PROJECTS
A customer brought his 1980 Jeep CJ7 into our shop for a list of customizations. We started the project by installing marine speakers inside the dash. Then, we installed a custom center console between the seats. Upon inspection, our tech found one headlight to be out and the high beam switch to be faulty, so we installed a new headlight and switch. Additionally, we added a rear seatbelt to keep the rear passenger safe. Our shop also made a custom glove box latch to keep the glove box from coming open, making it operable. Lastly, our tech fabricated door stops for both sides of the Jeep.
A 1957 Chevy Bel Air was towed into our shop due to a no-start issue. Upon testing, our technician discovered a faulty battery that failed to crank the engine. Replacing the battery resolved the initial issue. Further inspection revealed contaminated fuel, which was drained from the tank. The absence of spark from the distributor prompted the replacement of the points and ignition coil, restoring spark to the engine. However, the carburetor malfunctioned, failing to supply fuel. A used, affordable carburetor was sourced, installed, and adjusted along with the ignition timing. Once all mechanical issues were addressed, the customer requested an additional refurbishment, including a black paint job, dent repair, and panel straightening. The vehicle was restored to a pristine condition.
Our team received a 1973 Toyota Hilux with a suspected head gasket leak. Previously, another shop had replaced the head gasket, but the vehicle overheated again shortly after. Upon inspection, we confirmed a head gasket leak into the cylinder. Both cylinder heads were removed and sent to a machine shop, where they were found to be warped and resurfaced by 7 thousandths. We installed the refurbished heads with ARP hardware. During the repair, the owner requested we investigate a loose steering issue. Our technician discovered an incorrectly installed steering shaft, designed for an electric motor rather than an automobile. We replaced it with a Flaming River 90-degree U-joint and modified the frame for proper installation. Additionally, the customer requested interior modifications, including heat insulation and custom gray carpet. A safety inspection was performed upon completion, which included brake pedal adjustment, installation of a new rear license plate light assembly, and replacement of a turn signal bulb. The owner reported 45 miles of issue-free driving after pickup.
Our team serviced a 2013 BMW 528i, focusing on replacing the front right drive axle as per the customer's request. During the service, a small amount of transfer case fluid was drained for analysis, revealing dark fluid with a burnt electrical odor, indicative of wear. The customer will likely require transfer case replacement in the near future. After conducting a test drive, vibration and noise were detected in the front suspension and rear passenger compartment, and the customer was informed accordingly.
A 1967 Chevy Chevelle was brought into our shop due to a running issue. Following a thorough inspection, our technician discovered that the carburetor was malfunctioning and clogged. Consequently, the customer opted for a new carburetor installation.
We received a 2012 Fiat 500 for diagnosis after the car battery died overnight. Our technician's initial assessment revealed a bad cell in the battery. The owner had the battery under warranty at a local parts store and supplied a new battery for installation. A subsequent battery draw test identified the factory radio as the cause of the issue, as it failed to turn off properly. The customer then ordered an aftermarket radio and backup camera, which we installed. The vehicle has remained issue-free for several days following the repairs.
A customer brought their 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 into our facility to have the outer tire rod ends replaced using parts they provided.
A customer recently brought in their 1963 Chevy Corvair for a complete engine reseal. Upon inspection, it was evident that the engine was experiencing oil leaks from every seal, prompting us to remove the engine and transmission as a single unit. A complete engine gasket seal kit was installed to address the issue. During the process, a broken rocker arm and push rod were discovered, which we promptly replaced with new components. The customer also requested an upgrade from the points-style ignition system to an electronic version, which we accomplished by installing a Pertronix conversion within the stock distributor, thereby maintaining the original appearance. While the engine and transmission were removed, we took the opportunity to install a new clutch, throw-out bearing, and pressure plate. Although the rebuilt carburetors we ordered were found to be incorrectly assembled, our team disassembled and corrected the issues, ensuring the engine's proper functioning. Additionally, the passenger side of the vehicle was not equipped with a side-view mirror, which we installed at the customer's request. Minor scratches on the passenger door were also addressed by taking a photographic record of the paint, mixing a custom color match, and touching up the affected areas.
