THE AUTO BUILDER
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30 Years And Counting
Television has created an unusual interest in all things high-performance, both cars and trucks. On any night you can watch some creation of modified vehicles, and even though there’s not much reality to the builds, you can get a good idea of what’s going on. But don’t get your hopes up: Unlike the team of experts that supposedly does this in a week, your build will probably take six months or more, and longer at some shops. While you can witness a number of world-class cars rolling across the auction block, commanding huge prices from over-?enthusiastic bidders, you will find that this, too, is not the reality that most of us live in each day, as many auction samples are some of the more rare in existence. The one thing each of these shows has in common is that typically the owner rarely gets his hands dirty and if there is any owner involvement, it is often limited to writing a check.
This no doubt is a great way for some to enjoy the hobby, but it’s not the approach that most enthusiasts take, and that includes Rick Finzer. As a way of introduction, Finzer is the event coordinator for a much respected Florida car show and swap meet known as the Turkey Run. The legendary Turkey Run is celebrating its 33rd anniversary and is well known by most enthusiasts, and Finzer has been involved since its inception.
COVER YOUR BOTTOM
There are many ways to finish the bottom of any car. Whether you are building new, from the ground up or even detailing a rebuild that is not the off-the-frame type, you have options. And regardless of the extent of the refurbishing, you could even leave the underside in some shade of primer as it is easy to touch up, and the fenderwells and underside often become marked with use.
Rear Disc Brakes
If you are driving down the highway in an older car, you are at a major disadvantage if you have to make a quick stop. Many of the high-performance cars being built today have fantastic stopping power, and if you can’t stop as well as the car in front of you, that could certainly be a big problem. The owner of this ’55 Chevy improved it with front disc brakes that work well, but he wanted the Chevy to stop even better, so he decided to add rear disc brakes.
Spotlighter
Remembering Hot-Rodding Pioneer Richard Peters
From the Ala Kart to a Museum of Memories—A Life Well Driven
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Photography Courtesy of Mary Aguirre
Remembering a Legend
This week, the hot-rodding world lost a true legend, Richard Peters. Known for his passion, craftsmanship, and unwavering support of the local car community, Richard’s influence will be felt for generations to come. His was a life filled with creativity, adventure, and a deep appreciation for the art of the automobile.
The Legacy of Ala Kart
Richard’s name will forever be linked to one of the most iconic custom hot rods ever built—the 1929 Model A Pickup, “Ala Kart.” Created in collaboration with Blackie Gejeian, George Barris, and Chuck Kirkorian, this masterpiece was a game-changer in the show car world. It became the first vehicle to win back-to-back America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) awards in 1958 and 1959, setting a new standard for automotive artistry. With pearl white paint, an immaculately detailed Dodge Hemi engine, and even an upholstered undercarriage, Ala Kart was more than a car—it was a rolling work of art.
A Community Pillar
Beyond his legendary build, Richard was a steadfast supporter of the Fowler Pharaohs and a pillar of the hot-rodding community in Fresno and beyond. His passion for custom cars wasn’t just about trophies or recognition; it was about the camaraderie, the culture, and the joy of creating something extraordinary. Richard believed in the power of bringing people together, and through his love of cars, he forged friendships that lasted a lifetime.
A Life Beyond Hot Rods
Richard Peters of Fresno, California, was also known for his deep connections within the hot-rodding scene. As the brother-in-law of Chuck Krikorian, another well-known Fresno hot rodder, he was surrounded by automotive greatness. After selling the Ala Kart, Richard shifted gears away from cars, dedicating himself to full-time farm management, owning his own airlines, and other business ventures. However, his passion for building and collecting never faded. He rekindled his love for custom automobiles later in life, working with talented builders like Don Lokey and forming meaningful relationships through his shared appreciation for craftsmanship. His introduction to Art Goldstrum led him to establish a remarkable museum, a testament to his enduring enthusiasm for the hobby.
The Ultimate Man Cave
His collection is housed in an 8,000-square-foot building that stretches the boundaries of what a ‘garage’ actually is. More than just a place to store and work on cars, Richard’s building was the ultimate man cave—part museum, part gathering space for friends and fellow enthusiasts. He was always happy to welcome visitors, sharing his love for hot rods and classic cars and ensuring that every story and detail of his collection had a place to be celebrated.
A Diverse Collection
While Richard’s tastes were firmly rooted in hot rods and customs, his collection was diverse and colorful. His museum featured a variety of street cars, including coupes and roadsters modified to different degrees. Additionally, he owned vintage dirt track and circle track racers, which he occasionally fired up to give visitors a thrilling experience.
Beyond automobiles, his passion extended to bicycles, go-karts, minibikes, model cars, and other memorabilia, creating an immersive space that celebrated the broader world of motorsports. His impressive collection of giant model airplanes, some nearly as large as the real thing, hung from the ceiling, adding another unique element to his museum.
A Lasting Legacy
Though Richard may be gone, his legacy rides on in every show car that dares to push the boundaries of design and craftsmanship. His was a life well lived—one filled with innovation, friendship, and an unwavering passion for creativity. His impact on hot-rodding history is undeniable, and his absence will be deeply felt. Rest in peace, Richard Peters. The roads are a little quieter without you, but your spirit will always rumble on.
