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Hot Rod Garage Web Series.

Fixing a car in a dealership is enjoyable for a mechanic who appreciates working on cars, but those who want to get into the art of cars turn to hot rods. Hot rodding isn’t just fixing common issues or altering a few parts. Hot rodding is taking a classic car and transforming it into a souped-up version that can out-perform, out-run and stand out against the original. A hot rod is typically flipped from an older American car that has been modified for better performance. The term hot rod became common in the 1930s and 1940s when roadsters were bought for a low price and modified. While it was just a hobby, the interest and intrigue of the industry has yet to fade. But, hot rodding is less about what is done physically to the cars, and more about the attitude and lifestyle of the community. There is a zealous passion for cars among hot rodders, and they are always looking for the next opportunity to get back in the garage.

Car enthusiasts who have even the slightest interest in hot rodding know of the famed Hot Rod Magazine. The iconic magazine was started in 1948 by founder Robert E. Petersen. The Magazine stayed with Petersen Publishing until it was sold to the British publisher EMAP in 1998. It was then sold again to Primedia in 2001 and is currently published by Source Interlink. The magazine has made its way into the hands and hearts of hot rodders all over the United States. Whether it taught them how to make a specific alteration or inspired them to purchase their first car, the glossy pages have attracted industry professionals and enthusiasts for years.

Cars have changed  quite a bit in the 66 years since Hot Rod Magazine first appeared on the stands. From the first edition of the magazine, there have been significant changes, but the publication has flowed with the times. Hot Rod has created a community where like-minded enthusiasts can share stories, photos, events and videos relating to their latest projects. From classic cars to modern trucks, there is a great story behind every transformation. After all, it isn’t the physical transformation that makes a car a hot rod - it is the passion and spirit that goes into it.

Hot Rod is now making its mark in the digital age and has even created its own web-based TV show with Lincoln Tech called Hot Rod Garage. This new show explores the automotive industry by taking a first look at some of the coolest projects going on. Each episode includes a variety of segments featuring technical tips, step-by-step instructions, product evaluations and question-and-answer sessions. This easy-to-digest series is both informative and entertaining. In the premier episode, hosts Mike Finnegan and David Freiburge of Hot Rod Magazine and Roadkill take on a few jaw-dropping projects. To kick things off, the duo installs a 4L60-E overdrive transmission in a 1969 El Camino, put a 700 horsepower blown small-block into a 1974 Jaguar XJ12, offer welding lessons from ToxicFab and they do some dragstrip testing as well. With the help of a few friends, they blow up the stock clutch of a 2010 Camaro SS at the drag strip and install an Aeromotive Stealth fuel system for a cross-country road trip in the second episode. With every new episode, viewers gain more and more valuable information about tuning their cars.

The show is presented by Lincoln Technical Institute, and features their tips throughout the program. This amazing collaboration helps both parties spread their message and share their passion. Lincoln Tech is able to reach Hot Rod’s vast and established fan base, while Hot Rod is able to reach the students, graduates and instructors of Lincoln Tech schools through events and product sales. Both are able to gain exposure and benefit from one another.

The program was widely popular even before it aired, drawing in over 64,000 Facebook fans. Web episodes can be watched any time and as many times as a viewer wants. With the knowledgeable insight from Lincoln Tech, and the entertaining quips and music segments, this is one web series that is sure to gain more and more followers as it continues. Check out Hot Rod Garage on “Tech Thursdays” on the Motor Trend YouTube channel throughout 2014. You will soon know why enthusiasts are so dedicated to the Hot Rod brand.