In a heartfelt project featured on Iron Resurrection, Joe Martin and his crew at Martin Bros Customs took on the challenge of restoring a classic fire truck for a local community. Known for his extraordinary custom car builds, Joe's focus for this project was more than just revamping an old vehicle — it was about preserving a piece of history and giving back to the people.

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The fire truck, which had served the community for decades, had fallen into disrepair, but its sentimental value remained strong. The local fire department approached Joe, hoping he could work his magic and bring the truck back to life, not just as a showpiece, but as a functioning vehicle that could represent the town in parades and local events. The project was a departure from the usual high-performance cars and motorcycles Joe and his team typically work on, but the emotional stakes made it just as important.
Joe began by carefully inspecting the fire truck, assessing the rust damage and structural wear. It was clear from the start that this restoration wouldn’t be easy. Decades of service had taken a toll on the vehicle, with parts of the frame and engine in dire need of replacement. But as always, Joe was up for the challenge. His passion for craftsmanship and his respect for the vehicle’s history drove the team to put their best work forward.
The restoration process wasn’t just about cosmetic improvements. Joe wanted to ensure that the fire truck would remain operational and safe for the local community to use in future events. This meant sourcing period-accurate parts, while also integrating modern enhancements to improve performance and longevity. The engine, for instance, required significant reworking to ensure that it could still handle the demands of parade duty and occasional local use. Modern suspension components and brake systems were added, allowing the truck to handle smoother and safer than it did in its original state.

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Throughout the process, Joe and his team worked closely with the fire department, ensuring that the truck’s character and historical significance were preserved. This attention to detail extended to the truck’s iconic red paint job and vintage fire department insignia, both of which were restored to their former glory. The interior of the truck also received a much-needed upgrade, with new seats and a refurbished dashboard that honored the original design while adding a touch of modern comfort.
As the restoration neared completion, the community’s anticipation grew. The fire truck, which had once been a workhorse for the town, was now transformed into a stunning symbol of local pride. The final reveal was an emotional moment, not just for the firefighters who had driven and maintained the truck over the years, but also for Joe and his team, who had poured countless hours into the build. Seeing the smiles on the faces of the community members made the long hours and hard work worthwhile.
This project highlights what makes Iron Resurrection so special. While the show often focuses on sleek, high-performance vehicles, it also showcases the heart and soul of automotive restoration. Joe Martin doesn’t just rebuild cars — he restores memories, legacies, and a deep connection between communities and their histories. The fire truck restoration was a prime example of how Iron Resurrection blends craftsmanship with emotional storytelling.
For Joe, this project was more than just another build. It was a way to give back to a community that valued the work he and his team do, and to ensure that a piece of their history could be enjoyed by future generations. The fire truck, once on the brink of being forgotten, now stands as a fully restored tribute to the town's history and to the firefighters who served the community.
The episode ended with a grand parade, where the fire truck, gleaming with fresh paint and modern upgrades, led the way through the streets of the community. Cheers erupted from the crowd as Joe and the local fire department proudly showcased their newly restored piece of history. It was a triumphant moment for everyone involved, proving that sometimes, a vehicle can be much more than just a machine — it can be a symbol of unity, pride, and tradition.
This restoration project not only added another success to Joe Martin’s long list of achievements but also demonstrated his commitment to preserving history and serving the people who cherish it. It’s this dedication that has made Iron Resurrection such a beloved show among car enthusiasts and everyday viewers alike. Whether he’s working on a high-octane muscle car or a beloved community fire truck, Joe’s passion for restoration shines through in every build.
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