A Rat Rod is a newly developed name for the original hot rod style of the early 1950’s. A rat rod is a style or model of hot rod or custom car that, in most cases, imitates the early hot rods of the old year 40s, 50s, and 60s. A Rat Rod is usually a vehicle that has had many of it’s non-critical parts or accesories removed.

Are you interested in building or owning this beatiful rat rods? Many rat rod fans have created websites with more information about clubs, events, photo, how to guide and much more reference.

Originally, built not for looks, but as necessary transportation, the rat rod has made a resurgence in popularity. These cars started popping up in the U. S. In the late '40s and early '50s, being the less expensive than their hot rod counterparts. They were unfinished as far as interior and paint, but ran. Today they are built to look similar to those from yesteryear, but perhaps it takes a little work to get that unfinished look just right.

Now there cars are built to look like those from the 1950's and '60s. And, many of the parts are that old. Of course, the cars have to be street-worthy, but they don't have to look it. The engine works and the frame is sturdy, but there may be no bells or whistles. They have the powerful engines of old-fashioned cars, may use a lot of gas and may be pretty noisy to ride in.

Many enthusiasts remake these cars from old parts, starting with the body or frame, which can be purchased from pick-a-part or wrecking yards. These can be found pretty inexpensively, although the older the car, the more it may cost. Any brand of choice will do, be it Ford, Chrysler, Chevy or a foreign model. The body needs to be cleaned out and then it can be resized or welded into most any length. You can raise or lower the car, and redesign it by adding windows or different shaped fenders.

A rebuilt engine can be purchased or you can make your own. It doesn't have to be the same brand or model as the body, as long as it will fit. For example, you can put a Chrysler engine into a Cadillac body. Find the correct size driveshaft, or refit one to use. Choose fancy or plain wheels and rims then get some new or used tires with good tread.

A steering wheel is an obvious necessity and seatbelts are needed, but a lot of the interior is optional and you need only add what you want. Paint is optional, too, or you can paint it to look unpainted.

There are automobile fancier clubs all around the country with an interest in rat rods. The vehicle doesn't have to be a car, but could also be a motorcycle or truck. These autos are shown in car shows and often found in parades. The cars and car parts may be found on many online auctions and websites.

Building a rat rod can be productive. It's a good way to learn about cars and how they run and makes a good project for an auto shop class. Fathers and sons can spend time together building one and it's a great thing for friends to work on and share. Rat rods and building them is a popular hobby, and less expensive than many other car projects.

Get the exclusive deals on rat rods here.

Ford : Other Pickups 1932 ford pickup 60's hot original custom not rat rod truck 32 Price: $2950.0 Bid: 17 Time Left: 3 Hrs 32 Mins 25 Secs

Ford : Model A 1930 Model A truck Hot Rod 32 Ford chassis Flathead V8 not a rat rod. highboy Price: $16900.0 Bid: 24 Time Left: 5 Hrs 23 Mins 12 Secs

Other Makes Rat Rod Custom Hotrod Jeep/Go Cart Price: $2651.0 Bid: 12 Time Left: 7 Hrs 26 Mins 19 Secs

Ford : Other Pickups F-1 1952 FORD F-1 PARTS PROJECT RAT ROD MUSTANG FRONT SUSPENSION Price: $620.0 Bid: 15 Time Left: 8 Hrs 28 Mins 39 Secs