Modern Rodding is dedicated to early and late hot rodes - from Model Ts to GTOs and everything in-between. It features the latest in custom builds, technical articles, new products, and special features.
Interestingly, I find the name of my monthly editorial (Starting Over) closely connected to this month’s theme. I’m fascinated by how podcasts have gained popularity and how influencers seem to influence everything from hot rod parts to makeup. To me, modern podcasts are like mini radio shows. We all, or at least many of us, remember the days of transistor radios and radio programs. We had favorite channels, music stations, sports, and talk shows from long ago up to today. Modern influencers are the next step from early magazine writers and photographers who shared what was happening across the country, providing us with insights and opinions. Magazines and radio shows have evolved, but we still return to the classics. Just as before, they are printed and shared nationwide. Both print…
2025 SEMA Hall of Fame Inductees Announced The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) has announced the newest members of its prestigious Hall of Fame: Luanne Brown, George Lathouris, John McLeod, and Larry Pacey. Our side of the hot rod industry’s very own John McLeod is one of the well-deserving recipients. McLeod has been actively involved in the automotive and SEMA communities for over 23 years, beginning with his early days at Classic Instruments working on custom automotive builds in the late 1990s, culminating in his company’s acquisition in 2001. Under his leadership, Classic Instruments transformed from a small gauge company into a respected mainstay within the hot rod industry. McLeod is known for his high-energy work ethic and awareness of the needs of his customers—we hot rodders! He is also…
1. FITECH ULTIMATE REBEL LS EFI SYSTEM & LS INTAKE MANIFOLD KITS FiTech’s Ultimate Rebel LS EFI Systems and Intake Manifold Kits provide cutting-edge performance, a sleek and streamlined design, and easy installation. FiTech’s Ultimate Rebel LS EFI Systems are compatible with Chevy LS1, LS3, and LS6 engines, utilizing either a 24x or 58x crank reluctor and cathedral port heads. The Ultimate Rebel LS EFI System is available in 500-, 750-, and 1,000hp ratings, each featuring a self-learning ECU for easier tuning. Many kits come with a complete fuel system, including an in-tank or external inline electric fuel pump. FiTech also provides Rebel LS EFI systems that include automatic transmission controllers and coil packs. Highlights feature heavy-gauge fabricated aluminum intake manifolds for quieter fuel injector operation and are boost-rated to…
Yes, this is a brand-new 1932 Ford highboy roadster owned by Scott Lorenzini, but the story behind this hot rod is worth exploring. We spoke with Scott and his dad, Gary, SoCal hot rodders, as well as Justin and Evin from Veazie Bros. Fabrication, at this year’s Grand National Roadster Show, as the roadster debuted in the competition for America’s Most Beautiful Roadster. The Deuce is a striking hot rod with plenty of attitude and craftsmanship, making it suitable for any trip down a strip or boulevard. But in the minds of many hot rodders, the thought is, “I’ve seen this somewhere else.” We asked Scott to share the background, and what follows is a condensed version; however, we believe you will enjoy learning how this 1932 Ford highboy roadster…
When two heavy hitters in modern hot rodding combine forces to modify an iconic car, there’s no doubt that the outcome will be first-rate. Such is the case when MetalWorks Speed Shop and Roadster Shop’s combined talents focused on updating the chassis of a 1967 Pontiac Firebird. Pontiac introduced the Firebird in 1967, five months after Chevrolet debuted the Camaro. Both cars were built on the F-body platform, meaning they shared the same semi-unitized style of construction. They did not use a separate frame; rather, the front framerails attached to the body with rubber bushings, and the rear suspension mounted to supports built into the floor. From a marketing perspective, the Firebird was positioned as more upscale than the Camaro, showcasing a more luxurious interior and several extra standard features.…
For most people, their first engine swap doesn’t happen until they’re old enough to drive legally. But for Butch Harness, it happened at the age of 9. Born into a family where customizing cars was a way of life, Butch was destined to shape metal and dreams alike. Under the careful mentorship of his father, Arthol, a gifted hot rodder, and his uncle Hub Harness, a Kustom Hall of Famer, Butch’s love affair with the custom scene began early and it never let go. Over the years, Butch’s garage filled with memories, but one car remained an unchecked item on his lifelong wish list: a 1950 Mercury. He already owned a 1932 Ford roadster that he built with his dad, and the two even drove it to the final Merc-Deuce…
