You're building a hot rod.The first step is the chassis.If it's not right, the car won't handle well.If it's really" not right, the car might destroy itself.There are choices to be made, from frame rails to suspension components, and some combinations will work better than others.Next is the body. This is what everyone sees first. It's what makes a hot rod a hot rod.This book is a sure-fire guide to the best approach.Veteran builder and writer Dennis Parks walks you through the whole process, from finding and using existing panels to choosing New Old Stock panels from the aftermarket.The Hot Rod Body and Chassis Builder's Guide" offers fool-proof advice for building the hot rod of your dreams.

The ever-escalating cost of building or buying a hot rod is leaving more and more would-be hot rodders behind. This book will get those hopefuls off the sidelines by showing how a hot rod can be built for less than the cost of, say, a new Hyundai.

Author Dennis Parks documents his own project--building a quintessentially cool Model T roadster from a "Track-T" kit--showing in step-by-step detail how to turn a pile of parts into a rockin hot rod. He provides a detailed, easy-to-follow guide for building a car of your own.

The advice and instructions cover every aspect of an affordable hot rod build, from establishing the target vehicle and budget, to finding parts, building the car, and fine tuning the finished vehicle on the road.

With Parks' money-saving tips and photo-supported how-to sequences, virtually anyone with minimal mechanical skills and the will to use them can be sure of building their hot rod right, and for the right price. The book also includes a full resource guide and recommendations for further reading.

Automotive wiring is a primary skill required for proper completion and safe operation of any custom build, whether it is a traditional custom, hot rod, or classic daily driver. While restorers typically have the option of buying a new or reproduction wiring harness, custom enthusiasts often have few options except to figure out how to do it themselves. This book guides builders through every step from determining what components they need, to selecting wire type and gauge, methods of connection, and other considerations. The book includes numerous charts showing typical configurations and suggested installations. A troubleshooting section lends a hand in tracking down the inevitable problems that can arise.

"How to Paint Your Car "reveals the techniques, tricks, and technology behind automotive painting through 400 color photos, clear captions, detailed text, and step-by-step how-to sequences. You'll learn the latest information about paint chemistry, waterborne paints, spray guns, body fillers, surface prep, site prep, as well as respirators and other safety gear that every automotive painter must know.With step-by-step detail, you'll learn how to properly prepare your car for paint work, including minor bodywork, surface preparation, rust removal, masking, priming and final coating. "How to Paint Your Car" also includes information about custom touches and effects as well as how to care for your paint after application, including information on buffing compounds, waxes, and other care products. Everything you need to know to feel comfortable and confident in undertaking your own paint project, whether a touch-up job or a complete respray, is covered in "How to Paint Your Car."