Mopar Powered '35 Ford Truck Ratrod! Will it RUN AND DRIVE 630 MILES?

[@georgegonzalez2476]

This should be shown in every high school. Shows perseverance, positive thinking, and improvising. All good life lessons.

[@ViceGripGarage]

Thanks George!

[@soberlife]

Plus if you get the kids hooked on cars they can't afford drugs.

[@teeganconnell9980]

It is, my buddy’s youngest brother is in highschool grade 11 Leduc Alberta Canada. Shop teach shows/uses vgg

[@fixitshop3025]

@@soberlife ain’t that the truth

[@edwardskoda2409]

@@ViceGripGarage Get that green Mercury wagon if you can. That is a sweet ride.

[@corydriver7634]

The alternator bracket Macyver-hillbilly-farmercobble-repair was pure genius. You the man Derek.

[@brighter22]

I spit laughing at the socket spacer.

[@barnabyjones5161]

McGyver

[@VintageCars999]

It was that rusty nail that did the trick 🤣🤣

[@corydriver7634]

@@barnabyjones5161 you say potato I say tater.

[@daveraso5429]

I think you should save the 35 Ford you put a lot of effort in getting it back home. It’s a neat looking truck.

[@Matt-py4sc]

I was sick with the flu last week. You know what kept me company? A daylong VGG marathon. Appreciate the content as always!

[@screamingeagles5156]

A guy has to drink it all in.

[@Gant209]

clearly you got better...so awesome.

[@michaelfrost8385]

Yep never gets old my friend

[@chrisdignan3123]

I had covid 2 weeks ago and I new zealand we have to isolate for 8 days. I think i watched about 25 revivals haha so good

[@stewkeene]

It’s great fun to binge it for sure. Love this channel of all I found so far 👍🏻 Derek’s personality is entertaining 👍🏻

[@Flippinliving]

Dude. You are my hero. I owned 20 vehicles before the age of 30. Always beaters I fond in strangers yards. That was a decade ago. These videos remind me of good times. I was usually by myself-ish like this too. I love it. NEVER HAD TOO GO THIS FAR THOUGH! Increasable!

[@stevenwhiting5321]

Holy moly. Derek, I’m an old guy, so I can say this… I’m proud of you. Long distance in a busted up vehicle… and this one was diabolical. Back seat full of tools, and just rolling with the punches, this totally put me in the way back machine. Very nice work. There was some hardship recovering this beast and you did it for the channel and the love of the process… it’s too bad that we’re limited to “comments” because what you really should have got on this one is a standing ovation from the bleachers. And that K-seal stuff? Whoever your buddy was that recommended it gets a Christmas card, because that stuff rescued victory from the jaws of defeat! The big three ingredients on this rescue were talent, luck, and love. Re what you should do with it? The question is… do you love it? I’ll keep something around because it is either useful to me or because I love it. I don’t see how this truck is going to help you in any practical sense, but sometimes you drive a vehicle and you just DIG IT. I’m not going to take on any more vehicles in this lifetime, but if I were, it would be a rat rod and it would look a lot like this. I think it’s a bad boy, but you’ll have to ask yourself similar questions. I will say, I don’t think you have anything at Rusty Acres in this category. I’d make it safe, put that small block in it, deaden the noise and have fun with it. If it’s going to last, you’re probably going to need to keep this one out of the weather, so space might be a consideration. Peace, Derek, thanks for hanging with the channel and doing such great stuff. Also… don’t ever lose that guy…. let’s call him “shade tree mechanic guy.” It would be so, so easy to adopt a “professional-sounding demeanor” with the racing folks and that ilk. But NOBODY does “shade tree mechanic guy,” that’s yours and yours alone. There’s a lot of competition on the Tubes, but he’s the the guy people come to watch. He is crazy fun.

[@anthonyjennings7764]

I have made so many of these trips becouse i had to now becouse of your influence ive started doing them again just for the love of machines thank you i was forced into retirement and had kind of given up now im staying busy and my body is working better i enjoy being alive again thank you very much as far as this little truck find a young person coming up in our life and donate a start to his/her first project truck

[@terrymoore9185]

I'll buy it!

[@hardball107]

His buddy is Steve Dulcich is a contributor on Roadkill and other programs and is a Mopar guru. Check Roadkill Garage.

[@big_red_machine3547]

Yes good advice. And he should make it so it’s not like riding in a wicker basket tied to a rocket or whatever haha

[@johnnygeorgopoulos4072]

Great comment man, and I agree, he should definitely keep this and just fix it up a touch, he doesn't have anything like it yet in the 'acres and a nice distressed Vice Grip Garage painting on the doors of it would look awesome.

[@pakjohn48]

Another classic VGG rescue and drive home. These are when Derek is at his best, solving problems on the run with minimal tools and outside help and meanwhile filming the whole shebang. Well done Derek.

[@kender1412]

Your vehicle recovery videos have impacted my life in ways you will never understand. It isn't just a matter of getting an old heap to drive several hundred miles to get back to your shop. I don't think I would want to tackle anything like that. It's simply a matter of not sweating the small stuff and working through your problems until you reach your goal. Thank you, so much for doing what you do.

[@HuldraX.]

Well said! Exactly!

[@scottmckay3426]

The FODGCH

[@born2soon]

Derek makes my issues with my 1965 Wheel Horse look like child's play.

[@pgrafpg]

Buy yourself a trailer.

[@smoky4712]

​@pgrafpg But that would take all of the fun out of it.

[@howardbollinger1938]

Derek...I laughed off my chair when you were reading the back of some can of miracle something or other and you said "guarantees to do wheelies"...Great line!.... And. you were the "rigginest" guy around when you got that alternator fixed with hose clamps and a nail you found in the dirt....ingenious!

[@chucker625]

I've never been a car guy but I also never miss Derek's stuff. His sense of humor and family values are what got me hooked. That said, my oldest boy is 6. He's been bugging me to go deer hunting for the last couple years. My initial thought was that he wasn't old enough but then I thought back to when I watched Derek drive the Scout home along with the Route 66 cruise. He did both with his Boy riding shotgun. I remember thinking "that is what a father-son relationship should look like". So - My boy got to hunting with me this year. We had a blast together. I wouldn't trade the experience for anything and I am looking forward to next year more than I ever have in the past. In short - Derek is a great 'car guy' but his influence expands well beyond 4 wheels and an engine block. From my Family to yours - Merry Christmas Derek. It is so great to see a person with your attitude and values find success. It is well deserved.

[@highbrass7563]

Oh man. I would so like to echo your words

[@ar2043]

So well said. I hope you continue to follow along with all of us, even though you are technically “NOT a car guy“. Maybe you will be at the end of all this?

[@leerindal8980]

I have taken all 3 of my boys on 3,500 mile motorcycle trips over the years. They got to choose where to ride to. They all loved those and talk about them still. Great bonding time.

[@chucker625]

@@ar2043 Don't get me wrong - I like cars... Well... To be specific... I like trucks. Especially the old square bodies of the 70's and 80's. And, I do prefer to work on my own stuff when I feel I'm able to do so. I'm just saying 'cars' have never been a hobby of mine or a hobby of anyone in my family. Hunting was the common thread that I grew up with. So, I generally would not 'seek out car content' on KZbin. I am much more likely to watch The Hunting Public (check em out) or another similar channel. Yet - here I am... But why????..... I think the explanation for this is fairly simple. 'Car people' and 'hunting people' have a lot in common. The fact that a self-admitted 'non car guy' like me looks forward to every one of Derek's uploads is proof of this. We may not share common hobbies, but we do share common values and that's all that really matters. We are knowledgeable, meticulous, patient, friendly and welcoming. Most importantly, there's nothing we enjoy more than helping someone (especially if they are 'new' to the hobby). Solid core values like these transcend the subject matter. All of that said - Yes - I am starting to catch the 'car bug'.... I'd be lying if I said I wasn't routinely checking Craigslist and Facespace for a pre-89 Jimmy or Blazer... But.... Moses' Sandals those are spendy.... A feller might have to wait a bit before pulling the trigger on one of those rigs... Anyway - Thank you for the compliment, good luck in all of your future projects and endeavors!!!

[@chucker625]

@@leerindal8980 That's awesome! I went on yearly camping trips to Glacier Nat'l Park as a kid. My oldest boy has seen the pictures and wants to go. We are just waiting for his little brother to get another year under his belt, then we'll point West and head out. I'd love to make that trip on a bike though. That would be unreal! Sounds like your boys had a great time and a great dad. Congrats Man!

[@mordeth1964]

What amazes me Derek, is how you manage to maintain not only your composure but good humor, regardless of the curve balls and set backs you experience.

[@davidwheeler5741]

You've definitely raised the difficulty level on these revivals lately. Most would have taken it back on a trailer. Great work Derek raising the bar for revival videos.

[@gotdangedcommiesitellyahwa6298]

A fella has the patience of a saint to deal with this stuff. I woulda thrown a wrench through the windshield and pushed it into oncoming traffic.

[@zackhutchison2106]

That’s for sure, I wouldn’t have driven that thing a block much less forced her 600 miles down the road.

[@AmericanToxin]

This definitely needs to be brought back for more videos!!

[@bedhead441]

I love the fact that you didn't give up and tow it home. That would be a badass shop truck

[@ludicrous7044]

He doesn’t know what TOW means!

[@jimbob3030]

I don't know why I keep watching his video's, because they're just about avoiding doing anything the right way.

[@garyalleccia2793]

Once again Derek, doing the things all of us wish we could do. Sure looked like a lot of fun. Remember, "Will it run and drive how many miles home?" Is how it all started. And still the best of Vice Grip Garage.

[@Pushrod_Criff]

It’s amazing to me how you manage to keep your cool through all the problems especially being that far from anything!! Truly impressive!!

[@LemondzzPvP]

58:00 I love seeing you drive the car, in real time not a time lapse. love hearing all the quirks the car has and all the unique features

[@davidstrong8361]

Great video Derek! I vote to paint the truck (not too shiny), put a 302 ford and a 4 or 5 speed manual, rewire, and make it safe for the road. Will make a great shop truck.

[@InnovativePoolsLLC]

No better way to start off the weekend but to have an hour and a half of VGG and a ride along Look forward to this all week to see what adventure Derek will bring us all long on.

[@PeterHinkle]

Derek, this was phenomenal. There is just no other content creator better on You Tube. You have become an icon in my house. Thank you for being the great man you are. A man of principal, a man of honor, and damn funny. Thank you sir.

[@faststang85]

You going to get on your knees for him as well? He's a guy, not a god, get a grip dude.

[@atomicroostergaming7049]

He has no thought of failure. He is so cool.

[@michaelmccluskey1155]

@@StudentofsweetscienceHe got em fixed Kevin. Relax.

[@michaelmccluskey1155]

@@StudentofsweetscienceYou’re a bitter person aren’t you? Or are you just trolling?

[@damianjackson9084]

@@Studentofsweetscience relax Karen

[@pjmack-c6k]

put a crate chevy engine, new radiator and rewire just for safety, also think about a trans. Then clear coat that wild patina, Love watching your shows!Gi

[@cmoor7928]

Derek, the thing I love the most, is when you run into those challenges when you literally have to hot foot it for a solution. The perseverance, and yet positive light you shine on these heritage rescues are what keeps us going. Me being a Kiwi from NZ, we're not privi to knowing how these beautiful vehicles move and feel, so hearing your perspective on these is like a taste of good ol American heritage and culture. Thank you

[@MikeB-gf6dj]

This kiwi agrees totally. Few and far between are these motors on our 🇳🇿 NZ Roads. They Are out there, but not so often seen. Cheers.

[@ronjones-6977]

Every SB Mopar I've ever had sounds like this one. I think the valvetrain noise is a feature rather than a problem. Could you say hi to Andy Mechanic for me?

[@MrBillsfishin]

You are amazing. Your perseverance is so refreshing. Thx for all the fantastic videos Derek.

[@nickjenkins6755]

Your ability to coax wounded vehicles hundreds of miles home is absolutely amazing to me.

[@ludicrous7044]

Not sure if he HAS a trailer! If so he want use it!!🤷🏻‍♂️🙄

[@piebear49]

He's a jalopy whispererer!

[@artadrians]

It DESERVES to be restored...such a SURVIVOR... Great looking truck...DO IT ..!!!

[@1975napier]

Definitely shop truck/ cruiser material right there. Would be nice to see a Ford engine back in her and a seat that has just a tickle more padding. That truck is a keeper for sure. You actually fit in it too, so that’s a plus. Great episode!

[@explanger527]

if its already working and all, mossle put whatever a guy wants, maybe a buick engine... who knows.

[@artscott2677]

I have watched this for a few times and I agree with you X-ray Z. I would start with a 5.0 roller motor out of a late 80's, early 90's Mustang or Explorer with a T-5 and go from there. It is a blank canvas

[@1975napier]

@@explanger527 Yeah, it’s his to do what he wants with. He asked for suggestions, maybe you should recommend a Buick engine to him.

[@vettegreaser6590]

On board with a shop truck

[@beauxr.benoit1374]

@@explanger527 What is wrong with the engine it has, and it belongs there at that, so why change it for something that doesn't? That will turn it into a Chevrolested refrigerator.

[@steliostsolakis7441]

i would love to see a full rebuild on this one!!!love your videos keep it up!!

[@scottdahnke2409]

I'd like to see this truck revisited. I think it could be a fun revival!

[@suzylosburn3894]

Nice rod ! Swap the cracked engine. Patch up the body and paint her up. She's earned that much.

[@bookreaderlabarr]

I think it would be a very educational video if he rewired the whole thing

[@timculpepper4939]

That would be a great shop truck for you. It totally fits your whole genre. Thanks for all the good stuff. There’s a lot of us Fellers out here that totally identify with everything you do. Thank you for your honest and Raw footage

[@lukeheerdegen2417]

Brilliant rig Derek. I’d like to see it as a Rat Rod shop truck - re-powered, bit of old school sign writing but keep it looking the way it is which is a cool old school truck. A great revival as always.👍

[@ViceGripGarage]

Cool idea

[@joewalters2259]

Another great episode that not only shows the great mechanic skills of Derek but also shows the importance of critical thinking and how it keeps a person calm, cool, and collected because you have your next 5 steps planned out.

[@BrianCox-jm3ej]

I know you typically are mindful of the budget with getting everything running and driving. What about just opening the checkbook wide open on the Grand National, and go full tilt on that one brother. Love your content.

[@X3R0D3D]

he may have to sell one of two of the residents of rusty acres to do it, but it'd be worth it!

[@mikemullay5622]

I approve Brian. But then I am a Buick guy.

[@ChevyC-hf6km]

@@X3R0D3D So you're saying he's not one of those, "I'm going to get around to restoring that one of these days" people? Actually a lot of what's back there is a major money pit. But there are a few good projects as well.

[@tomwright2073]

@@ChevyC-hf6km I collected lots of vehicles, most I knew I would never do anything with but they were good for parts or trading stock.

[@jackmorrison8269]

Ill vote for that, i was like 8 or 9 when they came out and havent seen one since, cause i live in northern 🇨🇦

[@johnburke7792]

I loved your brief reference to the song "One Headlight" By the Wallflowers. "We put it all together We can drive it home With one headlight" Great Video!

[@claycharmsFOREVER]

This baby doll is screaming for a complete restoration so it will last another 75 years! Thank you for the great video and your efforts to keep this one running!

[@TrueNorth333]

agreed wholeheartedly! :)

[@dustinstroh4604]

Guy doesn’t respond on old vids. Guy is busy making that $$$ as the channel continues to grow

[@williamcole464]

All I can say, is you are crazy. But in a good way, I've saved many " junks" over the years, but I must say, you are Hard core. Loved your GTO rescue, as a Vietnam era veteran, I have to say thankyou. Too many came back, not to a Hero's welcome, but scorn. You reaffirmed our service, and I will always treasure that. Thank you and God bless you. Outstanding.

[@JechtAruon]

The GTO series really hit personal with me. My dad had a 67 GTO back in the late 60s. I think it was his favorite car he ever owned and I don’t think he ever forgave my mom for making him get rid of it. Lost him a few years back due to Covid but know If he could watch this he would of lit up with memories of his. He was a true muscle car guy.

[@lilmike2710]

Not to get all political but, those same bunch of no bathing commie wannabes that spat upon and scorned our VN soldiers, are the same bunch of China commie loving nitwits that are (illegitimately) occupying our White House today. Putting more emphasis and priority on deviant sexual behaviors than on our military and its vets. Smh just traded a alphabet person basketball player for an international arms dealer nicknamed "Merchant of Death". I don't know ..... There needs to be a day of reckoning. But in the meantime we should all enjoy what freedoms we have left. God bless and thanks for your service. 🫡

[@kathyc8284]

Thank you for your Service ♥️🇺🇲

[@KarateSensei71]

Love the return to the old-school Derek adventures. The ones where we don't know if you will make it or find you sleeping in a refrigerator box, sharing a blanket with a crack addict on the side of the road by your broken-down rig Loved this one!

[@curbozerboomer1773]

This was truly epic!...But I wish he had better informed us, along the way, as tro how many miles he had to go, after each breakdown...it seems like he broke down six times the first 50 miles or so!...and then had a final run that went smoothly?...Hard to tell, but amazing that he made it!...I cannot figure out if all this effort will pay off for him!

[@rickr442]

reminds me of some of the pioneering SoCal rat rods over 20 years ago, but a bit cleaner welding work. Some of those lacked floors. Grind-o-matic whitewalls too? Magic! Pinto R&P? AND water in the engine??? Irresistible!!!

[@KarateSensei71]

@@rickr442 And he never mentioned or even talked about the AMC Pacer behind him, made me nuts.

[@murphsmodels8853]

@@KarateSensei71 We'll probably see it in a future will it run and drive video.

[@Drspeiser]

@@KarateSensei71 Reminded me of a Hot Wheels car I had when I was a little fella: the "Packin' Pacer"

[@joebrown1382]

Patience & perseverance are your 2 middle names. Unreal how you tackled this truck one problem at a time. New rad with bigger fan, fix the belt problems & drive it till it croaks.

[@alanmoul8655]

This episode is a perfect example of why I love this channel. All of the usual comments of working whilst stranded and finding ways to poke the vehicle back on the road along with your refreshing life philosophy! Not to mention the awesome footage of the trips home in half-light and great tunes to boot. Makes me smile every time! Oh- And I can relate to the line about Michigan potholes taking the front end out of a vehicle, and I’m not joking.

[@scburg66]

Absolutely love your channel, Derek! For me, this is one of the coolest rescues you’ve done. I think you should swap the engine out for a Ford engine. But most of all, if you were ever going to go all in on a restoration, this is the one you should put the time and energy into. This would be such a cool shop truck fixed all up, painted and VGG stickered up. My vote is to bring the thunder and the love to this truck!!!

[@fraterm]

I second that vote :)

[@obenwahkenobib8899]

Yep Time to find a Coyote engine/trans/rear donor and Ford basic interior! See if the Mopar engine can be torn down and rebuilt for another Dodge vehicle!

[@barrynelson634]

@@obenwahkenobib8899 no coyote though, they're best left for a high revinn speed machine. Built 302 is plenty.

[@pierredentremont2999]

No huge HP engine in this truck! Destroys the feel and would have to put a proper chassis and driveline, brakes etc. It would be just another hot rod truck like we see at the shows.

[@brockmitchell3989]

I would love to see this truck redone like new with its "custom" work. 😊 it definitely needs a lot of work. It would be a beauty if redone from the ground up.

[@charleslarison5737]

I tell ya what, as much as you have went through on it, I would redo the whole thing and make it a statement to the community on how well you work on all vehicles! You already own it, you know what to fix and you do it quick in comparison to most I know. I'd bag it to, so it can handle large loads. I'm a ford fan but automotive is awesome in itself! Thanks for doing the shows I have several ideas now!!

[@jaymontgomery8397]

I'm honestly proud of how hard you fought to keep it going. This truck needs to be on the road again

[@mrfordman9999]

You should definitely keep this as a shop truck! Love seeing this stuff cannot believe the levels that you go to to make these things happen huge respect

[@Trains-With-Shane]

Uncle Dulcich coming in clutch with the bandaid fix! Honestly late-ish model 318's are a dime a dozen in the junkyard more than likely. I say pull the old one out, do a little discovery teardown. And if it's not savable swap it with another small block chrysler. I'm willing to bet that if you put a GOOD radiator in there that fit the space with a good shroud and electrical fan combo it'd cool much better. No telling what kind of junk was clogging that thing up after sitting so long.

[@Adam_T]

Derek talking in his own language never gets old 🤣.

[@oxfordcc]

Thank you for such a great adventure. Love to see a full restore on this one.

[@BrainLeisure]

Love to see a full restore on this one. Great journey as always !

[@takuacheperformance4740]

I ABSOLUTELY loved this episode! I love every episode you do, but this one really gave me a great feeling watching a guy make something get on down the road. Thanks Derek, you help allot of people with your dedication, comedy, and knowledge!

[@johnwinter9722]

Your hose clamp repair was excellent! I once used hose clamps to straighten a kink and realign the sink drain hose in my pop up camper. That was over 25 years ago. That repair is still in place and my daughter, her husband, and my granddaughters are still making memories in that camper.

[@HannahRoot55]

John

[@edhoefsmit5463]

What a road trip,never quit,inspiring,thanks for bringing us along

[@datboyquincy]

This is the most motivational guy I ever seen. He just wouldn't give up and that's what it takes to get the job done! Everyone of us can learn from that and apply it to our own lives

[@georgejude3827]

Truly a inspiration not just your work ethic but also the dedication to the family

[@TheSturgeonChevelle]

One of the best and most genuinely unfiltered auto journeys I’ve ever seen. Loved every minute 💪🏼💪🏼

[@edwardkearney6856]

Love this episode SOOOOOO much. The machine is just a prop that allowed you to demonstrate what makes men great. Perseverance. Patience. Confidence. Grit. Of course, all delivered with your exquisite sense of humour and a dash of gratitude to our loving God for the beauty of the trees and nature around you. Honestly, an uplifting and soul warming tour de force. Thank you Sir. You, and people like you, are what makes America great. Keep on keeping on. God bless you ‘n yours. 👍🏼😁🙏🏼🇺🇸

[@danielputnam7191]

Another great video, Derek. That truck has such an iconic style. I would love to see you "Bring her around" with a Ford small block (289 /302) and a Ford transmission / rear end. You could either paint it with some really cool wheels or leave it patina. Either way, put some VGG graphics on it. Really cool truck.

[@FoolOfATuque]

Yep, Ford Small block with AOD would be great!

[@darrenhershberg4209]

I agree it needs a nice Ford engine in it

[@josephdougherty2399]

Ford Coyote motor and 6 speed... LoL

[@louisdominguez7347]

Go all the way Ford Cobra V8 engine

[@FoolOfATuque]

@@josephdougherty2399 I hear the coyote with a 10 speed and a whipple supercharger is pretty fast. 😂

[@dloneyv8]

I don’t know how it’s possible but your videos keep getting better. This was an incredible adventure. Just an awesome job!

[@shatzertj]

@for the love of God he already is on motor trend

[@larrymoons2258]

I am so glad that you got this truck!! It was an amazing rescue and you are just the guy to take it to the next level!! Thank You!!

[@bruiser5702]

Derek, this one was way over the top! You have a great sense of humor when rolling with the punches. The alternator bracket fix confirmed some of the shady fixes I've done. You do what what you gotta' do. Well done sir! 👍

[@bertstoner462]

I'm not gonna lie Derek.. This one had me nervous for you! VERY surprised that snake oil worked, but good to know that it does in a pinch! I'm close to 50, and I must say that I'm encouraged seeing your videos and enthusiasm. Thank you for all you do. We appreciate your work and dedication to the American spirit.

[@benztech2262]

Marvels Mystery Oil is an amazing product!

[@gartan8449]

Wow that's beautiful. With a title I would love to see this 100% rebuilt and your sons having it as a go to school rig. They would be the coolest kids in High School without a doubt. Time to watch the entire video and see if she runs. Hope it does. Thanks for the awesome content all the time bud.

[@honeybeecare6393]

Put a ford racing red budget paint job on it put the independence engine in it and use it as the new burnout machine

[@gartan8449]

@@honeybeecare6393 Noo. You can't destroy the body of this car. You realise how hard it is to find the frame that good? It needs to be rebuilt for sure and protected. You can put a nice engine in it and it will last for many more decades with treatment and proper paint job.

[@chrisyost5949]

This is a great video to show students when explaining perseverance. Repair it ,paint it, and enjoy it. Thank you for spending your time to make us this video. I would love to watch videos of you bringing this truck back to life.

[@keysersose1962]

What a journey! Thank you for taking me and all your fans along for the ride Derek.

[@josephfisher2203]

I am constantly impressed by the dedication to your craft. The positive attitude is very impressive. Great content as always.

[@deaddocreallydeaddoc5244]

Derek, this is the best vintage car recovery video I have ever seen! I'm 71 years old. We used to do stuff like this, move half-running cars around, fix them to get them along, etc. We'd go on road trips and make repairs along the way, hoping for a little luck. There were usually friendly folks along the way that would help a little when you were in a jam. Maybe you can still do this down around Texarkana, but not on the West Coast. But also the way you had IDs, terms for car parts, and additives. It seemed familiar to me. Sometime during the video, I remembered how one of my uncles used to do that with various objects. Back in my youth, driving was an adventure. But I think it was more than that. The culture of the Old West was still with us. People made it to their destinations by being prepared, being clever, and with the help of other good people who considered everyone a brother. You know your engines and gear, and that was great to watch along with your sense of humor. and obvious good nature. But the nostalgia for an extinct culture was an even greater feature of this video. I want to thank you for doing it, even though you made my heart ache.

[@dennismccall9237]

I am 77 and wish I could still do this stuff !

[@billmelcher625]

thanks for overseeing the downfall of our country instead of preserving it

[@rodobrien3488]

ANGINA LOL

[@mikecabral1579]

@@dennismccall9237 You old buzzard I’m 75 and I can identify. When we were kids we ran an old truck in the founders day parade. We took turns holding the jug of fuel gravity fed fuel system. Was great until the fire. Some new rules were added to the requirements around vehicles in the parade for the next year. lol we had fun. God bless you. I have a few replacement parts and I cant do much but lay in bed. But still happy with each new day.

[@dennismccall9237]

@@mikecabral1579 my neighbor had a large boat in his backyard and his pickup could not pull it up the steep driveway ,but he had an old Cadillac that didn't have a fuel pump that could pull it.He removed the hood installed a pole and a fuel bottle that looked like an IV. It all worked fine .

[@joanscotto5822]

Enjoyed your travel back to WS.. amazing trip .. would definitely get it running right and leave it painted as is ..

[@nelsonbrown8036]

1:35:08 I don’t know!! You are an inspiration and every revival you do reminds me of every road trip with my dad 😂 I think the ford should get a supercharged flathead ! For the power but keeping it in the family!!

[@willb3018]

Looking at this through a video, I would say that is one of the more aesthetic chops I have seen. Well proportioned for the vehicle. Nice stance too.

[@MrWolfSnack]

Oldtimers know how to build real ratrods, as they did it all their life. Kids today can only copycat something from a magazine and pose up.

[@michaelhoward7652]

This should be the next vgg burnout rig ,it's perfect ,great patina the right look ,swap independence's motor and running gear (maybe a different rear end) or what ever you decide Derek,great vid and thanks for all the hard work you do for us

[@redbudestate865]

this

[@michaelhoward7652]

@@redbudestate865 This as in the pick up ,you know the one the whole video was about ,this as in subject matter

[@graysongettys7252]

I don't think that 454 is fitting in this thing lol

[@morrishartwick6014]

I agree. It would be an awesome burnout rig

[@markwelliver2566]

i agree! either that or make this one a shiner and get rid of that mopar drivetrain!

[@gtuttle4]

Yeah, love the chop top. My brother has a 35 Ford pickup, well his wife does he passed in '89. I would keep it, fix it and drive it!

[@thewyattfletcher]

EPIC! Absolutely EPIC! And yes, rat rod shop truck is the thing to do. It's just too cool! BTW, I gotta say, seeing you do these long distance, no-luck-is-good-luck revivals has me thinking of dragging my kiddo in on doing one of these ourselves. My family put a bunch of ran-when-parked cars in a barn in 1988 for "short term" shortage, and they haven't been touched since, and they're 4 states away. Perfect. Sounds like a recon trip is in order.

[@dougschindler7976]

where do I even start? you are by far the most knowledgeable vehicular Individual on planet earth. your patience & twisted sense of humor are so refreshing. God bless you & your family, Thank you for your service, you are the epidemy of a true American, & please run for President, If that doesn't work, find a 1968 Ford Country Squire station wagon with a big block & giver the onions!!!!!!!!!!!! please don't stop what your doing

[@CoreyMartin83]

Fantastic job, Derek. This is definitely one of your best videos to date. The amount of perseverance, positivity, and monk level calm are legendary. Extremely impressive.

[@jjasso75]

You have such a positive attitude towards all the mechanical set backs. Such a pleasure watching you work the magic to get you out of the jams. Be cool to swap out the engine with a ford block. Cheers!!

[@cjspga17866]

Derek, have watched you evolve over the years and I am so happy for your success. Won't get into why you are but I really think you're on your way to becoming a national treasure. You have an uncanny knack of making me feel like I'm doing all this stuff and god love you for it!! But I know your the one a-sweat'n all the juicecesses all the greenbacks and all the time! And I'm prolly not the only one that loves you for it. May you and your family live long and prosper, my friend.

[@mitchinson2451]

Derek I could see Bentley and this one give it the bad news and you finish it

[@gdfggggg]

Nanuu nanuu, may the force be with him.

[@porthos6118]

G'day Derek, great vid mate. I'd go small block Ford with possibly a manual box and the diff would be your choice. One of the things I would definitely do is a new fuel system and a complete re-wire. Not all that expensive, just very time consuming. Maybe something the boys could help you with. Anyway, awesome vid. Shows you what you can do if you don't give up. Love from Australia.

[@lional6291]

G'day all exactly what me mate said. KISS keep it simple stupid and back to basic 289 or 302 with correct carby set up and manual trans after the build very simple maintance and fun to drive.

[@ludicrous7044]

Gaa Day Mate!! 🦘🦘 🎶Tie me kangaroo down mate! 🎶

[@clintonmays]

Rat rod shop truck old school 350 Chevy letter it up and clear coat it.

[@tomebel7149]

One heck of an episode. Derick ... you deserve a lot of credit for keeping your cool and keep on keepin on. You're one entertaining guy.

[@maxhernandez3959]

Original truck is good for that year. Chop top. It’s wonderful it looks great to be here. I like that Chevy Belair you bought and drove it home after just a little bit of work is great.

[@georgeeldon21]

What a ride!! You make us feel like we are on the road with you. Thank you for doing what you do👍

[@jaivette]

Lov these videos. What a great idea for a series. You seem like a really good guy

[@ryanparr8669]

Great job, Derek! Pull that motor out and use it as a boat anchor and stick a small block Ford motor in there. Tighten up all the loose ends and let your boys paint it - they'll come up with something cool and learn something along the way!

[@lferret1102]

I agree let your boys pant it

[@DragonQueen78]

I LOVE this little truck and think it deserves to be YOURS and fully restored. Especially by someone so knowledgeable and skilled as you are. Please consider keeping the little truck ❤

[@randbodily3058]

I’d have snagged that Pacer. That said, you’re a miracle worker. Liking this funky truck a lot.

[@nghermit4922]

Derek, you made my day, it’s been a rough week at work but boy was this a great adventure!

[@colday74]

This was an superb episode. Really enjoyed the whole thing Derek. Great editing. And you named her! Perseverance. Goes well with Independence.

[@rstephe]

Never get tired of hearing how VGG community steps up to help out our boy. Thanks Craig for spotting D the pickem up truck. Nice rig. Hope Derek didn't trash it too bad.🤣 Way to persavier.

[@kurtspengler3049]

Hey Derick just watched this episode! Congrats on bringing this beast home! Dulcich would dig it if You keep the LA in it! I'd Dial it in make it dependable..leave the patina as is..drive the wheels off it and keep it for one of Your Boys! HERITAGE!

[@ronaldvanhorn9558]

That's American ingenuity at it's best! This is what made America great. It's awesome that you are teaching that to your kids and involving them in the interest of repairing and preserving old iron! Good stuff!! God bless ya'all!

[@frozenfirestix]

Derek my man, thanks for the encouragement, reminder, and motivation to get outside and do something! It seems like a thing of the past in these days. Fresh air will do you good! You aren’t a man if you’ve never mixed blood and oil!

[@Doosterify]

This is by far my favorite VGG video. The truck is so cool. Perfect patina and oozing with character. The 318/Torque flight is a big plus. To me it's a keeper, especially with Gene Winfield's signature on the glove box. I know exactly what I would do if it were mine. Find a good Magnum 360 or 318 to replace the engine. Get the trans rebuilt then replace the rear axle with something better like a Ford 8.8. Next would be to tear out the shoddy wiring and re-do it all the right way.

[@michaelhummel1711]

I'm in accord with the above except for the engine. How about a flathead with an ARDEN OHV KIT. Once redone right it's worth its weight in gold.

[@Blackadder75]

I don't understand you guys, you would have to replace almost everything in such a vehicle, really the only original part left would be some basic metal in the inside. Why is that such an attractive thing to you? Can't you just better take a modern platform and build up a car in this old style?

[@jamesseltenreich652]

You could go both ways on that beauty, either a complete restoration or a rat rod, it would look great either way, your Alaskan friend 🙏❤️

[@taylerperson8086]

Id like to see it with ford power! And I think it'd be fun to see it painted up.. Great perseverance Derek! Love what you do!

[@mikeemter488]

Please no Chevy anything else is ok

[@justinvoelker9781]

“Most people call it tired, I call it weak.” That made me chuckle a little. Great problem solving and positivity. I really enjoyed this one

[@drscrib99]

Great to see you living the life of an early hot rodder. You handled all the possible bad things that can happen out on the open road with good humor and a positive attitude. I dont know how you keep on doing it but I'm looking at it so it must be true. Best wishes that you'll keep on doing it for a long time to come. Thanks.

[@campbellj20]

I love this video! It reminds me of my teens and 20s when I couldn’t afford a tow truck or a mechanic.

[@jamesdeanspyder]

This is the one that made me nervous to watch! I couldn't believe that you were going to actually drive this one home! I'm 61 and this reminded me of going with my Dad to get cars years ago that he would either rebuild into street rods or help his friends do the same. He retired from International Harvester back in 1978 when I was a junior in high school. Before and after he retired we would travel every year and sometimes find old cars to bring home or parts for cars he was working on. My dad passed away in 2010 at age 85 after a long life that included combat duty in Europe in WW2 with the 4th Armored Division and the 16th Armored Division. He was a recon squad leader in both divisions, and even spiffed up his personal jeep with some 1930's BMW roadster seats that were liberated from an abandoned garage in Belgium. The last car he built is still under a cover in storage and is a 1933 Ford 3 window coupe with a 327, automatic, and a 1955 Ford rear-end. He loved the car and we have just left it in heated storage where he parked it last. The way you work with your sons reminds me of how he taught me and my two older brothers to work on our own cars. I'm sure that your kids appreciate it as much as we 3 have. Your wife, Jessica, is an inspiration. She reminds me so much of my late wife, Sally, whom I lost 2 years ago in 2020 due to a massive stroke. She was so supportive of my wild ideas, and I see Jessica doing the same for you. Since I am now on my own for the first time since Sally and I married in 1984 I spend most of my time building model kits, working a small part-time job for an auto parts company (I had to take a medical retirement from my regular job as a systems analyst a few years ago), and watching television. I watch each video you post, and find entertainment in every one. Sorry for such a long message, but I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy and look forward to your videos and how much entertainment I get from each one. Thanks! and please keep on doing whst you are doing! If you ever break down in Louisville, reach out for help!

[@stanjohnson9102]

That was one of the more challenging trips with an old car you’ve taken. This is definitely a rat rod truck I think a classic 327 Chevy should be inserted in the engine bay. And a Vice grip graphic on the door. Always enjoy your videos.

[@rupertmclean1776]

Your positive mindset, perseverance and energy are inspiring. Always enjoy a VGG get it running and make it home video!

[@alliepetty1005]

Also, I want that green station wagon that was prominent in the background when you were working on the truck

[@daveglover6115]

When a fella breaks down on the highway side and then asks you to consider the changing of seasons by camera panning the local trees, you will know that this man Derek is inspirational and amazingly special!

[@kristopherboice197]

Loving the Mopar content!! The 318 is one of the most reliable engines ever built. I owned a few and they are darn near bullet proof!!

[@timothygeiger8271]

They were also a fairly simple engine to rebuild.

[@gordmcleod7829]

This video and the model A rescue is tops for me. What a hoot, loved it. A fella could park it in the tree row and declare victory. After all it is a runner. Whenever a guy gets some spare time, you could pull it into the shop and do some mantenance videos on her. We'd all love to see it again.

[@benjavinci2731]

Seconded.

[@JoeThompson-ci9kq]

Gene Winfield was a legend! Awesome body shop in Mojave. Your truck just quadrupled in value with that signature.