A Boosted 6-Speed Apache, Step-by-Step Drop Beam Install, and More!
Feature trucks, show coverage, and new product releases in one free feed!
February 06, 2023
Feature trucks, show coverage, and online exclusives all in one free feed!
Patina and Performance
When Jon Pratkanis opened Standard Speed Shop in mid-2021, he was looking to establish a space where he could continue his unique style of automotive creations. The first build out of the new shop—this 1,000 hp boosted ’59 Chevy Apache—was fueled by Jon’s integrity in piecing together the highest-quality one-off vehicles that celebrate pure, peak performance. They’re always powerful and agile, all behind an unassuming, weathered-patina shell.
We all strive to build a truck with its own attitude. A fast way to make that adjustment is to install a set of John Rods drop beams. Jon really put a lot of thought into modifying the original beams to lower trucks to the perfect 4 1/2-inch drop up front. In this tech article, we walk you through the process of installing these on a ’74 F-100 with this step-by-step guide and photos. It’s easier than you think, so take a look!
This build for Mission 22 is coming along nicely! Our ’85 Chevy C10 has been completely disassembled, we’ve ordered all the new LMC Truck body parts we need, and we’ve chatted with the team at Classic Industries for interior option ideas. We’ve also brought aboard a great new batch of sponsors! Once this rebuild is complete, it’ll head to SEMA 2023 and then go on the auction block. All the project’s profits will go to Mission 22!
TMI Products recently announced plans for its 2023 TRIM Awards! From April through August, the company will be on the lookout for the best TMI-equipped vehicles in the country. During four regional events, judges will choose one vehicle at each location to win the event. In the end, one truck (and its person) will earn the title of TMI Road Tour Champ! That winner will then be automatically entered into the “Top 20 Finalists” for the TMI TRIM Awards 2023 at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas—and get a featured vehicle parking spot at the show! Oh, and also a five-night hotel stay in Sin City!!
As the owner of Osage Classic Cars and a lifelong auto enthusiast, Marty Veltrop can make just about any vehicle look a whole lot cooler. He and his crew restore and customize all kinds of rides, but one model has eluded him over the years: a clean fifth-gen Ford F-100 bump side. One afternoon, he saw a sign—a for-sale sign—on a coveted ’70 F-100 with a 302 V-8 engine and a three-on-the-tree shifter. The seller also had a ’17 Ford Shelby GT350 Voodoo available. He just couldn’t help but get his hand on them.
Officials recently announced the 2023 HOT ROD Power Tour locations! Celebrating its 75th anniversary, the June tour begins in Georgia and ends in Tennessee. “HOT ROD culture has defined. Generations of automotive customization, and in 2023 we’re going into our biggest year ever…” says John McGann, editor-in-chief. “The HOT ROD Power Tour is a must for enthusiasts and new car fans alike as we commemorate our history, define our future, and share what clas-sic car culture has to offer today’s car enthusiasts.”
