Preserving Automotive History: Inside Galpin Speed Shop with Dave Shuten

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- By Dushyant
- (@dishs)
Galpin Ford, a legendary establishment in Southern California since 1948, has evolved into a powerhouse with Galpin Autosports and the fascinating Galpin Speed Shop. At the helm is the enigmatic Dave Shuten, a maestro in the art of restoring rare collectible cars like the iconic Iron Orchid 34 Ford. This masterpiece boasts a 427 Fe motor and Thunderbolt seats, showcasing Shuten's attention to detail and passion for preserving automotive history. His background as a toolmaker at General Motors lends a unique perspective to his craft, evident in his meticulous recreations of classic cars like Roth's Mysterion and the danwoods vehicles.
Shuten's dedication to authenticity shines through in his restorations, where he deliberately retains original flaws to honor the legacy of these automotive gems. His work on Roth's original shop truck and the upcoming restoration of the exonic Corvette exemplifies his commitment to preserving the essence of each vehicle's history. The Thunderbird restoration project, featuring a fat man tube chassis and a powerful 427 side Oiler Fe engine, showcases Shuten's expertise in blending modern performance with classic design.
In the heart of Galpin Speed Shop, Shuten's personal Roadster project is taking shape, painted in a nostalgic aquamarine poly Chevy color. With an early 354 Hemi engine and a meticulous attention to detail, this Roadster promises to be a true automotive work of art. Supported by top-notch tools like Kaser compressors and a range of equipment including a pullmax and Bridgeport milling machine, Shuten's workshop is a haven for automotive enthusiasts and restoration aficionados alike. The memorabilia adorning the shop walls serves as a constant source of inspiration, fueling Shuten's creative vision and dedication to his craft.

Image copyright Youtube

Image copyright Youtube

Image copyright Youtube

Image copyright Youtube
Watch Behind the Build Ep. 4 | HOT ROD Shop Tour with Galpin Speed Shop | MotorTrend on Youtube
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Viewers enjoy watching tours of the shop and collections
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