Dave Kindig, the mastermind behind Bitchin' Rides, has once again worked his magic, restoring a rare classic car to its former glory. As the owner of Kindig-It Design, based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Kindig has built a reputation for transforming old, worn-out vehicles into custom masterpieces, bringing new life to cars that many would have considered lost causes. With his skilled team and state-of-the-art equipment, Kindig tackles restorations that demand both creativity and technical prowess, making his shop one of the most sought-after in the custom car world.
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The process of restoring a rare classic car is more than just repairing broken parts. It requires an in-depth understanding of automotive history, precise craftsmanship, and an eye for modern design that respects the vehicle’s original essence. One such project was a 1957 GM Futurliner, a colossal and unique piece of automotive history. Originally built as part of General Motors’ “Parade of Progress,” the Futurliner was a mobile exhibition space, and only 12 were ever built. By the time it rolled into Kindig’s shop, it was in desperate need of extensive restoration. This project, which took over a year to complete, involved fabricating missing parts and bringing the vehicle back to life while preserving its historical significance. This was not just a restoration; it was a revival of a piece of Americana.
Kindig’s team, known for their meticulous attention to detail, often takes on the restoration of vehicles from the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. These cars, many of which are no longer in production, come with unique challenges. Parts are often unavailable, and the vehicles themselves can be structurally compromised after decades of use and neglect. To meet these challenges, the team at Kindig-It Design doesn't just rely on off-the-shelf parts. Instead, they fabricate custom pieces when necessary, ensuring that every car they work on is truly one-of-a-kind. Whether it’s fabricating a new exhaust system or redesigning the interior, their goal is to enhance the performance and aesthetics of the vehicle without compromising its classic appeal.
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An excellent example of Kindig’s restoration work is showcased in Bitchin' Rides season 6, where a 1962 Corvette arrived at the shop. This iconic car needed significant design adjustments before it was ready to make its debut at a prestigious Los Angeles car show. The restoration required balancing the sleek, vintage design with modern touches that enhanced its performance and overall look. This blend of the old and the new is where Kindig excels, as he consistently pushes the boundaries of what’s possible while respecting the car's original design.
Kindig’s projects are not only technically challenging but also emotionally significant to his clients. Many of the cars he restores have been in families for generations, carrying sentimental value. In one episode, the team worked on a 1934 Dodge that had been in the client’s family for over 80 years. The vehicle needed extensive work, from fixing a leaky fuel line to reshaping the roof, but the team approached the project with the same care they would give to any other vehicle. Restoring a classic car like this goes beyond the technicalities; it’s about preserving memories and honoring the vehicle’s history.
While restoring cars to their original condition is a huge part of what Kindig and his team do, they also excel at custom builds that push the limits of automotive design. Kindig has a knack for taking vintage cars and upgrading them with modern technology, all while maintaining their classic aesthetic. His shop is renowned for its ability to seamlessly integrate modern conveniences like improved suspension systems and custom interiors without sacrificing the soul of the car. Whether it's a 1953 Ford Pickup or a 1969 Camaro, Kindig’s team ensures that the vehicle not only looks fantastic but also performs at the highest level.
In the competitive world of custom car restoration, Dave Kindig stands out for his ability to blend art, engineering, and history. Each car that rolls out of Kindig-It Design is a testament to the skill and passion of the team behind it. Their ability to transform rare and often neglected vehicles into works of art is why Bitchin' Rides continues to be a favorite among car enthusiasts around the world. Whether it’s a complete restoration of a GM Futurliner or a custom build for a client’s prized Corvette, Kindig and his team consistently exceed expectations, proving that with the right mix of creativity and craftsmanship, even the most neglected cars can shine again.
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