Modern vehicles are designed to be reliable, comfortable, clean, safe and economical and yet there are many among us that still yearn for a time when cars and trucks were none of these things. It was a time when designers were unencumbered by constraints such as crash tests or aerodynamic drag coefficients, and instead created shapes that reflected the mood and trends of the time. Though classic vehicles often lack airbags, heaters, decent headlights, cup holders, and other modern conveniences, classic car enthusiasts will speak about a euphoric feeling when driving a vintage car or truck, especially one that has some special connection to the driver.
Warren Amas of Grass Roots Rod & Custom understands the nostalgic lure of classic vehicles. “I’ve always been into old cars and trucks,” said Amas. “My dad had a 1970 Chevy truck – it was the family truck – and we took it out every chance we could to go fishing or camping. We grew up with that truck, and I can see why my customers have such a strong connection to certain makes and models – whether it was their brother’s car or their uncle’s favourite truck or whatever.”
With over twelve year’s experience in the industry, Amas has become familiar with a long list of classic vehicles. He now operates his own full service auto restoration and customization shop, Grass Roots Rod & Custom, and Amas prides himself on high quality craftsmanship that will stand the test of time. After working in an auto body shop and attending a pre-apprenticeship program in Cranbrook, Amas lived in several different places and worked in a variety of shops. During that time he found a desire to focus on older vehicles rather than collision claims. A self-proclaimed perfectionist, he wasn’t interested in cutting corners or rushing a job. “I believe that if you’re going to do something, then you need to do it well and put all your effort into doing the best you can,” said Amas.
Developing a reputation for his sheet metal work, as well as his eye to detail, Amas now has customers from across BC and Alberta. While he still has several months of work before he is finished his current project – a 1957 GMC truck – he has a growing list of upcoming projects already scheduled from clients in Lethbridge, Edmonton and Nelson. No matter what the project entails, Amas believes that the only option is to take the time to do it right. “It’s a bit like building a house. You want the foundation of the vehicle to be perfect so everything lines up and fits well and there are no problems down the road. I don’t believe in compensating or sinking money into something later when it could be done right the first time. I want the vehicles I work on to last for several decades.”
Amas was one of six young entrepreneurs that successfully completed the 13-week LEAP program through Kootenay Employment Services this year. “It really forced me to look at the marketing aspect of my business, and now I’m looking into taking some bookkeeping courses as well,” said Amas. “I’m also looking at expanding my business. Part of this involves looking for a larger space. I’m a little limited right now, especially because I don’t have a paint booth. I have to load my pieces and drive them into town, and that cuts into my time. Hopefully I can also hire a shop assistant soon and find a balance between long-term and short-term projects.”
While Amas does enjoy the process of handling each piece and putting everything together, the best part of the job is making connections with his customers and hearing their stories. “While I do feel a certain amount of pride in finishing a project, I enjoy developing a personal relationship with my customers,” said Amas. “You never know why certain vehicles have such a strong connection with certain people. It’s a cool feeling to see something restored, but it’s an amazing feeling to see a customer take so much care and pride in the vehicle I’ve worked on.”
Those interested can contact Grass Roots Rod & Custom at (250) 777-1156.