Ep 3. Rust-o-mod

In American Restoration season 8 episode 3, titled "Rust-o-mod," viewers are taken on a journey with Rick Dale and his team of expert craftsmen as they take on another challenging restoration project.

This time, the team is tasked with restoring a 1940s Steelcraft pedal car, which is in dire need of repair. The car, which was once a beloved toy for many children, has been sitting outdoors for years and has sustained a considerable amount of rust damage.

The episode starts with the team examining the pedal car and assessing the extent of the damage. They find that it will take a lot of work to restore the car to its former glory, but they are up for the challenge.

Rick and his team begin by dismantling the car and removing the rusted metal parts. They then proceed to sandblast the remaining parts to remove any remaining rust and prepare them for welding and painting.

The team then sets their sights on the car's body. They carefully strip the old paint, revealing the metal underneath. The bodywork is in rough shape, with numerous dents and dings that need to be smoothed out.

To achieve a smooth body surface, they use a combination of hammer and dolly techniques and body filler. Once the body is smooth, they apply a fresh coat of paint.

While the bodywork is being completed, another team member works on restoring the car's pedals. They remove the rust from the pedals and replace any worn-out parts. The final result is a smooth, easy-to-use pedal system that helps the toy to glide smoothly along the ground.

Once the painting is complete, the team reassembles the car, putting all the restored parts back together. The final step is a test drive of the pedal car to ensure that it works as well as it looks.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a glimpse of the dedication and hard work that goes into restoring these prized antiques. The team works meticulously, paying attention to every detail and ensuring that every part is restored to its original condition.

One other interesting aspect of this episode is the creative process that the team uses to incorporate modern parts into the restored pedal car. While they are dedicated to restoring the car to its original condition, they also understand that certain modern parts can improve the toy's functionality, durability, and safety. Their "rust-o-mod" philosophy combines modern technology with classic designs to create something entirely new and unique.

Overall, "Rust-o-mod" is an enjoyable episode that showcases the incredible talent and dedication of Rick Dale and his team. It is a testament to their love of restoring vintage items and their ability to breathe new life into old toys. Fans of the show and those who enjoy restoration programs will love this episode and appreciate the hard work that goes into creating a beautiful, functional antique.