1956 Chevy 3100 – Brandon H.

“Wrenchers Impact”

Nicknamed “Ruby,” this project is dedicated to the “wrenchers” who “impacted” my life and instilled a love for wrenching, mirror-like paint jobs, hot engines, and all things loud and fast.

Purchased in 2013 from the late Mr. Bill Hromadka, a West Texas resident and West FD volunteer, Ruby honors Bill with a replica West FD sticker that sits in the exact spot it was found on the day of purchase.

In honor of the late Lynn Hawthorne, my uncle, a vintage glass doorknob that once adorned the gearshift of his 1964 Chevrolet C10 has found its new home on Ruby. Lynn took time to impart his vast knowledge of building and repairing mixed with his love for old school hot-rodding. Lynn’s talent with all things, most specifically mechanical skills, made a significant impact.

Finally, Ruby gets her Viper Red paint in honor of the late Edward Nors. A paint and body man by trade, Ed was known for his wacky shenanigans, his fun-loving spirit, and his beautiful, red GTO. Over a span of six years, he took time out of his busy schedule to mentor me as a teenager by providing patience and hard work in the shop. During those years, Ed not only shared his knowledge of paint and body work, but went out of his way to teach me how to pull and rebuild an engine in my first truck.

It took 6 years, and I did all the work myself with the exception of the transmission and seat upholstery. Ruby sports a 355 c.i., 700R4, 3.73 10-bolt rear end, Gennie shifter, Dakota Digital gauges, and Kenwood stereo system.[lmc_story_gallery]