Over the past 40 years, I’ve owned a variety of hot rods, each with its own story and significance. Back in the '80s, the hot rod scene was thriving, and I have great memories of hanging out with like-minded friends, cruisin' down Main Street, and building in the garages. I’m grateful to have experienced that special era, and I’m proud to still be an owner of a hot rod.
'79 Chevy Long Bed
I found this truck back in 2014, and it’s been one of my favorites ever since. It’s powered by a 350 small block, paired with a 350 transmission and lowered with 3" drop spindles. It’s mostly original and I’m still deciding what I want to do with it—maybe go nice and straight with tight lines, or just leave it as is. Time will tell, but I do get that urge to dive in deeper.
'55 Chevy Handyman
I purchased this 1955 Chevy Handyman and started restoring it in 1999. I cut the frame and welded in a Trans-Am front end, dropped in a 350 small block engine with a 400 transmission, all wrapped in glass-straight metal. Built in November 1954 at the Kansas City, MO plant, this car holds a unique family connection: three of my relatives worked on the line, and one in the parts department, at the time. It’s cool to think that one of them may have worked on this car—or at least a part of it.I sold it in 2019 to make better use of the asset. I miss it, but at least I still have the rat rod truck.
