top ten car builders

[rocketman]

i was wondering what car builders guys and gals consider there top ten.
mine would be.

1.foose
2.mike adams
3.bobby alloway
4.roger burman
5.boyd
6.kenny davis
7.troy trepenair (rad rides)
8.????
9.????
10.????

well i ran out of thought on 8.anyway thought this might be kinda fun.
mods if is the wrong spot iam sorry,wasn't sure where to post it.

rocketman

[Steve1968LS2]

Matt Delaney has turned out some fine Mopars.. hmmmm ..

Steve Strope who built the Hammer?

Will think on this..

[Travis B]

1.Foose
2.Troy
3.Alloway
4.Boyd
5.Pigford
6.Fat jack
7.Erick peratt
8.Brizio
9.Steve maol
10.Schnecloth


Thanks for the credit Rocketman but we aren't as good as some of these guys listed! Maybe Someday

[rocketman]

maybe,but one day i bet kenny davis in the middle of arkansas is one of greats.i have never seen one of kennys i didnt like.jmo

[JamesD]

Don't forget Mark Stielow, I know he doesn't build swoopy hotrods like Foose, but if you're like me, then it just doesn't get any better than cars like the Mule and Thraser. Although I don't know if he qualifies for the list as he doesn't build customer cars. I also second Steve Strope, the Hammer was an incredibe car, some of the other projects on his website look awsome too. Another one to add to the list is Steve’s Auto Restorations, check out their projects over at http://www.realsteel.com/ the things they do with sheet metal will blow your mind.

[JoshStratton]

I dont mean to hijack the thread, but can someone tell me what color this is? http://www.realsteel.com/_images/webimages/_project/side-750_2.jpg

Thanks for the link James!!! That site is amazing...one to bookmark.

By-the-way. I occupy all top-10 spots :lmao:

[MuscleRodz]

In no particular order:

1. Steve Moal
2. Chip Foose
3. Boyd Coddington (early years as much as I hate to admit)
4. Troy Trepanier
5. Bobby Alloway
6.
7. Marcel's (without him Boyd and Foose and several others would not exist)
8. Gene Winfield
9.
10. Steve Cook (because of the 55)

I will come up with some more.

Mike

[JamesJ]

So-Cal speed shop has and does makes some wonderfull cars, they dont get that much attention because they dont do to much "custom crazy" stuff but they are first class.

[MarkM66]

Alan Johnson should probably be on the list.

[Travis B]

Alan Johnson should probably be on the list.

Yes I do agree alan is also very good!

[MuscleRodz]

I agree with you both.

So-Cal which use to be P3 which use to be Pete & Jakes.

and Alan Johnson


Mike

[kennyd]

alan johnson is a good choice

[Hartz]

Don't forget Mark Stielow, I know he doesn't build swoopy hotrods like Foose, but if you're like me, then it just doesn't get any better than cars like the Mule and Thraser. Although I don't know if he qualifies for the list as he doesn't build customer cars.

Sure he does. It's just that his customer base is small, right Charlie? :rotfl:

Honorable mention for the Tuckers over at DSE?

[MuscleRodz]

I think there is two levels in this field of nominees. Those who can build a car and those that can fabricate one. Foose is clearly on top in the fabrication bracket. The other bracket may be more of a fight for the top spot.

Mike

[96Z28SS]

I'd like to say that Steve Frisbie would somewhere at the top of the list for fabrication.

http://www.stevesautorestorations.com/projects.php?ptype=1

[BADVELLE]

I agree with all of the above. Here are a few more....The Greenings, Detroit Speed (Twister to name one), FastLane Speed Shop (Dave Lane, built the SROY 2 years back and has built numerous cars that have been driven), Dave Tucci.

[Mean 69]

I think the guy that builds his OWN car, doing the Lion's share of the work himself, and learning along the way lessons to be applied towards the next car, is the most important builder out there.

As far as the pro's? It would likely come down to the style of vehicle you like, swoopy customs, menacing track performers, or classic style cars, we're all different. And of course, you should also point out that the top names in the lists above are the SHOPS, not necessarily the individuals that are responsible for the build. I don't think ole' Boyd turns too many wrenches these days.

Just my opinion.... It's like asking "Who is the sexiest girl?" No right or wrong answer.
M

[Jagarang]

Prodigy Customs!!!!!

[JamesD]

And of course, you should also point out that the top names in the lists above are the SHOPS, not necessarily the individuals that are responsible for the build. I don't think ole' Boyd turns too many wrenches these days.



True, but building a car is really a team effort. The list of pros that handle every single aspect of the build by themselves would be very short, probably nonexistant.

[Bill Howell]

Prodigy Customs!!!!!

Lets hope so anyway Kevin! :lol:
BTW does your avatar ever get tired?? :rotfl:

[trapin]

Here's my Top Ten....

1.) Nobody
2.) Nobody
3.) Nobody
4.) Nobody
5.) Nobody
6.) Nobody
7.) Nobody
8.) Nobody
9.) Nobody
10.) Nobody

This hobby is not about making people into Super Stars or claiming who's better than who. That's not what it's about. It's about thousands of people sharing a common love for one great hobby. We're all in this together. We all build great cars. Period.

[4OfaKind]

This hobby is not about making people into Super Stars or claiming who's better than who. That's not what it's about. It's about thousands of people sharing a common love for one great hobby. We're all in this together. We all build great cars. Period.

that would be true in a world called perfect but in reality you could not be more mistaken. if it were just for the love of the automobile there would be no judges, awards, prize money, trophies, or competetions. there would only be the local shows across the country where people would gather, look at cars, talk about cars, and then go home period end. no one would WIN anything more than a "good job" from their peers.

with that being said i would like to add Hot Rods & Custom Stuff's shop to the list. They did the 2001 Riddler Winner http://www.hotrodscustomstuff.com/goldcalf30.html

[Streetking]

Kyle& Stacey from DSE...

SW

[BRIAN]

I think you would have to break it down into different classes such as: Street Rod, Pro Tour, ETC. As we all saw on the reality shows not everybody can build every style.

[ProdigyCustoms]

Thanks Kevin, Bill. You guy's will see a 25% reductions on your respective invoices . Now seriously, Foose is in a class by himself because he has the ability to dream it up, draw it on paper, get it funded, then go in the shop and build it, and kick ass in competition with it! No one is more self sufficient.
Marcel's on the other hand are in a class all their own for their incredible body fabrication.
From there, I feel you have to break it into classes, as mentioned above. Protouring builders like those represented here, many are great, but are still leeps and bounds behind street rod guys for full on fabrication and creativity, weather you like street rods or not.
Want to see craftsmanship? Go to a good street rod event.
There are probably 100 top builders, that could be broken into 5 or so categories. Some cross over, but most specialize in one type of build.

[Bill Howell]

Thanks Kevin, Bill. You guy's will see a 25% reductions on your respective invoices .

Now maybe I can afford the R & D to get the tri-power set-up :lmao:

[rocketman]

yeah alan johnson slipped my mind.kyle and stacy at detroit speed also.

this thread wasnt meant to be who's best, just what everyone opinions are for there one favorites.my list was in no one order just as i thought about them.

if this is a hobby for the love of cars,and no one is better than the other,why are there pro's pick's and top ten awards.

[ALLFAITH]

Streetking. To me he hits the nail on the head, with all his musclecars-- proper stance, amenities, power, and "stockish" looks. For most of us that only dream of a Foose car, SW and others on this site are more inspirational to me, an average car guy.

Brad

[Jagarang]

Maybe you should discount 50% on my bill Frank. Bill sounded kinda doubtfull and was just laughing at me when I nominated you!
Lets hope so anyway Kevin! :rotfl: :evil: :evil: :evil: :fingersx: :fingersx:

And Bill...

BTW does your avatar ever get tired??
She NEVER gets tired!! Thats the best part!!!!!

[trapin]

there would be no judges, awards, prize money, trophies, or competetions. there would only be the local shows across the country where people would gather, look at cars, talk about cars, and then go home period end. no one would WIN anything more than a "good job" from their peers.
Yep.....and that's the way it ought to be. Just my opinion (because I was asked). I don't have a problem with handing out trophies as rewards for hard work...but putting people up on a pedestal is putting them above the hobby. I don't believe anyone is above this hobby. Chip Foose builds some great cars, but anyone can build cars like that if they have the money and resources and put their minds to it. Hell...many do. Lots of people have captured the Riddler Award in years past, and they don't have TV Shows on the Discovery Channel. People celebrate the likes of Orange County Choppers and Jesse James when they talk about motorcycles but yet I've seen the good folks at Detroit Choppers spit out machines that are every bit as spectacular as anything those guys have done. And I don't see them on the Discovery Channel. It's not the ability and creativity that made people like Coddington, Foose, Tuttles, and James famous....it was the TV Executives that did it.

You think Chip Foose could have built 'The Mule' or 'Big Red'?

C'mon....gimmie a break.

I don't wanna high jack Bill's thread or stop anyone from participating in it. I understand it's all in good fun. I'll just close by saying, Hot Rods are about cars, not people. That is all. Sorry, don't mean to offend anyone here...it's just an opinion.

Catcha' later. :lurk:

[ProdigyCustoms]

Chip Foose builds some great cars, but anyone can build cars like that if they have the money and resources and put their minds to it.

Really, Anyone can do it? I cannot do the things Foose does, and my capabilities exceed many.

It's not the ability and creativity that made people like Coddington, Foose, Tuttles, and James famous....it was the TV Executives that did it.

TV might have made them famous to you, but guy's like us that award people, knew these guy's long before TV.

You think Chip Foose could have built 'The Mule' or 'Big Red'? Yes, if he wanted to, because he would consult the right people, and be able to do it.


Catcha' later. :lurk:

We are good, damn good I think. But I have no problem being under Foose or many of the other mentioned builders pedestals, because, as of today, it is where I belong. That ain't so hard to admit!

[graycamaro]

I'm with trapin on this one although I will say a couple years ago when I saw Troy Trepanier's Chicane at the World of Wheels show in ST. Louis I thought it was amazing.

The thing about building cars is its a lot like the guys building choppers everyone has there own style and theories on how to build it and thats what makes what we do great. Sure there are people on tv week in and week out like Chip Foose and Jesse James fact is there is probably someone near you capable of turning out custom bikes and car that are just as great they just don't get attention on a national level.
Not to discredit Chip Foose or Jesse James as they are trully top level builders and have definetly a lot more on there table then the average builder with tv shows and interveiws and what not it is amazing they still have time to do what they love to do

Just My 2 Cents James

[ssx]

I can say that the cars I liked the best have been built by Trepanier and the Terzich's.
My faves:By Troy:
Chicayne
Sniper
Orange Peel
Predator
Bumongous
By the Terzich;s:
62' Belair bubbletop 409
56' Chevy 210 Post with 572ci
Seems nowadays a lot of different people build nice cars though....

[gEtyOpAPiOn]

more like your car can be as good as your wallet goes...there is thousand of cars all over that may look better that other produced with some one famous ...that dont mean that person cant build a great car ...

[vanzuuk1]

Foose is an all around talented guy, I love his cars.Troy is another guy that really helped shape the current style of building.
I would not lump Jesse in with OCC, Jesse seems to whip bikes out of a piece of metal and OCC welds trinkets on off-the-rack frames.
For lack of a better description, Jesse and Foose have "the touch".

[trapin]

You give me $100,000 and the facitlities to build it and I will build you the Hot Rod from hell. It might not be 'The Mule' (only one guy could have built that car) but it'll still be an awesome car, I guarantee it.

I can cut and weld, I've built engines, Installed drivetrains, And come July 16th I'm pretty sure I'll have learned to do body work and lay color down too. I know my way around an automobile. I also feel (from my experience as a Designer for GM) that I have an eye for design and know what looks good and what doesn't.

Unfortunately....I don't have a huge bank account. Nor do I have my own paint booth, a rotisserie, tig welder, car hoist, and a plethora of other metal shaping components and tools. So I can only build what I have the capability to build. I'm not trying to brag or prop myself up on a pedestal or anything. I'm just telling it like it is. Are Hot Rods easy? Or course not, I'm not saying they are. I'm speaking of the people who have been around these machines and at least have a working knowledge of the hobby. Give them what they need and any of them could accomplish the 'Super Car'. There are a lot of great ones out there, but they'll largely remain silent because they lack the funds and the facilities. And that shouldn't be a knock against them.

But this thread was supposed to be for fun so.....in the spirit of the moment, here's my Top Ten;

1.) Mark Stielow
2.) John Parsons
3.) Andrew Borodin
4.) Tony Huntimer
5.) Tyler Beuragard
6.) Jody Bernard
7.) Kyle Tucker
8.) Frank Serapine
9.) Steve Chryssos
10.) Dave Pozzi

Honorable Mention; Ralph Lagrasso (cause he's a good kid). :)

[ssx]

I agree with the above post totally. Seems you need to have almost an unlimited budget to build top quality cars nowdays! A lot of guys can build awesome cars with the right shop, tools, sponsors etc. Lucky them:worship:

[vanzuuk1]

Not to stir the nest but part of what made guys like jesse and the others is they got themselves in a position to build what they want , and that counts for something.

Sure, I wish I had "f@#$-you money" but I dont. I love to check out the big name cars and I love to see the cars on this site.

The flip side to this is when your at a gas station in the middle of nowhere and something drives by or pulls in and makes your jaw drop. Doesnt have to be a big bucks ride ,just a cool one

My car will come in at under thirty grand and I wont enjoy it any less than a high dollar car.

PS Chicane was awesome.

[jeff s]

After Poison Dart, Evil Spirit, Cadillac Attack, Street Alien, etc.
I know I'll make the list someday.

[camcojb]

After Poison Dart, Evil Spirit, Cadillac Attack, Street Alien, etc.
I know I'll make the list someday.

You're on my list Jeff. That Dart is cool!!!!!! How's the Caddy?

Jody

[jeff s]

Thanks Jody, your on mine too.. Caddy Broke a valve spring and bent a valve 30 miles from Indy, stranded for a few days waiting for parts. Also got some bad gas in IL that kept boiling in the float bowls.
Home now, running good.
Jeff

[trapin]

After Poison Dart, Evil Spirit, Cadillac Attack, Street Alien, etc. I know I'll make the list someday.
Jeff, the beautiful thing is....you don't need a position on a list to verify your ability. Your work speaks for itself. My list was essentially a 'shout out' to the people who belong to this site. You'll notice there was no Foose or Trepanier on there.

[ProdigyCustoms]

For what it is worth, you are on my list Jeff. Since Poison Dart is done, and our stuff isn't, you should have my spot.
I looked for you on the tour, they told me of your whoas. Talked to the owner of the Dart, he seemed happy even though he wasn't driving it. Car looked good, I thought your work looked great.
Look forward to meeting you another day.

[parsonsj]

Tony,

You are too kind. I don't belong on any top ten list ... my 2/3 of a car build at least needs to get to a whole car. And probably a few more after that.

But it made my day. I tried to convince my wife that all that money and time was finally paying off. She told me that the only Top Ten list she paid attention to was Letterman's nightly spiel. :hand:

And Jeff, I've known about you and your Cadillac for years and years. I can't wait to see the Poison Dart. Gonna take it to PRI?

jp

[Steve Chryssos]

I have a few criteria for what makes a great car builder (Notice how far down the list cars are):
1) Ability To Put Family First Cars are a powerful obsession. It can be difficult to keep your priorities straight.
2) Willingness To Help Other Rodders Car building is challenging to say the least. Take what you've learned and pass it on--every chance you get.
3) Student of Hot Rodding No matter how good you are, spend time studying the efforts of other rodders.
4) Find Your Own Style Even if you can build a 100-point car, if you build cookie-cutter clones, you will never be great.
5) Be Innovative Take chances--even if it means pissing off some or all of the mainstream.
6) Function First If it don't run hard, don't bother.
7) Make Your Presense Known Can you really be great if you are the only one who knows about your efforts?

That said, my list looks like this:
1) Steve Moal (see the Torpedo in person and you'll agree)
2) Lil' John Buttera (He's built 100's of ground breaking race cars and hot rods. Billet before there was billet. Remember his 65 Chevy II with 84 Vette suspension built by him and his kid? God I wish I could find pix of that car)
3) Sam and Chip Foose
4) Marcel De Lay and Sons
5) Jeff Smith (builds cool, functional cars and has literally helped millions of us)
6) Troy Trepanier (Proof that just one car can launch a stellar career)
7) Mark Stielow (In the dictionary next to the word functional--with a picture of QuadraDuece)
8) Alan Johnson (all his cars have big HP under the hood)
9) Steve Strope (No one takes more chances with style than Strope)
10) John Parsons (Give him time - Hurry up JP)
10-b) Frank and Michael Serafine (Tied with JP for up & coming rodders who put family first, help others and will soon be unleashing premium, unique cars on the world.

[Travis B]

Lil john had a new car at Indy this weekend! Abosolutly amazing I looked at it 2 or 3 times and every time there was something new! He started the car with 2 tons of billit aluminum and built a car it was awesome I will try to find pics!

[vanzuuk1]

John Butera! I read the article about his sons 69 camaro over and over till the mag fell apart! Two other names that I remember for some reason, Ron scranton and Freeland Tanner. Both guys built really cool roadrace/street camaros.Theres so many great builders, I wish I had all the old mags.

[vanzuuk1]

Travis , would love to see pics.

[WhirlingDurvish]

Top Builders:

Chip Foose
Troy Trepanier
Alan Johnson
Jesse Greening
Steve Cook
Eric Peratt
Roy Pigford
Dale Boesch
Steve Strope
Steve Moal
Steves Auto Restorations
Lil John Buttera
Ray Bartlett
Barry Lobeck


Top Glorified Assemblers:

Bobby Alloway and Roy Brizio

[Damn True]

Just my opinion.... It's like asking "Who is the sexiest girl?" No right or wrong answer.
M


Unless your wife is in the room in which case there is ONLY one right answer.

[Damn True]

I have a few criteria for what makes a great car builder (Notice how far down the list cars are):
1) Ability To Put Family First Cars are a powerful obsession. It can be difficult to keep your priorities straight.
2) Willingness To Help Other Rodders Car building is challenging to say the least. Take what you've learned and pass it on--every chance you get.
3) Student of Hot Rodding No matter how good you are, spend time studying the efforts of other rodders.
4) Find Your Own Style Even if you can build a 100-point car, if you build cookie-cutter clones, you will never be great.
5) Be Innovative Take chances--even if it means pissing off some or all of the mainstream.
6) Function First If it don't run hard, don't bother.
7) Make Your Presense Known Can you really be great if you are the only one who knows about your efforts?

That said, my list looks like this:
1) Steve Moal (see the Torpedo in person and you'll agree)
2) Lil' John Buttera (He's built 100's of ground breaking race cars and hot rods. Billet before there was billet. Remember his 65 Chevy II with 84 Vette suspension built by him and his kid? God I wish I could find pix of that car)
3) Sam and Chip Foose
4) Marcel De Lay and Sons
5) Jeff Smith (builds cool, functional cars and has literally helped millions of us)
6) Troy Trepanier (Proof that just one car can launch a stellar career)
7) Mark Stielow (In the dictionary next to the word functional--with a picture of QuadraDuece)
8) Alan Johnson (all his cars have big HP under the hood)
9) Steve Strope (No one takes more chances with style than Strope)
10) John Parsons (Give him time - Hurry up JP)
10-b) Frank and Michael Serafine (Tied with JP for up & coming rodders who put family first, help others and will soon be unleashing premium, unique cars on the world.


I'd agree with all the above.

[Bob Johnson]

Alan Johnson should probably be on the list.
probably my as*...he belongs in the top 5..end of story

[Bob Johnson]

Top Ten Builders:

1: Chip Foose
2: Troy Trepanier
3: Alan Johnson
4: Jesse Greening
5: Steve Cook
6: Eric Peratt
7: Roy Pigford
8: Dale Boesch
9: Steve Strope
10: Steve Moal

Top Glorified Assemblers:

1: Bobby Alloway
2-10: ??????
got to have Lil John Buttera on there at the or near the top of the list. He was absolutely The Man. Doan Spencer is also an old time guy that did some super cool stuff..Somehow everyone is forgetting Roy and Andy Brizzio, Barry Lobeck, Socal (Pete Chapourous Jake Jacobs), Dave Lane, Ray Bartlett,SAR Steves Auto Restoration..

[Bob Johnson]

I'd agree with all the above.
if you're including marcel, you can't leave out Craig Naff. He can do anything with metal..Unsung hero

[Damn True]

Never heard of him. But I'm sure I've probably seen his work and just not known who built it. Can you post an example?

[Bob Johnson]

Yep.....and that's the way it ought to be. Just my opinion (because I was asked). I don't have a problem with handing out trophies as rewards for hard work...but putting people up on a pedestal is putting them above the hobby. I don't believe anyone is above this hobby. Chip Foose builds some great cars, but anyone can build cars like that if they have the money and resources and put their minds to it. Hell...many do. Lots of people have captured the Riddler Award in years past, and they don't have TV Shows on the Discovery Channel. People celebrate the likes of Orange County Choppers and Jesse James when they talk about motorcycles but yet I've seen the good folks at Detroit Choppers spit out machines that are every bit as spectacular as anything those guys have done. And I don't see them on the Discovery Channel. It's not the ability and creativity that made people like Coddington, Foose, Tuttles, and James famous....it was the TV Executives that did it.

You think Chip Foose could have built 'The Mule' or 'Big Red'?

C'mon....gimmie a break.

I don't wanna high jack Bill's thread or stop anyone from participating in it. I understand it's all in good fun. I'll just close by saying, Hot Rods are about cars, not people. That is all. Sorry, don't mean to offend anyone here...it's just an opinion.

Catcha' later. :lurk:
do I think chip Foose could build Big Red or The Mule?? That guy can do anything he sets his mind to do. He has the TOTAL PACKAGE...He is in a class by himself..Do you think Mark Stielow could build The Sniper? Poteet/Trepanier Bonneville Cuda? My Cuda? I don't know..You tell me...your statement (anybody can build cars like Foose if they set their mind to it and have the money and resources.) Bull Shi*.. 5 or 6 builders in this whole country maybe can do it. Hell GM couldn't do it for Christs sake.

[Jims78elky]

A few of mine...

John Buttera
Dean Jefferys
Pete Chapouris
Chuck Lombardo
Troy Trepanier
Ed Roth
Gene Winfield
George Barris
Boyd Coddington
Roy Brizio
Norm Grabowski
Bobby Alloway
Rod Powell
Sam&Chip Foose

[WEAVER]

FOOSE
BURMAN(RIDDLER 06)
TROY
DALE BEOSCH (YOU HAVE SEEN THE CARS JUST DONT KNOW IT)
ALAN JOHNSON
BRIZIO
MARCELS
MOAL
BUTTERA
STEVE COOK
I have put interiors in cars for half the people on this list and seen them from the inside out(wiring pluming ect.) The better the car is built ,the better the end result is.big budgets help.Just a thought from first hand experience.

[WhirlingDurvish]

got to have Lil John Buttera on there at the or near the top of the list. He was absolutely The Man. Doan Spencer is also an old time guy that did some super cool stuff..Somehow everyone is forgetting Roy and Andy Brizzio, Barry Lobeck, Socal (Pete Chapourous Jake Jacobs), Dave Lane, Ray Bartlett,SAR Steves Auto Restoration..

You bring up a good point! Those are some fantastic builders. I have edited my list and made some revisions.

[Bob Johnson]

Top Builders:

Chip Foose
Troy Trepanier
Alan Johnson
Jesse Greening
Steve Cook
Eric Peratt
Roy Pigford
Dale Boesch
Steve Strope
Steve Moal
Steves Auto Restorations
Lil John Buttera
Ray Bartlett
Barry Lobeck


Top Glorified Assemblers:

Bobby Alloway and Roy Brizio
You sound like you know what you're talking about.. But you're mistaken on Roy Brizio..and you've got a few assemblers in your top ten list that belong in your second group..I'm concerned about your Durvish name..Durvish isn't in the dictionary, but Dervish is... a member of any various Muslim Ascetic Religious Groups.. ascetic is one who leads a life of strict self denial for religious purposes...I have a feeling that isn't you..lol.. maybe SN65 Bob, but not you...lol

[Bow Tie 67]

John Butera! I read the article about his sons 69 camaro over and over till the mag fell apart! Two other names that I remember for some reason, Ron scranton and Freeland Tanner. Both guys built really cool roadrace/street camaros.Theres so many great builders, I wish I had all the old mags.

I loved that car, if memory serves me correct it was silver with the red/blue/yellow stripe that ran down the side of the car. And it had hillborn injection. You know your dating yourself, I think that article was around 82. I'm off to look for the magazine, I may still have it. Hah, just did a google search, the top result was your response.

[96Z28SS]

got to have Lil John Buttera on there at the or near the top of the list. He was absolutely The Man. Doan Spencer is also an old time guy that did some super cool stuff..Somehow everyone is forgetting Roy and Andy Brizzio, Barry Lobeck, Socal (Pete Chapourous Jake Jacobs), Dave Lane, Ray Bartlett,SAR Steves Auto Restoration..

I mentioned SAR back in the first page of this thread.
No one else has mentioned him, people must not be familiar with his work or his shop. They do really good work.

[Bob Johnson]

I mentioned SAR back in the first page of this thread.
No one else has mentioned him, people must not be familiar with his work or his shop. They do really good work.


anybody that has been anywhere ought to know his work. he did that red 57 Ford pick up that was at Indy and Columbus and the F1 nationals in Knoxville..It should win Goodguys late truck, and I think the Willy's will win early truck. I was appalled when the Willy's truck didn't get in the street rod finals, but then someone mentioned to me that he was going to be in the Truck deal in Dallas...Nice trucks and nice owners..of course SAR built Real Mad and New Mad..both killer pieces..I reserve my opinion on the GTO they built..

[Bob Johnson]

Never heard of him. But I'm sure I've probably seen his work and just not known who built it. Can you post an example?
They just had a big story about him in Hot Rod or Street Rodder. Works by himself, and does some marvelous metal work. As good as Marcel. Mostly the big time/old timers know of him.. until the article came out. Not one to seek the limelite. The article was in Hot Rod..The one with the Plymouth Roadrunner on cover/and SN 65 up in the top corner..A few of his pieces..Smoothster..Cadzilla..Smoothness..recognis e his work?? thought ol Boyd did that didn't you..

[Bow Tie 67]

I found the article about Lil John Buttera's Camaro. Unfortunatley there are no color pics. But its in a 1980 Hot Rod Magazine Chevrolet #3 special edition. Titled How to build a Street Machine. The injection system quote " one streetified-type set of Crower port injectors.

[Bob Johnson]

FOOSE
BURMAN(RIDDLER 06)
TROY
DALE BEOSCH (YOU HAVE SEEN THE CARS JUST DONT KNOW IT)
ALAN JOHNSON
BRIZIO
MARCELS
MOAL
BUTTERA
STEVE COOK
I have put interiors in cars for half the people on this list and seen them from the inside out(wiring pluming ect.) The better the car is built ,the better the end result is.big budgets help.Just a thought from first hand experience.
You can tell the real story..seeing them from the inside out..lots of evils lurking beneath the shiny skin on some builders stuff

[Bob Johnson]

FOOSE
BURMAN(RIDDLER 06)
TROY
DALE BEOSCH (YOU HAVE SEEN THE CARS JUST DONT KNOW IT)
ALAN JOHNSON
BRIZIO
MARCELS
MOAL
BUTTERA
STEVE COOK
I have put interiors in cars for half the people on this list and seen them from the inside out(wiring pluming ect.) The better the car is built ,the better the end result is.big budgets help.Just a thought from first hand experience.
did you do the interior on Steve Cooks Yellow Camaro?

[MarkM66]

probably my as*...he belongs in the top 5..end of story

At least I was the first to mention his name!!!!!!!!

I added "probably" because I don't like to force my opinions on people! I know he's one of the best. Seen his work many times!

Jeezz...

[Bob Johnson]

I wouldn't dare force my opinion on anyone either..lol..Alan has always been on the street rod side which would make him unknown on the Pro-Tour side of the hobby..His first foray into the Street Machine side was my 69 Battle Axe Camaro. He was amazed at the amount of coverage and interest it generated and his wife Angie and he both went wild over it. I told him i just didn't get a nut off the street rod stuff and I wasn't going to do anymore of them. He got fired up on Street Machines and from now on I think he will always have one going. He's in the planning stages of a 69 Camaro for Doug Cooper that will rival or top the Cuda. (Doug owns the Battle Axe now and Alan's 32 3 W with the SB2 434 cu.in. Nascar Chevy Motor and a 6 speed w Halibrand Quick Change)among several other killer cars. This thread was posted before my Cuda was actually covered that much. I think everyone on this side knows who he is now. He is a hard working honest sincere young man that is absolutely going places.

[StRacerDuke]

You'll have to add Leonard Lopez from Dominator to the list too! One of the first builders featured on Rides in the first season. http://www.dominatorusa.com/index.htm

[Bob Johnson]

You've got to include George Poteet..he doesn't actually do hands on building, but the number of builders he has helped get notoriety and kept known builders busy with killer projects is unequaled. He has over 12 projects under construction right now..with builders like Dave Lane, Troy Trepanier, Steve Moal,Roy Brizio,Jerry Kyle,Steve Strope, etc. George has great taste and a clear vision of what an innovative car should be. He has brought so much to the table in the last decade alone, it is unreal. I hope to see Alan do another project for him.

[Mean 69]

I think everyone on this side knows who he is now. He is a hard working honest sincere young man that is absolutely going places.

Bob, your car has certainly gotten a ton of mileage on this site, and it's been said before many times, but it is the real, real deal. I don't think anyone can question the capabilities of the builder, and without a doubt, he is CERTAINLY at or near the top of the heap. The cool thing is about this hobby, it is always progressing, and new ideas, approaches, and levels of execution just continue to elevate. There is no question in my mind that a lot of the cues and ideas found on your car will influence many of the other top builders. And, you never know who's going to pop onto the scene that you've never heard of. It's cool to watch it all, honestly.

Mark

[Bob Johnson]

Bob, your car has certainly gotten a ton of mileage on this site, and it's been said before many times, but it is the real, real deal. I don't think anyone can question the capabilities of the builder, and without a doubt, he is CERTAINLY at or near the top of the heap. The cool thing is about this hobby, it is always progressing, and new ideas, approaches, and levels of execution just continue to elevate. There is no question in my mind that a lot of the cues and ideas found on your car will influence many of the other top builders. And, you never know who's going to pop onto the scene that you've never heard of. It's cool to watch it all, honestly.

Mark
that's the cool thing about Poteet..he sees a capable guy that is just budding, and gives him the project that will let him show what he can do. Plus George puts his vast experience, good taste, and most importantly money into the project. Jack offs can harp all they want about check writers, but you ask any top builder what is the key ingredient in building a top notch car..He will tell you a good customer and money.

[yellowrallys]

I have a few criteria for what makes a great car builder (Notice how far down the list cars are):
1) Ability To Put Family First Cars are a powerful obsession. It can be difficult to keep your priorities straight.
2) Willingness To Help Other Rodders Car building is challenging to say the least. Take what you've learned and pass it on--every chance you get.
3) Student of Hot Rodding No matter how good you are, spend time studying the efforts of other rodders.
4) Find Your Own Style Even if you can build a 100-point car, if you build cookie-cutter clones, you will never be great.
5) Be Innovative Take chances--even if it means pissing off some or all of the mainstream.
6) Function First If it don't run hard, don't bother.
7) Make Your Presense Known Can you really be great if you are the only one who knows about your efforts?

That said, my list looks like this:
1) Steve Moal (see the Torpedo in person and you'll agree)
2) Lil' John Buttera (He's built 100's of ground breaking race cars and hot rods. Billet before there was billet. Remember his 65 Chevy II with 84 Vette suspension built by him and his kid? God I wish I could find pix of that car)
3) Sam and Chip Foose
4) Marcel De Lay and Sons
5) Jeff Smith (builds cool, functional cars and has literally helped millions of us)
6) Troy Trepanier (Proof that just one car can launch a stellar career)
7) Mark Stielow (In the dictionary next to the word functional--with a picture of QuadraDuece)
8) Alan Johnson (all his cars have big HP under the hood)
9) Steve Strope (No one takes more chances with style than Strope)
10) John Parsons (Give him time - Hurry up JP)
10-b) Frank and Michael Serafine (Tied with JP for up & coming rodders who put family first, help others and will soon be unleashing premium, unique cars on the world.

Steve, I think this is the Lil' John deuce you mentioned...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2006/07/th_buttera-1.jpg (http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i273/yellowrallys/buttera.jpg)

[Beegs]

IMO it is difficult to create a top ten given the talent of past and present.
It's more of a group. I have a feeling this thread will deliver many more names, all deserving of : "top ten".

[Mean 69]

Jack offs can harp all they want about check writers, but you ask any top builder what is the key ingredient in building a top notch car..He will tell you a good customer and money.

How true that is, without question. I can say that first hand at this stage of our endeavor, we don't ever intend to be a pro builder shop, we prefer to stay in the suspension and handling segment, but without the right customer that has money, there is little to keep a new operation afloat. Thankfully we have gotten some incredible customers to help us get moving, with more on the way, but we still have a long way to go to be recognized with the Art Morrison's, et. al. You just know that the same deal holds with the builders, there is probably a ton of talent out there that is yet untapped. And then, of course, there are a bunch of fools out there too that try to convince folks they have what it takes, but don't and never will.

Mark

[CraigMorrison]

My top ten - in no real particular order:

Foose- Do I need to say why

Alloway-his cars have won riddler, AMBR, SMOY (2), and the new Mustang he is building is going to be killer (not to mention the 49 Ford for Lange and the 61 Starliner for Poteet)

Burman- Riddler 06 and a C1 Vette that is being built right now

Steve Moal- a true coach builder with some real original style. From Pebble Beach cars to AMBR stuff AMAZING! Not to mention a 55 Ford being built for Tim Allen.

Steve's Auto Restoration- Just toured his shop some of the most amazing sheetmetal tools on the west coast. These guys are awesome, very quiet professionals.

Alan Johnson - if anybody can make a Cuda look good they deserve to be up here- LOL

Zane Cullen - Creative Concepts- mostly street rods, but they have some really cool muscle car projects up their sleeves. Also toured their shop and are serious craftsmen.

Eric Peratt - Pinkee's rod shop- Eric has been turning out top stuff for a number of years.

Brian Fuller - One of Chip's guys that just started out on his own based in Atlanta does AMAZING work on both bikes and cars. Currently finishing up a 55 Ford 'Vert that will be awesome.

Neal Lee- Alabama builder that build a 55 with C5/C5. Currently building a 55 Ford for Mumford that should shake things up a bit.

Honorable mention-
Craig Wick - Local NW builder that is putting together a 64 Fairlane that is going to knock everybody on their can. I really wish I could talk about this car more, but can't. You guys are going to flip on this, I promise!

Kevin Bradley- Built the silver/blue Cuda that was at SEMA last year. Is currently building a PT-style 61 Citroen. He is getting ready to build a car for Charlize Theron- anybody building a car for a chick this smoking hot deserves to be mentioned!
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif
So there you have it. Cars and hot chicks what more could you want on a Saturday morning?

[CraigMorrison]

How true that is, without question. I can say that first hand at this stage of our endeavor, we don't ever intend to be a pro builder shop, we prefer to stay in the suspension and handling segment, but without the right customer that has money, there is little to keep a new operation afloat. Thankfully we have gotten some incredible customers to help us get moving, with more on the way, but we still have a long way to go to be recognized with the Art Morrison's, et. al. You just know that the same deal holds with the builders, there is probably a ton of talent out there that is yet untapped. And then, of course, there are a bunch of fools out there too that try to convince folks they have what it takes, but don't and never will.

Mark


Mark- as Art jokes, it only took us 30 years to become an overnight success.

[WhirlingDurvish]

You sound like you know what you're talking about.. But you're mistaken on Roy Brizio..and you've got a few assemblers in your top ten list that belong in your second group..I'm concerned about your Durvish name..Durvish isn't in the dictionary, but Dervish is... a member of any various Muslim Ascetic Religious Groups.. ascetic is one who leads a life of strict self denial for religious purposes...I have a feeling that isn't you..lol.. maybe SN65 Bob, but not you...lol


Okay Bob I know which two belong in the lower section. Lets see could it be Lobeck and Bartlett? The reason I discounted them is because they have both done some work that took more than just assembling. Then again, here in the last couple of years Alloway has done some work that wasn't just assembly. On the other hand though, I have never really seen him cut one up. I have seen him F*** some up with horrible stances and cartoon looks, but never really cut one up. I have seen that he is cutting up a '38 Chevy coupe right now, but it will never come close to the one that Boesch built. Boesch's will humiliate that car time and time again. I promise you Bobby knows that. One things for sure, you will be able to see the transfer case it will sit so bad. The reason Brizio is on the lower list is because I bet you can't name more that 2 cars he has built that any rodder couldn't build with the same pile of parts. The V-12 Ferrari powered roadster I will say took more than assembling and maybe even Claptons '40 Ford coupe, but beyond that we could all build most of the cars he has built. Same goes for Lobeck and Bartlett. Nevertheless it still takes vision and execution. As for my name, I heard it in a Comedy, thought it was funny, and started using it.

[dropit69]

craig..you leave out troy for a reason?..i believe hes one of the best..but he is local to me and ive always liked his stuff..maaybe im biased..lol.

[CraigMorrison]

craig..you leave out troy for a reason?..i believe hes one of the best..but he is local to me and ive always liked his stuff..maaybe im biased..lol.

Actually- I spaced completely on Troy....one hell of a builder and definitely deserves to be on the list. I guess I named my ten because I've recently been to their shops or am framiliar with their projects / they are using our chassis. Slightly biased based on those factors, but hey unbiased opinions aren't very exciting....

[Bob Johnson]

Okay Bob I know which two belong in the lower section. Lets see could it be Lobeck and Bartlett? The reason I discounted them is because they have both done some work that took more than just assembling. Then again, here in the last couple of years Alloway has done some work that wasn't just assembly. On the other hand though, I have never really seen him cut one up. I have seen him F*** some up with horrible stances and cartoon looks, but never really cut one up. I have seen that he is cutting up a '38 Chevy coupe right now, but it will never come close to the one that Boesch built. Boesch's will humiliate that car time and time again. I promise you Bobby knows that. One things for sure, you will be able to see the transfer case it will sit so bad. The reason Brizio is on the lower list is because I bet you can't name more that 2 cars he has built that any rodder couldn't build with the same pile of parts. The V-12 Ferrari powered roadster I will say took more than assembling and maybe even Claptons '40 Ford coupe, but beyond that we could all build most of the cars he has built. Same goes for Lobeck and Bartlett. Nevertheless it still takes vision and execution. As for my name, I heard it in a Comedy, thought it was funny, and started using it.
No it isn't Lobeck and Bartlett..I've been to Bartletts shop and they move metal all to hell and back..He has one big as* total encompassing facility.. Lobeck qualifies as a builder for sure also. Let's leave it at that..don't want to ruffle feathers

[Bob Johnson]

Troy should be in the top 5 of anybody's list in the world. You look at that Bonneville Cuda he is building and if you don't sport wood, you've got a problem. I don't know anyone that could match what he is doing with that car..

[Bob Johnson]

Craig you mention Alan because you say anyone that could make a Cuda look good deserves a spot. Do you not think a stock 70 71 Cuda is one of the best looking muscle cars of all time? I think if you took a survey, the 69 Camaro and the 70/71 Cuda would be the top votes. The 71 Cuda reins as undisputed top money king in the muscle car world..It has the best lines of any muscle car in my eyes. 68 Charger is another top pick for me

[southernfriedcj]

Craig you mention Alan because you say anyone that could make a Cuda look good deserves a spot. Do you not think a stock 70 71 Cuda is one of the best looking muscle cars of all time? I think if you took a survey, the 69 Camaro and the 70/71 Cuda would be the top votes. The 71 Cuda reins as undisputed top money king in the muscle car world..It has the best lines of any muscle car in my eyes. 68 Charger is another top pick for me

Back away from the crack pipe Bob!:) The Challenger puts the Fish to shame in the looks dept. As does the '69 TA, '70-'73 TA, '65-'66 Shelby, '69-'71 GTO, '68-'70 AMX, '69-'70 Boss 302.

Wait, all the cars I mentioned are Pony cars, not muscle cars!:hammer:
Nevermind, get back on the pipe, I'll STFU.:fingersx:

[Bob Johnson]

Back away from the crack pipe Bob!:) The Challenger puts the Fish to shame in the looks dept. As does the '69 TA, '70-'73 TA, '65-'66 Shelby, '69-'71 GTO, '68-'70 AMX, '69-'70 Boss 302.

Wait, all the cars I mentioned are Pony cars, not muscle cars!:hammer:
Nevermind, get back on the pipe, I'll STFU.:fingersx:
Challenger won't touch a Cuda in the price dept. Talk with any Mopar Group and a Cuda would win over the Challenger hands down..I don't think there's any comparison..But I'm staying on the pipe either way..lol... none of the cars you mention will touch the price of a Cuda..parts for a Cuda are also the highest of the batch..You put a 69-71 GTO ahead of the 65?? 71 GTO is a ugly ass pig.. You leave out the 67 Shelby?? I think the name Southernfried pretty well sums it up..You need a hit off my pipe..lol

[southernfriedcj]

I love the hood on the '71 GTO, reminds me of the '69 TA. I can't be objective, I love the cars that me and the boys were driving in high school circa 1978! Pass me the pipe!

[Bob Johnson]

The hood on the 71 is fine..but that bumper grill looks like a big mouth bass that just got hooked..UGLY..as far as the 69TA..make mine a 73 super Duty or an earlier RA IV..twice the car..same is true on the 69 Camaro...70 Camaro is a much better car even though i'm a 69 man..

[WEAVER]

I wouldn't dare force my opinion on anyone either..lol..Alan has always been on the street rod side which would make him unknown on the Pro-Tour side of the hobby..His first foray into the Street Machine side was my 69 Battle Axe Camaro. He was amazed at the amount of coverage and interest it generated and his wife Angie and he both went wild over it. I told him i just didn't get a nut off the street rod stuff and I wasn't going to do anymore of them. He got fired up on Street Machines and from now on I think he will always have one going. He's in the planning stages of a 69 Camaro for Doug Cooper that will rival or top the Cuda. (Doug owns the Battle Axe now and Alan's 32 3 W with the SB2 434 cu.in. Nascar Chevy Motor and a 6 speed w Halibrand Quick Change)among several other killer cars. This thread was posted before my Cuda was actually covered that much. I think everyone on this side knows who he is now. He is a hard working honest sincere young man that is absolutely going places.No BOB i didnt get to know Steve Cook tilljust this last year after the camaro was done,we have talked about getting together on a project,a lot of people think i only work on street rods.Latetly i've really been loving the later cars,whole new way of having fun,more room to work with(posted this on wrong post)

[Slammed58Buick]

No it isn't Lobeck and Bartlett..I've been to Bartletts shop and they move metal all to hell and back..He has one big as* total encompassing facility.. Lobeck qualifies as a builder for sure also. Let's leave it at that..don't want to ruffle feathers


Bob I have to agree. I know Ray Bartlett and he is one hell of a builder. The '36 that Troy is building for Ridler started out at Rays and they moved a lot of metal on that one. Same goes for Barry and the gang.

[WEAVER]

Okay Bob I know which two belong in the lower section. Lets see could it be Lobeck and Bartlett? The reason I discounted them is because they have both done some work that took more than just assembling. Then again, here in the last couple of years Alloway has done some work that wasn't just assembly. On the other hand though, I have never really seen him cut one up. I have seen him F*** some up with horrible stances and cartoon looks, but never really cut one up. I have seen that he is cutting up a '38 Chevy coupe right now, but it will never come close to the one that Boesch built. Boesch's will humiliate that car time and time again. I promise you Bobby knows that. One things for sure, you will be able to see the transfer case it will sit so bad. The reason Brizio is on the lower list is because I bet you can't name more that 2 cars he has built that any rodder couldn't build with the same pile of parts. The V-12 Ferrari powered roadster I will say took more than assembling and maybe even Claptons '40 Ford coupe, but beyond that we could all build most of the cars he has built. Same goes for Lobeck and Bartlett. Nevertheless it still takes vision and execution. As for my name, I heard it in a Comedy, thought it was funny, and started using it.What about Roger Burman he has been cranking out cars for his customers for years and winning picks all the time

[WEAVER]

Actually- I spaced completely on Troy....one hell of a builder and definitely deserves to be on the list. I guess I named my ten because I've recently been to their shops or am framiliar with their projects / they are using our chassis. Slightly biased based on those factors, but hey unbiased opinions aren't very exciting....
I agree i spent two weeks working on the 37 ford vert for Troy at his shop, I watched his shop get 3 cars ready for sema last year, i think
there one of the best anywhere,anytime.awsum crew,customers with the funds to build the winners.some of you tour guys should look at Troys street rods also,there built with alot of ideas.(street rodder this month) to bad the car got stolen.

[WEAVER]

Bob I have to agree. I know Ray Bartlett and he is one hell of a builder. The '36 that Troy is building for Ridler started out at Rays and they moved a lot of metal on that one. Same goes for Barry and the gang.
That 36 at Troys will win the riddler,i would bet money on it.

[CraigMorrison]

Craig you mention Alan because you say anyone that could make a Cuda look good deserves a spot. Do you not think a stock 70 71 Cuda is one of the best looking muscle cars of all time? I think if you took a survey, the 69 Camaro and the 70/71 Cuda would be the top votes. The 71 Cuda reins as undisputed top money king in the muscle car world..It has the best lines of any muscle car in my eyes. 68 Charger is another top pick for me

Bob - I just said that to pull your chain......... Alan definitely deserves to be on that list. Your Cuda is awesome.

[Bob Johnson]

No BOB i didnt get to know Steve Cook tilljust this last year after the camaro was done,we have talked about getting together on a project,a lot of people think i only work on street rods.Latetly i've really been loving the later cars,whole new way of having fun,more room to work with(posted this on wrong post)
I was hoping you wouldn't claim that upholstery job

[Bob Johnson]

Bob - I just said that to pull your chain......... Alan definitely deserves to be on that list. Your Cuda is awesome.
No I wasn't talking about the list..What I'm asking, is do you think a stock 70/71 Cuda is not good looking?

[Bob Johnson]

What about Roger Burman he has been cranking out cars for his customers for years and winning picks all the time
I've not cared for much of Rogers work until this Ridler car. Maybe it was the money end of it. I was surprised at the quality of this last build. His stuff has had edges on it in the past, but this cars shows me maybe he just didn't have the customer to spend the money or it was his car and he couldn't justify the time and expense to finish it thoroughly. His cars always had a good look though.

[WEAVER]

I've not cared for much of Rogers work until this Ridler car. Maybe it was the money end of it. I was surprised at the quality of this last build. His stuff has had edges on it in the past, but this cars shows me maybe he just didn't have the customer to spend the money or it was his car and he couldn't justify the time and expense to finish it thoroughly. His cars always had a good look though.
You are right,he just needs a customer with the money.and he never forced his own ideas on to them.I'm not liking everything about the riddler car but it did the job.Roger had more money to work with.There is alot cutomers that wanted just a driver,no glory hounds he makes a good living building those type of cars.

[WEAVER]

I was hoping you wouldn't claim that upholstery job
Don't worry i never claim anything i didn't do,there's jobs i've done i won't claim LOL!!!

[southernfriedcj]

i'm a 69 man..

Thanks for the visual image Bob, I was fixin' to eat lunch!:slap:

[JohnUlaszek]

Paul Morgan at DSE really deserves mention, he will never blow his own horn, but has had his hands on a lot more cars than most probably realize, especially considering he worked in the GM prototype shop before Kyle stole him from the General.

[Rolling_Thunder]

1) Foose
2) Matt Delaney
3) Troy
4) Steve Strope
5) ....

[Bob Johnson]

That 36 at Troys will win the riddler,i would bet money on it.
why was the 36 moved out of Rays shop?

[Bob Johnson]

Paul Morgan at DSE really deserves mention, he will never blow his own horn, but has had his hands on a lot more cars than you most of you guys realize, especially considering he worked in the GM prototype shop before Kyle stole him from the General.
who'd a thunk a few years back when Kyle left GM that ones future would look brighter at DSE than at GM?? good ol bureaucracy,croneism,politicking,corporate BS, etc.

[Bob Johnson]

Thanks for the visual image Bob, I was fixin' to eat lunch!:slap:
fixin to.. good redneck talk..i love it

[Bob Johnson]

Rolling Thunder.... is it your opinion that Strope and Delaney are in the top 5 builders in the nation?

[WEAVER]

1) Foose
2) Matt Delaney
3) Troy
4) Steve Strope
5) ....
Don't know Delaney,half the people who own a tool box can build as good as strope.I've seen the cars some where cool but averge build quilty. sorry

[1sick65]

Troy for sure. I really enjoyed touring his shop this year at the open house.

[Steve Chryssos]

Don't know Delaney,half the people who own a tool box can build as good as strope.I've seen the cars some where cool but averge build quilty. sorry

Strope is getting there. Poteet's Charger was a big step forward. Most people would be surprised to see that Hammer, the dark silver 70 Road Runner, is quite "ordinary" in person. But that's part of the appeal. People can relate to cars that they, themselves, can actually build if they try hard enough. Strope's cars have that.

Geography plays a big role as well. It's a lot easier for a builder from SoCal to get exposure than a builder in Alabama or Arkansas. And somehow, repeated exposure morphs into acclaim.

[J2speedandcustom]

Back to Burman, Bob did you not like the minotti (sp) he built for Doug Hoppe? That is one of the coolest cars built lately in my mind. Just curious on why you have not been a big fan!! Oh yeah and how much money is not enough money to build a quality car...hmmmm!

[WEAVER]

Strope is getting there. Poteet's Charger was a big step forward. Most people would be surprised to see that Hammer, the dark silver 70 Road Runner, is quite "ordinary" in person. But that's part of the appeal. People can relate to cars that they, themselves, can actually build if they try hard enough. Strope's cars have that.

Geography plays a big role as well. It's a lot easier for a builder from SoCal to get exposure than a builder in Alabama or Arkansas. And somehow, repeated exposure morphs into acclaim.
Point taken,ican go along with that. Look what happened to strange motion,built up by the magazines,taken down by goodguys gazzette.

[KWIKND]

Point taken,ican go along with that. Look what happened to strange motion,built up by the magazines,taken down by goodguys gazzette.

What happened with Goodguys Gazette?

[Bob Johnson]

Titus wrote for The Gazette. He had an editorial about builders that were doing substandard work. He never mentioned any names but he kept using the word strange in his descriptions..it was used numerous times throughout the article. A guy was suing a builder and Titus never mentioned the builders name. 95% of the people never caught it. But don't forget that the Goodguys had just given Tim Strange the Trendsetter Award the prior year @ SEMA. This is a prestigious award. I really don't think the Titus Editorial was Tim's undoing. Tim could give a car the LOOK. but he just never got the detail down for whatever reason. Alan Johnson and other builders were charging more per hour and had business out the ying yang, and Tim just couldn't get anything going.

[Bob Johnson]

Back to Burman, Bob did you not like the minotti (sp) he built for Doug Hoppe? That is one of the coolest cars built lately in my mind. Just curious on why you have not been a big fan!! Oh yeah and how much money is not enough money to build a quality car...hmmmm!
was that the Champagne colored one? After looking at the all Steel 37 3 window Alan Johnson built, the glass ones just don't trip my switch. The proportions were so beautiful on it that I just can't get excited about the Downs or Minotti bodies. I'm just not into the ISCA look. I loved George Poteets little 5 window hi boy that won SROY..and Troys 32 that won..and Pinkees and Royce's little A Pick-up that won..and Dale Boesch's 38 Chev. I loved the 32 4 dr. Highboy with the blown Flathead last year. I had $100K in my 69 Battle Axe camaro..I loved it. But to do a nice street rod nowdays, you're gonna go north of $200K or you're just cutting some corners..You could spend tons more as The Ridler Car Roger just built did I'm sure. it's not that I'm not a big fan of Rogers, it's just his build style is not to my taste. He showed me he can do all the details, but in the past I've seen some shortcomings. Can't take care of all the details if someone isn't going to pay for the time and effort it takes. Half of the total build time on a car is the details. That last 10% translates to 50%. Obviously that has been his problem.

[J2speedandcustom]

Point taken, you are right with the fiberglass bodies, after seeing what can be done with some metal cars, it changes your prospective, atleast it has changed mine.. It is just crazy that north of 200K is what it takes! I know the time involved with the details is where it adds up, maybe that is why we love the pro-touring, alot more appealing to the general crowd money wise...

[J2speedandcustom]

oh yeah, it was the champagne colored one!!!

[Bob Johnson]

When you look into Ford's, Chryslers' and GM's SEMA booths year after year and look at which builders they give cars to, you understand why they are losing their asses. No one there really understands what a quality builder is, and what a quality car is or they wouldn't keep giving new cars to some of these guys that are GC's. The look and quality of some of these cars is pitiful. Can't blame the builder..Why go in there like Air Ride Technologies and spend a few thousand hours and tons on parts when some other builder gets the same deal year after year and just bolts on some parts right quick. Bret at ARide has spent some serious time and money on the vehicles he has brought. I'm not so sure he even got a vehicle 1 of the 2 last years. Foose has done some marvelous work too. Several of the builders mentioned here have had cars there..I wasn't impressed. I took a vehicle out there for a guy who won a GM design award. That was a joke..Couldn't even shut the Lambo Style Doors..car was built in 2 weeks..no quality whatsoever..but it won a GM design award.

[Bob Johnson]

Point taken, you are right with the fiberglass bodies, after seeing what can be done with some metal cars, it changes your prospective, atleast it has changed mine.. It is just crazy that north of 200K is what it takes! I know the time involved with the details is where it adds up, maybe that is why we love the pro-touring, alot more appealing to the general crowd money wise...
That Ridler car is waaaay north of $500K I'll bet..... hasn't Roger built a lot of cars for the Alstotts? That's when you know a builder is doing his job..when he builds numerous cars of good to high quality for the same guys. Tons of cars are pulled out of shops all the time. most guys that can afford cars costing more than a new Rolls Phantom, Ferrari 430, Porsche Carrera GT. etc. aren't easy to please.

[mac71ss]

I would like to mention Ken Janow. He is an amazing builder. At detroit this year he had the the two-tone 37 coupe (Z-Rod). One of the best engineered cars i have ever seen.

[KWIKND]

A guy was suing a builder and Titus never mentioned the builders name.
Who sued Tim?

[KWIKND]

Tim could give a car the LOOK. but he just never got the detail down for whatever reason.

So far true from my experience.

[J2speedandcustom]

Roger has done several cars for Kevin Alstott. I have no clue what is in the Riddler car, but I think Roger did a great job for the money involved. Detail and quality are very hard to find on a consistent basis, we have learned alot in a short time and find it truly amazing how different we look at cars now that we have built a couple. I was astonished this year at Columbus in the pro pick area to be able blindly see the cars where alot of money had been spent compared the normal (50 to 100K) was invested. Alot of it as you say is the time spent on the details and that obviously cost money. Like on your Cuda, the details are endless and also excuted very well that most people of no idea that they are there, but that is what makes it awsum!!

[rocketman]

Back to Burman, Bob did you not like the minotti (sp) he built for Doug Hoppe? That is one of the coolest cars built lately in my mind. Just curious on why you have not been a big fan!! Oh yeah and how much money is not enough money to build a quality car...hmmmm!


I have a Minotti coupe like Doug's,just haven't been motived to start it yet.They are great bodies,I wish Minotti was still open.

[rocketman]

Roger has done several cars for Kevin Alstott. I have no clue what is in the Riddler car, but I think Roger did a great job for the money involved. Detail and quality are very hard to find on a consistent basis, we have learned alot in a short time and find it truly amazing how different we look at cars now that we have built a couple. I was astonished this year at Columbus in the pro pick area to be able blindly see the cars where alot of money had been spent compared the normal (50 to 100K) was invested. Alot of it as you say is the time spent on the details and that obviously cost money. Like on your Cuda, the details are endless and also excuted very well that most people of no idea that they are there, but that is what makes it awsum!!


All the cars Roger has built for Kevin have been top notch qauilty,Kevin's not affiared to spend his money.And Roger is a awesome car builder.IMO

[J2speedandcustom]

I agree that Roger is really good at what he does... I saw Doug's before it was painted and I agree the body was very nice and well built. You should really get that thing going, they are cool when done....I think Kevin has plenty of money to put together a couple cars...LOL

[ironworks]

I know the troy 36 is all hush for riddler, but does anybody have some specs, I think troy's work is top notch and I love 36's. Does anyone know the engine and chassis stuff. I know pics are out of the question but come on give us west coasts something.

Rodger

[rocketman]

Point taken, you are right with the fiberglass bodies, after seeing what can be done with some metal cars, it changes your prospective, atleast it has changed mine.. It is just crazy that north of 200K is what it takes! I know the time involved with the details is where it adds up, maybe that is why we love the pro-touring, alot more appealing to the general crowd money wise...

I like steel cars,but to get a steel car to have the shape of these glass cars is hard and high dollar,I have a 37 chevy coupe I want to build,but to do the body like I want its going to cost me around 10-15 g in bodywork.

Now some of the glass cars I don't like,the wild rods,and coast to coast,the oze car's just look like crap.the Down's,Minotti's,they are the best out there.

[rocketman]

I agree that Roger is really good at what he does... I saw Doug's before it was painted and I agree the body was very nice and well built. You should really get that thing going, they are cool when done....I think Kevin has plenty of money to put together a couple cars...LOL

It's on the list,I have another Minotti body(3 window style) I am going to build for a seller rod.I have built 3-4 Minotti's and they are the best.

[Bob Johnson]

lots of builders are mentioned here..Lots of them can get the look and lots of them have good quality cosmetically..I buy and sell rods, Street Machines, Muscle Cars etc. You won't believe how some of these cars drive. Several names mentioned on here have built cars that drive like crap. In fact, very few can build a REAL CAR THAT HANDLES...All that glitters ain't gold....

[J2speedandcustom]

That is the beauty of pro-touring.... Function first and always, then add the style and beauty to complete the package!!!!

[WEAVER]

That Ridler car is waaaay north of $500K I'll bet..... hasn't Roger built a lot of cars for the Alstotts? That's when you know a builder is doing his job..when he builds numerous cars of good to high quality for the same guys. Tons of cars are pulled out of shops all the time. most guys that can afford cars costing more than a new Rolls Phantom, Ferrari 430, Porsche Carrera GT. etc. aren't easy to please.
The riddler car was built for less than 400k and yes roger has built about 15 cars for alstotts,hell i've upholstered 10 cars for alstotts.
Roger is a good builder when givin a chance, not to many people can win pros picks with cars built to drive cross country for less than 100k
total cost(even with interiors figured in)The cost of a bad ass rod these days are high because there a lot of good cars getting built. it takes more to stand out than a flashy color.

[WEAVER]

It's on the list,I have another Minotti body(3 window style) I am going to build for a seller rod.I have built 3-4 Minotti's and they are the best.
I HAVE PUT INTERIORS IN A LOT OF GLASS CARS AND THEY ARE ONE OF THE BEST TO WORK ON.THEY ALWAYS WILL LOOK COOL

[WEAVER]

I like steel cars,but to get a steel car to have the shape of these glass cars is hard and high dollar,I have a 37 chevy coupe I want to build,but to do the body like I want its going to cost me around 10-15 g in bodywork.

Now some of the glass cars I don't like,the wild rods,and coast to coast,the oze car's just look like crap.the Down's,Minotti's,they are the best out there.
AHMEN BROTHER

[WEAVER]

I know the troy 36 is all hush for riddler, but does anybody have some specs, I think troy's work is top notch and I love 36's. Does anyone know the engine and chassis stuff. I know pics are out of the question but come on give us west coasts something.

Rodger
Chassis all independent completly custom built,ford motor,no body panels untouched,oblong frame rails(veiwed from end)

[WEAVER]

Point taken, you are right with the fiberglass bodies, after seeing what can be done with some metal cars, it changes your prospective, atleast it has changed mine.. It is just crazy that north of 200K is what it takes! I know the time involved with the details is where it adds up, maybe that is why we love the pro-touring, alot more appealing to the general crowd money wise...
Jeff is right street rods are expensive,you have to buy everthing to build one.

[Bob Johnson]

The riddler car was built for less than 400k and yes roger has built about 15 cars for alstotts,hell i've upholstered 10 cars for alstotts.
Roger is a good builder when givin a chance, not to many people can win pros picks with cars built to drive cross country for less than 100k
total cost(even with interiors figured in)The cost of a bad ass rod these days are high because there a lot of good cars getting built. it takes more to stand out than a flashy color.
if he built that Ridler car for less than 400K and lots of other cars for less than $100K then that's why there were edges on some of his cars i've seen. It cost a lot to get rid of the edges..For the money, he's obviously doing a real good job..

[Bob Johnson]

Chassis all independent completly custom built,ford motor,no body panels untouched,oblong frame rails(veiwed from end)
OUch..all that custom stuff, and having to redo work from another shop for whatever reason..That sounds expensive..That's what happened to the Grand Master..wound up being north of $1.25M I heard..

[kennyd]

I know the troy 36 is all hush for riddler, but does anybody have some specs, I think troy's work is top notch and I love 36's. Does anyone know the engine and chassis stuff. I know pics are out of the question but come on give us west coasts something.

Rodger

it has the most wild front suspension i have ever seen . the lower controll arm is all that holds the front wheel in place . no upper arm ,no radius arm . it also holds a leafspring inside the arm . the underside of the car has no bolt showing anywhere . the rear suspension has a independent quickchange that is floating ,the upper mount is part of the housing .
troy is #1 .... he is on a level that NO builder equal . not even foose .

[kennyd]

The riddler car was built for less than 400k and yes roger has built about 15 cars for alstotts,hell i've upholstered 10 cars for alstotts.
Roger is a good builder when givin a chance, not to many people can win pros picks with cars built to drive cross country for less than 100k
total cost(even with interiors figured in)The cost of a bad ass rod these days are high because there a lot of good cars getting built. it takes more to stand out than a flashy color.


i dont see how roger and rock do it . i have talked to roger and got alot of info from him about how he is running his shop . i have tried to pattern mine from his , but i tried for the last 3 years . i dont understand how he i getting them done .

[ironworks]

Wow that thing sounds awesome. Is it a 3 window or roadster?

Thanks for the info.

My list would be
Troy
Steve moal
marcel and his boys
Craig naff
Alan Johnson
Steve's auto restorations
Scott Sniks ( only seen one car in person but looked nice )
Alloway
Sam and Chip foose
Eric peratt

Most of these guys are capable of fabbing everything, and that is the stuff I really like. If you build your own chassis most of the time I have more respect for you. Troy and Steve Moal do totally amazing work. When I was at steves in january I asked if most of the cars are 7 figures and his son said "no but close, unless they put a bunch of crap on the car like the blue one and he pointed at the blue one they had just finished."

[rocketman]

Jeff is right street rods are expensive,you have to buy everthing to build one.

pro Touring cars are no more than a street rod.You take a 69 camaro redo everything inside and out,its right there with a nice street rod.How many of you guys with 69 camaro have 30-50g in them alot I bet.All these alumiun engines and trick suspensions add up.

[rocketman]

it has the most wild front suspension i have ever seen . the lower controll arm is all that holds the front wheel in place . no upper arm ,no radius arm . it also holds a leafspring inside the arm . the underside of the car has no bolt showing anywhere . the rear suspension has a independent quickchange that is floating ,the upper mount is part of the housing .
troy is #1 .... he is on a level that NO builder equal . not even foose .

Troy build neat stuff but I wouldn't say there is no equal.IMO.

[WEAVER]

i dont see how roger and rock do it . i have talked to roger and got alot of info from him about how he is running his shop . i have tried to pattern mine from his , but i tried for the last 3 years . i dont understand how he i getting them done .
I,ve worked on rogers cars for 7 years now (35 cars) he runs a tight shop,no wasted time on the customers bills.They also run 6 days a week 12 hour days.What ever it takes to get job done.

[WEAVER]

OUch..all that custom stuff, and having to redo work from another shop for whatever reason..That sounds expensive..That's what happened to the Grand Master..wound up being north of $1.25M I heard.. YOUR ARE RIGHT,I'VE GONE THRU THERE DESIGN IDEAS THAT BOB THRASH HAS FOR IT AND IT IS WILD.TROY HAS A GOOD STAFF,THE MAIN FABRICATER ON THIS BUILD IS LEVI GREEN.

[1sick65]

They also run 6 days a week 12 hour days.What ever it takes to get job done.

I do not see how Kenny works the hours he does and still has time to enjoy life. He works Monday-Friday 7-5 at his everyday job, goes home and spends 3 to 4 hours a night in the shop, 6-5 on Saturday, and 6-2 on Sunday. He may not be one of the top ten builders listed, but he has my respect.

[ProStreet R/T]

Troy build neat stuff but I wouldn't say there is no equal.IMO.

I don't know. There are guys with style (Foose) and guys who build hard core race cars. But NOBODY I have seen can blend the two like Troy. If you're into a real drivers car I can't think of many other shops to turn to. I have a feeling if you ever see chicayne in person you would definitely agree.


I can't wait to see that cuda out on the salt. Hope it's finished and out there for national finals this year :ssst:

[Bob Johnson]

I don't know. There are guys with style (Foose) and guys who build hard core race cars. But NOBODY I have seen can blend the two like Troy. If you're into a real drivers car I can't think of many other shops to turn to. I have a feeling if you ever see chicayne in person you would definitely agree.


I can't wait to see that cuda out on the salt. Hope it's finished and out there for national finals this year :ssst:
I agree with you on both..Chip isn't focused on car building like
Troy is. Who knows what he could do if he didn't have all these irons in the fire. But Chicayne didn't have a chassis.. Troy is a chassis specialist, but he didn't get involved with Chicayne early enough to put one of his chassis under it. Sniper for its day was more of a car in my eyes. The chassis under it was unbelievable for its time.

[Bob Johnson]

Troy build neat stuff but I wouldn't say there is no equal.IMO.
for the sake of argument, let's say there is no one better...maybe equal..but I don't think so either.. Alan isn't but 35..he's past where Troy was at that age. But then, the barometer has moved way up too.

[rocketman]

I do not see how Kenny works the hours he does and still has time to enjoy life. He works Monday-Friday 7-5 at his everyday job, goes home and spends 3 to 4 hours a night in the shop, 6-5 on Saturday, and 6-2 on Sunday. He may not be one of the top ten builders listed, but he has my respect.

Kenny and Travis build some high quailty cars.There's not much they build I don't like from there.

[WhirlingDurvish]

I would like to mention Ken Janow. He is an amazing builder. At detroit this year he had the the two-tone 37 coupe (Z-Rod). One of the best engineered cars i have ever seen.

Yeah, when ya can get him to actually finish a car.

[Bob Johnson]

Yeah, when ya can get him to actually finish a car.
Mike Hughes would agree with you 100%. Janow had started his 37 that was great 8 last year and won the Milwinders in Houston later that year..TNT finished if after Mike pulled it out of Janow's. The last 10% of a car is nearly 40% of the work.

[Bob Johnson]

Kenny and Travis build some high quailty cars.There's not much they build I don't like from there.
Kenny is a great guy and does excellent work. Alan Johnson works at least that many hours but does it all at his shop. There isn't much that Alan can't do on a car himself..he doesn't like to farm out anything but engine building and interiors..he built all the interior pieces on the Cuda..Paul just covered everything

[Bob Johnson]

I like steel cars,but to get a steel car to have the shape of these glass cars is hard and high dollar,I have a 37 chevy coupe I want to build,but to do the body like I want its going to cost me around 10-15 g in bodywork.

Now some of the glass cars I don't like,the wild rods,and coast to coast,the oze car's just look like crap.the Down's,Minotti's,they are the best out there.
If you could do the bodywork on a steel car for $15k, which I think is very low, you'd be wise to do so because the steel car is going to bring a lot more money on the back end. Steel is real. I'd hate to know how much Alan is going to charge Doug Cooper for the metal work on the 32 B400 he's building for Doug. I couldn't believe it. The whole body, doors, cowl, roof, etc was cut out. Window frames and windshield frame was all that was left and being held by braces. He's making every panel on the body..Unbelievable amount of work. He got a Yoder and he loves to move metal..he has english wheels, pullmax, planishing hammers, and I don't know what all else..That Yoder will move metal real fast..

[rocketman]

Kenny is a great guy and does excellent work. Alan Johnson works at least that many hours but does it all at his shop. There isn't much that Alan can't do on a car himself..he doesn't like to farm out anything but engine building and interiors..he built all the interior pieces on the Cuda..Paul just covered everything

I don't think it matters which car builder it is,Kenny D,Alan J,Troy,Roger B,etc.They all spend many a late nite in the shop.

There's not many car builders that like to farm things out,but few builder build there own chassis's,engine's,interior's,etc.They all get parts from some where.

All these guy's have earned there due respect.

[Bob Johnson]

I like steel cars,but to get a steel car to have the shape of these glass cars is hard and high dollar,I have a 37 chevy coupe I want to build,but to do the body like I want its going to cost me around 10-15 g in bodywork.

Now some of the glass cars I don't like,the wild rods,and coast to coast,the oze car's just look like crap.the Down's,Minotti's,they are the best out there.
What would you think Dale Boesch had $wise in the metal work on that 38 Chevy?

[rocketman]

for the sake of argument, let's say there is no one better...maybe equal..but I don't think so either.. Alan isn't but 35..he's past where Troy was at that age. But then, the barometer has moved way up too.

I personally like Alan's cars better than Troy's.There's only acouple of Troy's cars I like,Predator and Bisquick.And Alan's work is getting better with every new car.

[rocketman]

I HAVE PUT INTERIORS IN A LOT OF GLASS CARS AND THEY ARE ONE OF THE BEST TO WORK ON.THEY ALWAYS WILL LOOK COOL

Agree'd

[J2speedandcustom]

What would you think Dale Boesch had $wise in the metal work on that 38 Chevy?

Alot!!! He started with a roof and then made the rest. And has a C5 chassis under it. The chassis was at the local World of Wheels show in March it's sweet!

[Bob Johnson]

Bob I have to agree. I know Ray Bartlett and he is one hell of a builder. The '36 that Troy is building for Ridler started out at Rays and they moved a lot of metal on that one. Same goes for Barry and the gang.
I think a few of Ray's guys came from Lobeck when i visited Ray's a few years ago

[rocketman]

What would you think Dale Boesch had $wise in the metal work on that 38 Chevy?

I'd say around 20g minumin.I haven't seen it in person yet but it looks great.And I have heard Boesch is high $$$ on his stuff.Anybody recall the 32 ford vicky he built about 10 years ago with the zr-1 engine,that was killer.

[Bob Johnson]

Wow that thing sounds awesome. Is it a 3 window or roadster?

Thanks for the info.

My list would be
Troy
Steve moal
marcel and his boys
Craig naff
Alan Johnson
Steve's auto restorations
Scott Sniks ( only seen one car in person but looked nice )
Alloway
Sam and Chip foose
Eric peratt

Most of these guys are capable of fabbing everything, and that is the stuff I really like. If you build your own chassis most of the time I have more respect for you. Troy and Steve Moal do totally amazing work. When I was at steves in january I asked if most of the cars are 7 figures and his son said "no but close, unless they put a bunch of crap on the car like the blue one and he pointed at the blue one they had just finished."
I don't know if you could classify Marcel and Craig naff as builders..They are both fabulous metal fabricators. They don't really want to do turn key cars..

[rocketman]

Alot!!! He started with a roof and then made the rest. And has a C5 chassis under it. The chassis was at the local World of Wheels show in March it's sweet!

I seen a corvette at Des Moines Boesch built,I would if the same guy owns them both,what a stable.

[J2speedandcustom]

I seen a corvette at Des Moines Boesch built,I would if the same guy owns them both,what a stable.

That 62 is really sweet as well! Different owners I believe.

[rocketman]

Wow that thing sounds awesome. Is it a 3 window or roadster?

Thanks for the info.

My list would be
Troy
Steve moal
marcel and his boys
Craig naff
Alan Johnson
Steve's auto restorations
Scott Sniks ( only seen one car in person but looked nice )
Alloway
Sam and Chip foose
Eric peratt

Most of these guys are capable of fabbing everything, and that is the stuff I really like. If you build your own chassis most of the time I have more respect for you. Troy and Steve Moal do totally amazing work. When I was at steves in january I asked if most of the cars are 7 figures and his son said "no but close, unless they put a bunch of crap on the car like the blue one and he pointed at the blue one they had just finished."


I dont know of many builders that build there own chassis,I think Alan built the chassis for Bob's Cuda,Mike Adams in Florida builds some killer chassis's,The chassis under my 37 ford is a loose copy of his.

Most guys use Art Morrison stuff for the muscle cars or like TCI,Pete and Jakes of the street rod stuff.

[Bob Johnson]

I dont know of many builders that build there own chassis,I think Alan built the chassis for Bob's Cuda,Mike Adams in Florida builds some killer chassis's,The chassis under my 37 ford is a loose copy of his.

Most guys use Art Morrison stuff for the muscle cars or like TCI,Pete and Jakes of the street rod stuff.
Alan likes to build the chassis on all his cars. He does all the 32 Fords chassis he builds. Morrison bent the frame rails on the Cuda. Alan couldn't bend the vertical bends. Alloway does the chassis on his speedstars...if Morrison makes a chassis that meets your needs, you would be crazy not to buy it..couldn't build as good if you tried

[rocketman]

Alan likes to build the chassis on all his cars. He does all the 32 Fords chassis he builds. Morrison bent the frame rails on the Cuda. Alan couldn't bend the vertical bends. Alloway does the chassis on his speedstars...if Morrison makes a chassis that meets your needs, you would be crazy not to buy it..couldn't build as good if you tried

I thought Alan and Alloway got the frame from Pete and Jakes.I like Morrison's stuff very nice now,they weren't always that way.

[Slammed58Buick]

Alot!!! He started with a roof and then made the rest. And has a C5 chassis under it. The chassis was at the local World of Wheels show in March it's sweet!

Somewhat true. He actually had a whole car. Dale is one of the most amazing craftsmen around. Here are some photos of the 38 when it was all cut up. I love the photo of the owner John holding an orginal door window opening to the new cut up door.

[rocketman]

Somewhat true. He actually had a whole car. Dale is one of the most amazing craftsmen around. Here are some photos of the 38 when it was all cut up. I love the photo of the owner John holding an orginal door window opening to the new cut up door.

That's sweet

[Bob Johnson]

I thought Alan and Alloway got the frame from Pete and Jakes.I like Morrison's stuff very nice now,they weren't always that way.
he buys the rails from someone..builds chassis from there..there's lots of guys that build thru 40 Ford Chassis..several guys around Ga. have the jigs..some of them look pretty good, they just don't work as good as they look..some don't even look that good

[Bob Johnson]

Somewhat true. He actually had a whole car. Dale is one of the most amazing craftsmen around. Here are some photos of the 38 when it was all cut up. I love the photo of the owner John holding an orginal door window opening to the new cut up door.

truly amazing piece of work..pretty wild, it's his first hot rod and he wins SROY..Took most of us several years and many tries to accomplish it. Dale said he didn't even have a garage..and he'll be driving the snot out of it..guess he'll have to build him a garage..lot cheaper than building that bad as* car..Dale is a badd As* builder for sure

[kennyd]

truly amazing piece of work..pretty wild, it's his first hot rod and he wins SROY..Took most of us several years and many tries to accomplish it. Dale said he didn't even have a garage..and he'll be driving the snot out of it..guess he'll have to build him a garage..lot cheaper than building that bad as* car..Dale is a badd As* builder for sure

that not his first hot rod , didn't he build that yellow lt5 powered streetrod ? dale did a 57 2dr sedan black and dark green that was a bada$$ ride .

[kennyd]

Kenny is a great guy and does excellent work. Alan Johnson works at least that many hours but does it all at his shop. There isn't much that Alan can't do on a car himself..he doesn't like to farm out anything but engine building and interiors..he built all the interior pieces on the Cuda..Paul just covered everything


i would like to say something on our shop . we do good work , we give the coustomer what he paid for plus more . we have not yet had that coustomer that said " i dont care what the cost i just want the best " when that day comes i believe we can build a top contender . i have one costomer now that i think will be that guy in the next couple of years .
allan j. has been lucky to have bob j as a customer and better , a friend . i see bob and allan at shows and see they are friends first ,customer second .
we also do everything in house except interior and machine work on engines . we hav all the metal equipment that the other shops have , we just have alot of glass cars they dont work well on !

it was said yesterday by bob ( dont take this as getting on your ass ) x car builder cars had some " edges " . you have to have a coustomer that wants to have a car that is perfect and has the check book to make it perfect .SO HERE IS THE QUESTION a builder has to please the customer buy building a quality car and not over-spending .we have built some "drivers " for pepole that had x amount to spend . do you either take the job on or dont build the car ? it is a business decision that you have to make .
travis ,dad and myself have discussed this in length and have decided to build the best we can or dont build it ! because poeple dont understand when they saw " edges " that the coustomer just might be happy with what he has .

[J2speedandcustom]

Somewhat true. He actually had a whole car. Dale is one of the most amazing craftsmen around. Here are some photos of the 38 when it was all cut up. I love the photo of the owner John holding an orginal door window opening to the new cut up door.
Sweet thanks for the pics. I'll change the statement to read " he started with the roof and worked his way down modifing the whole car" It's and amazing piece of machinery :worship:

[ironworks]

I don't know if you could classify Marcel and Craig naff as builders..They are both fabulous metal fabricators. They don't really want to do turn key cars..


You are correct. I guess I just tied them in because of their talent and because a few of the guys on the list have used their services on their big projects. ( Foose and the Impression ). After seeing Some of dale boesch's work on that 38 chevy I would have to put his name on the list,

There are very few guys who build their own chassis's but those that do chassis work well and sheetmetal are tops in my book. I hope to aspire to that level someday. I think Steve Moal, and Troy have set the bar pretty high. But like it was said in previous posts the guy with the highest budget is really steps ahead of a more talented guy with a lower budget. Tools, talent, Hardwork are all great things, but this hobby is based on Money. Time is money and these cars take alot of time. It is not all about skill.

[rocketman]

that not his first hot rod , didn't he build that yellow lt5 powered streetrod ? dale did a 57 2dr sedan black and dark green that was a bada$$ ride .

I think he meant that was the owner of the car,1st street rod.Boesch has built a ton of cars,39 chevy sedan,32 ford vicky,57 chevy,etc.I cant remember.

[rocketman]

i would like to say something on our shop . we do good work , we give the coustomer what he paid for plus more . we have not yet had that coustomer that said " i dont care what the cost i just want the best " when that day comes i believe we can build a top contender . i have one costomer now that i think will be that guy in the next couple of years .
allan j. has been lucky to have bob j as a customer and better , a friend . i see bob and allan at shows and see they are friends first ,customer second .
we also do everything in house except interior and machine work on engines . we hav all the metal equipment that the other shops have , we just have alot of glass cars they dont work well on !

it was said yesterday by bob ( dont take this as getting on your ass ) x car builder cars had some " edges " . you have to have a coustomer that wants to have a car that is perfect and has the check book to make it perfect .SO HERE IS THE QUESTION a builder has to please the customer buy building a quality car and not over-spending .we have built some "drivers " for pepole that had x amount to spend . do you either take the job on or dont build the car ? it is a business decision that you have to make .
travis ,dad and myself have discussed this in length and have decided to build the best we can or dont build it ! because poeple dont understand when they saw " edges " that the coustomer just might be happy with what he has .


I agree with you,a car will only look as good as the owners check book will allow.I think a good builder will sit down with there client and explain to them quailty they will get for there money,and that it may not be a "TOP 10" car but a really cool driver/cruise night ride and still look good cruise the fairgrounds at a show.

Kenny keeps telling me that the 37 ford woody they did was a just a driver type.Well if there drivers look that good,I can only imagine what a no budget car will look like from them.

I think any builder will build what ever a customer want's,this is a business and they still have to keep food on the table.

Kenny keep up the great work.cant wait to see the 33 roadster finished.

[rocketman]

he buys the rails from someone..builds chassis from there..there's lots of guys that build thru 40 Ford Chassis..several guys around Ga. have the jigs..some of them look pretty good, they just don't work as good as they look..some don't even look that good


I think its hard for a builder who doesn't specialize in chassis to make one functionable,anybody can make a chassis look good,but function is something.

And a pre 40 ford chassis is one of the easiest I think to make work.

[WEAVER]

I seen a corvette at Des Moines Boesch built,I would if the same guy owns them both,what a stable.
The corvette was owned by Jim harmon when we did interior,now Gary Cook has it in his personal collection.The 37 coupe is owned by John Boyce here in omaha.Getting pictures taken for STREET ROD BUILDER tonight by Josh Mishler. vette was in super rod last year,that car is 2 years old.

[WEAVER]

I think he meant that was the owner of the car,1st street rod.Boesch has built a ton of cars,39 chevy sedan,32 ford vicky,57 chevy,etc.I cant remember.
Dale has been building cars for along time,he has a crash shop that keeps 2 guys busy,he pretty much works on the rods himself.The cars somtimes get forgotten because he only builds one a year. The most he's done have been this year(2) 40 ford 37 chevy,and yes the owner of 37 is a first time customer.Not a bad win for a first timer.Wait till everyone see's the Couger his is building for his brother,I'm going out to Dales shop in a couple of weeks to start planning interior mods,if possible i'll post some pics.

[WEAVER]

What would you think Dale Boesch had $wise in the metal work on that 38 Chevy?
I know how much was spent on whole car,i don't know in just body alone,The car was in the works for three years

[WEAVER]

truly amazing piece of work..pretty wild, it's his first hot rod and he wins SROY..Took most of us several years and many tries to accomplish it. Dale said he didn't even have a garage..and he'll be driving the snot out of it..guess he'll have to build him a garage..lot cheaper than building that bad as* car..Dale is a badd As* builder for sure
It had to be the interior bob ha ha ha(just kidding)If you ever get achance to see build pictures,you would'nt believe the cut lines.There taking it to Louisville next week

[Bob Johnson]

It had to be the interior bob ha ha ha(just kidding)If you ever get achance to see build pictures,you would'nt believe the cut lines.There taking it to Louisville next week
Interior was very cool..I love the way you hid the base of the seat..

[Bob Johnson]

that not his first hot rod , didn't he build that yellow lt5 powered streetrod ? dale did a 57 2dr sedan black and dark green that was a bada$$ ride .
I was referring to the owner, not Dale...I've seen a lot of Dales cars..this is the highest dollar by far..

[Bob Johnson]

The corvette was owned by Jim harmon when we did interior,now Gary Cook has it in his personal collection.The 37 coupe is owned by John Boyce here in omaha.Getting pictures taken for STREET ROD BUILDER tonight by Josh Mishler. vette was in super rod last year,that car is 2 years old.
that's probably why they didn't pick it in the top 5..They have a thing about stuff that's been around too long..I know the 57 Chevy was done several years ago and redone..

[Bob Johnson]

i would like to say something on our shop . we do good work , we give the coustomer what he paid for plus more . we have not yet had that coustomer that said " i dont care what the cost i just want the best " when that day comes i believe we can build a top contender . i have one costomer now that i think will be that guy in the next couple of years .
allan j. has been lucky to have bob j as a customer and better , a friend . i see bob and allan at shows and see they are friends first ,customer second .
we also do everything in house except interior and machine work on engines . we hav all the metal equipment that the other shops have , we just have alot of glass cars they dont work well on !

it was said yesterday by bob ( dont take this as getting on your ass ) x car builder cars had some " edges " . you have to have a coustomer that wants to have a car that is perfect and has the check book to make it perfect .SO HERE IS THE QUESTION a builder has to please the customer buy building a quality car and not over-spending .we have built some "drivers " for pepole that had x amount to spend . do you either take the job on or dont build the car ? it is a business decision that you have to make .
travis ,dad and myself have discussed this in length and have decided to build the best we can or dont build it ! because poeple dont understand when they saw " edges " that the coustomer just might be happy with what he has .
I think a lot of people are going to scratch their head when they see the 32 B400 Alan is doing for Doug Cooper. It's just as much metal work as the 38 Chev. or most anything Moal has done. It is going to be an amazing piece

[Bob Johnson]

i would like to say something on our shop . we do good work , we give the coustomer what he paid for plus more . we have not yet had that coustomer that said " i dont care what the cost i just want the best " when that day comes i believe we can build a top contender . i have one costomer now that i think will be that guy in the next couple of years .
allan j. has been lucky to have bob j as a customer and better , a friend . i see bob and allan at shows and see they are friends first ,customer second .
we also do everything in house except interior and machine work on engines . we hav all the metal equipment that the other shops have , we just have alot of glass cars they dont work well on !

it was said yesterday by bob ( dont take this as getting on your ass ) x car builder cars had some " edges " . you have to have a coustomer that wants to have a car that is perfect and has the check book to make it perfect .SO HERE IS THE QUESTION a builder has to please the customer buy building a quality car and not over-spending .we have built some "drivers " for pepole that had x amount to spend . do you either take the job on or dont build the car ? it is a business decision that you have to make .
travis ,dad and myself have discussed this in length and have decided to build the best we can or dont build it ! because poeple dont understand when they saw " edges " that the coustomer just might be happy with what he has .
I think if you'll read all my post referring to X, you will see that I refer to a builder has to have someone to pay for getting rid of the edges. What you think is the last 10% turns out to be 40% of the work. Details take a long time. If the type customer you have doesn't want to pay for it, then you can't do it. Alan just doesn't want to build a car for someone who doesn't want to go all the way with it..not necessarily crazy all the way, but get it finished like it should be..no corner cutting

[krupt0924]

Must be nice to have hundereds of thousands of dollars to throw around like that. It seems that u have to spend 500k to even get a chance to get great 8. All these cars builders mentioned are GREAT at what they do. 90% of um should be working for big 3 or something making millions designing cars.

I live in Detroit so i see the riddler every year and i must say these guys really put the work and money in. If u ever want to see a group of grown men weep like little girls come on down to the autorama and watch the award ceremony.

[Boesch]

I'd say around 20g minumin.I haven't seen it in person yet but it looks great.And I have heard Boesch is high $$$ on his stuff.Anybody recall the 32 ford vicky he built about 10 years ago with the zr-1 engine,that was killer.

If I could get all that metal work done for 20g I better start paying him to work for me (his son)! When you see the build photos in the magazine you'll understand why.

[Boesch]

I think he meant that was the owner of the car,1st street rod.Boesch has built a ton of cars,39 chevy sedan,32 ford vicky,57 chevy,etc.I cant remember.

Yes, he been building cars for over 25 years. As a one man operation he doesn't get that many cars done.

[WEAVER]

Yes, he been building cars for over 25 years. As a one man operation he doesn't get that many cars done.
YOUR DAD AND ME WERE HOLDING REFLECTERS WHEN YOU CALLED. PHOTO SHOOT WENT GOOD,NICE TO SEE YOU HERE .TALK TO YOU LATER

[WEAVER]

If I could get all that metal work done for 20g I better start paying him to work for me (his son)! When you see the build photos in the magazine you'll understand why.
HELL, SIGN ME UP FOR ONE EVERY YEAR.I STILL THINK DALES ONE OF THE BEST DESIGNERS IN THE COUNTRY.I PROUD TO BE ABLE TO WORK ON HIS CARS

[JUBILADO]

We will have the 38 Chevrolet coupe on display in Lincoln, Nebr. at Speedway Motors museum for those of you who will be there, then we will have it in Louisville, KY the following weekend at the Street Rod Nationals. Then in Kansas City on labor day weekend. That is as far as the current plans go.

Even though I own the car it belongs to all hot rod lovers who enjoy seeing exquitly built cars. We are happy to show the car but in the end it will be a driver as that is why the car was built the as it was.

Hope you all enjoy viewing this great piece of artwork, which Dale created.

[rocketman]

If I could get all that metal work done for 20g I better start paying him to work for me (his son)! When you see the build photos in the magazine you'll understand why.

I was just taking a wild guess.

[Bob Johnson]

It had to be the interior bob ha ha ha(just kidding)If you ever get achance to see build pictures,you would'nt believe the cut lines.There taking it to Louisville next week
Alan will be there with the Cuda

[WEAVER]

Alan will be there with the Cuda
I want a ride

[Boesch]

I think there's one quality missing from a lot of builders in people's top ten lists. That quality is drivability/usability of the car. After all, they are cars and that's what they are supposed to be used for. Don't get me wrong, it takes incredible talent and detail to win the Ridler award, however some of the details that are required to win that award take away from the drivability of a car. How drivable are chrome plated rotors? Have you seen how week some of those suspension components look. They are gonna fold under at the first chuck hole you hit.

As a mechanical engineer, I get excited and thrilled when I see a builder put engineering into a car to make it handle better and make it a car that's ready to go cross country and around corners. I've spent hours looking over Johnson's Cuda and I'm impressed with the engineering in that car every time. I know that Bob enjoys having a little fun with it too. I've witnessed Troy just thrashing cars he builds on the Power Tour. I know the 1938 Chevy that Dad just finished will be going around the track are AirRide Technology's event later this year. John will drive that car everywhere next year. The 1960 corvette will be going around the track as well.

So if you ask me if a builder should be in the top ten, the builder should build every car so that it's capable of driving across country, along with a few stops at road race courses along the way. Afterall, they are just cars! That's what you're supposed to do with them.

[Boesch]

I want a ride

A ride...that's it....I want to drive! :3gears:

[ironworks]

hay boesch, Do you know where on the internet a guy might be able to see some construction pics of that 38, More than the few I have seen in this post. i heard that thing has C5 drivtrain and I would love to see the chassis. If you could, I'm sure I'm not alone in this request. Thanks Rodger

[Boesch]

hay boesch, Do you know where on the internet a guy might be able to see some construction pics of that 38, More than the few I have seen in this post. i heard that thing has C5 drivtrain and I would love to see the chassis. If you could, I'm sure I'm not alone in this request. Thanks Rodger

Unfortunately there arent' any on the web. Street Rod Builder will have a lot of construction photos when they run the feature. They also shot photos of the chasis so you'll get a good look at it. You are correct that is has C5 suspension under it, both front and rear with the high speed driveshaft and rear transaxle. It has a full tube chassis with dual tube rails. There engine has an air to water intercooler (typical magnusen) and then has the intercoolers mounted in the front fenders behind the tires. The car has inner fender panels behind each tire to protect from rock chips and the intercoolers are behind those. Electric fans are mounted on them to get cool airflow over them. There are also two gas tanks in the car. The larger one feeds into the smaller one that houses the fuel pump. This allows the fuel pump to be fully submerged during high speed cornering.

[kennyd]

did you get a someone qualified to shoot the 38 ? i know a guy in kansas that can shoot decent photos . but he is a pain in the ass to deal with he will make you move it 20 times and want you to drive it into dangerous places like rock quarys at 5 am .to get THAT photo.lol

thats for you slammed58

[1sick65]

did you get a someone qualified to shoot the 38 ? i know a guy in kansas that can shoot decent photos . but he is a pain in the ass to deal with he will make you move it 20 times and want you to drive it into dangerous places like rock quarys at 5 am .to get THAT photo.lol

thats for you slammed58

You would think that during one of the 20 times you moved the car, you would have noticed the hood wasn't latched. :moon:

[WEAVER]

did you get a someone qualified to shoot the 38 ? i know a guy in kansas that can shoot decent photos . but he is a pain in the ass to deal with he will make you move it 20 times and want you to drive it into dangerous places like rock quarys at 5 am .to get THAT photo.lol

thats for you slammed58
You got that right ,move here ,move there ,hold reflecter there ha ha ha:rotfl:

[Slammed58Buick]

did you get a someone qualified to shoot the 38 ? i know a guy in kansas that can shoot decent photos . but he is a pain in the ass to deal with he will make you move it 20 times and want you to drive it into dangerous places like rock quarys at 5 am .to get THAT photo.lol

thats for you slammed58



Oh gimmie a break!

[rocketman]

hay boesch, Do you know where on the internet a guy might be able to see some construction pics of that 38, More than the few I have seen in this post. i heard that thing has C5 drivtrain and I would love to see the chassis. If you could, I'm sure I'm not alone in this request. Thanks Rodger

Checkout these

[rocketman]

You know the one thing about this 38 is the color,When a builder paints it black,it either has to be straight and smooth or it look like ****.Dale nail this one awesome.You cant hide much with black other colors.

[Bob Johnson]

You got that right ,move here ,move there ,hold reflecter there ha ha ha:rotfl:
ever shot a car with Hunkins? Or better (or worse) yet Eric Geisert? LOL..... But hey, it's the end result that makes it worth the BS..They all do amazing work. And to get it that way, takes a lot of set-up.

[Boesch]

hay boesch, Do you know where on the internet a guy might be able to see some construction pics of that 38, More than the few I have seen in this post. i heard that thing has C5 drivtrain and I would love to see the chassis. If you could, I'm sure I'm not alone in this request. Thanks Rodger

Here's a few chasis shots of the 38. Dad and I aren't the best photographers....maybe we need to work on moving the car a ton of different times.

[ironworks]

Man that thing is freakin awesome. I bet that thing handles well. Do you happen to know what the car weighed in the end? So you and your dad built the chassis and the did all the sheetmetal mods and painted it?
That car has to be in the top ten street rods ever for my list.

Rodger

[Boesch]

Man that thing is freakin awesome. I bet that thing handles well. Do you happen to know what the car weighed in the end? So you and your dad built the chassis and the did all the sheetmetal mods and painted it?
That car has to be in the top ten street rods ever for my list.

Rodger

I'd love to take credit for work on the car, but that was all my dad. He did everything on the car except the upholstery, which was done by Tracy/The recovery room (Weaver). I'm a mechanical engineer out in San Diego while Dad is back in Nebraska. I worked with him while I was in school, but now I'm down to only phone consultation and the times when I get to fly home. The car hasn't been put on scales yet to get the final weight. Dad has some work to do on the car yet....he had to push really hard to get it to Columbus. (Paint on the horn ring dried in the trailer on the way there since it was painted 5 minutes before we left.) There's also some problems with the tensioner on the fan belt that's causing some issues so we haven't gotten to go out and really torture it yet. Thanks for the complements on the car.

[rocketman]

Here's a few chasis shots of the 38. Dad and I aren't the best photographers....maybe we need to work on moving the car a ton of different times.


Is that a Mike Adams Chassis? Looks like one,I love his stuff,I have built some copies of his stuff.The cool thing is Mike's stuff flat works.
Anyway cool chassis.

[Boesch]

Is that a Mike Adams Chassis? Looks like one,I love his stuff,I have built some copies of his stuff.The cool thing is Mike's stuff flat works.
Anyway cool chassis.

Yes it did start out as a Mike Adams chassis, but then a large amount of things were changed on it to improve the suspension geometry and ad some additional stiffness to it.

[customcam]

What sort of seats are they?
awsome rod!

[ironworks]

Since this thread has turned into a disscussion on this year street rod of the year winner. I would like to ask a quaestion to put this back on track, with the original topic.

What do you feel are the qualities or circumstances that have made these builder successful. I know money, that is a given, But not everyone starts a big wade of cash to show what they can do. So what did these to guys do to get started that really set them up to be at the point they are. Some guys are really young, some guys are older. Is this a retirement job for these guys. I think you really have to commend guys like troy and alan for being at the top of there game and still somewhere in their 30's. But moal got his business from his dad and turned into hotrods from exotics. Foose was raised in it. What are some of the atributes that make these guys stand out above the others. I would if alot of it has to do with the talent staff and the first big project.

Rodger

[WEAVER]

What sort of seats are they?
awsome rod!
They are a recaro style seat. I sanded the sides down,then made 20 gauge stainless steel die stamped inserts to sew in as accents.

[Bob Johnson]

Since this thread has turned into a disscussion on this year street rod of the year winner. I would like to ask a quaestion to put this back on track, with the original topic.

What do you feel are the qualities or circumstances that have made these builder successful. I know money, that is a given, But not everyone starts a big wade of cash to show what they can do. So what did these to guys do to get started that really set them up to be at the point they are. Some guys are really young, some guys are older. Is this a retirement job for these guys. I think you really have to commend guys like troy and alan for being at the top of there game and still somewhere in their 30's. But moal got his business from his dad and turned into hotrods from exotics. Foose was raised in it. What are some of the atributes that make these guys stand out above the others. I would if alot of it has to do with the talent staff and the first big project.

Rodger
Well first off you have to have been born with an exceptional mechanical aptitude..You have to have an unbelievable work ethic and an absolute obsession with automobiles and machinery. Seems like most of the guys had a father that was in some form of automotive repair. None of these guys did this overnight. They compete with each other and their own last project. Alan was fortunate to run into Tony inman when Alan was just getting really going. Tony had a lot of experience and know how. He and Alan have grown together along with Alan's additions to his crew over the years. All of these builders seem to be perfectionist..everyone seems to think if they had the customer willing to spend the money they could build a car like the Cuda...Naah...

[BA.]

So I was just reading through some really old mags and I was reminded of Lil' John Buttera.

Does he fit into the top 10 list? For his time, was he a top ten, but maybe now the game is so far advanced that it's probably hard to directly compare?

[nacnac]

Troy is without a doubt the best builder in the country. This years Riddler car should prove that. Besides that car, he builds cars to be driven. And no crate motors (didn't the $1.2 million Grand Master have a painted LT4?) How gay is that? A million dollar car with a $4000 crate motor. Troy builds a 1200 hp car you could let your mother drive (Chicane). Now he just finished a 1300 hp four cylinder salt flat race car. I'm not sure about the hp of that one yet because it's going to the dyno next week. It will set new records for it's class in Bonneville. Remember the Quadradeuce? 0 to 60 in like 3 seconds, awd, 600 hp. How about the Sniper? So nice that Ford copied it, remember their 427 prototype from a few years ago. Tell me that wasn't ripped off. How about Rogan's Cuda? I'm biased too by the way because he's only five miles down the road from me and I see their work in progress all the time. Troy is the best because he doesn't only build one kind of car like many builders do. His range in builds and (I hate to say this, but) daring to be different is what sets him apart.
As far as the other 9, Chip, and... and....well, there's a big drop off after that.
Maybe the list should be broken down by who builds the best cars over $100k and under $100k.

[Bob Johnson]

So I was just reading through some really old mags and I was reminded of Lil' John Buttera.

Does he fit into the top 10 list? For his time, was he a top ten, but maybe now the game is so far advanced that it's probably hard to directly compare?
for his time was he a top ten? ABSOLUTELY You cannot compare work done to work now. You have to compare his work to those doing work during the same time period. He was light years ahead of everyone else during that time. There will be a 33 Willys that Lil built, and is now being rebuilt that will be at The Autorama this next year. It was built years ago and the work is still more than impressive and is still innovative and wows you today. Lil still does work for lots of other builders today and consults for Harley Davidson. He could absolutely build a car today and compete with the best of them. It would drive like it should too. As far as a diversified car building career, he is at the top of the list having built street machines, hot rods, dragsters from top fuel on down, funny cars, Indianapolis 500 Cars, motorcycles, Bonneville cars, you name it. Any list that doesn't contain him in the top ten is not accurate.

[Bob Johnson]

Troy is without a doubt the best builder in the country. This years Riddler car should prove that. Besides that car, he builds cars to be driven. And no crate motors (didn't the $1.2 million Grand Master have a painted LT4?) How gay is that? A million dollar car with a $4000 crate motor. Troy builds a 1200 hp car you could let your mother drive (Chicane). Now he just finished a 1300 hp four cylinder salt flat race car. I'm not sure about the hp of that one yet because it's going to the dyno next week. It will set new records for it's class in Bonneville. Remember the Quadradeuce? 0 to 60 in like 3 seconds, awd, 600 hp. How about the Sniper? So nice that Ford copied it, remember their 427 prototype from a few years ago. Tell me that wasn't ripped off. How about Rogan's Cuda? I'm biased too by the way because he's only five miles down the road from me and I see their work in progress all the time. Troy is the best because he doesn't only build one kind of car like many builders do. His range in builds and (I hate to say this, but) daring to be different is what sets him apart.
As far as the other 9, Chip, and... and....well, there's a big drop off after that.
Maybe the list should be broken down by who builds the best cars over $100k and under $100k.
I'm not so sure about the BIG drop off after Chip and Troy. I don't see either of them resting on their laurels..to stay on top in this game, you have to keep pushing. As we've stated earlier, Troy and Chip had some big money customers that gave them the ability to build cars that enabled them to show off all of their talents. And both of them have a lot. I have no doubt the 2 of them will be in the forefront for a long time.

[Bob Johnson]

I'm not so sure about the BIG drop off after Chip and Troy. I don't see either of them resting on their laurels..to stay on top in this game, you have to keep pushing. As we've stated earlier, Troy and Chip had some big money customers that gave them the ability to build cars that enabled them to show off all of their talents. And both of them have a lot. I have no doubt the 2 of them will be in the forefront for a long time.
I'm not sure what you're saying about this years Ridler Car..what's that got to do with Troy? As far as Chicayne, with all due respect and a lot is due, I never saw any performance numbers on it, not did I see him even stand on it on the whole Power Tour the year it and my Battle Axe were on it. If you were anywhere near my Cuda or the Axe, you got to see them getting spanked on. If you've got 1,200HP, I want to see that mother bust em loose at 125, and be going somewhere while it's doing it. Got to have a chassis that works to harness that kind of horsepower.

[nacnac]

I'm not sure what you're saying about this years Ridler Car..what's that got to do with Troy? As far as Chicayne, with all due respect and a lot is due, I never saw any performance numbers on it, not did I see him even stand on it on the whole Power Tour the year it and my Battle Axe were on it. If you were anywhere near my Cuda or the Axe, you got to see them getting spanked on. If you've got 1,200HP, I want to see that mother bust em loose at 125, and be going somewhere while it's doing it. Got to have a chassis that works to harness that kind of horsepower.
I meant 2007's Riddler contender. Sorry for the confusion. Bob with all due respect, I'm only familiar with your Cuda, which is bad ass by the way, and a black 69 camaro with wheels that were too big. All the pictures I saw of the car had a goofy stance with those 20's in back. Too tall. Just my opinion. Otherwise it was a beautiful car. I'm just not all that familiar with more of your work. Again, with all due respect, a few cars aren't a lage enough body of work to put in the top ten. I'm sure I could be all wrong about your work, I'm just saying I haven't seen a lot of it. Aren't you working on a 67 fastback right now? When will it be done?

[WEAVER]

Troy is without a doubt the best builder in the country. This years Riddler car should prove that. Besides that car, he builds cars to be driven. And no crate motors (didn't the $1.2 million Grand Master have a painted LT4?) How gay is that? A million dollar car with a $4000 crate motor. Troy builds a 1200 hp car you could let your mother drive (Chicane). Now he just finished a 1300 hp four cylinder salt flat race car. I'm not sure about the hp of that one yet because it's going to the dyno next week. It will set new records for it's class in Bonneville. Remember the Quadradeuce? 0 to 60 in like 3 seconds, awd, 600 hp. How about the Sniper? So nice that Ford copied it, remember their 427 prototype from a few years ago. Tell me that wasn't ripped off. How about Rogan's Cuda? I'm biased too by the way because he's only five miles down the road from me and I see their work in progress all the time. Troy is the best because he doesn't only build one kind of car like many builders do. His range in builds and (I hate to say this, but) daring to be different is what sets him apart.
As far as the other 9, Chip, and... and....well, there's a big drop off after that.
Maybe the list should be broken down by who builds the best cars over $100k and under $100k.Troy didn't build this years riddler car

[nacnac]

Read the post before yours

[Bob Johnson]

I'm still not sure what you're trying to say..What does this years Ridler winner, or Contender (which Troy didn't even have a Ridler Contender this year either) have to do with him being the best builder in the game. His 37 wasn't even eligible for the Ridler since it had already been seen. And furthermore, the 37 wasn't a showcase of Troy's building prowess and it wouldn't have won the Ridler if it had been eligible in my opinion. What also puzzles me is that the 20's on the back of the Axe are too big and yet Troy has 22's on the back of Sick Fish and they are OK? 22's are too big IMHO. The Axe needed to come down in the rear about 1 more inch but Alan liked the way the front and rear wheels were capped by the fenderwells in the same spot front and rear. Unfortunately you can't buy tires in exactly the size you want for your fitment. How do you compare the stance of the Sick Fish to my Cuda? I've got over 5" of ground clearance on the Cuda too.

[ironworks]

Well first off you have to have been born with an exceptional mechanical aptitude..You have to have an unbelievable work ethic and an absolute obsession with automobiles and machinery. Seems like most of the guys had a father that was in some form of automotive repair. None of these guys did this overnight. They compete with each other and their own last project. Alan was fortunate to run into Tony inman when Alan was just getting really going. Tony had a lot of experience and know how. He and Alan have grown together along with Alan's additions to his crew over the years. All of these builders seem to be perfectionist..everyone seems to think if they had the customer willing to spend the money they could build a car like the Cuda...Naah...

Oh I agree it is not all about the money, because you still have to do the work. But It takes the budget to keep the doors open while you prove the work. The passion and perfectionist is what really determines the outcome but you either have it or you don't. Because you have to continue to do good work in order to finish the projects. The crew's skills are the 3rd piece to the puzzle, and that is usually the hardest to find. Or at least it has been for me. You hire 10 guys to find one good one. The customers are usually the easier to find then the craftmen.

[rocketman]

Troy is without a doubt the best builder in the country. This years Riddler car should prove that. Besides that car, he builds cars to be driven. And no crate motors (didn't the $1.2 million Grand Master have a painted LT4?) How gay is that? A million dollar car with a $4000 crate motor. Troy builds a 1200 hp car you could let your mother drive (Chicane). Now he just finished a 1300 hp four cylinder salt flat race car. I'm not sure about the hp of that one yet because it's going to the dyno next week. It will set new records for it's class in Bonneville. Remember the Quadradeuce? 0 to 60 in like 3 seconds, awd, 600 hp. How about the Sniper? So nice that Ford copied it, remember their 427 prototype from a few years ago. Tell me that wasn't ripped off. How about Rogan's Cuda? I'm biased too by the way because he's only five miles down the road from me and I see their work in progress all the time. Troy is the best because he doesn't only build one kind of car like many builders
do. His range in builds and (I hate to say this, but) daring to be

different is what sets him apart.
As far as the other 9, Chip, and... and....well, there's a big drop off after that.
Maybe the list should be broken down by who builds the best cars over $100k and under $100k.

What does a crate motor have to do with it,They are good relieabe power,this cars aren't built to run 150 mph.What engine does a ridler need.

And Troy didn't build quadradeuce,all he did was freshin it up for Summit.So he doesn't get credit for it.

Chicane is all motor and no chassis to harness all the power and is very fragile.

Sniper what so cool about it,a big plymouth body on a viper chassis,that was the ulgiest green.

I'm not a huge Troy fan,He's good but not the best.Bisquick and Predator are his best I think.

[Bob Johnson]

Oh I agree it is not all about the money, because you still have to do the work. But It takes the budget to keep the doors open while you prove the work. The passion and perfectionist is what really determines the outcome but you either have it or you don't. Because you have to continue to do good work in order to finish the projects. The crew's skills are the 3rd piece to the puzzle, and that is usually the hardest to find. Or at least it has been for me. You hire 10 guys to find one good one. The customers are usually the easier to find then the craftmen.
AMEN..YOU CAN CONQUER THE WORLD IF YOU HAVE THE RIGHT PEOPLE..UNFORTUNATELY YOU HAVE TO CODDLE AND MANAGE THEM CORRECTLY OR THEY MOVE ON OR OPEN THEIR SHOP IF THEY'RE REAL GOOD..DELICATE BALANCE..

[Bob Johnson]

What does a crate motor have to do with it,They are good relieabe power,this cars aren't built to run 150 mph.What engine does a ridler need.

And Troy didn't build quadradeuce,all he did was freshin it up for Summit.So he doesn't get credit for it.

Chicane is all motor and no chassis to harness all the power and is very fragile.

Sniper what so cool about it,a big plymouth body on a viper chassis,that was the ulgiest green.

I'm not a huge Troy fan,He's good but not the best.Bisquick and Predator are his best I think.
I'LL HAVE TO SAY THAT I'M A HUGE TROY FAN..SOME OF HIS COLORS AREN'T TO MY TASTE... I DISAGREE WITH YOU ON THE SNIPER. ... THAT WASN'T A STOCK VIPER CHASSIS. THE BODY MODS, THE INTERIOR DESIGN AND MATERIALS THAT WERE USED, IT WAS A MILESTONE CAR IMHO. IT WAS DRIVEN EVERYWHERE AND PERFORMED MARVELOUSLY. IT WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS THE BEST CAR OF THE ERA. IF THIS CUDA OF POTEETS PERFORMS LIKE I THINK IT WILL, TROY WILL HAVE ACCOMPLISHED SOMETHING VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE FOR OTHERS ON THE LIST TO DO. ALAN NEEDS TO GET SOME ITEMS SUB CONTRACTED OUT AS TROY HAS BEEN DOING. IT'S HARD TO DO EVERYTHING IN HOUSE AND STILL KEEP CARS ROLLING OUT THE DOOR AND CONCENTRATE ON A BUILD OF THIS MAGNATUDE. THE G-FORCE CUDA THAT ALAN BUILT IN HOUSE..HOW MANY BUILDERS COULD BUILD IT? JUST A FEW, AND THEY WOULD HAVE HAD TO PUT THEIR BEST FOOT FORWARD.

[F70t/a]

How do you compare the stance of the Sick Fish to my Cuda? I've got over 5" of ground clearance on the Cuda too.


I love the stance on both of these cars. SickFish was the first car that I seen in person that was low to the ground (what is it 4'' off the ground or something?) That blew my mind Big Time like peter gabriel. The G-Force cuda has the best stance I have seen so far (not in person yet). The cars slammed to the ground and it can be driven like that. That makes it better then SickFish's stance anyday:evil:

[rocketman]

I'LL HAVE TO SAY THAT I'M A HUGE TROY FAN..SOME OF HIS COLORS AREN'T TO MY TASTE... I DISAGREE WITH YOU ON THE SNIPER. ... THAT WASN'T A STOCK VIPER CHASSIS. THE BODY MODS, THE INTERIOR DESIGN AND MATERIALS THAT WERE USED, IT WAS A MILESTONE CAR IMHO. IT WAS DRIVEN EVERYWHERE AND PERFORMED MARVELOUSLY. IT WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY AS THE BEST CAR OF THE ERA. IF THIS CUDA OF POTEETS PERFORMS LIKE I THINK IT WILL, TROY WILL HAVE ACCOMPLISHED SOMETHING VIRTUALLY IMPOSSIBLE FOR OTHERS ON THE LIST TO DO. ALAN NEEDS TO GET SOME ITEMS SUB CONTRACTED OUT AS TROY HAS BEEN DOING. IT'S HARD TO DO EVERYTHING IN HOUSE AND STILL KEEP CARS ROLLING OUT THE DOOR AND CONCENTRATE ON A BUILD OF THIS MAGNATUDE. THE G-FORCE CUDA THAT ALAN BUILT IN HOUSE..HOW MANY BUILDERS COULD BUILD IT? JUST A FEW, AND THEY WOULD HAVE HAD TO PUT THEIR BEST FOOT FORWARD.



Well since I am not UP on the last Troy stuff,I am not fiamiler with this Cuda,so I can't say about it,but past Troy stuff IMO is not that trick,sorry,just MO.

Maybe this lastest round of car's will be better.If a car builder starts to farm his work it's not his build.I like a builder that does all he can in house,I would rather a builder be like Alan J or Dale B and do less cars but all there own work in it is there's.That way when you say that builder built it did it.Just my little thing.

[Bob Johnson]

Well since I am not UP on the last Troy stuff,I am not fiamiler with this Cuda,so I can't say about it,but past Troy stuff IMO is not that trick,sorry,just MO.

Maybe this lastest round of car's will be better.If a car builder starts to farm his work it's not his build.I like a builder that does all he can in house,I would rather a builder be like Alan J or Dale B and do less cars but all there own work in it is there's.That way when you say that builder built it did it.Just my little thing.
GO TO HIS SITE AND LOOK AT THE PIX OF THE BUILD..YOU WILL BE AMAZED AND IMPRESSED. WHERE ALAN WILL BUILD HIS OWN CHASSIS (LIKE ON MY CUDA), TROY HAD A RACE CHASSIS BUILDER DO THE BONNEVILLE CUDA. ALAN JUST CAN'T STAND TO GIVE UP CONTROL AND HE HASN'T DEVELOPED RELATIONSHIPS WITH ANYONE HE TRUSTS TO DO THINGS TO HIS SATISFACTION.

[WhirlingDurvish]

What does a crate motor have to do with it,They are good relieabe power,this cars aren't built to run 150 mph.What engine does a ridler need.

And Troy didn't build quadradeuce,all he did was freshin it up for Summit.So he doesn't get credit for it.

Chicane is all motor and no chassis to harness all the power and is very fragile.

Sniper what so cool about it,a big plymouth body on a viper chassis,that was the ulgiest green.

I'm not a huge Troy fan,He's good but not the best.Bisquick and Predator are his best I think.


Are you nuts? Obviously you do not study the cars he builds very well. By far some of the finest performing machines with amazing craftsmanship and innovative engineering. He is the only one that can beat Chip Foose at this point and time.

[BADVELLE]

Well since I am not UP on the last Troy stuff,I am not fiamiler with this Cuda,so I can't say about it,but past Troy stuff IMO is not that trick,sorry,just MO.

Maybe this lastest round of car's will be better.If a car builder starts to farm his work it's not his build.I like a builder that does all he can in house,I would rather a builder be like Alan J or Dale B and do less cars but all there own work in it is there's.That way when you say that builder built it did it.Just my little thing.

You evidently have not seen any of Troy's cars in person or on the net for that matter! I have seen Bumongous, Rumbler, Sniper in person to name a few of the early builds, everything he does is trick. Go back to some Hot Rods of the 90's, look at the feature of these three cars alone, they ooze "trick"! (oh yea, I can't forget Predator, saw that one at the Americruise in Lincoln, NE back in '96). I guess maybe this thread is not dealing with opinions, as much as taste at this point.

[rocketman]

You evidently have not seen any of Troy's cars in person or on the net for that matter! I have seen Bumongous, Rumbler, Sniper in person to name a few of the early builds, everything he does is trick. Go back to some Hot Rods of the 90's, look at the feature of these three cars alone, they ooze "trick"! (oh yea, I can't forget Predator, saw that one at the Americruise in Lincoln, NE back in '96). I guess maybe this thread is not dealing with opinions, as much as taste at this point.


I am have seen a several of Troy's rides in person.I forgot about the Rambler its was cool,I liek the the early Troy cars,like the 67 chevelle,the 59 Impala,the early stuff was good.I kinda forgot about the early stuff.

[rocketman]

Well I went and checked out Troy's site.The 40 ford convert,63 vette look good.Looks like Troys switching to a race car builder.

[BRIAN]

Troy has got to be one of the most innovative builders out there. Besides Boyd, yes Boyd, didn't he change the whole movement to real drivers? It is a car withh finishes that are show quality but user friendly.

Chip is an incredible talent but is more of a designer that assembles the best builders which is probably the smartest way to build.


Alan has shown his capabilities with the Cuda but for me I will have to see a couple more pumped out of the same quality and complexity. The Axe is a killer car but it is more of a bolt together than a full tilt build. No insult meant at all!!


To me the real builders are the poor guys that work for these guys who do the fab work and get no limelight. I would just once like to see built by say Alan Johnson's and "the list of workers". Once you get to that level the one man team isn't going to happen. You can't be great at every aspect of the build.

As far as the crate motor. I guess for a million dollars I might want a more exotic set up for a drivetrain.


As far as numbers do you really see any of the big dollar cars that claim to be the best of?? proving it??? Honestly it is their car and they can do as they please. Some get joy out of looking at them others get the same out of driving them.

[customcam]

They are a recaro style seat. I sanded the sides down,then made 20 gauge stainless steel die stamped inserts to sew in as accents.
tracy awsome craft
have any detailed interior pics to show theose awsome seats?

Guys what about the Terzich boys?

[WEAVER]

I have a little knowledge on some of this Troy stuff,he is a good shop owner, lets give credit to the people in his shop. Dan holohan,Adam,Levi,Jarod when he was there,any one of these guys can start there own shop and kick some butt,lets not forget where most of the look of cars come from Bob Thrash. I 've spent time out there and seen bob's portfolio,he can hold is own with overexposed foose any day.Troy is awsum on mechcanical work without a doubt.But i think people forget about the shop effort.Dan and Adam built most of Poteet's cuda

[Bob Johnson]

Well I went and checked out Troy's site.The 40 ford convert,63 vette look good.Looks like Troys switching to a race car builder.
YOU DIDN'T MENTION THE BONNEVILLE CUDA. TROY SEEMS TO GET A LOT OF PROJECTS GONE BAD. PEOPLE HAVE CONFIDENCE IN HIS ABILITY TO STRAIGHTEN OUT SOMEONE ELSES BOO BOOS

[WEAVER]

tracy awsome craft
have any detailed interior pics to show theose awsome seats?

Guys what about the Terzich boys?
I can post some pics of car and seats on sunday 7/30 no time tonight

[rocketman]

YOU DIDN'T MENTION THE BONNEVILLE CUDA. TROY SEEMS TO GET A LOT OF PROJECTS GONE BAD. PEOPLE HAVE CONFIDENCE IN HIS ABILITY TO STRAIGHTEN OUT SOMEONE ELSES BOO BOOS

Looks like a nice race car,some how i just don't see it on the street,same with that 63 vette.

But I will say they are all very nice.

[Bob Johnson]

Looks like a nice race car,some how i just don't see it on the street,same with that 63 vette.

But I will say they are all very nice.
IT'S A FULL BOOGIE RACE CAR..SPECIALTY TOO..BUILT SPECIFICALLY FOR BONNEVILLE..COULDN'T DRIVE IT ON THE STREET NO WAY. LOT OF TECHNOLOGY THERE..

[67Steven]

Dave Eckert. Used to work at Steve's Auto Restoration. He pretty much built the New Mad, and quite a few others before going out on his own. Awesome, awesome work and the nicest guy to boot.

He is down in Mollalla (South of Portland, farm country) in his own shop, and turning out very nice cars. I am sure you will be seeing some neat things from him in the near future, if you haven't already.

ETA: His website:

http://eckertsrodandcustom.com/index.html

Steven

[Steve Chryssos]

IT'S A FULL BOOGIE RACE CAR..SPECIALTY TOO..BUILT SPECIFICALLY FOR BONNEVILLE..COULDN'T DRIVE IT ON THE STREET NO WAY. LOT OF TECHNOLOGY THERE..

I look forward to Troy applying some of that know-how to future street car builds. I'm sure Rad Rides is learning a lot during this build. His car's are great, but always a little "soft". This car should change things up a little.

[BRIAN]

What is the "Soft" part of his builds? Out of all the builders mentioned I would think he is the most hard edged builder out there. From the designs to the finishes they are drivers?

No argumnet just curious as to what would be soft about a 1200hp street car without the usual chrome and bling all over??

[Steve Chryssos]

His cars are soft in the handling department. Edgy everywhere else.

[rocketman]

What is it you guys are looking for in handling,There's a big differnce in race car handling and street car handling.

[Steve Chryssos]

You sound defensive. Okay. There's race car handling and there's street car handling. But there's also street rod handling. Where style is everything and performance takes a back seat.

I'm not picking on Rad Rides. I'm just saying that the young guns are transitioning from street rod handling and towards high performance street car handling. For example, they're using GT chassis from Art Morrison. It's not criticism. It's an observation about a change amongst the big name 30-something builders. They're figuring out how to bolster performance without sacrificing style and the Rad Rides Bonneville car, while not a street car will alter Rad Rides perspective. You build a car that runs a number and you never look at style the same way.

Sound reasonable?

[Bob Johnson]

I think that's one of the things that makes Troy one of the, if not the best. He's conquered the street rod, and street machine end of this hobby, now he's moving into another dimension. He's showing he has versatility. Alan is doing the same thing. Lots of builders have one way of doing things. It's like their trademark. Alan has shown he can build a top notch street rod, now he has shown he can do the same thing in a street machine. I think if the right customer shows up, he might move into another dimension too. You've got to have the customer that wants that kind of car. First class don't come cheap.....

[rocketman]

You sound defensive. Okay. There's race car handling and there's street car handling. But there's also street rod handling. Where style is everything and performance takes a back seat.

I'm not picking on Rad Rides. I'm just saying that the young guns are transitioning from street rod handling and towards high performance street car handling. For example, they're using GT chassis from Art Morrison. It's not criticism. It's an observation about a change amongst the big name 30-something builders. They're figuring out how to bolster performance without sacrificing style and the Rad Rides Bonneville car, while not a street car will alter Rad Rides perspective. You build a car that runs a number and you never look at style the same way.

Sound reasonable?



I wasn't trying to be defensive.What I was meaning is what does some of you call a handling street car.If it handles like a new corvette for say,I think its a well handling street car.

Now like you said street rod handling is a little differnet,the IFS stuff rides and handles very well,the straight axle 4 four bar stuff rides kinda ruff,but the techology for it is getting quit abit better.