Cazalea takes readers on an unexpected journey through Southern California, showcasing how a simple drive can lead to remarkable discoveries. This installment, a prequel to his 'Radiator Lady' series, highlights the charm of stumbling upon hidden automotive gems. His narrative emphasizes the joy of exploration and the unique characters encountered along the way.
Can I make this a PREQUEL to the other two parts thus far?
Shawn runs a business out of his property which sorts out hot rods. We discovered his shop the old-fashioned way - by driving by.
Here's how it happened. We were showing our friends from England around obscure parts of SoCal (many of which PuristS have already seen in earlier reports)
Followed by an overnight stay at Riverside's otherworldly Mission Inn:
IF you can find your room after a couple drinks you are a lucky guy!
We ate at Tio Leo's famous taco shop and junk-sculpture grounds.
We accidentally stumbled upon Riverside Carburetor and Electric (which pretty well says he prefers old cars)
and had headed southwards towards home. We had lunch in mind, and the freeway our destination when the Studebakers called out to me...
But first we had to get onto the property -- I sent my wife up ahead as she is good with dogs and ornery men, like "Wild Omar"
Luckily the "watch goat" was behind a fence.
and the watch dog was pathetically friendly (and blended in with the 1935 GMC pickup).
She carefully explained our interest "my husband's a car nut" and we were immediately welcomed aboard. It was like walking into a watchmaker's shop with old Rolex dials, bezels, hands and movements strewn all over the benches and floor.
Each car had a story which he shared
Rare 53 2-door Plymouth wagon; only 40 built
Very clean, very rare, very early Jag. I forgot the Firebird details
"Just bought this T-bird for the powertrain"
behind it was a Ranchero GT, and to the side under a cover was a Ranchero 390 (very rare). Camaro SS very straight underneath the dust (hazard of the desert)
Everything is here for a reason, he said.
Chevy II undergoing complete strip and repaint. Eventually.
Studebaker destined for "sedan delivery" or as he said "Milk Delivery" status with windows filled in and totally modernized hot rod drivetrain - someday a gift for his wife
Nice truck "we'll throw a whole modern drivetrain and frame under this body"
Massive rear window about 3 feet long and rolls down completely
The car will be lowered 5 inches and everything smoothed. Big motor and modern drivetrain are going into it. The majority of the rusty (or missing bits) would have been tossed anyway.
Thanks to Shawn Parker, the Radiator Lady and friend for the tour.
Cazalea
PS - vintage tires
