PAST PROJECTS » 1970-1979
Mike wanted his Cuda to be mechanically sound. We inspected and rebuilt the motor, inspected the transmission to find it was in good shape. We inspected, repaired and/or replaced as needed, the rear-end, plumbing, brakes, fuel tank, exhaust manifold, and some body & paint, etc. Link to Youtube video
1970 Dodge Charger — Vintage NASCAR-Inspired Custom Build
This 1970 Dodge Charger is undergoing an extensive custom build at Squid's Rod Shop, combining vintage NASCAR-inspired styling with modern performance, precision engineering, and custom fabrication.
Power comes from an Arrington Speed Sport-built Hemi, backed by a Silver Sport TKX manual transmission. The chassis features Heidts suspension, a custom-built NASCAR 9-inch rear end, custom-designed Forgeline wheels, and Wilwood brakes.
Additional details include extensive custom sheet metal fabrication, a NASCAR-inspired appearance, and a hand-fabricated stainless steel exhaust system.
The Charger will also receive custom PPG paint with subtle ghost graphics, bringing together its vintage racing heritage and custom styling.
The project is currently progressing through bodywork and paint preparation, with final assembly, tuning, and testing to follow.
Built to a vision. Crafted in metal. Finished to perfection.
This customer wanted the motor rebuilt. She also wanted us to inspect the vehicle, and after discussing our findings with her, we made some upgrades and repairs as needed.
Inspect, repair, and/or installation of mechanicals such as steering and clutch. Install new fan, troubleshoot and repair lights. Install mirrors, door seals, suspension and brakes. Fitment and the correcting the door gaps was a big issue. We were limited to what we could do since the vehicle had been already painted.
1971 Pontiac Trans Am — Custom Performance Build
This 1971 Pontiac Trans Am is undergoing an extensive custom build at Squid's Rod Shop, combining the unmistakable styling of Pontiac's second-generation Firebird with modern performance, precision engineering, and exceptional craftsmanship.
At the heart of the build is a custom-built Dart-block 427 LS3, paired with a Tremec TKX manual transmission. A Detroit Speed suspension system and Wilwood brakes provide modern handling and stopping performance while maintaining the Trans Am's classic muscle car character.
Extensive custom metal fabrication includes tucked front and rear bumpers, a smoothed cowl area, recessed door locks, and numerous subtle body modifications designed to refine the vehicle's original lines.
The electrical system features an HP Tuners CORE ECU, integrated into a custom wiring installation with electronics discreetly packaged beneath a fabricated false floor. Additional work includes custom fuel system plumbing, a hand-fabricated exhaust system, and detailed mechanical and electrical integration.
Once fabrication and mechanical systems testing are complete, the Trans Am will be disassembled for final bodywork and a custom PPG paint finish, followed by final assembly and tuning.
From its high-performance powertrain and advanced suspension to its custom metalwork and modern electronics, every aspect of this Trans Am reflects our commitment to engineering, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
Built to a vision. Crafted in metal. Finished to perfection.
Follow the progress of this build as it continues toward final assembly and completion.
Partial Build - Rebuild motor, rebuild exhaust system, miscellaneous repairs, repair paint.
From meticulous bodywork and paint preparation to the custom color combination and final assembly, this classic Ford pickup is receiving the attention to detail that goes into every Squid's Rod Shop build.
Follow along as we continue transforming this F-100, with photos documenting the craftsmanship and progress throughout the project.
Wire vehicle, check and repair brakes, repair ignition system, repair lighting system wiring, repair shifter handle, and install new gauge cluster with wiring.
Complete build including a VIPS front runner system, Moser Ford 9" Center Section with 370 Gears and Auburn Limited Slip Differential, a killer sound and screen system, a PRC custom aluminum radiator, ididit, inc. column with push-button start, Flowmaster exhaust, new wiring, power windows and new glass all around, a Tanks, Inc. fuel tank, custom mods, plus body and paint. Youtube video
1973 Cuda owned by Chris Reid of Raleigh, NC. The owner decided he wanted a "modern" muscle car!
Click on this YouTube link to see the initial test drive. Youtube video (Please excuse the video quality-we're working on that.)
This '73 Cuda built at our shop with many serious modifications and body and paint surely enhances the assembly line product we see so often. It sports many superior products such as a Ray Barton 528 Hemi, a Keisler Transmission kit, Strange Engineering Dana 60 rear with Tractionloc Posi 3.73 gears and 35 spline axles, Ride Tech four-bar with single adjustable coil-overs and a Firm Feel front suspension package with 12" Wilwood rear disc brakes and 13" Dodge Viper front disc brakes. Exterior Body Mods by Rutter's Rod Shop include a custom-made shaker hood scoop that stays with the hood, front and rear lower valences, removal of all marker lights, shaved door handles, tucked and shortened bumpers, a peaked belt line and custom grill inserts and emblems. Interior Mods include a custom center console, custom door panels, custom instrument cluster and custom stereo which includes JL Audio 10" sub focal speakers, Eclipse amps, a Pioneer head unit and Pioneer back-up camera with double din screen. The custom Two-Tone PPG Paint and Graphics by Rutter's sets this screamer off with style to make it a very tasteful combination of power and beauty. We were honored to feature it in the 2016 NSRA Nationals Builder's Showcase in Louisville, KY!Check out this interview and detailed shoot by Scottie of ScottieDTV when the cuda was unveiled in our booth! Youtube video
WORK DONE: Repaired steering column.
Rewire vehicle installing a new Haywire 14 Fuse System. Install a new wiper motor kit, and new Dakota Digital gauges. Install customer-supplied column and A/C.
WORK PERFORMED: Replaced bushings on driver and passenger sides.
