A hot rod is an automobile rebuilt or modified for high speed and acceleration. Hot rods are more than that—they're an American icon. Hot rods can be found on the streets and at the dragstrips. This beautifully illustrated guide provides a history of hot rods in America from their first appearance with "souped up" Model T's of the 1920's through the 1940s, 1950s and beyond. With chapters on each decade of hot rod, complete with full color photographs of these magic machines in action, this book provides a comprehensive history of American hot rods and street rods. Other chapters delve into hot rod culture, examining the people and enthusiasts who have shaped the evolution of this type of automobile, and the events that draw hot rod enthusiasts from all over the world. A glossary provides a comprehensive resource for readers.

This is an illustrated encyclopedia with more than 550 photographs. It is an illustrated encyclopedia of classic hot rods and street rods, with over 550 stunning photographs. It gives a fascinating chronological reference to a legendary style of automobile, covering the early models of the 1920s through to today. Detailed chapters on each decade through the 20th century look at the evolution of the style, with a focus on interiors, special features, wheels and engines. This is a comprehensive volume perfect for all automobile enthusiasts. According to Webster's dictionary, a hot rod is 'an automobile rebuilt or modified for high speed and acceleration'. Hot rods are more than that, however, they're an American icon. They have all become the stuff of legends, celebrated in both movies and popular music. This fascinating book takes you through the history of the style, from their birthplace in southern California and the 'souped-up' Model Ts of the 1920s through the Belly-Tank Lakesters of the '40s and '50s to today's Rat Rods and fiberglass Repro Rods. There are facts about the manufacturer, design and engineering behind each machine, making each one roar to life on the page. An informed text, accompanied by stunning colour photographs, make this the perfect reference for motoring enthusiasts or anybody with an interest in automobiles.

In How to Build Hot Rod Chassis, highly regarded hot rodding author Jeff Tann covers everything enthusiasts need to know about designing and building their new chassis and suspension system. It thoroughly explores both factory and aftermarket frames, modified factory solid-axle suspensions, and aftermarket independent front and rear suspension setups. No matter what design a reader may be considering for his own car, How to Build Hot Rod Chassis delivers a wealth of information on the pros and cons of all systems available.

The ever-escalating cost of building or buying a hot rod is leaving more and more would-be hot rodders behind. This book will get those hopefuls off the sidelines by showing how a hot rod can be built for less than the cost of, say, a new Hyundai. Author Dennis Parks documents his own project--building a quintessentially cool Model T roadster from a "Track-T" kit--showing in step-by-step detail how to turn a pile of parts into a rockin hot rod. He provides a detailed, easy-to-follow guide for building a car of your own. The advice and instructions cover every aspect of an affordable hot rod build, from establishing the target vehicle and budget, to finding parts, building the car, and fine tuning the finished vehicle on the road. With Parks' money-saving tips and photo-supported how-to sequences, virtually anyone with minimal mechanical skills and the will to use them can be sure of building their hot rod right, and for the right price. The book also includes a full resource guide and recommendations for further reading.

Defined by author and Rat Rod Magazine editor Steve Thaemert, Jr. as the “blue-collar hot rod," a the term “rat rod" refers to a custom car built with creativity, ingenuity, and individuality. Less of a classic-car replica and more of an expression of the builder's personality, “rat rodding" encompasses not just the vehicles but also the scene and the lifestyle ignited by this automotive hobby that's catching on like wildfire. By the editor and senior writer of Rat Rod Magazine, the comprehensive publication for all things rat rod, The Illustrated History of Rat Rod takes you inside the culture to explore the beginnings, evolution, and rising popularity of the hobby.INSIDE THE ILLUSTRATED HISTORY OF RAT ROD:•The beginnings of the rat-rod scene and early enthusiasts.•A look at the hot rods that spawned the rat-rod hobby and how the term “rat rod" was coined.•Rat Rod Magazine and its importance in defining and documenting the hobby as well as other media exposure that helped bring rat rodding into the public eye.•How rat rodding overcame opposition by detractors while gaining acceptance and supporters.•The annual Rat Rod Tour, including event results and anecdotes from attendees.•The clothes, attitudes, music, and styles that shape the rat rod culture.•A discussion of parts, building techniques, and safety practices typical of rat rodding.•A glossary of terminology unique to the rat rod hobby.