American Pickers Season 19 Episode 16 Aerosmith Van

Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz star in the hit reality TV show American Pickers, which follows the pair as they travel across the United States in search of unique and valuable antiques. In season 19 episode 16, titled "Aerosmith Van," the duo head to the Northeast in pursuit of a rare item associated with one of the most famous rock bands of all time.

The episode begins with Mike and Frank on their way to meet a collector named John in Massachusetts who is said to have a one-of-a-kind item related to the iconic rock band Aerosmith. The item in question is a van that was once owned and used by the band in the early days of their career. As both Mike and Frank are avid music fans and collectors, they are understandably excited to see the van for themselves and potentially add it to their own collection.

Upon arriving at John's property, Mike and Frank are greeted by the sight of the Aerosmith van sitting in a shed, covered in dust and cobwebs. John tells the pair that he acquired the van from a friend of his who had purchased it years earlier from the band's management company. When asked about the van's history, John admits that he doesn't know much, but that he's always been a fan of the band and thought it was a cool piece to own.

Mike and Frank waste no time getting to work on examining the van and assessing its value. As they inspect the exterior, they note the distinctive artwork painted on the sides, which features the band's name and a cartoon depiction of each member. Frank points out that the van appears to have undergone some modifications over the years, including the addition of a sunroof and replacement of the original engine.

The interior of the van is in a state of disrepair, with torn and stained upholstery and various items strewn about, including cassette tapes, a CB radio, and a makeshift toilet. As they explore the van, Mike and Frank find themselves transported back in time to an era of rock and roll rebellion, imagining what it must have been like for the band to travel the country in such a vehicle.

As they continue to examine the van, Mike and Frank begin to negotiate with John on a potential purchase price. They cite the van's historical significance as a rare piece of rock memorabilia, but also note the extensive work that would be required to restore it to its former glory. John initially seems hesitant, but eventually agrees to sell the van to the pair for a price that is mutually agreeable.

With the van now in their possession, Mike and Frank hit the road once again, this time heading to a nearby restoration shop where they hope to breathe new life into the old vehicle. The shop owner is impressed by the van's unique history and agrees to take on the restoration project, which will involve extensive bodywork, engine repairs, and a complete interior overhaul. The cost of the restoration is steep, but Mike and Frank are willing to invest in the project, seeing it as a worthwhile endeavor given the van's cultural significance.

As the episode concludes, Mike and Frank reflect on their latest acquisition and the thrill of the hunt that drives them to travel across the country in search of such treasures. They express their gratitude for the opportunity to own a piece of rock history and their excitement for sharing the van with other fans of the band and of vintage Americana. The episode ends on a note of anticipation, with the promise of future adventures and more unique finds to come.