The June 2026 issue of Gauge Magazine is here, and it's packed with some of the hottest custom vehicles, automotive events, and lifestyle coverage from across the country. Whether you're into mini trucks, imports, muscle cars, car audio, or custom culture, this month's issue delivers something for every enthusiast. Leading off the issue is Matt Tracy's incredible 2001 Toyota Tacoma, appropriately named "Final Effort." This custom-built Tacoma showcases the dedication, creativity, and attention to detail that continue to push the truck scene forward. We also feature Sean Patrick's stunning 1994 Honda Accord "Purple Poison," a clean and unique build that proves the import scene is alive and thriving. Rounding out our featured vehicles is Carl Herzog's menacing 1969 Camaro "DSTROYR," a classic muscle car that blends aggressive styling with timeless performance and craftsmanship. In addition to our feature vehicles, we traveled across the country to bring you coverage from some … [Read More...]
Latest News
Street Rod Nationals 2025 Fills Louisville with Thousands of Classic Cars and Hot Rods
Every summer, hot rod enthusiasts from across the country make their way to Louisville, Kentucky, for one of the largest and most respected automotive gatherings in the nation, and the Street Rod Nationals 2025 was no exception. Held July 31 through August 3 at the Kentucky Exposition Center, the event brought together thousands of classic cars, street rods, muscle cars, customs, and specialty vehicles for an unforgettable weekend celebrating automotive craftsmanship and American car culture. Hosted by the National Street Rod Association (NSRA), the Street Rod Nationals has become a bucket-list event for builders, collectors, and enthusiasts alike. The sheer size of the event is enough to impress anyone attending for the first time. With vehicle displays stretching across the massive grounds of the Kentucky Exposition Center, visitors could spend multiple days exploring the endless rows of incredible automotive history and custom engineering. One of the biggest draws of the … [Read More...]
Sundown Audio Show 2025 Brings the Bass to Newton, North Carolina
If you're a fan of car audio, ground-pounding bass, and some of the loudest vehicles in the country, then Newton, North Carolina, was the place to be on August 16, 2025, as enthusiasts gathered for the Sundown Audio Show 2025. Hosted by one of the most recognizable names in the car audio industry, the event attracted competitors, demo vehicles, manufacturers, and bassheads from across the Southeast for a full day dedicated to all things audio. The Sundown Audio Show has built a reputation as one of the premier gatherings for the car audio community, and this year's event continued that tradition. From daily-driven systems to full-blown competition vehicles capable of producing unbelievable sound pressure levels, attendees were treated to an impressive display of audio engineering and creativity. As soon as visitors arrived, the sound of bass filled the air. Throughout the venue, competitors lined up to demonstrate their systems while spectators moved from vehicle to vehicle, … [Read More...]
Grand National Truck Show 2025 Brings the Best Custom Trucks to Pomona, California
Southern California once again proved why it remains one of the biggest hotbeds for custom truck culture as the Grand National Truck Show 2025 rolled into the Fairplex in Pomona, California, on September 26-27. Truck enthusiasts from across the country gathered for two days packed with lifted trucks, slammed sport trucks, classic pickups, custom SUVs, vans, and some of the most impressive truck builds currently hitting the show circuit. The event is quickly becoming one of the premier truck-only shows in the country and continues to grow each year. Hosted by Rod Shows at the historic Pomona Fairplex, the Grand National Truck Show brings together every style of truck imaginable. Whether you're into perfectly restored classics, patina-covered survivors, lifted off-road monsters, or ultra-clean custom mini trucks sitting frame on the ground, there was something for everyone walking through the show grounds. One of the coolest aspects of the event is the combination of indoor and … [Read More...]
White Trash and White Walls 2025 Car Show Fairborn Ohio
White Trash and White Walls 2025 Event Highlights When White Trash and White Walls 2025 rolled into Fairborn, Ohio on July 26, 2025, it delivered exactly what people expected—an authentic, no-frills car show built around real enthusiasts and unique rides. This wasn’t about perfect paint or over-the-top presentation. It was about creativity, personality, and a community that appreciates builds at every level. As the day got underway, the lot quickly filled with a wide range of vehicles. Slammed trucks sat low across the pavement, patina builds brought a raw, unfinished look, and clean show trucks added that polished edge. The mix at White Trash and White Walls 2025 is what made the event stand out. You could walk the show and see everything from budget-friendly projects to high-end customs, all getting the same level of attention. That balance created a different kind of energy. Instead of focusing only on the most expensive builds, people were drawn to originality. A primered truck … [Read More...]
Showdown in the Valley 2025
When Showdown in the Valley 2025 rolled into Maggie Valley, North Carolina on August 1–3, 2025, it delivered a weekend that hit on every level. Set in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, the event combined high-end custom builds, strong audio presence, and a relaxed atmosphere that made it one of the most talked-about shows of the summer. Right from the start, the show grounds filled up with a wide range of vehicles. Slammed trucks sat low across the pavement, bagged SUVs were aired out for display, and lifted builds brought aggressive stance and height into the mix. Add in detailed show cars with flawless finishes, and it was clear there was something for everyone. The variety alone kept people moving all weekend, with every section offering a new set of builds to check out. One of the biggest strengths of Showdown in the Valley was how well it balanced different styles. You had laid-out trucks sitting perfectly on air right next to lifted rigs with custom wheels and suspension work. … [Read More...]
Severed in the Midwest 2025
The Midwest brought serious energy when Severed in the Midwest 2025 took over Franklin, Indiana on August 22–23, 2025. What unfolded over those two days was more than just a typical car show—it was a solid mix of custom culture, loud audio, and a tight-knit community that made the entire weekend feel worth it. The variety of builds at Severed in the Midwest 2025 made the show stand out from start to finish. From the start, the show field filled up with an impressive range of builds. Severed in the Midwest 2025 had slammed trucks laid out clean, lifted rigs with detailed finishes, and show cars that looked like they belonged under lights instead of the sun. The attention to detail stood out everywhere—engine bays were spotless, interiors were dialed in, and paint jobs had that extra level of depth that stops you mid-walk. What made this show stand out was the variety. It wasn’t just one style dominating the scene. Mini trucks, full-size builds, and audio-focused vehicles all had their … [Read More...]
Gauge Magazine April 2026 Issue
If you’re the kind of person who lives for horsepower, chrome reflections, and the unmistakable rumble of a built engine, this issue is going to feel like home. We’ve got a lineup that blends classic grit, modern muscle, and the kind of custom culture that keeps the scene alive and evolving. Let’s start with a true piece of rolling history—“SPIKE,” a 1946 Ford truck owned by Joe Stallsworth. This thing doesn’t just sit pretty; it tells a story every time it fires up. Captured through the lens of John Mumaw, the truck carries that raw, post-war attitude with just enough custom flair to make people stop mid-sentence when it rolls by. It’s the kind of build that reminds you why old iron still matters. Sliding into something a little more street-slick but just as bold, we’ve got “Land Lord,” a 1967 Chevy C10 owned by Shane Hancock. Shot by Dan Davis, this truck hits that sweet spot between vintage cool and modern edge. Whether it’s parked or cruising, it owns the pavement—hence the … [Read More...]
Certified Summer Car Show 2025
Car enthusiasts gathered in full force for the Certified Summer Car Show in Atlanta on July 26, 2025, turning a hot summer day into an unforgettable celebration of automotive passion. From classic muscle to modern custom builds, the event brought together a diverse crowd and an even more impressive lineup of vehicles. Atlanta Sets the Scene Held in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, the summer heat only added to the atmosphere, giving the event that true “car show season” feel. The location made it easy for locals and visitors alike to attend, creating a lively mix of families, collectors, and die-hard gearheads. A Showcase of Automotive Excellence The Certified Summer Car Show featured a wide range of vehicles that catered to every type of enthusiast: Classic muscle cars restored to pristine condition Modern performance cars with advanced modifications Custom builds with eye-catching paint and interiors Lifted trucks and imports that stood out from the crowd Every … [Read More...]
Moon Eyes Open House 2025
The Moon Eyes Open House took over Santa Fe Springs in Southern California on July 12, 2025, bringing together a passionate crowd of car enthusiasts for one of the most iconic gatherings in the region. Known for its deep roots in hot rod and custom car culture, this annual event once again delivered a full day of vintage style, creativity, and community under the SoCal sun. From early morning, the streets and lot filled with an impressive lineup of vehicles that showcased the diversity of the scene. Classic hot rods, beautifully detailed lowriders, and timeless customs sat side by side, each with its own personality and story. Whether it was the gleam of polished chrome or the rumble of a finely tuned engine, every detail added to the experience. The Santa Fe Springs location provided the perfect backdrop, giving the event that unmistakable Southern California feel. Attendees ranged from longtime builders and collectors to first-time visitors, all drawn by the reputation of … [Read More...]
Camp-N-Drag 2025
Camp-N-Drag 2025 rolled into Waveland, Indiana, from July 18–20, 2025, offering car enthusiasts a full weekend of fun, camaraderie, and car culture that went far beyond many's expectations! This year’s gathering showcased just how much the weekend is about community, creativity, and celebrating automotive passion in a laid-back, welcoming environment. Set in the open spaces of small-town Waveland, Indiana, Camp-N-Drag has always stood out for its relaxed, inclusive vibe. Attendees didn’t just drop in for a quick visit—they came prepared to camp, hang out, and enjoy a full weekend immersed in car culture. Families, friends, and solo enthusiasts alike pitched tents, set up chairs, and made themselves at home, turning the event into a true social gathering as much as an automotive showcase. What really sets Camp-N-Drag apart is the mix of activities and people. Car enthusiasts of all kinds brought their vehicles, from classic restorations and custom builds to street machines … [Read More...]
Engine-Bay Wiring in Tight Spaces: Why Long-Nose Parallel Pliers Beat Standard Needle-Nose
Engine Bay Wiring can quickly become frustrating when connectors are buried deep between components and access is limited. Anyone who has wired a build knows the spot. The connector you need is jammed down between the firewall and the valve cover, you can barely get two fingers on it, and the locking tab will not let go. Reach in with regular needle-nose and you will get it loose, but you will probably crush the tab or bend a pin doing it. There is a better tool for that job, and the difference is in how the jaws close. Whether you are building a custom vehicle, upgrading electronics, or troubleshooting an electrical problem, Engine Bay Wiring often comes down to using the right tools and techniques to avoid damaging expensive connectors. For builders working on custom projects, Gauge Magazine has also covered topics like modern vehicle electronics and software integration, where proper wiring practices are more important than ever. Why Regular Needle-Nose Let You Down in Engine … [Read More...]
The Real Cost of Running the Show Circuit for a Season
Running the Show Circuit for a Season sounds simple when viewed through the lens of registration fees alone. Most builders think about the show season in terms of entry fees. Pay to register, drive out, compete, maybe bring home some hardware. Simple math. The number that catches people by midseason is transportation. Between registration, fuel, hotel rooms, professional transport for the longer hauls, and detailing runs before each event, a serious show season carries a price tag that rarely gets calculated in advance. Builders who show heavily — ten to fifteen events between spring and fall — can spend anywhere from $5,000 to $11,000 depending on how far they travel and what the calendar looks like. That range is wide enough to be useless without context. Here's where the money actually goes. For enthusiasts planning a busy calendar, understanding these costs early can make the difference between enjoying the season and constantly playing catch-up financially. Gauge Magazine … [Read More...]
What Happens Behind the Wheel Before a Truck Accident Occurs
Truck Accident Causes often begin long before a collision takes place. Many truck accidents do not happen because of a single mistake made in the moment. In many cases, a series of decisions, distractions, mechanical issues, or safety violations occur behind the wheel long before the collision itself. Understanding what happens before a truck accident can help explain why these crashes occur and why determining liability often requires a closer look at a driver's actions, company policies, and vehicle conditions. Vancouver is known for its busy roadways, growing economy, and constant flow of commercial traffic. As a major transportation hub, the city sees a large number of trucks moving goods throughout the region every day. While these vehicles play an important role in keeping businesses supplied, their size and weight can make accidents especially serious when something goes wrong. Following a collision involving a commercial vehicle, many people turn to a truck accident … [Read More...]
Steps That Can Strengthen Your Case After a Vehicle Collision
To Strengthen Your Case After a Vehicle Collision, the decisions you make in the hours and days following a crash often matter as much as the accident itself. A vehicle collision can set off pain, inflammation, sleep loss, and immediate financial strain within hours. Early choices shape the medical record, insurance file, and later fault review. Clear documentation often matters as much as the crash itself. People who seek prompt care, preserve physical evidence, and stay measured in every conversation usually ground their claims more firmly. The steps below outline practical actions that support recovery while protecting legal and financial interests. Building a strong accident claim starts with understanding how evidence, medical treatment, and communication affect the outcome. Gauge Magazine has also covered what to do after a car accident and why the earliest decisions often influence compensation. Get The Report to Strengthen Your Case After a Vehicle Collision After … [Read More...]
Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Car Accident Claim
Car Accident Claim Mistakes can reduce compensation long before settlement negotiations begin. A car accident claim can lose value before any settlement discussion starts. Early decisions often shape fault analysis, treatment records, and the final payment range. Many injured people focus first on repairs, yet the stronger case usually rests on medical timing, careful documentation, and consistent follow-through. Stress, pain, and confusion can cloud judgment after a crash. A steady response helps protect proof, connect symptoms to impact, and reduce avoidable damage to the claim. Understanding what hurts a claim is just as important as understanding what helps one. Gauge Magazine has previously explored what to do after a car accident and how early actions can influence the outcome of an injury case. Waiting Too Long for Help Can Lead to Car Accident Claim Mistakes After a collision, hesitation can quietly weaken a case. Facts grow stale, witnesses disappear, and insurers move … [Read More...]
Dealing With Insurance Adjusters After an Injury
Insurance Adjusters After an Injury often contact accident victims quickly, sometimes before the full extent of injuries or financial losses is known. After an injury, contact from an insurance adjuster can feel reassuring at first. A steady voice may arrive while pain, swelling, medical visits, and repair bills are still unfolding. Even so, the adjuster works for the carrier, not the injured person. Each statement, form, and deadline can affect payment. Careful communication helps protect treatment costs, lost income, property damage, and the full value of a claim. Understanding how insurance companies evaluate claims is important before speaking with an adjuster. Gauge Magazine has covered how insurance companies calculate car accident payouts and the factors that often influence settlement offers. Early Calls Matter When Dealing With Insurance Adjusters After an Injury In the first days after a Syracuse crash, symptoms may shift as inflammation, muscle guarding, or nerve … [Read More...]
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