Ep 1. Under Fire

In the first episode of the eighth season of American Restoration, titled "Under Fire," Rick Dale and his team take on the challenging job of restoring a rare WWII flamethrower. The flamethrower was used during the war to clear enemy bunkers and was discovered by a collector who wants it to be brought back to its former glory.

The team begins by disassembling the flamethrower and examining its various components. They discover that many parts are missing or damaged and will need to be replaced. In addition, the flamethrower's fuel tank is corroded and needs to be cleaned and refurbished.

Rick and his team work tirelessly to restore the flamethrower to its original condition. They fabricate many of the missing parts, using old machinery and techniques to maintain the authenticity of the piece. They also consult with experts and historians to ensure that the flamethrower is restored accurately.

As the project progresses, the team faces several challenges. The fuel tank proves to be particularly difficult to clean, and they have to use a combination of acid baths and sandblasting to get it clean. In addition, some of the parts are difficult to manufacture, and they have to improvise using different materials and tools.

Despite these challenges, Rick and his team are able to complete the flamethrower restoration on time. The final piece is a thing of beauty, with its authentic WWII markings and functional capabilities. The collector is thrilled with the restoration and can't wait to display the flamethrower in his collection.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a glimpse into the painstaking work that goes into restoring rare and precious artifacts. From disassembly to fabrication to testing, every step of the restoration process requires precision, skill, and knowledge. Rick Dale and his team are dedicated to preserving history and creating works of art that will last for generations to come.

"Under Fire" is a fascinating episode that showcases the incredible work that goes into restoring historical artifacts. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, machinery, and craftsmanship. The episode is a testament to the dedication and passion that Rick and his team bring to every restoration project.