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August 31.2025
2 Minutes Read

Subaru's Bold Display at Ojibwe Rally: Fourth ARA Title Secured

Blue rally car skidding on a gravel road at the American Rally Association championship.

A Triumph Against the Odds: Team Subaru's Remarkable Journey to Victory

Subaru Motorsports USA has proven once again that championships are not just about speed, but also resilience. The team clinched their fourth consecutive American Rally Association (ARA) National Championship in a gripping display at the Ojibwe Forests Rally, racing in the intricate landscapes of Minnesota. With driver Brandon Semenuk navigating through challenges, Subaru's remarkable victory highlights the essence of rally racing—where survival often matters just as much as speed.

The Battle of the Titans: A Three-Way Contest

The Ojibwe Forests Rally opened with high stakes, characterized by a fierce three-way battle between Semenuk, his co-driver Keaton Williams, veteran Travis Pastrana, and competitor Conner Martell. Early Friday's stages were marked by a nail-biting exchange of stage wins, with Martell initially leading the charge with his Skoda Fabia RS. However, their trajectories shifted dramatically when Martell faced a puncture on SS9, handing a small lead back to Semenuk who was strategically focused on minimal risk for maximum points.

Endurance and Determination: Survival of the Fittest

Saturday transformed into a race of resilience as Martell encountered a devastating off-road excursion on SS12, taking him out of the running. However, Semenuk's path was not free from adversity either; a critical power steering failure during SS13 threatened to end his pursuit for victory. Yet, the lead Semenuk had established was sufficient to limp through the final stage, highlighting the unpredictable nature of rally racing where the might of the machine often clashes with human tenacity.

Subaru’s Legacy: A 1-2 Finish that Echoes in History

While Semenuk battled at the forefront, Pastrana faced his own challenges. After his car sustained damage from a puncture and another power steering failure on Friday, Pastrana’s perseverance led him to climb the leaderboard, ultimately securing a commendable second place overall. “Really excited for a Subaru 1-2 and stoked for Brandon!” exclaimed Pastrana, reflecting on the team’s robust performance. This exhilarating finish not only reinforces Subaru's dominance but marks a historic 19th U.S. national title in 25 years, affirming their legacy in the sport.

Looking Ahead: Maintaining Momentum

With the 2025 ARA championship secured, Subaru Motorsports USA is setting their sights on the upcoming Overmountain Rally in Tennessee. This event offers another opportunity to extend their winning streak and showcase the engineering prowess behind their rally vehicles. The excitement lies not only in the prospect of races ahead but also in the technological innovations that fuel Subaru's competitive edge, making each event an exciting blend of skill, strategy, and cutting-edge automotive technology.

As outdoor enthusiasts, rally fans, and automotive aficionados gear up to witness what lies ahead for Team Subaru, this rally not only highlighted their triumph on a challenging track but also showcased their commitment to evolving the sport through technological advancements and unwavering determination.

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10.15.2025

Discover the Power and Precision Behind This 1966 Ford F-700 Cummins Diesel Build

Update Reviving a Classic: The 1966 Ford F-700 Transformation The automotive realm is no stranger to custom builds, but few projects embody innovation and nostalgia like Ethan Porter’s 1966 Ford F-700. Originally intended to salvage the flatbed for another project, Ethan took a left turn into creativity, resulting in a jaw-dropping display at the 2025 Fall 4-Wheel Jamboree Nationals in Danville, Indiana. From Ford FE to Cummins Power Initially housing a 361 FE engine, Ethan swapped in a 12-valve Cummins turbodiesel sourced from a 1996 box truck. Prior to installation, the engine was meticulously rebuilt, including the addition of a larger turbo and a heavy-duty exhaust manifold. This transformation not only ensured reliability but also maximized performance, allowing the F-700 to capture the hearts of diesel enthusiasts. Superior Drive Train Mechanics Backing the powerful Cummins is an NV4500 five-speed manual transmission paired with a NP205 transfer case. Ethan revamped the transfer case with upgraded parts to bolster durability. Additionally, he installed a sophisticated parking brake system, exemplifying the attention to detail integral to this project. Military Grade Suspension for Off-Roading Perhaps the most striking feature of this build is its Oshkosh TAK-4 suspension system. Originally intended for military vehicles, the TAK-4 gives the F-700 a competitive edge on rugged terrain. With its coil-spring suspension and pneumatic features, it boasts 16 inches of independent vertical wheel travel, providing an unprecedented level of comfort and handling. The Challenges of Customization Introducing TAK-4s into the F-700 meant serious modifications to the truck's frame. Ethan's solution involved strategically expanding the chassis to accommodate the wider suspension cradle. This illustrates the type of commitment and ingenuity often found in serious builds, where alterations are necessary to create a road-worthy machine from a classic truck. Expect the Unexpected One of the challenges that stood out was fitting the enormous 16.00R20 Michelin XZL tires. As Ethan recalls, mounting these involved a three-person, 12-hour effort that required creative problem solving and plenty of elbow grease. This scenario underscores the level of dedication needed for such comprehensive builds. A Testament to Custom Builds The Ford F-700 stands as a testament to Ethan’s vision and craftsmanship. Beyond the notable technical specifications, this project symbolizes the union of old-world charm and modern engineering. It's not just a truck; it represents a spirit of adventure, a nod to the past while paving the way for future possibilities. Join the Automotive Revolution Whether you're an avid off-road enthusiast or a casual observer, this build is a reminder of the enduring impact of automotive customization. As technology continues to evolve, the tools available for personalizing vehicles will only become more sophisticated. Stay informed and inspired by the passionate stories of builds like Ethan's, where creativity meets engineering!

10.14.2025

Journey into the Wild: Conquering the Alcan 5000 Rally in a Honda Passport TrailSport

Update The Thrill of the Alcan 5000 RallyPicture embarking on an exhilarating journey from Seattle, traversing rugged trails and unyielding terrains, culminating in a race through the wild expanses of Canada’s Arctic Circle and deeper into the heart of Alaska. This isn’t just any road trip; it’s the demanding Alcan 5000 Rally, the longest time-speed-distance (TSD) road rally in North America. Over a span of 11 days, teams of adventurers, each piloting unique vehicles including the latest Honda Passport TrailSport, aim to conquer a staggering 5,000 miles while facing challenges that test their skills and fortitude. The Essence of TSD RallyAt its core, the Alcan 5000 Rally is not a race against time but a quest for precision. As competitors navigate through detailed route books and utilize the Richta rally app, they must arrive at hidden checkpoints at precisely timed intervals. Achieving this requires more than just speed; it demands strategic planning and impeccable execution. The Alcan Rally embraces a sense of camaraderie amidst fierce competition, as teams work together to overcome flat tires, severe weather conditions, and unexpected mechanical failures. Honda Passport TrailSport: The Ideal CompanionThis year’s adventure was notably bolstered by the performance of the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport. Recognized for its rugged design, this SUV proved to be a reliable partner on treacherous terrains. Equipped with reinforced steel skid plates, an off-road-tuned suspension, and General Grabber all-terrain tires, the Passport seamlessly transitioned between dirt roads and the highways, helping drivers maintain both speed and control. The vehicle managed to withstand nearly 1,000 miles of off-road driving, showcasing its capability and durability. Preparation: Ensuring Success in Unforgiving ConditionsSuccessfully preparing for the Alcan Rally involves meticulous planning and the right enhancements to your vehicle. For the Passport TrailSport, the inclusion of factory-optional accessories such as rock sliders and a heavy-duty recovery point enhances its ruggedness, allowing participants to navigate through tough scenarios with confidence. Additionally, modifications like auxiliary lighting improve visibility during late-night drives through dense wilderness. Lessons Learned from the Rally ExperienceThe Alcan 5000 is more than a competition; it’s a journey that offers valuable lessons. Collaborating with a partner, whether in life or on the road, teaches adaptability and teamwork amidst high-pressure conditions. The essence of adventure lies not only in reaching the destination but also in the shared experiences, from troubleshooting mechanical hiccups to tackling the challenges presented by nature. Future Outlook: The Rising Popularity of Off-Road AdventuresThe increasing interest in the Alcan 5000 Rally reflects a broader trend in outdoor adventures. More enthusiasts are seeking experiences that blend travel, challenge, and community, shifting towards activities that encourage exploration of remote locations. As off-road capabilities become more integrated into everyday vehicles like the Honda Passport, the appeal of these rallies is set to grow, welcoming newcomers who share a passion for adventure. In conclusion, the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport proved its worth during the intense demands of the Alcan 5000 Rally. With its combination of rugged features and user-friendly ergonomics, it stands as a testament to innovation in off-road vehicles. If you’re looking to embrace the outdoor adventure that tests your limits while building lifelong memories, consider signing up for next year’s rally.

10.13.2025

Eliminate Rear-End Squat: How RoadActive Suspension Transforms Silverado Towing

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