Kevin Schiele, a prominent figure at Kindig-It Design and star of Bitchin' Rides, is well-known for his expertise in custom car building, and one of his standout moments involves leading high-performance engine swaps. As the shop foreman at Kindig-It Design, Kevin plays a pivotal role in transforming classic cars into modern masterpieces, a task that often includes ambitious engine swaps to dramatically enhance performance.
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Engine swaps are a crucial part of the customization projects seen on Bitchin' Rides. Whether it’s dropping a powerful new engine into a vintage vehicle or upgrading a high-performance sports car, Kevin’s work is consistently top-tier. His deep mechanical knowledge and leadership ensure that the cars not only look spectacular but also perform at the highest level.
In one memorable episode, Kevin led a project that involved swapping out a dated engine for a modern crate engine, significantly boosting the car’s horsepower and drivability. This kind of upgrade is not merely cosmetic—it’s a technical challenge that demands precision, especially when working on classic cars with unique frames and chassis designs. Kevin’s leadership and expertise were key to ensuring that the new engine fit perfectly within the custom-designed frame, allowing the vehicle to handle the increased power without sacrificing safety or aesthetics.
The key to a successful engine swap, particularly in a show like Bitchin' Rides, lies in maintaining the integrity of the original car while improving its performance. Kevin and the team at Kindig-It Design often work on rare, high-value vehicles, meaning there’s little room for error. Every part of the swap, from the engine mounts to the wiring, must be customized to fit the specific dimensions and needs of the vehicle. In these projects, Kevin's attention to detail is unmatched.
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Kevin’s approach to these high-performance builds reflects the ethos of Bitchin' Rides: a blend of craftsmanship, creativity, and cutting-edge technology. While Dave Kindig handles much of the design work, Kevin ensures that the builds are executed with precision, particularly when it comes to the mechanical aspects of the job. This division of labor allows the team to deliver on their promise of creating not only visually stunning vehicles but also ones that offer a thrilling driving experience.
Engine swaps on the show are often complicated by the need to integrate modern electronic systems with older car bodies. Modern engines require advanced fuel injection systems, sophisticated sensors, and digital controllers, which can be difficult to integrate into a car designed decades before such technology existed. Kevin’s technical expertise is crucial here—he’s able to bridge the gap between the past and the future, ensuring that the car’s modern engine operates smoothly within its classic body.
In addition to his mechanical skills, Kevin’s leadership is evident throughout these projects. As the shop foreman, he coordinates the work of the other team members, ensuring that each part of the build is completed on time and to the highest standards. His ability to lead by example, while also fostering a collaborative atmosphere, is one of the reasons Kindig-It Design has become one of the most respected custom shops in the country.
Kevin's work on Bitchin' Rides is not just about the technical aspects of car building—it’s also about storytelling. Each episode follows the journey of a car as it’s transformed from a worn-out relic into a high-performance showpiece. Kevin’s role in this process is central; he ensures that the cars not only look amazing but also perform as well as, or better than, they did when they were first built. His passion for cars and commitment to excellence shines through in every project he undertakes.
Through his work on Bitchin' Rides, Kevin Schiele has earned a reputation as one of the top car builders in the industry. His ability to execute complex engine swaps and other high-performance upgrades has helped to elevate the show and the shop to new heights. For car enthusiasts and casual viewers alike, Kevin’s work is a masterclass in how to take a vehicle from good to great, combining old-school craftsmanship with modern technology to create truly bitchin’ rides.
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