Ep 6. Seventh Inning Wrench

In the bustling streets of Havana, Cuba, where classic cars and colonial architecture are part of the everyday backdrop, a passionate group of Cuban car enthusiasts are on a quest to restore and preserve the iconic American automobiles that have become synonymous with the island's culture and history. Welcome to "Cuban Chrome," a captivating documentary series that takes viewers on an exhilarating journey into the heart and soul of Cuba's automotive scene.

In season 1 episode 6, titled "Seventh Inning Wrench," the team of skilled mechanics at the renowned A Lo Cubano Car Shop faces yet another daunting challenge. This time, their task is to repair and rejuvenate an old Chevrolet Bel Air from 1955. This particular model is not only a testament to the golden era of American automobiles but also holds significant sentimental value for its owner, Raydel. With his father having passed away, Raydel hopes to honor his memory by breathing new life into the family's cherished vehicle.

As the episode unfolds, tensions rise within the team as they encounter unexpected setbacks during the restoration process. The Bel Air, which had been in a state of disrepair for decades, presents a myriad of complex issues that demand precision, resourcefulness, and unwavering dedication. With limited access to spare parts due to the U.S. embargo, the mechanics must rely on their ingenuity and craftsmanship to find creative solutions.

While the A Lo Cubano team works diligently inside the shop, other members of the Cuban car community engage in their own endeavors. Mario, a charismatic and resourceful businessman with an endless appetite for negotiation, embarks on a mission to find the perfect set of tires for a stunning Ford Fairlane. His tireless efforts take him throughout Havana's bustling streets, meeting with various contacts and bartering for the best deal. With each encounter, Mario showcases the resilience and resourcefulness that have become synonymous with Cuba's determined car enthusiasts.

Meanwhile, Randy, an experienced mechanic, tackles an ambitious project of his own. He sets his sights on an old Honda motorcycle, determined to restore it to its former glory. Randy's expertise and attention to detail shine brightly as he disassembles the bike and meticulously examines every component. As he overcomes numerous challenges during the restoration process, he exhibits the unyielding spirit of the Cuban craftsmen and their unwavering commitment to their craft.

Back at A Lo Cubano, the team faces a critical turning point as they approach the completion of the Bel Air restoration. With only one opportunity to test the vehicle's functionality before returning it to Raydel, the mechanics are keenly aware that they must get every detail right. The pressure mounts as they prepare to take the car for a test drive, knowing that the outcome will determine whether they have succeeded in honoring Raydel's father's memory.

As "Seventh Inning Wrench" draws to a close, the audience is left captivated by the deeply rooted passion and unyielding spirit that permeate every aspect of Cuba's automotive community. From the expertise of the mechanics to the relentless pursuit of parts and the personal stories that intertwine with each car, "Cuban Chrome" offers an intimate and visually stunning portrayal of a culture that has fallen in love with American classics.

In this episode, the challenges faced by the A Lo Cubano team as they take on the restoration of the Bel Air, Mario's tireless search for the perfect tires, and Randy's commitment to bringing an old motorcycle back to life all demonstrate the resilience, perseverance, and love of automobiles that make the Cuban car culture truly unique. With every turn of the wrench, "Cuban Chrome" takes viewers on an exhilarating journey that showcases the unwavering spirit of Cuba's automotive restoration community.