Yes, I have an old name on here from when I signed up years ago, but it hasn't been until the last year or so that I've gotten into hot rods enough to call myself a member. I'll have to contact a mod to get rid of the old name... Anyway guys, I thought I'd take the time to introduce myself here in the newbie forums. I'm a laid back, 19 year old gear head that wants to build some badass hot rods and learn as much as possible from the knowledgeable folks here on the HAMB. I have a lot to learn, and I know it, so don't expect me to be another young kid that acts like a punk that knows everything. Been reading a lot on here lately, and the work on this board is work that I someday hope to be able to perform on my own cars, and possibly in my own shop someday. As I said, I'm 19 years old... graduated from high school last June. After I graduated I immediately started in a privately owned shop as a paid apprentice. I went in there knowing nothing, and while I am more knowledgeable than I was before I started, I still have a lot to learn. The shop I work in is more focused on modern "hot rods." Blinged out streetrods of sorts I suppose. After working on those cars all day, it's nice to come here and look at cars that are more my style. But hey, I can't complain, considering I'm lucky as hell for what I got. I'll be starting my own project soon, as soon as I sell an OT project that I started a couple of years ago. After that's gone, I'll be building my '27 T- Modified roadster... built from the front half of a touring body. So far I have a boxed model A frame, chrysler 318 and 904 tranny, and the body all waiting for me. The engine and trans are already paid for, the rest is being held by friends of mine until I come up with the cash. I'll throw a pic of the body and engine I'll be using in here for shits and giggles... I know it's not an old hemi or a nailhead, but I got it for a good deal. This will be my first hot rod project so I'm sure the work will be amateur at best, but gotta learn someway right!? Anyway guys, I thank you all in advance for helping me learn the art of building these cars. Hopefully someday I can cruise with some of the members here in a ride of my own... - Zach - Northwest PA
Refreshing to see a young dude with the right attitude. As a shop owner (Diesel Hot Rods, not traditionals) I get a lot of kids coming in looking for work. Most of them have their pants on the ground and I show them the door. The ones I take in..well most of them can't work their way out of a paper bag. And they all think they know everything and are worth $20 and hour to start. Best of luck to you! Where abouts in PA are you? Born and raised in Delaware, myself
Erie, PA here, right by the lake! And I know what you mean about the attitudes of some of the younger guys trying to start out in shops. That's why I don't say I'm a builder, or a fabricator... but an apprentice. I work for less than 10 an hour, which a lot of people consider too little. Would more cash be nice, always! But do I deserve it yet, not sure on that one. Being paid to learn is good enough for me for now.
Right on. I am impressed by your maturity and understanding. I am giving you props for the right attitude and your willingness to learn and work hard. THat attitude will serve you well!
Welcome from Md. With your work ethic, positive attitude and humility, you will go far. I give you a thumbs-up but I also give your parents a round of applause as well. Good luck with your career and your project(s). Enjoy your HAMBtime.....Don.
First off, thanks to all of you guys for the warm welcome. Glad to be part of the club. Thank you, Erik. I appreciate the compliments! Thank you, sir! Hopefully in the time that I'm building this hot rod you guys will get to see a little development in my skill set as a builder. I'm hoping to be as good as some of the guys on here one day, but that's a long shot! Maybe with enough practice. Thanks again!
The Jalopy Journal
