September 17, 2025 • 25 mins
The episode offers an overview of Rust Valley Restorers, a Canadian documentary series that chronicles Mike Hall and his team at Rust Bros Restorations as they revitalize classic cars in Tappen, British Columbia. It highlights ten iconic transformations featured on the show, ranging from a 1968 Chevy Camaro Convertible, noted for being the most expensive sale and a donation to Habitat for Humanity, to a 1969 AMC AMX discovered in Hall's vast collection. The show emphasizes the team's technical skill, creativity, and passion for preserving automotive history, often incorporating emotional client stories and balancing restoration challenges with budget constraints. Each vehicle, whether a muscle car or a vintage truck, illustrates the show's core theme of turning rusty relics into roadworthy treasures and the enduring appeal of classic automobiles.
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Imagine looking at something forgotten, whethered, maybe seemingly beyond repair,
something most people would just write off as junk.
Speaker 2 (00:09):
All right, absolutely seen in a million times.
Speaker 1 (00:11):
And instead of seeing that decay, you see pure potential,
you know, like a hidden masterpiece just waiting, waiting for
the right hands, the right vision to bring it out.
That Well, that's the magic of true restoration, isn't it.
It's about so much more than just fixing things up.
It's like breathing life.
Speaker 2 (00:28):
Back into them, turning rust into gold.
Speaker 1 (00:30):
Exactly, turning rust into gold, not just literally, but you
know metaphorically too, through sheer, dedication, skill, and.
Speaker 2 (00:38):
Well passion, a whole lot of passion.
Speaker 1 (00:40):
So today we're doing a deep dive into a show
that has I think captured hearts everywhere by doing just that.
Speaker 3 (00:46):
Brust Valley Restorers great show, really is.
Speaker 1 (00:49):
It chronicles these journeys of vintage vehicles brought back to
their former glories, sometimes even like better than before. It
really embodies that whole spirit of transformation, it does. So
our mission today in this deep dive is to explore
let's say, ten unforgettable transformations from the show. We want
to get into the technical skill, sure, but also the uh,
(01:12):
the emotional stories behind them. Yeah, the stores are key,
and the unexpected challenges because they're always challenges, right, Yeah,
and just that pure infectious passion that drives Mike Hall
and his amazing crew at Rustbros. Restorations.
Speaker 2 (01:25):
And what's really interesting about it all is just how
universal that appeal is, you know, the idea of rebirth.
We're talking about a specific place here tapp in British Columbia, right,
Rust Valley, exactly fittingly nicknamed Rust Valley, and it's called
that because it's literally like dotted with these huge fields
of classic cars.
Speaker 1 (01:43):
Yeah, just sitting there waiting.
Speaker 2 (01:45):
Just waiting, patiently, waiting for a second chance. And the
show itself, it started it on History Channel back in
December twenty eighteen. Yeah, sounds right, But then it just
exploded when it hit Netflix. Found this massive global audience,
which really proves that these stories, you know, forgotten machine
being meticulously reborn, history being preserved, it just resonates. Yeah, everywhere.
(02:06):
It doesn't matter if you're a carnut or just like
a good underdog.
Speaker 1 (02:09):
Story, it absolutely does and you hit on it. It's
not just the cars, it's the stories and the heart
of it all is Mike Hall.
Speaker 2 (02:18):
Oh yeah, the man himself.
Speaker 1 (02:20):
The charismatic, totally car obsessed leader of Rust Bros. I mean,
this is a guy who at one point had a
collection of over five hundred vehicles. Can you even imagine that?
Speaker 2 (02:29):
It's mind boggling. His passion is just huge. But like
you said, he's not doing it alone, no.
Speaker 1 (02:34):
Way, no visionary does it alone.
Speaker 2 (02:36):
Right, A team definitely not. Yeah, and that team dynamic
is well, it's crucial to how the whole thing works.
You've got his son, Connor Hall, the business brain, right,
the business minded counterpoint, always trying to keep things grounded,
you know, keep the finances in check against Mike's sometimes
limitless visions.
Speaker 1 (02:52):
At classic push and pull exactly right.
Speaker 2 (02:54):
Then there's Avery chowf the mechanic extraordinary, the wizard, total wizard,
his technical skills, his problem solving, it's unreal. Sometimes he
just figures stuff out. And then the broader team, you know,
all the skilled folks whose combined talents make these transformations
even possible.
Speaker 1 (03:14):
And that really gets to the show's dual appeal, doesn't it.
It's not just about the nuts and bolts, the welding,
the painting, though, that stuff.
Speaker 2 (03:21):
Is cool to watch, all very satisfying.
Speaker 1 (03:23):
But it's equally about the emotional connection. Like maybe it's
a family heirloom passed down generations.
Speaker 2 (03:29):
Right, or a client's absolute dream card, or just.
Speaker 1 (03:32):
A really significant piece of automotive history being saved. It
makes you wonder, how do they manage that, you know,
preserving the past but also making these things performed for today.
It's a constant balancing act.
Speaker 2 (03:43):
That is the million dollar question, and it's what makes
it so compelling, so relatable. That's like mechanics meets psychology
on wheels or something.
Speaker 1 (03:51):
Yeah, pretty much. So let's dig into that. Let's unpack
the heart of russ value, what really drives these transformations.
So the very beginning of Russbro's restorations, it's all tied
up with Mike Hall's personal story and obviously that gigantic
car collection Field of Dreams, Field of Dreams exactly, it's
not just a junkyard. It's like this living museum. Almost
(04:12):
imagine walking through acres of that classic cars everywhere you look,
history just waiting, hundreds and hundreds of them, and that
property it provides the raw material, the literal foundation for
the whole show. These are the cars that have waited,
sometimes decades for their moment.
Speaker 2 (04:29):
It's an amazing sight. And the original idea for the
show came right out of that. It was simple, but
kind of profound. Take these rusty relics right.
Speaker 3 (04:39):
From the field, straight out of the dirt.
Speaker 2 (04:41):
Yeah, basically and meticulously transform them into road worthy classics. Yeah,
and not just you know.
Speaker 1 (04:46):
Quick flips, no proper restoration.
Speaker 2 (04:48):
Proper painstaking work, bringing them back to life, often making them,
like you said, better than they were originally, aiming for
authenticity and performance.
Speaker 1 (04:57):
And right at the center of all that, like we
touched on, is thatdynamic between Mike and his son Connor.
Speaker 2 (05:02):
Ah, the passion versus pragmatism.
Speaker 1 (05:05):
That's it. It's a theme in almost every episode. Mike's
approach is just pure passion. He'll prioritize the quality, the
emotional connection, getting it perfect.
Speaker 2 (05:16):
Even if it blows the budget way out.
Speaker 1 (05:17):
Often maybe usually he sees the art, the potential.
Speaker 2 (05:21):
And Connor sees the bottom line.
Speaker 1 (05:23):
He has to someone has to keep the lights on right.
Speaker 2 (05:26):
Connor's job is to try and ground that passion in
financial reality. Yeah, keep the business viable.
Speaker 1 (05:32):
It creates this constant tension, which is so relatable. Mike's
pushing for perfection, finding hidden rust that costs a fortune,
always hidden rust, and Connor's trying to pull back the reins,
negotiate and make the numbers work somehow. It's like watching
a tight.
Speaker 3 (05:45):
Rope walk every episode, it really is.
Speaker 1 (05:48):
And honestly, for you listening, the thing is this isn't
just cooked up for TV drama. It reflects that struggle
in any passion project, right.
Speaker 2 (05:55):
Oh absolutely, anyone who's tried to start something knows this feeling.
Speaker 1 (05:58):
Whether you're building a businesses making art, even just renovating
your kitchen, you face that same battle, the dream versus
the reality of time, money, resources, which is why.
Speaker 2 (06:09):
When they do pull it off, when that car finally
rolls out looking amazing, it feels earned. You saw the struggle.
Speaker 1 (06:16):
The triumph is sweeter, definitely adds that human element and
a perfect example of this whole dynamic and how they
just kicked off the series with a bang is the
nineteen seventy Dodge Dart Swinger. Oh yeah, star of the
premiere season one, episode one. It made a huge statement
right out of the gate.
Speaker 2 (06:34):
The panther pink dart. Yeah, you absolutely could not miss.
Speaker 1 (06:37):
That thing, No kidding.
Speaker 2 (06:38):
It started as a real Russ bucket, honestly, one of
those cars you'd think was destined for the Crusher. Looked
pretty rough, but transformation was incredible. They had to strip
it right down, deal with major structural stuff, floors, frame, rust.
Speaker 3 (06:51):
Everywhere, the usual suspects and rust valley.
Speaker 2 (06:54):
Right before laying down that unbelievably vibrant panther pink paint.
Speaker 1 (06:58):
It just popped totally and under the hood a three
forty eight.
Speaker 2 (07:02):
Nice good muscle for that car.
Speaker 1 (07:03):
Yeah, solid choice. And they modernized it where it counts
disc brakes, which is.
Speaker 2 (07:07):
Crucial, big safety upgrade, huge and refreshed the interior, blending
that sort of classic look with you know, making it
comfortable again.
Speaker 1 (07:16):
But what really stood out about that project and showed
Mike's whole philosophy was him sticking to the price he quoted.
Speaker 2 (07:23):
Yeah, that became a recurring theme.
Speaker 1 (07:24):
Didn't it totally? Even when things went way over budget,
which they often did pulling cars from the field.
Speaker 2 (07:30):
He'd eat The cost drove Connor crazy.
Speaker 1 (07:32):
You could tell absolutely Connor's trying to run a business.
But it really endeared Mike to the viewers. It felt
like integrity. You know, an old school promise is a
promise kind of thing.
Speaker 2 (07:43):
Yeah, like his word actually meant something, which is kind
of refreshing these days.
Speaker 1 (07:47):
Exactly, it wasn't just a car delivered, it was a
promise kept. And the impact that car was huge for
the show. The bold collar, the stance.
Speaker 3 (07:56):
The quality showed what they could do right.
Speaker 1 (07:58):
It showed that classic car rest ration wasn't just for
millionaires or conqueror's level cars. It showed that, hey, maybe
that rusty car you dream about could be saved. It
made it feel accessible.
Speaker 2 (08:10):
Said a great tone, aspirational, but.
Speaker 1 (08:12):
It's hantim Yeah exactly. So that dark really set the stage.
But believe it or not, some projects went even further,
not just amazing transformations, but making a real impact beyond
the shop.
Speaker 2 (08:23):
Ah, you must be talking about the Camaro.
Speaker 1 (08:25):
The nineteen sixty eight Chevy Camaro convertible. Let's get into
that one. It broke records and really showed the heart
of the team.
Speaker 2 (08:32):
This is such a standout story, really defines their character.
I think it was season two, episode one, and yeah,
it holds the record for their priceiest sale. But here's
the really wild part. Mike bought the initial car for
only two grand.
Speaker 1 (08:47):
Wow, that's nothing for a sixty eight convertible project.
Speaker 2 (08:51):
Right, even rough, But it wasn't actually a Camaro to
begin with.
Speaker 1 (08:54):
Wait, what what was it?
Speaker 2 (08:55):
It was a nineteen sixty eight Pontiac Firebird.
Speaker 1 (08:57):
No way, So they turned a Firebird into a how
do you even do that? Convincingly? And why?
Speaker 2 (09:03):
Well here's the clever bit. The sixty eight Firebird and
Kamara shared the same basic platform, the f body, same dimensions.
A lot of the underlying structure was identical.
Speaker 1 (09:11):
Ah, okay, that makes it feasible, I guess.
Speaker 2 (09:13):
Feasible, but still a huge undertaking. So Mike decided to
transform it into a big block RSS chamaral.
Speaker 1 (09:19):
Clone okay, RSSS rally Sports, supersport, the top tier stuff.
Speaker 2 (09:23):
Exactly the most desirable versions. It wasn't about fooling anyone necessarily,
but recreating that icon, and they went all out. Dropped
in a monster four to twenty seven big.
Speaker 1 (09:34):
Block V eight whoa serious power?
Speaker 2 (09:37):
Oh yeah, reinforced the chassis to handle it, added all
the period correct details they are as hideaway headlights, the
SS hood vents, the right trim, the astro ventilation, everything
meticulous absolutely meticulous. The result was just stunning, looked, sounded,
felt like the real deal, pure musclecar, power and style.
Speaker 1 (09:56):
So an incredible bill, a faithful recreation. But the story
gets even better, doesn't it. It wasn't just about selling
it for top dollar.
Speaker 2 (10:02):
No, And this is where the heart comes in. This
is what elevates it. They didn't just sell it to
some rich collector. Rushbros. Donated the finished car to Habitat
for Humanity and Kambloops for a fundraising raffle, tying their
passion directly to helping the community.
Speaker 1 (10:15):
That's amazing, seriously speaks volumes about their values totally.
Speaker 2 (10:19):
And the impact was huge. Yeah, it sold in the
Raffle for sixty eight thousand.
Speaker 1 (10:23):
Dollars, Yes, sixty eight grand. That's incredible for a raffle car,
even one that nice.
Speaker 2 (10:28):
Made it the most valuable car on the show, like
we said, But that money went straight into affordable housing projects,
building homes for families.
Speaker 1 (10:37):
That's just fantastic.
Speaker 2 (10:38):
And this story, you know, it really highlights why this
matters to you listening. It shows how passion projects fueled
by skill and dedication can go beyond just personal satisfaction
or profit. You mix that craftsmanship with generosity, with community spirit,
you can make a real difference. It's that blend of
artistry and giving back.
Speaker 1 (10:59):
Truly inspiration, the heart behind the hustle for sure. Okay,
let's pivot a bit. Let's talk about how they blend
that old world charm with new age performance modernizing icons.
Speaker 2 (11:09):
Yeah, that's a delicate art.
Speaker 1 (11:10):
And few cars capture that balance better than the nineteen
fifty five Chevrolet bel Air Quintessential American Classic featured back
in Season one.
Speaker 2 (11:18):
Ah, the fifty five Chevy beautiful car.
Speaker 1 (11:20):
And their approach was just smart, respect the icon, but
make it drivable today.
Speaker 2 (11:24):
Right. The challenge is always how do you update it
without losing what makes it special, that timeless retro charm exactly.
So the transformation involved key upgrades under the skin, things
like front.
Speaker 4 (11:36):
Disc brakes much better stopping way, better rack and pinion
steering for better feel, more responsive new tires. Obviously, refreshed
up polstery so it's comfortable but still has that cool
fifties vibe.
Speaker 1 (11:47):
But crucially, they kept all those signature looks. The sweep site,
wrap around windshield.
Speaker 2 (11:52):
Gave you that panoramic view, the.
Speaker 1 (11:53):
Perfect proportions that longer, wider, lower stance. It just screams
fifties cool. They didn't mess with the.
Speaker 2 (12:00):
Soul of the car, No, they enhance the experience around
the soul. And Mike often talks about that, right, how
these cars connect to memories totally?
Speaker 1 (12:09):
He'd say the Belayer takes owners on a trip down
memory lane, back to simpler times, family trips.
Speaker 2 (12:14):
It taps into that powerful nostalgia and this restoration really
embodies that balance preservation and improvement. It shows how modern
tech can enhance history without erasing it, which, for you
listening is kind of cool. Right. We could appreciate the past,
keep its beauty, but make it safe and enjoyable for today.
Keeps those memories tangible.
Speaker 1 (12:34):
Keeps them rolling absolutely okay, speaking of function in nostalgia,
but maybe a bit more rugged.
Speaker 3 (12:42):
Let's talk trucks, Ah, the workhorses.
Speaker 1 (12:45):
The unsung heroes of Rust Valley. The nineteen fifty seven
GMC half Done, also from season one, represents the big
role vintage trucks play out there.
Speaker 2 (12:56):
Yeah, and it shows the team's versatility. They're not just
about muscle cars. This fifty seven GMC was restored beautifully
back to its former glory. But with that sort of
utilitarian elegance. They refined the grill in detail. It was lighter,
less bulky than previous years.
Speaker 1 (13:12):
Subtle design shift.
Speaker 2 (13:13):
Yeah, updated mechanicals for reliability, polished up the exterior so
that hard working character just shone through.
Speaker 1 (13:20):
It's those details again, isn't it. They kept its basic purpose,
its utilitarian charm.
Speaker 3 (13:24):
This truck was built to work exactly respected.
Speaker 1 (13:27):
That, but they added modern touches like better breaks, smooth
a ride, made it nicer to drive today, safer two
without losing that tough, no nonsense look.
Speaker 2 (13:35):
Best of both worlds, and it just shows you know
their skill goes beyond just flash. They appreciate the appeal
of working vehicles too. How function and good looks can
go together. For a lot of people. These old trucks
represent honest work, simpler times. Seeing them restored, mixing old
purpose with new comfort, it resonates definitely.
Speaker 1 (13:55):
Okay, from workhorses to pure muscle, let's dive into the
world of mopar patina performance.
Speaker 2 (14:02):
All right, mo car time.
Speaker 1 (14:03):
Starting with the nineteen seventy three Plymouth Barracuda Season one.
Again a real dose of mopar attitude focused on performance.
Speaker 2 (14:11):
Yeah, the Kudah. And the key thing here was the
the artistic choice they made with the exterior, right the
patina exactly. They put in a powerful four to forty
big block. Yn't go wrong with the four forty nop
paired it with an automatic ready to rumble, but they
deliberately left the outside largely untouched, embraced the weathered patina
instead of a perfect paint job. I love that it
(14:31):
had the body color grill, the rear valance panel company,
vinyl buckets inside sort of a mix of original and
lived in. I mean, she has you know what's really
authentic in a classic car, perfect shine or the scars
of time.
Speaker 1 (14:41):
It's a great question. It makes a statement, but I
bet keeping the patina didn't mean it was easy underneath?
Speaker 2 (14:46):
Right?
Speaker 1 (14:46):
Can't leave the frame rusty?
Speaker 2 (14:48):
Oh? Absolutely not? Yeah, And that highlights the gamble you
take with these old cars. They found significant hidden rust
frame issues. They usual Premlin's pretty common, yeah and costly
and shows that he and if you go for that
unpolished look outside, the structure underneath has to be solid
safety first, of course. It's a testament to their skill.
(15:08):
They could fix the bones while preserving the skins.
Speaker 1 (15:11):
Character and for you listening, this restoration really says something
about valuing authenticity character over just flawless perfection beauty. In
the journey, the history etched on the surface, not just
a showroom shine. It celebrates the cars passed while giving
it a solid future.
Speaker 2 (15:29):
Well said. Now, building on that mopar energy, let's look
at the nineteen seventy three Dodge Challenger, also season one
aggressive style performance, but with a focus on being well accessible.
Speaker 1 (15:40):
Exactly, this Challenger was all about that muscular look, pure
seventies aggression. They restored it focusing on those performance cues,
the cool performance hood, the blacked out grill, those iconic
black strobe stripes.
Speaker 2 (15:54):
Looks fast just sitting there.
Speaker 1 (15:55):
Totally and structurally. They fixed frame rail issues critical for
hand handling and safety. And inside that sporty two spoke
steering wheel plus a rebuilt four forty under the hood.
Speaker 2 (16:06):
Gotta have the power to back up the lock.
Speaker 1 (16:08):
Right, it looked and performed like a proper muscle icon.
Speaker 2 (16:12):
But the kicker here the So what was the affordability aspect?
Speaker 1 (16:16):
Yeah, that was a big point.
Speaker 2 (16:17):
It aligned perfectly with that russ brose ethos, making classics
attainable for the average person, not just the super wealthy,
which brings up that challenge again, how do you do
quality work but keep costs somewhat reasonable.
Speaker 1 (16:30):
It's tough, especially with vintage parts, and surprises always surprises,
But it shows that dream of owning an iconic muscle
card doesn't have to be completely out of reach. You know,
a great restoration can balance the essential structure with those
bold looks. It democratizes the dream a bit, brings.
Speaker 2 (16:46):
The thrill to more people. And if we talk about
the ultimate Mopar dream build on the show, performance wise
gotta be the nineteen sixty eight Dodge Dart GT convertible.
Speaker 1 (16:57):
Another Season one gem, and this wasn't just for storing
a dart. This was envisioned as a four to forty
GTS convertible from the get Go.
Speaker 2 (17:04):
Right, top tier performance stargut.
Speaker 1 (17:05):
This was like a masterclass. They gathered all the right
go fast parts, disc brakes obviously, zel a proper GTS hood,
Schumacher motor mounts to handle the big.
Speaker 3 (17:15):
Blocks, torque, smart upgrade or stored.
Speaker 1 (17:17):
Console, a heavy duty seven to twenty seven automatic transmission
built for that power.
Speaker 3 (17:22):
Bullet proved transmissions, and the whole.
Speaker 1 (17:23):
Focus was that four to forty engine, breathing through factory
big block exhaust manifolds for maximum flow, every piece chosen
for performance.
Speaker 2 (17:32):
And when you put all those right pieces together, yeah,
the result was spectacular. Went from you know, a rusty
shell to this high performance drop top, sleek and powerful,
not just a looker, No, designed to be a driver's car,
something you could actually enjoy on the road. Feel that muscle, yeah,
but also clean enough to be a showpiece, a real
duel threat.
Speaker 1 (17:53):
And for you the listener, this really shows that ultimate
restorer's dream, right, having the vision, the knowledge, all the
right part and then the skill to build something truly
exceptional from almost nothing.
Speaker 2 (18:04):
Yeah, seeing that potential and just nailing it, creating something
maybe even better.
Speaker 3 (18:09):
Than new exactly.
Speaker 2 (18:10):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (18:11):
Okay, let's shift gears a bit. Let's explore some projects
that threw up unique challenges, led to unexpected treasures, maybe
really pushed the boundaries.
Speaker 2 (18:19):
All right, where are we heading?
Speaker 1 (18:21):
First up a project that tested their skills and tugged
at the heart strings, the nineteen sixty six Lincoln Continental
Convertible Season three challenging but incredibly rewarding.
Speaker 2 (18:32):
Ah, the Lincoln, Yeah, the big challenge there? What really
hooked viewers was the rust.
Speaker 1 (18:37):
It was bad, wasn't it.
Speaker 2 (18:38):
It was really bad, pervasive, structural, the kind of decay
that makes you question if it's even salvageable. It pushed
the team to their absolute limits technically and creatively trying
to fix it without losing that Lincoln luxury feel makes
you wonder where that line is you know, too far
do on.
Speaker 1 (18:55):
But there was that extra layer, the emotional core.
Speaker 3 (18:57):
Of this one.
Speaker 2 (18:58):
Mm hmm. That's what made it special.
Speaker 1 (19:00):
The car was being restored for a client who used
a wheelchair, right, which just added this profound sense of purpose.
It wasn't just fixing a car, It was fulfilling a dream,
creating freedom, accessibility, joy for someone. That human element really
came through, It.
Speaker 2 (19:16):
Really did, and the transformation had to reflect that. It
wasn't just about making it pretty. Extensive overhaul, suspension breaks,
the whole interior all done not just to look stunning,
but to be fully functional and accessible for the client.
Speaker 1 (19:31):
Custom modifications for entry exit controls.
Speaker 2 (19:34):
Exactly tailored specifically to his nies.
Speaker 1 (19:36):
And even though it went thousands over budget, which okay,
happens a lot with Mike, but here it felt particularly significant.
His dedication to delivering that dream perfectly tailor just shone through,
no compromises on quality for that client.
Speaker 2 (19:51):
And that story is just a powerful testament to their dedication,
isn't It shows their technical skill, sure, but also their empathy.
How complex repairs can merge with that deep client connection,
resulting in a vehicle that's literally a dream come true,
built just for them. It's way beyond a normal restoration job.
Speaker 1 (20:08):
Absolutely okay, from luxury convertibles to something completely different. The
nineteen fifty six Ford Coe cab over engine truck.
Speaker 2 (20:18):
Oh the Coe, Yeah, that was cool.
Speaker 1 (20:20):
Unconventional collaborative project across two episodes in season four really
stood out.
Speaker 2 (20:25):
What's fascinating there is the truck itself, the rarity the design.
Cab over engine looks unique totally. Historically was practical, better maneuverability,
more bed length, but today it's just eye catching, a
conversation starter before you even touch it. The design itself
presents unique restoration challenges.
Speaker 1 (20:43):
And being that old and that design, yeah, it needed
serious work right. Structural integrity, mechanical reliability. These aren't simple
machines to work on.
Speaker 2 (20:52):
No, Getting to the engine under the cab it takes
some doing, lots of wear and tear over decades requires
creative problem solving for sure, and.
Speaker 1 (20:59):
The transformation was pretty dramatic. Modernized suspension for a better ride,
fresh paint turned it into this head turning custom.
Speaker 2 (21:06):
Yeah, really sharp. But what also made this one stand
out was the collaboration aspect.
Speaker 1 (21:10):
Right. They didn't do it alone.
Speaker 2 (21:12):
No, Russ Bros. Teamed up with Pacific Muscle Cars, brought
in extra expertise, showing they could tackle these really diverse,
complex projects by joining forces.
Speaker 1 (21:22):
And for you listening, that story really shows the creativity
needed for unusual vehicles and also the power of collaboration.
Speaker 2 (21:29):
Right.
Speaker 1 (21:30):
Definitely, combining forces, sharing expertise can lead to results maybe
one team couldn't achieve alone. Strengthen numbers or skills anyway,
very true.
Speaker 2 (21:39):
And finally, speaking of unexpected fines, let's talk about the
nineteen sixty nine AMC AMX, the auction gem exactly discovered
during Mike Hall's huge twenty twenty one auction when he
sold off like five hundred cars from the field of dream.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
Imagine being there like the ultimate automotive treasure hunt. And
the AMX is a rare bird anyway.
Speaker 2 (21:59):
Very rare, only made sixty eight to seventy and this
one packed a punch three hundred and ninety eight three
hundred and fifteen horse power.
Speaker 3 (22:06):
Nice Beecks decent power for sure.
Speaker 2 (22:07):
And what was amazing among all those cars in various
states of decay, this Amx was one of the best
preserved vehicles in Mike's whole collection. Yeah, remarkable condition and
it sold for just seven grand.
Speaker 1 (22:18):
Get out seven thousand dollars for a sixty nine Amex
three ninety in good shape.
Speaker 2 (22:23):
That's a steel, absolute steel for the new owner, a
diamond hidden amongst all the rust.
Speaker 1 (22:27):
Talk about finding gold in the field. And it needed
minimal work.
Speaker 2 (22:31):
Right, Yeah, it basically just needed a paint job to
make it pop, some axle repairs for road worthiness. It
highlights that sometimes the best treasures just need a little polish,
not a full blown ground up.
Speaker 1 (22:41):
Restoration, recognizing that hidden value exactly.
Speaker 2 (22:44):
And you know, this story captures that thrill of discovery
in the field of dreams, finding something amazing that just
needs a light touch. But it also touches on that
bittersweet reality for Mike letting go of these unique cars
necessary maybe to fund the next project, to keep the
passion going, but still got.
Speaker 3 (23:02):
To be tough, oh for sure.
Speaker 1 (23:03):
And that bittersweet reality that makes of challenged triumph passion
versus pragmatism. It kind of brings us full circle on Rust.
Speaker 3 (23:10):
Value Restores, It really does.
Speaker 1 (23:12):
So wrapping up this deep dive, it's crystal clear, isn't it.
Rust Value Restores is way more than just.
Speaker 2 (23:19):
A car show, oh much more.
Speaker 1 (23:20):
It's this vibrant celebration of automotive history, human connection between
the team with the clients, the sheer art a restoration,
and just the enduring power of passion.
Speaker 2 (23:31):
And these ten vehicles we've walked through today, from that
record breaking, heartwarming Camaro to the surprisingly pristine AMX pulled
from the auction, Each one tells a story, represents the
heart and soul of rest bros. Stories of resilience, ingenuity,
pushing boundaries.
Speaker 1 (23:48):
And the magic is just undeniable. My Hall and his team,
they've genuinely turned tap In BC into this global symbol
for classic car culture, a beacon for enthusiasts. They prove
over and over that with enough skill, dedication, and a
lot of heart, even the rustiest wreck can shine again,
often brighter, maybe with more character than ever before. It's
(24:10):
a rebirth narrative, and.
Speaker 2 (24:11):
Whether it's hearing that big block V eight roar back
to life after decades or some moment totally, or seeing
that gleaming paint reflect the sun, or just knowing the
immense challenges they overcame. Rust Valley captures that magic, turning
rust into gold. One car, one story, one dream at.
Speaker 1 (24:25):
A time reminds you of the value in things. Maybe
others discard the joy of bringing them back exactly So,
after exploring all these transformations, these stories of rebirth, maybe
think about this for a second. What rusty relic in
your own life might be hiding a treasure? Hmm, good question,
just waiting for a little attention, a bit of passion,
(24:46):
Maybe a fresh perspective to be revealed. Could be an
old hobby you dropped, a skill you haven't used, even
just a viewpoint that needs a fresh coat of paint.
Metaphorically speaking, yeah, what could you transform from overlook to unforgettable?
Something to think about. We hope this deep dive gave
you some food for thought and maybe a little inspiration.
Imagine looking at something forgotten, whethered, maybe seemingly beyond repair,
something most people would just write off as junk.
Speaker 2 (00:09):
All right, absolutely seen in a million times.
Speaker 1 (00:11):
And instead of seeing that decay, you see pure potential,
you know, like a hidden masterpiece just waiting, waiting for
the right hands, the right vision to bring it out.
That Well, that's the magic of true restoration, isn't it.
It's about so much more than just fixing things up.
It's like breathing life.
Speaker 2 (00:28):
Back into them, turning rust into gold.
Speaker 1 (00:30):
Exactly, turning rust into gold, not just literally, but you
know metaphorically too, through sheer, dedication, skill, and.
Speaker 2 (00:38):
Well passion, a whole lot of passion.
Speaker 1 (00:40):
So today we're doing a deep dive into a show
that has I think captured hearts everywhere by doing just that.
Speaker 3 (00:46):
Brust Valley Restorers great show, really is.
Speaker 1 (00:49):
It chronicles these journeys of vintage vehicles brought back to
their former glories, sometimes even like better than before. It
really embodies that whole spirit of transformation, it does. So
our mission today in this deep dive is to explore
let's say, ten unforgettable transformations from the show. We want
to get into the technical skill, sure, but also the uh,
(01:12):
the emotional stories behind them. Yeah, the stores are key,
and the unexpected challenges because they're always challenges, right, Yeah,
and just that pure infectious passion that drives Mike Hall
and his amazing crew at Rustbros. Restorations.
Speaker 2 (01:25):
And what's really interesting about it all is just how
universal that appeal is, you know, the idea of rebirth.
We're talking about a specific place here tapp in British Columbia, right,
Rust Valley, exactly fittingly nicknamed Rust Valley, and it's called
that because it's literally like dotted with these huge fields
of classic cars.
Speaker 1 (01:43):
Yeah, just sitting there waiting.
Speaker 2 (01:45):
Just waiting, patiently, waiting for a second chance. And the
show itself, it started it on History Channel back in
December twenty eighteen. Yeah, sounds right, But then it just
exploded when it hit Netflix. Found this massive global audience,
which really proves that these stories, you know, forgotten machine
being meticulously reborn, history being preserved, it just resonates. Yeah, everywhere.
(02:06):
It doesn't matter if you're a carnut or just like
a good underdog.
Speaker 1 (02:09):
Story, it absolutely does and you hit on it. It's
not just the cars, it's the stories and the heart
of it all is Mike Hall.
Speaker 2 (02:18):
Oh yeah, the man himself.
Speaker 1 (02:20):
The charismatic, totally car obsessed leader of Rust Bros. I mean,
this is a guy who at one point had a
collection of over five hundred vehicles. Can you even imagine that?
Speaker 2 (02:29):
It's mind boggling. His passion is just huge. But like
you said, he's not doing it alone, no.
Speaker 1 (02:34):
Way, no visionary does it alone.
Speaker 2 (02:36):
Right, A team definitely not. Yeah, and that team dynamic
is well, it's crucial to how the whole thing works.
You've got his son, Connor Hall, the business brain, right,
the business minded counterpoint, always trying to keep things grounded,
you know, keep the finances in check against Mike's sometimes
limitless visions.
Speaker 1 (02:52):
At classic push and pull exactly right.
Speaker 2 (02:54):
Then there's Avery chowf the mechanic extraordinary, the wizard, total wizard,
his technical skills, his problem solving, it's unreal. Sometimes he
just figures stuff out. And then the broader team, you know,
all the skilled folks whose combined talents make these transformations
even possible.
Speaker 1 (03:14):
And that really gets to the show's dual appeal, doesn't it.
It's not just about the nuts and bolts, the welding,
the painting, though, that stuff.
Speaker 2 (03:21):
Is cool to watch, all very satisfying.
Speaker 1 (03:23):
But it's equally about the emotional connection. Like maybe it's
a family heirloom passed down generations.
Speaker 2 (03:29):
Right, or a client's absolute dream card, or just.
Speaker 1 (03:32):
A really significant piece of automotive history being saved. It
makes you wonder, how do they manage that, you know,
preserving the past but also making these things performed for today.
It's a constant balancing act.
Speaker 2 (03:43):
That is the million dollar question, and it's what makes
it so compelling, so relatable. That's like mechanics meets psychology
on wheels or something.
Speaker 1 (03:51):
Yeah, pretty much. So let's dig into that. Let's unpack
the heart of russ value, what really drives these transformations.
So the very beginning of Russbro's restorations, it's all tied
up with Mike Hall's personal story and obviously that gigantic
car collection Field of Dreams, Field of Dreams exactly, it's
not just a junkyard. It's like this living museum. Almost
(04:12):
imagine walking through acres of that classic cars everywhere you look,
history just waiting, hundreds and hundreds of them, and that
property it provides the raw material, the literal foundation for
the whole show. These are the cars that have waited,
sometimes decades for their moment.
Speaker 2 (04:29):
It's an amazing sight. And the original idea for the
show came right out of that. It was simple, but
kind of profound. Take these rusty relics right.
Speaker 3 (04:39):
From the field, straight out of the dirt.
Speaker 2 (04:41):
Yeah, basically and meticulously transform them into road worthy classics. Yeah,
and not just you know.
Speaker 1 (04:46):
Quick flips, no proper restoration.
Speaker 2 (04:48):
Proper painstaking work, bringing them back to life, often making them,
like you said, better than they were originally, aiming for
authenticity and performance.
Speaker 1 (04:57):
And right at the center of all that, like we
touched on, is thatdynamic between Mike and his son Connor.
Speaker 2 (05:02):
Ah, the passion versus pragmatism.
Speaker 1 (05:05):
That's it. It's a theme in almost every episode. Mike's
approach is just pure passion. He'll prioritize the quality, the
emotional connection, getting it perfect.
Speaker 2 (05:16):
Even if it blows the budget way out.
Speaker 1 (05:17):
Often maybe usually he sees the art, the potential.
Speaker 2 (05:21):
And Connor sees the bottom line.
Speaker 1 (05:23):
He has to someone has to keep the lights on right.
Speaker 2 (05:26):
Connor's job is to try and ground that passion in
financial reality. Yeah, keep the business viable.
Speaker 1 (05:32):
It creates this constant tension, which is so relatable. Mike's
pushing for perfection, finding hidden rust that costs a fortune,
always hidden rust, and Connor's trying to pull back the reins,
negotiate and make the numbers work somehow. It's like watching
a tight.
Speaker 3 (05:45):
Rope walk every episode, it really is.
Speaker 1 (05:48):
And honestly, for you listening, the thing is this isn't
just cooked up for TV drama. It reflects that struggle
in any passion project, right.
Speaker 2 (05:55):
Oh absolutely, anyone who's tried to start something knows this feeling.
Speaker 1 (05:58):
Whether you're building a businesses making art, even just renovating
your kitchen, you face that same battle, the dream versus
the reality of time, money, resources, which is why.
Speaker 2 (06:09):
When they do pull it off, when that car finally
rolls out looking amazing, it feels earned. You saw the struggle.
Speaker 1 (06:16):
The triumph is sweeter, definitely adds that human element and
a perfect example of this whole dynamic and how they
just kicked off the series with a bang is the
nineteen seventy Dodge Dart Swinger. Oh yeah, star of the
premiere season one, episode one. It made a huge statement
right out of the gate.
Speaker 2 (06:34):
The panther pink dart. Yeah, you absolutely could not miss.
Speaker 1 (06:37):
That thing, No kidding.
Speaker 2 (06:38):
It started as a real Russ bucket, honestly, one of
those cars you'd think was destined for the Crusher. Looked
pretty rough, but transformation was incredible. They had to strip
it right down, deal with major structural stuff, floors, frame, rust.
Speaker 3 (06:51):
Everywhere, the usual suspects and rust valley.
Speaker 2 (06:54):
Right before laying down that unbelievably vibrant panther pink paint.
Speaker 1 (06:58):
It just popped totally and under the hood a three
forty eight.
Speaker 2 (07:02):
Nice good muscle for that car.
Speaker 1 (07:03):
Yeah, solid choice. And they modernized it where it counts
disc brakes, which is.
Speaker 2 (07:07):
Crucial, big safety upgrade, huge and refreshed the interior, blending
that sort of classic look with you know, making it
comfortable again.
Speaker 1 (07:16):
But what really stood out about that project and showed
Mike's whole philosophy was him sticking to the price he quoted.
Speaker 2 (07:23):
Yeah, that became a recurring theme.
Speaker 1 (07:24):
Didn't it totally? Even when things went way over budget,
which they often did pulling cars from the field.
Speaker 2 (07:30):
He'd eat The cost drove Connor crazy.
Speaker 1 (07:32):
You could tell absolutely Connor's trying to run a business.
But it really endeared Mike to the viewers. It felt
like integrity. You know, an old school promise is a
promise kind of thing.
Speaker 2 (07:43):
Yeah, like his word actually meant something, which is kind
of refreshing these days.
Speaker 1 (07:47):
Exactly, it wasn't just a car delivered, it was a
promise kept. And the impact that car was huge for
the show. The bold collar, the stance.
Speaker 3 (07:56):
The quality showed what they could do right.
Speaker 1 (07:58):
It showed that classic car rest ration wasn't just for
millionaires or conqueror's level cars. It showed that, hey, maybe
that rusty car you dream about could be saved. It
made it feel accessible.
Speaker 2 (08:10):
Said a great tone, aspirational, but.
Speaker 1 (08:12):
It's hantim Yeah exactly. So that dark really set the stage.
But believe it or not, some projects went even further,
not just amazing transformations, but making a real impact beyond
the shop.
Speaker 2 (08:23):
Ah, you must be talking about the Camaro.
Speaker 1 (08:25):
The nineteen sixty eight Chevy Camaro convertible. Let's get into
that one. It broke records and really showed the heart
of the team.
Speaker 2 (08:32):
This is such a standout story, really defines their character.
I think it was season two, episode one, and yeah,
it holds the record for their priceiest sale. But here's
the really wild part. Mike bought the initial car for
only two grand.
Speaker 1 (08:47):
Wow, that's nothing for a sixty eight convertible project.
Speaker 2 (08:51):
Right, even rough, But it wasn't actually a Camaro to
begin with.
Speaker 1 (08:54):
Wait, what what was it?
Speaker 2 (08:55):
It was a nineteen sixty eight Pontiac Firebird.
Speaker 1 (08:57):
No way, So they turned a Firebird into a how
do you even do that? Convincingly? And why?
Speaker 2 (09:03):
Well here's the clever bit. The sixty eight Firebird and
Kamara shared the same basic platform, the f body, same dimensions.
A lot of the underlying structure was identical.
Speaker 1 (09:11):
Ah, okay, that makes it feasible, I guess.
Speaker 2 (09:13):
Feasible, but still a huge undertaking. So Mike decided to
transform it into a big block RSS chamaral.
Speaker 1 (09:19):
Clone okay, RSSS rally Sports, supersport, the top tier stuff.
Speaker 2 (09:23):
Exactly the most desirable versions. It wasn't about fooling anyone necessarily,
but recreating that icon, and they went all out. Dropped
in a monster four to twenty seven big.
Speaker 1 (09:34):
Block V eight whoa serious power?
Speaker 2 (09:37):
Oh yeah, reinforced the chassis to handle it, added all
the period correct details they are as hideaway headlights, the
SS hood vents, the right trim, the astro ventilation, everything
meticulous absolutely meticulous. The result was just stunning, looked, sounded,
felt like the real deal, pure musclecar, power and style.
Speaker 1 (09:56):
So an incredible bill, a faithful recreation. But the story
gets even better, doesn't it. It wasn't just about selling
it for top dollar.
Speaker 2 (10:02):
No, And this is where the heart comes in. This
is what elevates it. They didn't just sell it to
some rich collector. Rushbros. Donated the finished car to Habitat
for Humanity and Kambloops for a fundraising raffle, tying their
passion directly to helping the community.
Speaker 1 (10:15):
That's amazing, seriously speaks volumes about their values totally.
Speaker 2 (10:19):
And the impact was huge. Yeah, it sold in the
Raffle for sixty eight thousand.
Speaker 1 (10:23):
Dollars, Yes, sixty eight grand. That's incredible for a raffle car,
even one that nice.
Speaker 2 (10:28):
Made it the most valuable car on the show, like
we said, But that money went straight into affordable housing projects,
building homes for families.
Speaker 1 (10:37):
That's just fantastic.
Speaker 2 (10:38):
And this story, you know, it really highlights why this
matters to you listening. It shows how passion projects fueled
by skill and dedication can go beyond just personal satisfaction
or profit. You mix that craftsmanship with generosity, with community spirit,
you can make a real difference. It's that blend of
artistry and giving back.
Speaker 1 (10:59):
Truly inspiration, the heart behind the hustle for sure. Okay,
let's pivot a bit. Let's talk about how they blend
that old world charm with new age performance modernizing icons.
Speaker 2 (11:09):
Yeah, that's a delicate art.
Speaker 1 (11:10):
And few cars capture that balance better than the nineteen
fifty five Chevrolet bel Air Quintessential American Classic featured back
in Season one.
Speaker 2 (11:18):
Ah, the fifty five Chevy beautiful car.
Speaker 1 (11:20):
And their approach was just smart, respect the icon, but
make it drivable today.
Speaker 2 (11:24):
Right. The challenge is always how do you update it
without losing what makes it special, that timeless retro charm exactly.
So the transformation involved key upgrades under the skin, things
like front.
Speaker 4 (11:36):
Disc brakes much better stopping way, better rack and pinion
steering for better feel, more responsive new tires. Obviously, refreshed
up polstery so it's comfortable but still has that cool
fifties vibe.
Speaker 1 (11:47):
But crucially, they kept all those signature looks. The sweep site,
wrap around windshield.
Speaker 2 (11:52):
Gave you that panoramic view, the.
Speaker 1 (11:53):
Perfect proportions that longer, wider, lower stance. It just screams
fifties cool. They didn't mess with the.
Speaker 2 (12:00):
Soul of the car, No, they enhance the experience around
the soul. And Mike often talks about that, right, how
these cars connect to memories totally?
Speaker 1 (12:09):
He'd say the Belayer takes owners on a trip down
memory lane, back to simpler times, family trips.
Speaker 2 (12:14):
It taps into that powerful nostalgia and this restoration really
embodies that balance preservation and improvement. It shows how modern
tech can enhance history without erasing it, which, for you
listening is kind of cool. Right. We could appreciate the past,
keep its beauty, but make it safe and enjoyable for today.
Keeps those memories tangible.
Speaker 1 (12:34):
Keeps them rolling absolutely okay, speaking of function in nostalgia,
but maybe a bit more rugged.
Speaker 3 (12:42):
Let's talk trucks, Ah, the workhorses.
Speaker 1 (12:45):
The unsung heroes of Rust Valley. The nineteen fifty seven
GMC half Done, also from season one, represents the big
role vintage trucks play out there.
Speaker 2 (12:56):
Yeah, and it shows the team's versatility. They're not just
about muscle cars. This fifty seven GMC was restored beautifully
back to its former glory. But with that sort of
utilitarian elegance. They refined the grill in detail. It was lighter,
less bulky than previous years.
Speaker 1 (13:12):
Subtle design shift.
Speaker 2 (13:13):
Yeah, updated mechanicals for reliability, polished up the exterior so
that hard working character just shone through.
Speaker 1 (13:20):
It's those details again, isn't it. They kept its basic purpose,
its utilitarian charm.
Speaker 3 (13:24):
This truck was built to work exactly respected.
Speaker 1 (13:27):
That, but they added modern touches like better breaks, smooth
a ride, made it nicer to drive today, safer two
without losing that tough, no nonsense look.
Speaker 2 (13:35):
Best of both worlds, and it just shows you know
their skill goes beyond just flash. They appreciate the appeal
of working vehicles too. How function and good looks can
go together. For a lot of people. These old trucks
represent honest work, simpler times. Seeing them restored, mixing old
purpose with new comfort, it resonates definitely.
Speaker 1 (13:55):
Okay, from workhorses to pure muscle, let's dive into the
world of mopar patina performance.
Speaker 2 (14:02):
All right, mo car time.
Speaker 1 (14:03):
Starting with the nineteen seventy three Plymouth Barracuda Season one.
Again a real dose of mopar attitude focused on performance.
Speaker 2 (14:11):
Yeah, the Kudah. And the key thing here was the
the artistic choice they made with the exterior, right the
patina exactly. They put in a powerful four to forty
big block. Yn't go wrong with the four forty nop
paired it with an automatic ready to rumble, but they
deliberately left the outside largely untouched, embraced the weathered patina
instead of a perfect paint job. I love that it
(14:31):
had the body color grill, the rear valance panel company,
vinyl buckets inside sort of a mix of original and
lived in. I mean, she has you know what's really
authentic in a classic car, perfect shine or the scars
of time.
Speaker 1 (14:41):
It's a great question. It makes a statement, but I
bet keeping the patina didn't mean it was easy underneath?
Speaker 2 (14:46):
Right?
Speaker 1 (14:46):
Can't leave the frame rusty?
Speaker 2 (14:48):
Oh? Absolutely not? Yeah, And that highlights the gamble you
take with these old cars. They found significant hidden rust
frame issues. They usual Premlin's pretty common, yeah and costly
and shows that he and if you go for that
unpolished look outside, the structure underneath has to be solid
safety first, of course. It's a testament to their skill.
(15:08):
They could fix the bones while preserving the skins.
Speaker 1 (15:11):
Character and for you listening, this restoration really says something
about valuing authenticity character over just flawless perfection beauty. In
the journey, the history etched on the surface, not just
a showroom shine. It celebrates the cars passed while giving
it a solid future.
Speaker 2 (15:29):
Well said. Now, building on that mopar energy, let's look
at the nineteen seventy three Dodge Challenger, also season one
aggressive style performance, but with a focus on being well accessible.
Speaker 1 (15:40):
Exactly, this Challenger was all about that muscular look, pure
seventies aggression. They restored it focusing on those performance cues,
the cool performance hood, the blacked out grill, those iconic
black strobe stripes.
Speaker 2 (15:54):
Looks fast just sitting there.
Speaker 1 (15:55):
Totally and structurally. They fixed frame rail issues critical for
hand handling and safety. And inside that sporty two spoke
steering wheel plus a rebuilt four forty under the hood.
Speaker 2 (16:06):
Gotta have the power to back up the lock.
Speaker 1 (16:08):
Right, it looked and performed like a proper muscle icon.
Speaker 2 (16:12):
But the kicker here the So what was the affordability aspect?
Speaker 1 (16:16):
Yeah, that was a big point.
Speaker 2 (16:17):
It aligned perfectly with that russ brose ethos, making classics
attainable for the average person, not just the super wealthy,
which brings up that challenge again, how do you do
quality work but keep costs somewhat reasonable.
Speaker 1 (16:30):
It's tough, especially with vintage parts, and surprises always surprises,
But it shows that dream of owning an iconic muscle
card doesn't have to be completely out of reach. You know,
a great restoration can balance the essential structure with those
bold looks. It democratizes the dream a bit, brings.
Speaker 2 (16:46):
The thrill to more people. And if we talk about
the ultimate Mopar dream build on the show, performance wise
gotta be the nineteen sixty eight Dodge Dart GT convertible.
Speaker 1 (16:57):
Another Season one gem, and this wasn't just for storing
a dart. This was envisioned as a four to forty
GTS convertible from the get Go.
Speaker 2 (17:04):
Right, top tier performance stargut.
Speaker 1 (17:05):
This was like a masterclass. They gathered all the right
go fast parts, disc brakes obviously, zel a proper GTS hood,
Schumacher motor mounts to handle the big.
Speaker 3 (17:15):
Blocks, torque, smart upgrade or stored.
Speaker 1 (17:17):
Console, a heavy duty seven to twenty seven automatic transmission
built for that power.
Speaker 3 (17:22):
Bullet proved transmissions, and the whole.
Speaker 1 (17:23):
Focus was that four to forty engine, breathing through factory
big block exhaust manifolds for maximum flow, every piece chosen
for performance.
Speaker 2 (17:32):
And when you put all those right pieces together, yeah,
the result was spectacular. Went from you know, a rusty
shell to this high performance drop top, sleek and powerful,
not just a looker, No, designed to be a driver's car,
something you could actually enjoy on the road. Feel that muscle, yeah,
but also clean enough to be a showpiece, a real
duel threat.
Speaker 1 (17:53):
And for you the listener, this really shows that ultimate
restorer's dream, right, having the vision, the knowledge, all the
right part and then the skill to build something truly
exceptional from almost nothing.
Speaker 2 (18:04):
Yeah, seeing that potential and just nailing it, creating something
maybe even better.
Speaker 3 (18:09):
Than new exactly.
Speaker 2 (18:10):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (18:11):
Okay, let's shift gears a bit. Let's explore some projects
that threw up unique challenges, led to unexpected treasures, maybe
really pushed the boundaries.
Speaker 2 (18:19):
All right, where are we heading?
Speaker 1 (18:21):
First up a project that tested their skills and tugged
at the heart strings, the nineteen sixty six Lincoln Continental
Convertible Season three challenging but incredibly rewarding.
Speaker 2 (18:32):
Ah, the Lincoln, Yeah, the big challenge there? What really
hooked viewers was the rust.
Speaker 1 (18:37):
It was bad, wasn't it.
Speaker 2 (18:38):
It was really bad, pervasive, structural, the kind of decay
that makes you question if it's even salvageable. It pushed
the team to their absolute limits technically and creatively trying
to fix it without losing that Lincoln luxury feel makes
you wonder where that line is you know, too far
do on.
Speaker 1 (18:55):
But there was that extra layer, the emotional core.
Speaker 3 (18:57):
Of this one.
Speaker 2 (18:58):
Mm hmm. That's what made it special.
Speaker 1 (19:00):
The car was being restored for a client who used
a wheelchair, right, which just added this profound sense of purpose.
It wasn't just fixing a car, It was fulfilling a dream,
creating freedom, accessibility, joy for someone. That human element really
came through, It.
Speaker 2 (19:16):
Really did, and the transformation had to reflect that. It
wasn't just about making it pretty. Extensive overhaul, suspension breaks,
the whole interior all done not just to look stunning,
but to be fully functional and accessible for the client.
Speaker 1 (19:31):
Custom modifications for entry exit controls.
Speaker 2 (19:34):
Exactly tailored specifically to his nies.
Speaker 1 (19:36):
And even though it went thousands over budget, which okay,
happens a lot with Mike, but here it felt particularly significant.
His dedication to delivering that dream perfectly tailor just shone through,
no compromises on quality for that client.
Speaker 2 (19:51):
And that story is just a powerful testament to their dedication,
isn't It shows their technical skill, sure, but also their empathy.
How complex repairs can merge with that deep client connection,
resulting in a vehicle that's literally a dream come true,
built just for them. It's way beyond a normal restoration job.
Speaker 1 (20:08):
Absolutely okay, from luxury convertibles to something completely different. The
nineteen fifty six Ford Coe cab over engine truck.
Speaker 2 (20:18):
Oh the Coe, Yeah, that was cool.
Speaker 1 (20:20):
Unconventional collaborative project across two episodes in season four really
stood out.
Speaker 2 (20:25):
What's fascinating there is the truck itself, the rarity the design.
Cab over engine looks unique totally. Historically was practical, better maneuverability,
more bed length, but today it's just eye catching, a
conversation starter before you even touch it. The design itself
presents unique restoration challenges.
Speaker 1 (20:43):
And being that old and that design, yeah, it needed
serious work right. Structural integrity, mechanical reliability. These aren't simple
machines to work on.
Speaker 2 (20:52):
No, Getting to the engine under the cab it takes
some doing, lots of wear and tear over decades requires
creative problem solving for sure, and.
Speaker 1 (20:59):
The transformation was pretty dramatic. Modernized suspension for a better ride,
fresh paint turned it into this head turning custom.
Speaker 2 (21:06):
Yeah, really sharp. But what also made this one stand
out was the collaboration aspect.
Speaker 1 (21:10):
Right. They didn't do it alone.
Speaker 2 (21:12):
No, Russ Bros. Teamed up with Pacific Muscle Cars, brought
in extra expertise, showing they could tackle these really diverse,
complex projects by joining forces.
Speaker 1 (21:22):
And for you listening, that story really shows the creativity
needed for unusual vehicles and also the power of collaboration.
Speaker 2 (21:29):
Right.
Speaker 1 (21:30):
Definitely, combining forces, sharing expertise can lead to results maybe
one team couldn't achieve alone. Strengthen numbers or skills anyway,
very true.
Speaker 2 (21:39):
And finally, speaking of unexpected fines, let's talk about the
nineteen sixty nine AMC AMX, the auction gem exactly discovered
during Mike Hall's huge twenty twenty one auction when he
sold off like five hundred cars from the field of dream.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
Imagine being there like the ultimate automotive treasure hunt. And
the AMX is a rare bird anyway.
Speaker 2 (21:59):
Very rare, only made sixty eight to seventy and this
one packed a punch three hundred and ninety eight three
hundred and fifteen horse power.
Speaker 3 (22:06):
Nice Beecks decent power for sure.
Speaker 2 (22:07):
And what was amazing among all those cars in various
states of decay, this Amx was one of the best
preserved vehicles in Mike's whole collection. Yeah, remarkable condition and
it sold for just seven grand.
Speaker 1 (22:18):
Get out seven thousand dollars for a sixty nine Amex
three ninety in good shape.
Speaker 2 (22:23):
That's a steel, absolute steel for the new owner, a
diamond hidden amongst all the rust.
Speaker 1 (22:27):
Talk about finding gold in the field. And it needed
minimal work.
Speaker 2 (22:31):
Right, Yeah, it basically just needed a paint job to
make it pop, some axle repairs for road worthiness. It
highlights that sometimes the best treasures just need a little polish,
not a full blown ground up.
Speaker 1 (22:41):
Restoration, recognizing that hidden value exactly.
Speaker 2 (22:44):
And you know, this story captures that thrill of discovery
in the field of dreams, finding something amazing that just
needs a light touch. But it also touches on that
bittersweet reality for Mike letting go of these unique cars
necessary maybe to fund the next project, to keep the
passion going, but still got.
Speaker 3 (23:02):
To be tough, oh for sure.
Speaker 1 (23:03):
And that bittersweet reality that makes of challenged triumph passion
versus pragmatism. It kind of brings us full circle on Rust.
Speaker 3 (23:10):
Value Restores, It really does.
Speaker 1 (23:12):
So wrapping up this deep dive, it's crystal clear, isn't it.
Rust Value Restores is way more than just.
Speaker 2 (23:19):
A car show, oh much more.
Speaker 1 (23:20):
It's this vibrant celebration of automotive history, human connection between
the team with the clients, the sheer art a restoration,
and just the enduring power of passion.
Speaker 2 (23:31):
And these ten vehicles we've walked through today, from that
record breaking, heartwarming Camaro to the surprisingly pristine AMX pulled
from the auction, Each one tells a story, represents the
heart and soul of rest bros. Stories of resilience, ingenuity,
pushing boundaries.
Speaker 1 (23:48):
And the magic is just undeniable. My Hall and his team,
they've genuinely turned tap In BC into this global symbol
for classic car culture, a beacon for enthusiasts. They prove
over and over that with enough skill, dedication, and a
lot of heart, even the rustiest wreck can shine again,
often brighter, maybe with more character than ever before. It's
(24:10):
a rebirth narrative, and.
Speaker 2 (24:11):
Whether it's hearing that big block V eight roar back
to life after decades or some moment totally, or seeing
that gleaming paint reflect the sun, or just knowing the
immense challenges they overcame. Rust Valley captures that magic, turning
rust into gold. One car, one story, one dream at.
Speaker 1 (24:25):
A time reminds you of the value in things. Maybe
others discard the joy of bringing them back exactly So,
after exploring all these transformations, these stories of rebirth, maybe
think about this for a second. What rusty relic in
your own life might be hiding a treasure? Hmm, good question,
just waiting for a little attention, a bit of passion,
(24:46):
Maybe a fresh perspective to be revealed. Could be an
old hobby you dropped, a skill you haven't used, even
just a viewpoint that needs a fresh coat of paint.
Metaphorically speaking, yeah, what could you transform from overlook to unforgettable?
Something to think about. We hope this deep dive gave
you some food for thought and maybe a little inspiration.
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