The 1933 Dodge Mini Semi FIRST test drive!

[@MerlinsOldSchoolGarage]

**RIVER RUN INFO** -Tuesday and Wednesday have a white flag with a can of 87 gas out and there is a possibility we will stop to visit along the river - Bring sharpies for signing as I will not have the means to keep these items on me and available - Ending Wednesday at Columbia Bottom Conservation Ramp, north of St. Louis THIS IS WHERE THE JETSKI GIVE AWAY WILL TAKE PLACE you must be present and have a trailer ready to load and take on spot! - THANK YOU for all your support and we hope to see you out there this week along the river!

[@kennethsmith6470]

She has to be the OG Dodge massage it Cummins shames it Very impressive Merlin

[@kennethsmith6470]

Makes *

[@kennethsmith6470]

Dang spell check

[@kennethsmith6470]

DODGE MAKES IT CUMMIMS SHAKES IT

[@justiningram2380]

Get you a old ford divorced transfer case put it on backwards so the rear out put is the input and run drivelines with a carrier bearing mounted on the front drive axle to run the rear axle

[@paulwaggle1685]

I’m amazed how much you do in your garage. It’s looks so small but you make some amazing stuff. I love the old school guys. It’s great to know that they are still around. But sad that younger guys are not learning these skills and one day when he takes his well earned retirement. It will be one less place to go.

[@joesmith1067]

Its the American way do more with less we need something we build it, repurpose, or make something work. That's what sucks about all this throw away stuff they make these days. We running out of stuff to repurpose. It's way harder to find something that we can make work these days.

[@papatomsthoughts]

Was thinking the same thing, as well as where does he store all these projects? Love these videos

[@a.n.7863]

I’ve been wondering where my drop cord work light went. Now I know.

[@mrmoses2434]

Coolest vehicle collection out there IMO. love the patina.

[@larrydavidson3402]

Love the job you are doing on the truck,that is going to be an awesome build when finished. Tim does top notch upholstery.

[@morgansword]

I'm a seventy three year old was mechanic starting for dad in his shop in late fifties. Diamonds were popular even then. I think everyone has made some kind of comment to the different things about this great build. I just wanted to touch on some things maybe haven't really been mentioned. I was hoping that someone in the world of differentials (rear end drives) would make a rear end for this lightweight style rear end and have a through shaft for making a dual rear end a heck of a lot easier. I am sure you've tried every type of rear end possibility to get those two together and drive as one... as its not just connecting the dots as one might think. Even big rigs with dual rear drive only use one rear set at a time to avoid vibrations... its the tires that cause the mayhem as no set of duals will match exactly to the other causing a bind or wheel hop. I am thinking for the looks to be correct, looking from the outside of the box look..... try just making a rear pot cover that has a output yoke but not on the insides of the front rear end... and then on the back rear end, leave the ring out so the pinion can spin and not catch anything. The slip yoke style shaft would still travel giving a impression that its a working differential and unless you load to say a forty thousand pound payload, you only need the one rear end pulling anyway. I believe that doing this way would cut any chance of vibration or loss of speed. Having "Jim" for the diamond interior speaks volumes for your build, he wouldn't waste his time on a scrap iron heap that some person thought it was cool. I mention this again to bring awareness to kids that think home ex is girly or only women do this. Nothing about Jim looks or says girls work and if your in his caliber of quality work, you can name your price for doing interiors. So that said, artists and upholstery people in the auto trade make us metal fabricators bow to them. Oh they like what we do and wish they could bend or shape metal to do what we do.... So all in the spirit of this comment, your building something great and many guys would love to have. Loved the altro on the video showing the commentary of Dodge trucks doing work we only dreamed possible at one time. Kids today just take forgranted that this stuff happens... dang it kids, pay attention. Merlin... your the kind of guy who will help someone who is willing to help themselves but just trying to get someone interested in it is key and a dang hard job itself. Great video on a first run... way above what I thought might be for a first run

[@bigchevy350boy]

That interior is coming out amazing! Tim surely knows his stuff! Can't wait to see the finished product!

[@kimetherington2252]

Merlin, you never cease to amaze me. I can only hope the younger generation will continue on with keeping the old school vibe of rebuilding and putting their own touches on the older models alive and running and making them their own! Your mini semi will be one to never forget! One of a kind, and one of the coolest going down the road! Til next time, take care, and we'll see you on the next...

[@PeterHatch-mx7zc]

Watched again thank you for the video !!

[@brewdogg77]

As a veteran woodworker, I enjoyed laughing at your staining method. However, you got the job done.

[@andrewgilbreath1331]

As a fellow veteran wood worker there isn't a thing wrong with using a rag to stain I have done it many times.

[@brewdogg77]

@@andrewgilbreath1331 I didn't say there was anything wrong with using a rag. I've used rags a million times. It was the method not the materials that was funny. Regardless, he did do a good job in the end.

[@companyman5497]

@@brewdogg77 I got a chuckle out of the fact the directions on the label are quite good if you're not sure. But who needs directions. Still got it done and did a great job.

[@davidvincent1093]

I have to agree with you , but but the same token I use different methods depending on the area and the type of stain. I have been known to spray on for large (think patio size). To me the best is to brush it on and then wipe off (how I was taught) but I do like using a rag straight sometimes because you get an instant view of what you are coloring. But the brush and wipe is the best for covering a quality item that people will see a lot. of course I am an old shellac type of person (you can tell how old I am by using that) I am also really fond of linseed oil rubbed in...if prepped right

[@jeremiahsherman1190]

Great job man I really enjoy seeing a guy be able to see his dreams through so many times people work a terrible job until they die

[@georgeweisbrod1876]

The mini-ttuck mirror issue really was a brain puzzler! Took you some time to figure that out but the results prove you got it

[@jacobcole6340]

Love this truck I want one to ! She looks great .

[@jacobthornock317]

It's crazy how quiet the cab became with the insulation and that diamond panel. I am hoping to see this rig in person at some point. The little finishing touches on the wood stain, the patina and the brass screws are just 😍🤤

[@richardgray8477]

The coolest truck i have ever seen, makes me envious

[@robertr4193]

That is a really neat old truck. Building it up as a mini simi is cool.

[@jasoncarlson7106]

Hello from North Dakota !!! That is the coolest dam thing !!!👍👍👍

[@thomengel9720]

That is by far sweetest truck I ever seen!

[@damageincorporatedmetal43v73]

The food truck for people with disabilities, people just looking for a good hot meal.

[@damageincorporatedmetal43v73]

My friend Larry is such a good friend. He donates his time for meals on wheels !!!

[@peterdiebel7372]

Looks great! Wattin to see the rig finished. Cheers from B.C. Canada.

[@DancerOfClouds]

I bet this awesome ‘33 Dodge Mini got more than a few second looks at that truck stop. Merlin, you must have the coolest garage in the country. I can only imagine cruising doing 90mph down the freeway. Pure awesomeness.

[@lockedin60]

Merlin you upholstery wizard his skills are in his hands and his mind. It is just like Eric Clapton or Jeff Beck. You could have the same guitar and set up that they have but you will never get the sound out of that guitar the way they do because it comes from their soul, their hands and their mind.

[@ljaysperspective1775]

What's not to love about these old school Rat Rod builds. This was an awesome build. I enjoyed watching how everything came together. I think the world could use a few more good buddy Jim's thx for bringing us along. I can't wait to see the complete build. Great job on this truck. Way to go ! 😊 👍 👍

[@davidbarnes6316]

My DREAM SEMI ALSO , Merlin you are the BEST ! Just beautiful is what I say. Get ready for all those truck show TROPHIES! that are heading your way

[@deborahchesser7375]

Well done ! Twin sticks and all, you nailed it on this one 🐾✌️🇺🇸

[@Want2gofast]

Love that old commercial at the end. 🤙🏽 awesome job Merlin!

[@Bama1963]

That is one cool old Dodge, you are doing a great job with it.

[@joesphbest3120]

Me being in my 80's your truck is really sweet. love your show.😇👍

[@daveisixty]

Your Semi is a keeper! You are so skilled, but down to earth. You do a great job; I look forward to seeing your You Tube submissions. Keep up the good work!

[@jesseleesamples]

Man that Tim guy is somebody who most car guys would kill to have as a buddy. Just a master at his craft that can do as much business as he wants and for probly about whatever price he wants at this point. Those guys are rare and are usually well-kept secrets by the guys who know em. A rare breed

[@zachrowe986]

Thats a badass rig Merlin

[@joemcintyre2090]

One of the coolest builds I have ever seen!

[@bigchevy350boy]

What a beautiful rig! Merlin can surely build just about anything 💪 great job!

[@ocn2u]

Love what you doing to the truck and the ads at the end of the video are awesome

[@kenuber4014]

Merlin, you mini truck project is turning out awesome! I wish I had your patience. Anyway, looking forward to the Jet Ski videos. Hope all turns out good with lots of fun. Travel safe man!

[@michaelmorris6575]

Great build! Very cool! Thanks for sharing.

[@MrCaprinut]

Awesome mini truck! I like everytting about it! And Jim is truly a humble man. Nice dude.

[@cguitarallday]

I love it. Wish I had it. Great job

[@alanoldham6809]

Great work! That’s one cool ride!

[@ronaldduwaynebrown8071]

What a beautiful little ole truck

[@79tazman]

That truck is so cool. It's going to be a big time head turner for sure

[@chrismccue6493]

Damn Tim does amazing work incredible how talented he is.

[@viperBSG]

One of the coolest Trucks I've ever seen. Great Job. Reminds me of my Dad. What he could acomplish.

[@davevoorhees5994]

I’m a huge Dodge fan, Dodge Brothers would be happy to see that Cummins living under the hood! Great job Merlin

[@donmiller8152]

you do some absolutely beautiful work sir... props to you!

[@glencrouch442]

Love that truck! Very cool Merlin, nicely done👍

[@jackel440]

This is the coolest truck on the ol'interwebs in my book. It's a huge inspiration for me. I too have always wanted my own semi since I was a kid. I have plans to do something like this with my 62 D400. Love how the interior is coming together

[@lonhoschar1943]

The little semi is looking pretty darn good!!! You did a lot of work making it look nice and it shows!!! Not only does it look nice but it really runs great. Can't believe the cruising speed.. That's awesome!!! Great work Merlin!!!

[@lopin890]

Howdy Merlin.... Been waiting to see your "childhood dream" get out on the road!!! NICE!!! Looks like it's going to be a hoot of an addition to your fleet!!! Can't imagine just what you'll be building to haul with it!!😎 Safe travels, friend ❤️❤️ Stay FROSTY... Keep your powder dry and your head on a swivel... 🇺🇸🇺🇸WWG1WGA🇺🇸🇺🇸NCSWIC🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@Bob-Whiting]

I LOVE this Truck! Thanks for this Merlin.

[@tomclaes450]

Amazing truck super built awesome job as always greetings from Belgium europe 👍👍👍

[@larrykrise3609]

looking great so far.nice work

[@cobrakenny]

Congrats on the test drive....One very small leak on a build of that scale is pretty darned impressive!

[@U_ever]

Great work Merlin. Tim threw out a name you don't hear everyday in Boyd Coddington. He left this earth way too soon. The Dodge Bros. looks awesome.

[@Berserk_Loon]

I have done many wood staining projects. I was also a vendor representative for a stain manufacturer. Had lots of training classes so I could keep the eployees at the store knew what they were talking about. It's been almost 20 years since I left that job. You didn't do it the preferred way, but it worked! That's all that matters!

[@itsrob2321]

I love this project too. This is the kind of project I’ve always thought about doing. I just have too many other things to do so I have to be a spectator here. Great video!

[@edjames6141]

Really enjoyed the video as always I wish you did more than one a week. Have you ever done one about yourself and your experiences? It would be interesting to understand how someone gets to your level. Dig what you do sir.

[@jeepindave5464]

Awesome Merlin. You gotta make it a tandem drive. Would be easy like an old 6x6 power wagon.

[@patrickbooth2329]

Awesome ride thanks for sharing

[@ericromero9708]

Never throw stain rags in the trash...they can catch fire spontaneously...wet them and seal them in a container....old masters stain is the worse...thanks for the great content ✌️

[@terrymoore9185]

Just curious because I don't want to get in trouble myself. There's no tags and, insurance? If a cop pulls you over are you aloud to test vehicles out?

[@devilsadvocate1441]

​@@terrymoore9185 I have run many many vehicles and motorbikes without insurance and or the wrong plates. Just don't get pulled over. Be smart about how, where and when you drive. It's just a test drive you'll probably be fine.

[@devilsadvocate1441]

100% that's why they make garbage cans specifically for them. I usually lay mine out to dry before I throw them out or reuse em. I have seen them catch on fire from oil and thinner.

[@bigears4014]

Fish oil can catch fire as well

[@ericromero9708]

@@TheOriginalAndysGarage I've personally had old masters rags start up in my hand doing interior work ...outside in the sun in an hour had a bonfire of rags.. just giving a heads up to Merlin...and anyone else ✌️

[@paulreints2279]

Cool, beautiful and incredible fab work. Excellent project.

[@seecampacp5107]

I would love to see you install a drive through rear and make it live tandems with air lockers.

[@jeffmosley4043]

Love the truck man. Great job. Can't wait to see it all done. Love watching you build some badass rides. Stay safe and keep up the great work. Thanks for the video.

[@flights47]

That think is cool

[@Antony_Pt]

Merlin, I'm in love your truck, Beautiful ❤️❤️❤️❤️ must say, all vehicles you have, that one is great, congratulations ✌️😍

[@4knanapapa]

Really cool truck, great build, I'm suprised you were able to make a video at the truck stop without a bunch of admirers.

[@bryduhbikeguy]

Me too.I did see the one guy standing in the background taking pictures though.I thought he'd walk up and start chatting.Maybe he did.?.

[@WeSixKings]

Dang! That's a cool truck! That must have been so much fun. Well done Sir! 👍

[@randyc4959]

I like it! I'm really interested to see how you link the two rear axle drives together. I started to do something similar with a 1st gen Dodge some time back. I hit a serious snag at obtaining the lead axle I had in mind for it. Seems the demand for them amongst this group of people known as "rock crawlers" 🙄had not only made them "unobtainium," the few that I did find were priced in the stratosphere. Maybe I should go look again, the market may have settled down. I'm wondering if the tandem axle setup is going to make a complication for you if it gets used for multi-State trips. I'd advise you to research and be well versed in the regulations concerning IFTA or other fuel tax regulations/requirements for each State you take it. It could be nothing, but ... finding out the hard way might get painful where you carry your wallet. Hope all goes well with the river trip. You'll be about 50 miles from me when you cross under route 13 at Lexington.

[@delbutler885]

Ifta doesn't matter as long as it's a Recreational Vehicle not a Commercial Vehicle.

[@randyc4959]

@@delbutler885 We know he isn't moving cars for hire, but an officer working the field may view it differently. I found that a lot of officers are well versed in the rules, but are seriously lacking in knowledge about the exceptions. Best to have done the research, document it, have it in print (chapter and verse) and carry it in the truck with the registration. Any confirmations made by State Offices, on a letterhead, should be copied and carried as well.

[@kcbear8575]

What a sweet mini diesel rat rod truck love it turn out amazing glad to see it goin down the road for the first time what amazing job Merlin

[@dennispalmer6007]

Wipe the stain on then wipe the excess off for best results. The stain will absorb into the wood and it will become darker the longer you leave it. You need to wipe the excess off before it dries

[@Buck1954]

I love those old trucks. What a marvelous project. I agree about the diamond upholstery. I was cringing on the wood work, but you'd cringe at my welding.

[@hillbillywisdom777]

I'm not a woodworking guy but I don't think you are supposed to put stain rags in the trash unless you want to burn down your shop.

[@larrymoons2258]

Merlin.. That is a pretty cool truck!! Good job!!! I know that you are proud!!

[@jackk8422]

That's a myth

[@AlliKat75]

Not a myth. Any oil and any rag can self combust.

[@jackk8422]

@AlliKat75 no it cannot. It's an insurance scam. A very famous KZbinr by the name of ave proved it.

[@gordonmurray3153]

Yeah like putting oily or greasy rags in the rubbish bin will, not. Collecting sparks from a grinding wheel, plasma cutter or welding torch, might cause these contaminants to combust, as an accelerator for any garbage can fire.

[@tomcleghorn4005]

I absolutely love this project. Now I have too find one and copy it. Thanks for all you do sir!

[@KRAVER_]

I have been waiting for content on your Mini Semi for ..Long time. This build originally brought me to your channel. All that weight is in frame thickness and Girth. Very nice Interiors !! Thanks For Sharing !!

[@norcoredneck]

That’s an Oatman Widow. Love the Mr Majestic style film reel at the end.

[@jeffreyrouth3241]

Thanks Mr Merlin I truly enjoyed the classes you held at the wrecker games a schooling for sure congrats for sure

[@charlesalden9167]

Glad to see the ole 33 Dodge Brothers little semi getting some love. & it has AC. Your creation looking awesome DR FRANKENSTEIN. As usual your the best start of my sunday. Thanks for the entertainment Merlin

[@chrismccue6493]

What an awesome truck I love it . Marlin you are amazing the work you do and your knowledge just blows my mind.

[@rondunlap4628]

Love the build Merlin

[@joeshmoe1436]

Came out looking awesome , cant wait to see the trailer finished & hooked up pulling some car's to the car show 👍👍👍👌

[@Derf1313]

Love to see a craftsman at work! (Been a builder & trim carpenter for over 45 years, started learning from my stepdad in 1970, he started in 1929!). So got an idea about crap, lol !! You just DO, until its done & right... Wonderful build, gonna be a one of a kind masterpiece! Stay safe on your adventure, looking forward to all the videos! Thanx !

[@AristeoEscareno-zc5ke]

Merlin love what you've done with your old semi that's pretty awesome I love the interior an exterior all your trucks are absolutely awesome

[@bombardier3qtrlbpsi]

WOW every time I see that trouble light does it bring some memories back. This generation now a days asking them to go get you a trouble light. Fantastic job!!

[@kevinswensen3375]

You never disappoint with the content Merlin. thank ya much

[@kennyw6932]

Being North Dakota raised I was surprised to hear you talk about working in the oil fields. It's amazing what can be found deteriorating on the prairies throughout the state. I enjoyed watching your video and am anxiously awaiting the type of van or trailer you add to the unit.

[@garyhopkinssr8561]

I wish I had a truck like that Merlin. It's absolutely beautiful.

[@vernlang7714]

That truck is turning into a show stopper can’t wait to see it in person on day!! Awesome video like always Merlin.

[@harrytaylor6854]

Yes indeed the mini semi is looking great thank you for sharing well done

[@billbeck47]

This mini Semi is looking great. Wish you lived closer so I could see it and hear it. Love your projects, Thanks Merlin.

[@Stephenja]

G'day Merlin. What a beautiful, cool rig. Love this kind of build and original build and restore jobs.

[@NCFREEMAN]

This is one badass truck Merlin! I love your channel sir keep on rebuilding these forgotten works of American enginuity.

[@gordonlitz4824]

Been waiting on this upload. That truck is awesome. Dude you are just straight talented.

[@thomasbailey8306]

You built the Baddest Dodge Brothers Truck out there..Great Job Merlin..Love it..The interior looks Amazing...It pays too have Good friends like You have for Sure...I imagine it's hard to get out of a place when you have that truck. Everyone flocked around it ..Can't wait to see the trailer hooked up to it...Great Video Sir....

[@willyporter7373]

Really looking forward to the differential work. Such a great build to watch. Taking it the trailer and a model a or t on the trailer to a show. Will knock it out of the park.

[@jeffsmith350]

Truck is looking good!

[@caesar1295]

Merlin that is an absolute work of art you have pulled off on the mini semi so far, can’t wait to see it finished and you using to haul other projects. Thank you for showing us I really enjoyed it. Be safe on the jet ski trip and have fun!!🎉

[@WingItWithEthan]

That’s a sweet tractor!

[@garygill7960]

I like the way this project is going. Thank you for sharing.

[@tomnielsen6439]

You are very talented and i love the RAT in you. And your Cummins are growing on me. Good job. Cant wait to see the jet ski show.

[@cliffmorgan31]

Shared this one with some buddies. Great project! Real COOL…..

[@tsar-bomba2413]

What a great job you've done with this ole girl. She looks beautiful

[@scootergem]

Really nice truck. Thanks for showing it to us. Can't buy those parts so you just make 'em. Lotta projects you keep in motion. Have fun on this upcoming river run and bless you for doing it.