ready is key to keeping things between the ditches. Here’s how to gear up like a pro.
Check Your Rig Before You Hit the Road
- Tires, Baby! Don’t even think about rolling out without checking your tread depth and tire pressure. Winter tires? A must if the snow’s stacking up where you live.
- Wipers & Washer Fluid: If your wipers streak more than they swipe, ditch ’em for fresh ones. And top off that washer fluid—bonus points for carrying an extra jug.
- Lights, Lights, Lights: If you can’t see or be seen, you’re asking for trouble. Double-check every bulb: headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals.
- Battery Check: Cold kills weak batteries. Get yours tested or risk being the one stranded with jumper cables in hand.
Plot the Perfect Plan
- Scout the Weather: Don’t leave the driveway until you’ve checked the forecast. Bad storm rolling in? Postpone your plans if you can.
- Pick Smart Routes: Stick to well-maintained roads, and always have a backup plan in case your primary route goes south.
- Timing is Everything: Give yourself extra time, roll out during daylight if possible, and dodge rush hour like a boss.
Pack Your Weather Warrior Kit
- Survival Gear: Toss in a flashlight (with fresh batteries), blankets, a first-aid kit, and a cellphone charger. No excuses.
- Tools for the Job: A shovel for digging out, an ice scraper for frosty glass, and sand or kitty litter for when traction’s a no-show.
- Fuel for You: Stash some snacks and bottled water. You don’t want to be hangry while stuck in a snowbank.
- Dress for the Mess: Keep gloves, hats, and extra layers handy. Freezing your tail off isn’t part of the adventure.
Drive Like You’ve Got Some Sense
- Slow Your Roll: Speed demons don’t last long in bad weather. Keep it chill, leave plenty of space, and ease into turns.
- Brake Like a Pro: Slam the brakes, and you’re likely to find yourself in a ditch. Gentle pressure and steering into skids are your ticket to staying on course.
- Lights On, Low Beams: Visibility is everything, but high beams in fog or heavy rain are rookie moves—keep it low and clear.
- Steady Hands: Two hands on the wheel, no sudden jerks. Smooth is fast; fast is dumb in bad weather.
Stay in the Know
- Keep an Ear to the Ground: Tune into weather and traffic updates. Detours and closures pop up faster than you can say “black ice.”
- Communicate: Tell someone your route and ETA. A dead phone is a dead lifeline, so keep it charged and have a backup battery.
Final Thoughts
Driving in nasty weather isn’t for the faint of heart, but with the right prep and some common sense, you’ll get through it unscathed. Stay sharp, respect the conditions, and if things get dicey, park it. No shame in waiting it out. Now, go forth and conquer the storm like the road warrior you are!
