• Spend more for a better car and it will save you money in the long run.
• Spec your rod down to the last detail; this will help you when it comes time to build.
• Try to buy as many parts as you can from one source. Not only will you get better service and know where to return things if you have a problem, but you might be eligible for a discount.
• Go to as many car shows, rod runs and cruise nights as you can.
As part of the hot-rodding resurgence, Miller Electric Mfg. Co.'s custom high-powered '29 Roadster premiered recently at one show, the 36th Annual Street Rod Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky.
"We wanted to show that the tools and techniques we used are within easy reach of the average home hobbyist," said Wayne Reece, one of the car's primary designers and builders. "The welding and plasma-cutting equipment we chose wasn't exotic or expensive, just operator friendly."
The roadster's debut coincides with the announcement of Miller's Dream Weldshop sweepstakes, a celebration of the do-it-yourself welder.
The sweepstakes winner receives a welding and cutting package that includes the same models of equipment used to create the hot rod, plus two hours of individual instruction from an expert, a heavy-duty welding table, auto-darkening helmet and numerous other prizes. The Dream Weldshop package is valued at more than $12,000.
The sweepstakes runs through November 30. Entry and contest information, along with some ideas for welding projects, can be found at www.MillerWelds.com.
