From complete custom builds and classic car restorations to fabrication, paint, and performance upgrades, our experienced team brings craftsmanship and motorsports engineering expertise to every project.
Our full-service facility handles major custom builds as well as focused upgrades, with the fabrication, mechanical, electrical, and finishing capabilities to see the work through.
Full vehicle builds, restorations, and restomods—from initial planning through final assembly.
Precision sheet-metal fabrication, TIG welding, body modifications, and custom components.
High-quality body preparation, metal finishing, custom colors, and premium PPG paint systems.
LS, LT, and Coyote swaps, transmissions, fuel injection, engine controls, and performance tuning.
Modern chassis integration, steering, suspension, braking, and drivability upgrades.
Complete wiring, digital gauges, climate-control systems, and detail-focused vehicle assembly.
Great custom cars are built by great technicians. Our fabricators, metalworkers, painters, and mechanical specialists bring the experience needed to execute complex projects with care.
Owner Matt “Squid” Swiderski brings more than 20 years of motorsports experience. He currently serves as Performance Engineering Director at Team Penske and previously served as a NASCAR Cup Series crew chief for Trackhouse Racing and Kaulig Racing, earning three Cup Series wins. With a BSME from Kettering University, an MSME from Purdue University, and engineering experience at SpaceX, Matt brings a rigorous technical approach to every build.
From one-off fabrication and complete builds to show-quality finishes, explore the craftsmanship and engineering that define our work.
Built for Jane and Larry Worthing and officially unveiled November 3 at the HRIA Opening Day Unveil. This one-of-a-kind wagon pairs a Roadster Shop REVO chassis with 6.6L L8T V8 power, extensive custom metalwork, and a PPG Hickory Black Cherry finish.
Explore Vista Cruiser Gallery →
A striking custom candy apple red finish, classic big-block character, and carefully executed detailing make this Chevelle a standout.
View Chevelle Photo Gallery →
The Vista Cruiser's SEMA debut was a milestone for Jane and Larry Worthing and the Squid's Rod Shop team. From engineering and metal fabrication to bodywork, paint, wiring, and final assembly, every step called for care and precision.
See the Finished Build →We know a custom vehicle is a major investment. Using GlobalWorkshop, our team documents project progress, records completed work, and shares regular photo updates with customers—including those who live far from our shop.
Our approach to project organization and customer communication was featured in a published GlobalWorkshop case study.
Read the Squid's Rod Shop Case Study →Clear project communication, photographic documentation, organized work records, and thoughtful coordination across fabrication, paint, mechanical work, and final assembly.
Considering a chassis, suspension, brake, powertrain, wiring, or air-conditioning upgrade? We can help you choose compatible components, source quality parts, and handle the installation and setup.
Learn more about the experience behind Squid's Rod Shop through an engineering alumni profile and a conversation with the Roadster Shop team.
Whether you're planning a complete build or have a specific upgrade in mind, tell us about your vehicle and what you'd like to accomplish. We'll help you determine the next steps and provide a free preliminary project estimate.
Hickory, NC | 704-462-1050 | sales@squidsrodshop.com
Preliminary estimates are based on the information available. Detailed inspections, troubleshooting, or disassembly may require a separate paid evaluation.