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Showing posts from November, 2025

Water Wednesday: Turning The Pontoon Into A Party Spot

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Giving Your Pontoon A Makeover A pontoon is a great way to get on the water. Spacious, fairly simple, the perfect boat for family and friends. With the right upgrades, it can become the boat everyone wants to be on. This Water Wednesday, we’re breaking down how to turn a simple, bare-bones pontoon into a full-blown party platform with sound, lights, comfort, and style. Step 1: Upgrade the Sound System Marine Speakers: Swap the factory speakers for quality marine-grade units. Examples: 6.5" or 8.8" speakers from brands like JL Audio, Wet Sounds, or Kicker Marine. Subwoofer & Amp: Add a dedicated marine sub and amplifier so the music doesn’t disappear the second you start cruising. Example: A 10" or 12" marine subwoofer powered by a matched 4- or 5-channel marine amp. Bluetooth Head Unit: Replace the old radio with a Bluetooth marine head unit or a compact Bluetooth controller so anyone on board can DJ from their phone. Step 2: Add Lig...

Torque Tuesday: 1961 Corvette Drag Car

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The Build Of A True Drag Beast For this Torque Tuesday, we’re spotlighting one of the wildest builds in the shop right now—a 1961 Corvette Drag Car that mixes classic Corvette lines with serious strip-ready hardware. This thing is built to turn heads in the pits and put down real numbers on the track. Big Block Power, Built To Run Big Block Grimes Built Racing Engine: Serious drag-strip power with the kind of torque that makes this ’61 feel anything but old. 900 Horsepower: Tuned on 93 octane at just 6 psi of boost—set up for strong, reliable power with room to grow if you ever want to turn it up. Built For The Strip Hoosier Drag Tires: Putting the power to the pavement where it counts. Full Fiberglass Body: Classic Corvette curves with serious weight savings. Parachute Stop: When you’re trapping big speeds, good brakes aren’t enough—you need a chute. Roll Cage & Racing Seatbelts: Safety gear to match the horsepower, keeping the driver pro...

Moto Monday: Guide To Purchasing Your First Motorcycle

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First Bike Guide – How to Choose the Right Beginner Motorcycle Getting your first motorcycle is one of the most exciting decisions you can make—but it can also be overwhelming. Sport bikes, cruisers, naked bikes, adventure bikes… where do you even start? This Moto Monday, we’re breaking down what really matters when choosing your first bike so you end up with something fun, safe, and confidence-inspiring. 1. Power and Weight: Smaller Is Smarter Engine Size: For most new riders, a 250–500cc bike is plenty. It will still feel fast but won’t punish mistakes as harshly as a liter bike. Weight: Lighter bikes are easier to balance, maneuver in parking lots, and pick up if they tip over. Goal: You want a bike that builds confidence, not fear. You can always upgrade later. 2. Be Honest About How You’ll Actually Ride City and Short Trips: Look at smaller naked bikes or standards (think 250–500cc). They’re light, easy to handle, and great for learning. Highway...

Sunday Service: How to Make Your Daily Driver Last 200,000+ Miles

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Extending The Life Of Your Vehicle If you rely on your car or truck every day, the best “mod” you can make is keeping it on the road longer. With the right maintenance and a few smart habits, most modern vehicles can easily go well past 200,000 Miles without becoming a headache. Here’s how to stack the odds in your favor. 1. Follow a Real Maintenance Schedule (Not Just “When It Breaks”) Oil Changes: Use the correct oil type and interval for your engine—don’t guess. Many modern vehicles can go 5,000–7,500 miles on synthetic, but always follow the owner’s manual or your trusted shop’s recommendation. Fluids: Transmission, coolant, brake fluid, power steering, and differentials all have service intervals. As a general rule: Transmission fluid: Often every 30,000–60,000 miles. Coolant: Commonly every 5 years or 60,000–100,000 miles. Brake fluid: About every 2–3 years. Differentials/transfer case: Often every 30,000–60,000 miles. ...

Side by Side Saturday: Mild vs. Wild UTV Builds

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Keep It Mild Or Unleash The Wild? For this Side by Side Saturday, we’re putting two very different builds head-to-head: a clean, budget-friendly “Mild” UTV build and a fully loaded, no-compromise “Wild” UTV build . Same basic platform—totally different personalities. Which one fits your style? The Mild Build: Clean, Capable, and Budget-Friendly Price Range: Typically around $2,500–$5,000 in parts and labor, depending on brand and options. Suspension: Small lift or leveling kit for extra clearance without sacrificing ride quality. Wheels & Tires: Upgraded all-terrain tires and stylish wheels sized for trail and work use. Lighting: Single LED light bar up front for night rides and better visibility. Protection: Basic skid plates and front bumper to protect the essentials. Use Case: Perfect for trail riding, hunting, property work, and weekend fun without going overboard. The Wild Build: Full Send, No Compromises Price Range: Commonly ...

Friday Guesses: Guess The Car In The Image!

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Friday Guesses! It’s Friday, and that means it’s time to test your car knowledge! Can you identify these legendary rides from just a close-up? Scroll through each round, make your best guess, and check the answers at the end. Don’t peek! Are you a true classic car connoisseur—or will these icons keep you guessing? Share your scores in the comments! Round 1 Round 2 Round 3 Answers Round 1: 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing Round 2: 1970 Plymouth Hemi ’Cuda Round 3: 2008 Dodge Viper SRT-10 How many did you get right? Share your score and challenge your friends! For more classic car fun, restoration tips, or to start your own build, visit Torque Motorsports . Author: Brandon Hurst-Torque Motorsports

Throwback Thursday: 1957 Chevy Bel Air

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Bel Air: Icon Of The Road This Throwback Thursday, we’re celebrating one of the most iconic American cars ever built—the 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air. With its unmistakable tailfins, chrome accents, and timeless style, the ’57 Bel Air remains a symbol of the golden age of cruising and car culture. Why the ’57 Bel Air is a Legend Design: The ’57 Bel Air is instantly recognizable for its sweeping tailfins, dual rocket hood ornaments, and bold chrome grille—a look that defined the era. Performance: Available with a range of V8 engines, including the legendary 283-cubic-inch “Super Turbo-Fire” with optional fuel injection—making it one of the fastest family cars of its day. Cruising Culture: The Bel Air became a staple at drive-ins, car hops, and Main Street parades, earning a spot in countless movies and songs. Fun Facts The ’57 Bel Air was available as a two-door hardtop, convertible, four-door sedan, and even a station wagon (the “Nomad”). Fuel injection w...

Water Wednesday: Spirit of Australia

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The World’s Fastest Boat When it comes to speed on the water, no boat has ever matched the legendary Spirit of Australia . This home-built jet boat shattered records and stunned the world, setting a benchmark that still stands over four decades later. The Record That Still Stands Speed: 318 mph (511 km/h) – the official world water speed record. Record Holder: Ken Warby, set on Blowering Dam, Australia, in 1978. Built At Home: Spirit of Australia was designed and constructed in Warby’s backyard garage, using plywood and a Westinghouse jet engine from a military aircraft. Unbroken for 45+ Years Despite technological advances, no one has officially surpassed Warby’s record, cementing Spirit of Australia as a true legend. Engineering Feat: Achieving such speed on water requires overcoming immense drag, instability, and risk. Warby’s design combined lightweight construction with raw jet power. Extreme Danger: Water speed record attempts are among the m...

Torque Tuesday: Torque Leaders

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Top Charting Factory Vehicles with the Highest Torque When it comes to raw pulling power, you need TORQUE. This Torque Tuesday, we’re counting down the top 3 factory-built vehicles with the highest torque figures on the market today. Whether you’re towing, hauling, or just want bragging rights, these machines deliver serious muscle. 1. 2025 Ram 3500 Heavy Duty (High Output Cummins Diesel) Torque: 1,075 lb-ft Engine: 6.7L Cummins I6 Turbo Diesel Why it’s top 3 in torque: The Ram 3500 remains a benchmark in the heavy-duty pickup segment, offering the highest available torque output for a consumer diesel truck (outside of Ford’s latest update). Its Cummins engine is renowned for durability, low-end pulling power, and consistent performance under load, making it a preferred choice for commercial towing and hauling applications nationwide. 2. 2025 GMC Hummer EV Pickup Torque: Up to 11,500 lb-ft (calculated at wheels, actual crank torque is lower but still ...

Moto Monday: Kawasaki Ninja

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The History of the Kawasaki Ninja Sport Bike Few names in the world of motorcycles spark excitement like the Kawasaki Ninja. For this Moto Monday, we’re taking a look at the origins, evolution, and legacy of the Ninja sport bike—a machine that’s defined speed, innovation, and style for decades. The Birth of a Legend 1984: Kawasaki introduces the GPZ900R, the world’s first “Ninja.” It features a liquid-cooled, 16-valve inline-four engine and becomes the fastest production motorcycle of its time. Hollywood Fame: The GPZ900R gains instant pop culture status as Tom Cruise’s ride in Top Gun (1986). Evolution and Innovation Ninja 600R, ZX-7, and ZX-9R: Kawasaki continues to push boundaries with lighter frames, better suspension, and increased horsepower throughout the late ’80s and ’90s. ZX-6R and ZX-10R: Introduced in the 2000s, these models bring advanced electronics, fuel injection, and track-ready performance to the street. ZX-14R and H2/H2R: ...

Sunday Service: Spark Plugs

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Changing Your Own Spark Plugs—A DIY Guide Spark plugs are small but mighty—they play a crucial role in your engine’s performance, fuel efficiency, and smooth starts. This Sunday Service, we’ll walk you through how to check and change your spark plugs at home, saving you money and keeping your ride running strong. When Should You Replace Spark Plugs  Check your owner’s manual—most cars need new plugs every 30,000–100,000 miles. Signs It’s Time To Get Them Changed:   Rough idle  Hard starts Sluggish acceleration Poor fuel economy Engine misfire What You’ll Need To Get Job Done New spark plugs (right type for your vehicle) Spark plug socket and ratchet Socket extension Torque wrench (recommended) Dielectric grease (optional) Anti-seize compound (optional—check manufacturer recommendations) Step-by-Step Instructions Let the engine cool completely before starting. Locate your spark plugs—usually under ignition coil...

Side-By-Side Saturday: UTV vs. ATV

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UTV vs. ATV – Which Is Right for You? Thinking about hitting the trails but not sure whether to go with a UTV or an ATV? This week’s Side by Side Saturday breaks down the key differences, pros, and cons so you can pick the perfect machine for your adventures. What’s the Difference? ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle): Usually a single-rider, straddle-seated machine with handlebars. Great for quick, nimble riding on tight trails or rough terrain. UTV (Utility Task Vehicle, aka Side by Side): Typically seats two to six, with a steering wheel and seat belts. Offers more comfort, storage, and the ability to bring friends or gear along. Pros & Cons Feature ATV UTV Seating 1 (sometimes 2) 2–6 Control Handlebars Steering wheel Agility High (tight trails, quick turns) Good, but larger and heavier Comfort Basic High (bucket...

Friday Guesses: Classics

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Friday Guesses: Name the Classic Car! It’s Friday, and that means it’s time to test your classic car knowledge! Can you identify these legendary rides from just a close-up? Scroll through each round, make your best guess, and check the answers at the end. Don’t peek! Are you a true classic car connoisseur—or will these icons keep you guessing? Share your scores in the comments! Round 1 Round 2 Round 3 Answers Round 1: 1965 Ford Mustang Round 2: 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray Round 3: 1959 Cadillac Series 62 How many did you get right? Share your score and challenge your friends! For more classic car fun, restoration tips, or to start your own build, visit Torque Motorsports . Author: Brandon Hurst-Torque Motorsports

Throwback Thursday: 1969 Chevrolet Camaro

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An Icon Of Muscle: 1969 Chevrolet Camaro For this Throwback Thursday, we’re spotlighting one of the most iconic muscle cars ever built: the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro . A legend on the street and the track, the ’69 Camaro’s aggressive styling, powerful engine options, and racing pedigree have made it a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts for decades. A Brief History Debut: The 1969 Camaro was the final model year of the first generation Camaro, debuting with a more aggressive look and refined details. Performance: Engine options ranged from the inline-six to the legendary 427-cubic-inch V8, with SS, RS, and Z/28 performance packages. Racing Success: The Z/28 was built for Trans-Am racing, featuring a high-revving 302 V8 and handling upgrades—making it a force on the track. Production Numbers: Over 243,000 Camaros were produced in 1969, but rare options and original high-performance models are highly sought after today. Why It’s a Legend Timeless D...

Water Wednesday: History Of The PWC

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The Evolution of Personal Watercraft: Jet Skis, Sea-Doos, and More For this Water Wednesday, let’s take a ride through the history and innovation of personal watercraft (PWCs)—from the early days of stand-up Jet Skis to today’s high-tech, high-speed Sea-Doos and WaveRunners. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a die-hard lake enthusiast, PWCs have changed the way we play on the water. The Early Days: Stand-Up Fun Kawasaki Jet Ski: The original PWC, introduced in the early 1970s, featured a stand-up design and lightweight two-stroke engine. It set the standard for personal water fun and inspired a whole new category of watercraft. Yamaha WaveRunner: Entered the scene in the late 1980s, bringing sit-down comfort and more power to the market. Innovation Hits the Water Sea-Doo Launch: Bombardier’s Sea-Doo introduced new features like reverse, storage, and improved stability, making PWCs more accessible and family-friendly. Performance Upgrades: Modern PWC...

Torque Tuesday: K5 Blazer

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Torque Tuesday Feature: K5 Blazer Gets a Modern Brake Overhaul This week for Torque Tuesday, we’re excited to showcase our latest finished project—a classic K5 Blazer that’s been brought into the modern era with a serious brake upgrade. Blending old school Chevy style with new school stopping power, this build is a perfect example of what we do best at Torque Motorsports. Project Highlights Wilwood Brakes: Industry-leading performance brake system for maximum stopping power and reliability. Slotted and Drilled Rotors: Enhanced heat dissipation and improved braking in all conditions—track-inspired technology for the street. All New Brake Lines: Complete replacement for safety, durability, and a crisp pedal feel. Full HydroBoost System: Modern hydraulic brake assist for stronger, more consistent braking—especially with big tires or heavy loads. Why This Matters Upgrading classic vehicles like the K5 Blazer with advanced braking technology isn’t just a...

Moto-Monday: The American Cruiser

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The Evolution of the American Cruiser: Past to Present On this Moto Monday, we’re taking a ride through time to explore the evolution of the American cruiser motorcycle. From the post-war classics to today’s tech-loaded machines, cruisers have defined the spirit of freedom, individuality, and open-road adventure for generations. The Birth of the Cruiser 1940s–1950s: After WWII, returning soldiers sought new thrills, fueling demand for powerful, comfortable motorcycles. Harley-Davidson and Indian led the way with big V-twin engines, wide handlebars, and low-slung frames. Custom Culture: Riders began modifying their bikes—chopping fenders, adding ape hangers, and creating the first “choppers” and “bobbers.” The Golden Age: 1960s–1980s Harley-Davidson Sportster and Electra Glide: These models became icons, cementing the cruiser’s status as the king of the American road. Indian’s Hiatus: Indian Motorcycles faded from the scene in the 1950s but left a last...

The Legendary Ford Bronco

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The Ford Bronco: An American Icon On and Off the Road Few vehicles capture the spirit of adventure and American automotive culture quite like the Ford Bronco. From its rugged off-road credentials to its unmistakable silhouette, the Bronco has earned its place as a legend—both on the trail and in popular culture. A Brief History of the Ford Bronco Debut: Introduced in 1966 as a compact SUV designed to compete with the Jeep CJ and International Harvester Scout. Generations: Spanning five generations (1966–1996), the Bronco evolved from a basic off-roader to a full-size, family-friendly 4x4. Return: After a 25-year hiatus, the Bronco returned in 2021 with modern tech and classic styling, reigniting passion among enthusiasts and collectors. Why the Bronco Stands Out Off-Road Prowess: Built with body-on-frame construction, solid axles, and available V8 power, the Bronco was made to tackle tough terrain. Customization: Early Broncos are highly sought afte...

UTV's Unleashed: All About Side-By-Sides

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The Ultimate Guide to UTVs: Types, Comparisons, and Choosing the Right One Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs)—also known as side-by-sides—have exploded in popularity for work, play, and everything in between. Whether you’re tackling tough terrain, hauling gear, or just looking for off-road excitement, there’s a UTV built for your needs. Here’s what you need to know before you buy or upgrade. What is a UTV? UTV stands for Utility Task Vehicle (sometimes called Utility Terrain Vehicle or side-by-side). Designed for two or more passengers sitting side by side (hence the nickname). Features a steering wheel, foot pedals, roll cage, and cargo bed—unlike ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles), which use handlebars and typically seat one rider. Main Types of UTVs Utility UTVs: Built for work—think farming, ranching, landscaping, or hunting. Focused on hauling, towing, and durability. Examples: Polaris Ranger, Honda Pioneer. Sport UTVs: Engineered for speed, handling, and o...